Three Matters Requiring Attention for Portable Gas Detectors
① Observe the measurement range of the portable gas detector Every gas detector has a fixed detection range. Accurate measurements can only be obtained within this range; readings taken outside the range will be far lower than the actual concentration in the environment. Furthermore, prolonged measurement beyond the rated range will damage the sensor, leading to incorrect readings even within the normal detection range afterwards.
② Pay attention to the service life of the sensor in the gas detector All gas detectors have a limited service life, including portable models. Sensors will age even if the device is not used frequently. Generally speaking, among portable gas detectors, photoionization sensors have the longest lifespan of around four years; LEL sensors rank second and can last more than three years; electrochemical sensors for specific gases have a relatively shorter service life of one to two years; oxygen sensors only last approximately one year. Always refer to the user manual before use and operate the detector within the valid period of the sensor. Replace the sensor immediately once it expires.
③ Perform regular calibration and testing of the detector Portable gas detectors generally adopt the relative comparison method for measurement, as described below:
Calibrate the instrument with zero gas and gas of standard concentration to generate and store a calibration curve inside the device;
Compare the electrical signal from the standard gas with the signal generated by the target gas, and calculate the accurate gas concentration value.
