BW Technologies GasAlertMax User Manual
GasAlertMax
H2S, CO, O2, Combustibles
Limited Warranty & Limitation of Liability
BW Technologies Ltd. (BW) warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of two years,
beginning on the date of shipment to the buyer. This warranty extends only to the sale of new and unused products to the original buyer. BW’s warranty
obligation is limited, at BW’s option, to refund of the purchase price, repair, or replacement of a defective product that is returned to a BW authorized service
center within the warranty period. In no event shall BW’s liability hereunder exceed the purchase price actually paid by the buyer for the Product.
This warranty does not include:
a) fuses, disposable batteries or the routine replacement of parts due to the normal wear and tear of the product arising from use;
b) any product which in BW’s opinion, has been misused, altered, neglected or damaged by accident or abnormal conditions of operation, handling or use;
c) any damage or defects attributable to repair of the product by any person other than an authorized dealer, or the installation of unapproved parts on the
product; or
The obligations set forth in this warranty are conditional on:
a) proper storage, installation, calibration, use, maintenance and compliance with the product manual instructions and any other applicable
recommendations of BW;
b) the buyer promptly notifying BW of any defect and, if required, promptly making the product available for correction. No goods shall be returned to BW
until receipt by the buyer of shipping instructions from BW; and
c) the right of BW to require that the buyer provide proof of purchase such as the original invoice, bill of sale or packing slip to establish that the product is
within the warranty period.
THE BUYER AGREES THAT THIS WARRANTY IS THE BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. BW SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING
LOSS OF DATA, WHETHER ARISING FROM BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR RELIANCE OR ANY OTHER THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the
limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any provision of this warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision.
BW Technologies Ltd. BW Technologies Inc. BW Europe Ltd.
2840 – 2nd Ave. SE 3279 West Pioneer Parkway 101 Heyford Park
Calgary, AB Arlington, TX Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire
Canada T2A 7X9 USA 76013 United Kingdom OX25 5HA
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Table of Contents
Title Page
Introduction............................................................................................................................................1
Contacting BW Technologies................................................................................................................2
Safety Information - Read First.............................................................................................................2
Getting Started......................................................................................................................................6
Activating the Detector........................................................................................................................10
Self-Test......................................................................................................................................10
Battery Test .................................................................................................................................13
Pump Test...................................................................................................................................13
Self-Test Pass.............................................................................................................................14
Self-Test Fail ...............................................................................................................................14
Deactivating the Detector....................................................................................................................14
Confidence Beep.................................................................................................................................15
User Options Menu.............................................................................................................................15
Finish Option ...............................................................................................................................16
Date and Time Option .................................................................................................................16
Sensor Enable/Disable Option....................................................................................................17
Pass Code Protection Option......................................................................................................18
Latching Alarm Option.................................................................................................................19
Automatic Oxygen Calibration Option.........................................................................................20
Calibration Span Concentration Option.......................................................................................21
Pump Test Option........................................................................................................................22
STEL Period Option ....................................................................................................................22
German Language Option...........................................................................................................23
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Title Page
Sampling Hose....................................................................................................................................23
Datalog................................................................................................................................................23
Alarms .................................................................................................................................................24
Gas Exposures Computed ..........................................................................................................27
Viewing Gas Exposures...............................................................................................................28
Gas Alarm Setpoints....................................................................................................................29
Resetting Gas Alarm Setpoints ...................................................................................................29
Stopping a Gas Alarm..................................................................................................................30
Sensor Alarm...............................................................................................................................30
Pump Alarms ...............................................................................................................................30
Low Battery Alarm........................................................................................................................31
Automatic Shutdown Alarm.........................................................................................................31
Calibration and Setting Alarm Setpoints .............................................................................................32
Guidelines....................................................................................................................................32
Diagnostics Protection.................................................................................................................34
Applying Gas to the Sensors.......................................................................................................34
Calibration Procedure..................................................................................................................35
