Houston TX – November 2021 –Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about gas detection and calibration.
What is gas detector calibration?
Gas detector calibration is needed for all gas sensors. The sensor is exposed to the target gas in a specific concentration and then adjusted to read the gas concentration correctly. The detector calibration should only be performed by a skilled technician. Improper calibration can cause a false alarm or alarm failure even when a hazard is present.
How are CO2 sensors calibrated?
Calibrating a CO2 sensor requires calibration gas (gas with a very specific concentration of CO2) and zero gas (no CO2).
When should gas detectors be calibrated?
Gas detectors should be calibrated as frequency as the manufacturer recommends, or sooner, based on use. The interval between calibration should not be more than 12 months. Most safety sensors should be calibrated every 3 months, and personal gas monitors should be calibrated every 30 days
How is a sensor calibrated?
Read the manufacturer’s manual and inspect the sensor for damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, including the application of test gases, span, and zero adjustments, and labeling the unit.
What is a calibration gas?
Calibration gas is a pressurized mixture of gases, specific to the type of sensor being calibrated. These come in a cylinder with an expiration date, the concentration of the target gas, and any other gases present in the cylinder. Calibration gases can be ordered from a reliable supplier, like GL Safety by gas concentration, or specifically formulated for the sensors that you are calibrating.
What is zero gas?
Zero gas is a specific type of calibration gas, free of the toxic flammable gas detected by the sensor.
What is balance gas?
Balance gas refers to the remainder of calibration gas, a cylinder has been filled with. If the calibration gas is 100 ppm CO, the balance gas would typically be 999,900 ppm of air or nitrogen.
How much area does a gas sensor cover?
Each manufacturer publishes the specific sensor coverage area. Typically, the coverage area for toxic gas detectors is 5,000 to 7,500 square feet and for combustible gas sensors, about 900 to 1,250 square feet. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.
If you are looking to buy or rent gas detectors or gas detection equipment in Houston, TX, talk to Green Light Safety at 832-262-9931 right away. With over 15 years of experience in this industry, Green Light Safety specializes in reliable rentals, sales, and service of Gas Detection equipment as well as calibration of the equipment.