What factors determine the lifespan of gas detectors
Many people have this question when using gas detectors: how long can it last? Many users believe that gas detectors can be used continuously until they are completely damaged and cannot be used. In fact, is this approach correct?
In fact, the service life of a gas detector mainly depends on its main component - the sensor.
We know that there cannot be a single sensor that can detect all gases and meet all requirements. The sensors used for various gases and environments are also different, which can be roughly divided into sensors for detecting the concentration of toxic gases and sensors for detecting the explosive concentration of combustible gases.
1. Most sensors used to measure the concentration of toxic gases are electrochemical sensors, which operate based on electrochemical principles. The main factor affecting their lifespan is the electrolyte. Generally, after 2-3 years in an ideal environment, the electrolyte is consumed and cannot function properly. Therefore, the service life of electrochemical sensors is 2-3 years.
2. Most sensors used to detect the concentration of combustible gases are catalytic combustion sensors, with a service life of 3-5 years in ideal environments. In addition, the lifespan of gas detectors (including fixed gas alarms and portable gas alarms) is closely related to the concentration they are exposed to.
For example, if the sensor of an ammonia detector is continuously exposed to 2ppm ammonia, its lifespan is approximately one year (or 2ppm annual lifespan). If exposed to 4ppm ammonia levels, its lifespan is only six months. This makes the ammonia sensor unsuitable for application in fertilizer plants, as the average concentration of ammonia at this time is around 20-30ppm.
Therefore, the main factor affecting the lifespan of a sensor is also the environmental environment in which it is located, which is slightly worse and the lifespan is shorter, followed by the mechanism of the sensor. Sensors directly affect the use of gas detectors, so paying attention to the use and status of sensors means paying attention to our own safety.