Pump Calibration.................................................................................................................................40
Pump Calibration Pass................................................................................................................41
Pump Calibration Fail..................................................................................................................41
MultiMediaCard (MMC).......................................................................................................................42
Installing the MMC Card Reader.................................................................................................42
Installing a New MMC..................................................................................................................42
Importing the Data File ................................................................................................................43
Determining Application Compatibility.........................................................................................44
Maintenance........................................................................................................................................48
Replacing the Battery ..................................................................................................................48
Replacing a Sensor, Pump, or Pump Filter.................................................................................50
Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................................52
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Title Page
Replacement Parts and Accessories..................................................................................................55
Specifications......................................................................................................................................57
General Specifications for Datalogger Units...............................................................................59
GasAlertMax with Black Box Datalogger ....................................................................................60
GasAlertMax with User Downloadable Datalogger.....................................................................60
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List of Tables
Table Title Page
GasAlertMax Gas Detector ..................................................................................viii
1. Gases Monitored....................................................................................................1
2. International Symbols.............................................................................................5
3. GasAlertMax Detector............................................................................................7
4. Display Elements....................................................................................................8
5. Pushbuttons............................................................................................................9
6. Alarms ..................................................................................................................24
7. Computed Gas Exposures...................................................................................27
8. Gas Alarm Setpoints ............................................................................................29
9. Factory Set Alarm Setpoints.................................................................................29
10. Applying Gas to the Sensors................................................................................34
11. Datalogger Status Codes.....................................................................................45
12. CSV File Example................................................................................................46
13. Replacing the Battery...........................................................................................49
14. Replacing a Sensor, Pump, or Pump Filter..........................................................51
15. Troubleshooting Tips............................................................................................52
16. Replacement Parts and Accessories...................................................................55
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List of Figures
Figure Title Page
1. GasAlertMax Detector............................................................................................7
2. Display Elements....................................................................................................8
3. Applying Gas to the Sensors................................................................................34
4. Replacing the Battery...........................................................................................49
5. Replacing a Sensor, Pump, or Pump Filter..........................................................51
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CAUTION: FOR SAFETY REASONS THIS EQUIPMENT MUST
BE OPERATED AND SERVICED BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
ONLY. READ AND UNDERSTAND INSTRUCTION MANUAL
COMPLETELY BEFORE OPERATING OR SERVICING.
GasAlertMax Gas Detector
Order Number Description
GAMAX3-4 GasAlertMax (4 Gas) Detector (H2S, CO, O2, %LEL)
GAMAX3-4-DL1 GasAlertMax (4 Gas) c/w Black Box Datalogger
GAMAX3-4-DL2 GasAlertMax (4 Gas) c/w User Downloadable Datalogger
GAMAX3-3H GasAlertMax (3 Gas) Detector (H2S, O2, %LEL)
GAMAX3-3H-DL1 GasAlertMax (3 Gas) c/w Black Box Datalogger
GAMAX3-3H-DL2 GasAlertMax (3 Gas) c/w User Downloadable Datalogger
GAMAX3-2 GasAlertMax (2 Gas) Detector (O2, %LEL)
GAMAX3-2-DL1 GasAlertMax (2 Gas) c/w Black Box Datalogger
GAMAX3-2-DL2 GasAlertMax (2 Gas) c/w User Downloadable Datalogger
GasAlertMax Multi-Gas Detector
The detector comes complete with a motorized sampling
pump.
GasAlertMax with Black Box Datalogger
Provides full-time continuous datalogging while the detector
is operating. Wraparound memory ensures the most recent
data is always saved. Data cannot be accessed by the user.
Data is retrievable by an authorized BW factory service
center in the event of an incident or occurrence.
GasAlertMax with User Downloadable Datalogger
Provides full-time continuous datalogging while the
instrument is operating. Data is saved on a convenient
MultiMediaCard and can be removed and downloaded by the
user. Data is imported into standard office software
(Microsoft
®
Excel, Access, etc.).
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GasAlertMax
Introduction
a Warning
To ensure your personal safety, read “Safety
Information” before you use the detector.
The GasAlertMax gas detector (“the detector”) warns of
hazardous gas at levels above factory set alarm setpoints.
This product is a gas detector.
The detector is a personal safety device. It is your
responsibility to respond properly to the alarm.
Table 1 lists the gases monitored.
Table 1. Gases Monitored
Gas Monitored Unit of Measurement
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) parts per million (ppm)
Carbon monoxide (CO) parts per million (ppm)
Oxygen (O2) percent by volume (%)
Combustible gases (LEL) percent of lower explosive
limit (% LEL)
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Contacting BW Technologies
To contact BW Technologies, call:
USA: 1-888-749-8878
Canada: 1-800-663-4164
Europe: +44 (0) 1869 233004
Middle East: +971-4-8871766
China: +852-2974-1783
Australia: +61-7-3818-8244
Anywhere in the world: +1-403-248-9226
Address correspondence to:
BW Technologies Ltd.
2840 – 2 Avenue S.E.
Calgary, AB T2A 7X9
CANADA
Or visit us on the World Wide Web:
ISO 9001
www.gasmonitors.com
Safety Information - Read First
Use the detector only as specified in this manual, otherwise
the protection provided by the detector may be impaired.
International symbols used on the detector and in this manual
are explained in Table 2.
Read the Warnings and Cautions on the following pages
before using the detector.
ec Note
This instrument contains a rechargeable battery.
