RKI Instruments Gas Tracer User Manual

Gas Tracer
Operator’s Manual
Part Number: 71-0244RK
Revision: K
Released: 12/31/13
www.rkiinstruments.com
WARNING
Periodic calibration and maintenance of the gas monitor is essential for proper operation and correct readings. Please calibrate and maintain this instrument regularly! Frequency of calibration depends upon the type of use you have and the sensor types. Typical calibration frequencies for most applications are between 1 and 3 months, but can be required more often or less often based on your usage.
Gas Tracer Operator’s M anual
Warranty
RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants the Gas Tracer sold by us to be free from defects in materials, workmanship, and performance for a period of two years from the date of shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. This includes the instrument and the original sensors. Replacement parts are warranted for 1 year from the date of their shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. except for replacement sensors which are warranted for 2 years. Any parts found defective within their warranty period will be repaired or replaced, at our option, free of charge. This warranty does not apply to those items which by their nature are subject to deterioration or consumption in normal service, and which must be cleaned, repaired, or replaced on a routine basis. Examples of such items are:
Absorbent cartridges Filter elements, disks, or sheets Pump diaphragms and valves
Warranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, rough handling, or repair procedures not in accordance with the instruction manual. This warranty indicates the full extent of our liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs, local repair costs, transportation costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior approval.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES
AND REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF ITS PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS PRODUCTS TO FUNCTION OR OPERATE PROPERLY.
This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users only by authorized distributors, dealers, and representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc.
We do not assume indemnification for any accident or damage caused by the operation of this gas monitor and our warranty is limited to replacement of parts or our complete goods.
Warranty Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
About the Gas Tracer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2: Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Instrument Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Control Buttons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Printed Circuit Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Alarm LED Arrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Infrared Communications Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Buzzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Vibrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Flow Chamber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Sensors and Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Inlet Filter Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Standard Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Tapered Rubber Nozzle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Belt Clip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Wrist Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Sample Hose & 10 Inch Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Charging Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Optional Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Purge Tee Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
External Dilution Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Humidifier Tube. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Table of Contents
Chapter 3: Using the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Start Up, Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal With All Modes Active . . . . 26
Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Normal Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Turning Off the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Measuring Mode, Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Monitoring an Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Using Optional Probes and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Combustible Gas Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
CO with H
S Response Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
2
Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Measuring Mode, Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Alarm Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Resetting and Silencing Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Responding to Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Inert Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Start Up and Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Display Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
HC Range Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Peak Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
STEL Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
TWA Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Alarm Points Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Operation Time Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Date/Time Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Remaining Log Time Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Clear Data Logger Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Pump Off Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
User ID Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Station ID Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Snap Logging Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Peak Bar Select Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Datalogging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
SDM-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Table of Contents Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Calibration Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Calibration/Bump Test Supplies and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Preparing for Calibration or Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Calibrating the Gas Tracer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Bump Testing the Gas Tracer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor . . . . . 76
Chapter 4: Using the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . 91
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Start Up, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Turning On the Gas Tracer, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Bar Hole Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Bar Hole Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Performing a Bar Hole Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Turning Off the Gas Tracer, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Chapter 5: Using the Gas Tracer in
Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Start Up, Leak Check Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Turning on the Gas Tracer, Leak Check Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . 107
Leak Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Setting the Display Range Value. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Locating a Leak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Overscale Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Turning the Alarm On and Off in Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Peak Hold Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Viewing Snap Log Data in Leak Check Mode Operation . . . . . . . . 115
Turning Off the Gas Tracer, Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Chapter 6: Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Tips for Using Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Using Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Updating the Date and Time Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Table of Contents
Calibrating Using Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Calibration Using Single Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Performing a Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor . . . . 135
Turning the Lunch Break Setting On or Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Updating the Alarm Latching Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Updating the Alarm Silence Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Updating the Data Logging Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Updating the Alarm Point Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Turning the Clear Data Logger Screen On or Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Turning the Pump Off Screen On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
Updating the Bump Test Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Updating the Confirmation Beep Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Updating the DataLog Overwrite Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Updating the Calibration Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Updating the Calibration Reminder Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Updating the Calibration Expired Action Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Updating the Calibration Check Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Updating the Bump Test Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Updating the Bump Test Reminder Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Updating the Bump Test Expired Action Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Updating the Bump Test Check Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Turning the ID Display Function On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Updating the LCD Backlight Time Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Updating the Autozero Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Updating the Demand Zero Function. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Updating the Leak Check/Bar Hole Mode Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Updating the Bar Hole Sampling Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Updating the Leak Check Mode CO Display Setting . . . . . . . . . . . 170
Viewing the ROM/SUM Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Turning the Password Function On or Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Performing a Low Flow Setpoint Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Exiting Maintenance Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Chapter 7: Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Table of Contents Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Replacing or Recharging the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Replacing Alkaline Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Replacing the Lithium Ion Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack in the Instrument . . . . . 180
Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Out of the Instrument . 182
Replacing the LEL and CO Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Replacing a Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Replacing the Hydrophobic Disk Filter, Cotton Filter,
and Wire Mesh Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Appendix A: Calibrating with a Sample Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Calibration Supplies & Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Preparing for Calibration or Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Normal Operation Fresh Air Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Filling the Gas Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Calibrating the Gas Tracer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Bump Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor . . . . . 211
Performing a Wet Fresh Air Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Performing a Dry Fresh Air Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Performing an Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Performing a Single Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Performing a Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
WARNING: Understand manual before operating. Substitution of
components may impair intrinsic safety. To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must only be changed or charged in an area known to be nonhazardous. Not tested in oxygen enriched atmospheres (above 21%).
