Houston, TX – November, 2020 – Since gas detectors are critical to safety, they should be proper working order at all times. A number of factors affect the performance of gas detection sensors. Remember that all sensors fail eventually, so you must change the sensors, as and when required. However, changing sensors too early, when they still have plenty of life left, can cause unnecessary expenses and waste of time.
Since replacement sensors also have limited shelf life, and they can degrade even if kept in ideal conditions (i.e. in a contaminant-free, temperature and humidity controlled environment), it is not a good idea to purchase and store spares too ahead of time. The time period between purchase and first use should not be too long.
Factors affecting sensor life
The life and/or performance of gas detection sensors can be affected by –
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Interfering gases
- Physical factors, e.g. excessive vibration or impact
- Contamination of or damage to the sensor e.g. by incorrect cleaning products
- Contamination of filters or sinters e.g. by dust, sand or pests
- Exposure to poisoning/inhibiting compounds even when the sensor is not powered
Multiple sensing technologies are available today and the life expectancy of a sensor usually depends upon the technology employed. Electrochemical sensors often have a shorter life expectancy than Infrared (IR) or catalytic sensors.
The type of gas being detected can also affect the life expectancy. The more ‘exotic’ gases, like chlorine or ozone, can reduce the longevity of sensors compared to the more common gases, like carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide.
Most sensors undergo wear and tear but the damage may not always be easy to detect. Hence, you should keep the sensors in good working order with regular maintenance. Maintenance should include scheduled bump testing (or gas or functional test) and calibration.
The only reliable method to determine whether a sensor is working correctly is through application of the target gas(es) in bump testing/calibration.
Planning gas sensor replacement
Forward-planning and predicting sensor consumption can make sensor purchasing more efficient, reducing the time spare sensors need to be kept in storage.
To predict sensor replacement, users must understand the factors affecting the sensors’ performance, specifically in their particular environment and applications.
Good quality sensors come with a warranty, and a general life expectancy may be indicated but regular maintenance and user knowledge and experience matters a great deal in extending the life of a sensor as well as planning and predicting sensor replacement.
If you are looking for gas detector rental and repair in Houston, TX, talk to Green Light Safety at 832-262-9931 right away. With over 15 years’ experience in this industry, Green Light Safety specializes in rentals, sales and service of Gas Detection equipment as well as calibration of the equipment.