Do not mix with the solid waste stream. Spent
batteries should be disposed of by a qualified
recycler or hazardous materials handler.
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GasAlertMax
Safety Information - Read First
a Caution
To avoid possible personal injury:
⇒ Warning: Substitution of components may impair Intrinsic Safety.
⇒ Do not use the detector if it is damaged. Before you use the detector, inspect the case. Look for cracks or
missing plastic.
⇒ If the detector is damaged or something is missing, contact
⇒ For use only in potentially explosive atmospheres where oxygen concentrations do not exceed 20.9% (v/v).
⇒ Make sure the back is closed and fastened, and the battery is locked in place before you operate the detector.
⇒ Use only a sensor specifically designed for your GasAlertMax model. (See the section,
and Accessories.)
⇒ Periodically test the sensor’s response to gas by exposing the detector to a targeted gas concentration that
exceeds the High Alarm setpoint. Manually verify that the audible and visual alarms are activated.
⇒ Prior to each day’s usage sensitivity must be tested on a known concentration of the target combustible gas
(methane, etc.) equivalent to 25-50% of full-scale concentration (accuracy must be within 0 to +20% of actual).
Accuracy may be corrected by recalibrating the instrument.
⇒ It is recommended the detector be calibrated before first-time use, and then at least once every 180 days.
⇒ Do not turn off the detector during a work shift. Turning off the detector resets the TWA (time-weighted
average), STEL (short-term exposure limit), and maximum gas exposure values to 0. (See the section,
Alarms.)
⇒ It is recommended that the accuracy of the GasAlertMax be checked with known concentration calibration
gas before each day’s use and immediately after any known exposure to contaminants (e.g., after an H
alarm if such a sensor is fitted).
BW Technologies immediately.
Replacement Parts
S
2
3
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GasAlertMax
User Manual
a Cautions (con’t)
⇒ BW recommends to “bump test” the sensors before each day’s use, to confirm their ability to respond to gas
by exposing the detector to a gas concentration that exceeds the high alarm setpoints. Manually verify that
the audible and visual alarms are activated. Calibrate if the readings are not within the specified limits.
⇒ Make sure the pump filter is not blocked.
⇒ The LEL sensor is factory calibrated to methane. If monitoring a different combustible gas, calibrate the
sensor using the appropriate gas.
⇒ High off-scale % LEL readings may indicate an explosive concentration.
⇒ Protect the LEL sensor from exposure to lead compounds, silicones, and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Although certain organic vapors (such as, leaded gasoline and halogenated hydrocarbons) may temporarily
inhibit sensor performance, in most cases, the sensor will recover after calibration.
⇒ Any rapid up-scaling reading followed by a declining or erratic reading may indicate a gas concentration
beyond upper scale limit, which may be hazardous.
⇒ Use only Black & Decker VersaPak™ battery. Ensure it is properly charged and installed in the detector case.
(See the section, Replacement Parts and Accessories.)
⇒ Only charge batteries using VersaPak™ charger. Do not use any other charger. Failure to observe this
precaution could lead to fire or explosion.
⇒ Do not change or charge batteries in a hazardous location. Doing so will impair the Intrinsic Safety of the
unit, and may lead to fire or explosion.
⇒ Read and observe all instructions and precautions in the literature provided with the charger. Failure to do so
may result in fire, electric shock, or other forms of personal injury or property damage.
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GasAlertMax
Safety Information - Read First
a Cautions (con’t)
To avoid possible damage to the detector:
⇒ Extended exposure of the GasAlertMax to certain concentrations of combustible gases and air may stress a
detector element, which can seriously affect its performance. If an alarm occurs due to high concentration of
combustible gases, recalibration should be performed, or if needed the sensor replaced.
⇒ Exposure to some substances (e.g. silicones, phosphates, lead or sulfur containing compounds) can cause LEL
sensor sensitivity loss.
⇒ Do not test the combustible sensors response with a butane cigarette lighter.
⇒ Do not expose the detector to electrical shock and/or severe continuous mechanical shock.
⇒ Do not attempt to disassemble, adjust, or service the detector unless instructions for that procedure are
contained in the manual and/or that part is listed as a replacement part. Use only BW Technologies
replacement parts.
⇒ Do not immerse the detector in liquids.
⇒ The detector warranty will be voided if customer personnel or third parties damage the detector during repair
attempts. Non-BW Technologies repair/service attempts void this warranty.
Table 2. International Symbols
Symbol Meaning
n
g
X
BAM
ATEX
AUS
Approved to both U.S. and Canadian Standards by the Canadian Standards Association
European Explosives Protection
Conforms to European Union Directives
BAM performance verification to European Performance Standards
Conforms to European ATEX Directives
Certified to Australian Standards
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GasAlertMax
User Manual
Getting Started
The items listed below are included with your detector. If the
detector is damaged or something is missing, contact the
place of purchase immediately.