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Overview
This chapter briefly describes the Gas Tracer. This chapter also describes the Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this chapter lists the specifications for the Gas Tracer.
About the Gas Tracer
Using an advanced detection system consisting of up to five gas sensors, the Gas Tracer sample draw gas monitor detects the presence of combustible gas, oxygen (O
simultaneously. The Gas T racer’s compact size and easy-to-use design makes it ideally suited for a wide range of applications, including sewage treatment plants, utility manholes, tunnels, hazardous waste sites, power stations, petrochemical refineries, mines, paper mills, drilling rigs, and fire fighting stations. The Leak Check Mode allows you to pinpoint gas leaks. The Gas Tracer offers a full range of features, including:
), and carbon monoxide (CO)
2
• Simultaneous three-gas monitoring of combustible gases, O CO (in Normal Mode)
• Choice of three operating modes: Normal Mode for typical confined space or area monitoring, Bar Hole Mode for checking of bar holes when searching for underground gas leaks, and Leak Check Mode for pinpointing gas leaks
• Sample-drawing pump with up to 50-foot range
• Liquid crystal display (LCD) for complete and understandable information at a glance
• Distinctive audible/vibrating alarms for dangerous gas conditions and audible alarms for unit malfunction
• Microprocessor control for reliability, ease of use, and advanced capabilities
• Alarm trend data (when used in Normal Mode)
• Data logging functions (when used in Normal Mode)
, and
2
• STEL/TWA (when used in Normal Mode) and over range alarm display
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Overview • 1
• Peak hold and average readouts (when used in Normal Mode)
• Built-in time function
• RF shielded high impact plastic case
• CSA classification pending for Class I, Division I, Groups A, B, C, and D hazardous atmospheres
WARNING: The Gas T racer det ects oxygen de ficie ncy, elevated levels
of oxygen, combustible gases, and carbon monoxide, all of which can be dangerous or life threatening. When using the Gas Tracer, you must follow the instructions and warnings in this manual to assure proper and safe operation of the unit and to minimize the risk of personal injury. Be sure to maintain and periodically calibrate the Gas Tracer as described in this manual.
NOTE: ONLY THE COMBUSTIBLE GAS DETECTION PORTION OF
THIS INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN ASSESSED FOR PERFORMANCE.
2 • A b o u t t h e G a s T r a cer Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Specifications
Table 1: Gas Tracer Specifications
Target Gas • %LEL
Combustible Gas (Methane Calibration Standard)*
• PPM Combustible Gas (Methane Calibration Standard)*
Range
(Increment)
Leak Check
Mode Range
(Increment)
Sampling Method Sample Draw
Response Time T90 Within 30 Seconds
0-100% LEL
(1% LEL)
0-5000 ppm
(10 ppm)
NOTE: Detection range is 0-5000 ppm, but displayed range can be 0-500, 0-1000, 0-2000 or 0-5000 ppm.
% V olume
Combustible
Gas
(Methane
Calibration
Standard)
0 - 100% vol
(1% vol)
n/a n/a n/a
Oxygen (O
0-40.0% vol
(0.1 vol%)
) Carbon
2
Monoxide
(CO)
0-500 ppm
(1 ppm)
Accuracy LEL: ± 5% of reading
or ± 2% LEL
(whichever is
greater)
PPM: ± 30 ppm or ±
5% of reading
(whichever is
greater)
Display Digital LCD Display
Gas Alarms
(Factory Settings)
Operating
Temperature &
Humidity
Alarm 1
10% LEL
Alarm 2
50% LEL
-20°C to 50
°
± 5% of
reading or ±
2% full scale
(whichever
is greater)
None Alarm 1
C/Below 85% RH (Without Condensation)
± 0.5% O
19.5 vol% (Decreasing)
Alarm 2
23.5 vol% (Increasing)
2
± 5% of
reading or ±
5 ppm CO
(whichever is
greater)
Alarm 1
25 ppm
Alarm 2
50 ppm
TWA
25 ppm
STEL
200 ppm
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Specifications • 3
Safety/
Regulatory
CSA classified, “C/US”, as Intrinsicall y Safe. Exia. Class I, Groups A,
B, C, & D. Temperature Code T3C.
Power Supply • Three AA size alkaline batteries standard
• Lithium Ion Battery Pack (3.7 VDC Nominal) optional, Direct Charging
C US
pending
Continuous
Operating Hours
@ 25 °C
Case High-impact Plastic with protective rubber layer, RF Shielded, Dust
Standard
Accessories
Optional
Accessories
Dimensions and
Weight
*Some versions of the Gas Tracer are avai lable with the LEL and/or PPM sensors factory set for HC (general hydrocarbons) and calibrated to isobutane. Consult RKI Instruments, Inc. for further information.
• Alkaline Batteries: 15 Hours (Non Alarm Operation, Fully Charged)
• Lithium Ion Battery Pack: 10 Hours (Non alarm Operation, Fully Charged)
and Weather Proof
• 10 foot hose
• 10 inch probe
• Flexible 4 inch tapered rubber nozzle
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
115 VAC Charging Station
12 VDC Charging Station
Data Logger Management Program Software
IrDA/USB Cable for Downloading Data to a Computer With Data
Logger Management Program (not needed if computer has an infrared port)
SDM-2102 Automatic Calibration Station & Software
Various Probes (see “Parts List” on page 190)
Approximately 171(H) x 65(W) x 39(D) mm (5.6”H x 2.5”W x 1.5”D)
Approximately 310 g (11 oz.)
About this Manual
The Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual uses the following conventions for notes, cautions, and warnings.
NOTE: Describes additional or critical information.
CAUTION:Describes potential damage to equipment. WARNING: Describes potential danger that can result in injury or
death.
4 • A b o u t t h i s M a n u a l Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Chapter 2: Description
)
g s
Overview
This chapter describes the Gas Tracer instrument and accessories.
Instrument Description
The instrument includes the case, sensors, LCD, control buttons, printed circuit boards, alarm LED’s, infrared communication port, buzzer, vibrator, batteries, pump, flow chamber, and inlet filter holder.
Wrist Strap Installation Feature
Inlet F i lter
Holder
Tapered Rubber Nozzle
In l e t Fi ttin g
Exhaust
Buzzer
Opening
Alarm
LED
Arrays
DISPLAY
(ADJ)
AIR
POWER
ENTER
(SHIFT)
RESET
SILENCE
Chamber
LCD
Control Buttons
IR Port (behind button la bel)
Flow
Battery Cover (alkaline version
Chargin Contact
Figure 1: Components of the Gas Tracer, Front & Back
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Overview • 5
Rechargeable Version
Release Latch
Figure 2: Components of the Gas Tracer, Bottom
Case
Battery Pack
Battery Pack
Alkaline
Version
Battery Cover Release Knob
The Gas Tracer’s sturdy, high-impact plastic case is radio frequency (RF) resistant and is suitable for use in many environmental conditions, indoors and out. The case is dust proof and weather resistant. A rubber layer on the outside of the case protects it from scratches and impact damage.