• One Black & Decker VersaPak™ battery;
• VersaPak™ battery VAC charger;
• H
S/CO sensor (dual sensor);
2
sensor;
• O
2
• LEL sensor;
• Calibration hose;
• Sampling hose;
• Carrying holster.
To order replacement parts, see the
Accessories section.
Replacement Parts and
The detector comes with the sensors installed. The
Maintenance section describes how to install the battery.
To become familiar with the features and functions of the
detector, study the following figures and tables:
• Figure 1 and Table 3 describe the detector’s
components.
• Figure 2 and Table 4 describe the detector’s display
elements.
• Table 5 describes the detector’s pushbuttons.
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GasAlertMax
Getting Started
Table 3. GasAlertMax Detector
Item Function
A Audible alarm
B Visual alarm
C Display
D Pushbuttons
E Accessory output jack
F Pump and pump filter
G Sensors
H Battery
I Datalogger (optional)
J Sampling hose
Figure 1. GasAlertMax Detector
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User Manual
Figure 2. Display Elements
Note
The display backlight automatically activates for
10 seconds whenever there is insufficient light to
view the display and during alarm conditions. Any
pushbutton reactivates the backlight.
Table 4. Display Elements
Item Function
A Set value
B Increment or decrement value
C Gas cylinder
D Battery
E Automatically span the sensor
F Gas identifier bars
G Alarm setpoint or alarm
H Automatically zero the sensor
I Pump
J Alarm condition
K Real time calendar (date, month, year)
L Optional datalogger card indicator
M Optional datalogger FAIL indicator
N Other symbols (future use)
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GasAlertMax
Getting Started
Table 5. Pushbuttons
Pushbutton Description
• To turn on the detector, press F.
F
H
CAL
G
TWA
MAX
C
OK
• To turn off the detector, press F and hold for 5 seconds.
• To initiate the confidence beep, press F while pressing C at startup.
• To decrement the displayed value, press H.
• To initiate calibration and setting alarm setpoints, press H and C simultaneously.
• To enter the user options menu, press H and G simultaneously.
• To increment the displayed value, press G.
• To view the TWA, STEL, and maximum gas exposures, press G and C simultaneously.
• To manually reset the maximum (peak) hold reading, press C and hold for 5 seconds.
• To initiate the sampling pump recalibration (when a pump alarm activates), press C and hold for
3 seconds.
• To acknowledge latched alarms, press C.
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Activating the Detector
Note
The detector must be activated before entering a
potentially explosive area.
To activate the detector, press F in a normal atmosphere
(20.9% Oxygen).
Self-Test
Once the detector is activated, it performs the following
checks. (Manually check that all actions occur.)
1. If the battery is low, I LOW flashes and the
display reads OFF. Replace the battery and restart
the detector.
2. The display shows all the elements.
3. The audible alarm beeps, the visual alarm flashes,
and the backlight briefly turns on.
Note
Steps #4 and #5 are for datalogger models only.
4. The detector tests the data card.
Note
The MultiMediaCard icon (
continuously on black box datalogger detectors and
when a card is present in user downloadable
datalogger detectors.
Datalogger operation is automatic and requires no
settings.
S) is displayed
Black Box Datalogger
The FAIL, ALARM, and card icons blink if the card
malfunctions or is removed.
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GasAlertMax
Activating the Detector
User Downloadable Datalogger
The detector tests the data card. The display advises if the
card is present and ready for use.
If the card is missing or malfunctioning, the detector beeps
and flashes quickly. The display advises CArd Error and th
detector continues the self-test before proceeding to normal
operation.
Note
The detector does not require the data card to be
present or functioning in order to operate.
Removing the card will cause a CArd Out message and a
brief alarm. Inserting the card will cause a CArd In message
and a beep for confirmation.
You can add or change the data card on user downloadable
units at any time. The detector supports card insertion and
removal while the instrument is active.
5. The display shows the time and date.
e
6. The display then shows the TWA, STEL, low, and
high alarm setpoints.
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User Manual
7. The calibration status is shown. The number of
days remaining before a calibration is due is
displayed.
If the calibration is overdue, a warning will sound
and the LCD shows the number of days it is
overdue. Press C to acknowledge the warning.
BW recommends that you calibrate the detector.
8. The display reads tESt as the detector tests the
sensors.
The pump draws air over the sensors. If the sensor
test fails, the audible alarm emits a slow modulating
tone and the visual alarm flashes slowly. The
display advises which sensor(s) has failed.
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