A clear plastic window through which the LCD can be viewed is located on the front of the case. Four brass charging contacts that are used when the Gas Tracer is placed in the charging station are on the back of the case. Both the rechargeable and alkaline version include a removable battery pack. The battery pack release latch is on the bottom. The alkaline battery version also includes a battery cover release knob. The battery pack and flow chamber are located on the back of the Gas Tracer. The inlet filter holder is located on the top of the Gas Tracer case.
Sensors
The Gas Tracer uses up to five sensors to monitor combustible gas, oxygen (O2), and carbon monoxide (CO) simultaneously. The sensors are located inside the Gas Tracer and are held in their sockets by the flow chamber. The sensors use different detection principles, as described below.
6 • I n s t r u m e n t D e s cri p t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
Combustible Gas Sensors
% LEL Sensor (NC-6264A)
The % LEL sensor detects combustible gas in the % LEL range. It uses a catalytic element for detection. The reaction of gas with oxygen on the catalyst causes a change in the resistance of the element which affects the current flowing through it. The current is amplified by the Gas T racer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of combustible gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
PPM Sensor (SH-8641)
The ppm combustible sensor detects combustible gas in the ppm range. It is used in Leak Check Mode. It is a combination catalytic/ MOS type sensor with a current output. The current is amplified by the Gas T racer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of combustible gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
%Volume Sensor (TE-7561)
The % volume sensor detects combustible gas in the % volume range. It uses a thermal conductivity (TC) element for detection. The presence of combustib le gas cool s the element causing a change in the resistance of the element which affects the current flowing through it. The current is amplified by the Gas Tracer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of combustible gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
Oxygen Sensor
The O2 sensor is a galvanic type of sensor. A membrane covers the cell and allows gas to diffuse into the cell at a rate proportional to the
partial pressure of o xygen. T he oxygen reacts in the cell and produces a voltage proportional to the concentration of oxygen. The voltage is measured by the Gas Tracer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
CO Sensor
The CO sensor is an electrochemical cell that consist of two precious metal electrodes in a dilute acid electrolyte. A gas permeable membrane covers the sensor face and allows gas to diffuse into the electrolyte. The gas reacts in the sensor and produces a current proportional to the concentration of the target gas. The current is amplified by the Gas Tracer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Instrument Description • 7
Dummy Sensors
Any unit that has less than 5 sensors will have a dummy sensor installed in one or more sensor positions. Dummy sensors are factory installed. The flat top of the dummy sensor should face up and the bottom hollow side should face down. The unit shown below is a standard 4-sensor unit for LEL/O
/
2
ppm/CO and has a dummy sensor installed in the %volume combustible sensor position.
Dummy Sensor
Top Flat
Sid e
Figure 3: Dummy Sensors
Bottom
HollowSide
8 • I n s t r u m e n t D e s cri p t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
LCD
A digital LCD (liquid crystal display) is visible through a clear plastic window on the front of the case. The LCD display simultaneously shows the gas reading for all installed sensors. The display also s hows information for each of the Gas Tracer’s program modes.
Control Buttons
Five control buttons are located below the LCD. They are arranged around a central button, the POWER ENTER button. The DISPLAY (ADJ) button is on the left, the RESET SILENCE button on the right, the AIR button on the top, and the (SHIFT)▼ is on the bottom.
Table 2: Gas Tracer Control Button Functions
Button Function(s)
POWER ENTER • turns the Gas Tracer on and off.
• used during setup and calibration.
RESET SILENCE silences and resets audible alarm if the Gas Tracer is
programmed for latching alarms and the alarm silence option i s
1
on
DISPLAY (ADJ) • activates Display Mode
• enters instructions into the Gas Tracer’s microprocessor
AIR • activates the demand-zero function (automatically adjusts the
Gas Tracer in fresh-air conditions)
• scrolls through the display and settings modes
(SHIFT) • scrolls through the display and settings modes
• enters instructions into the Gas Tracer’s microprocessor
1 The Gas Tracer’s alarms are user-adjustable. See “Chapter 6: Maintenance Mode” on page 118.
Printed Circuit Boards
The Gas Tracer printed circuit boards analyze, record, control, store, and display the information collected. The circuit boards are located inside the case. They are not user serviceable.
Alarm LED Arrays
Three red alarm LED (light emitting diode) arrays are visible through frosted plastic lenses in the case. One is on the top front, one on the left side, and one on the right side. The alarm LED arrays alert you to gas, low battery, and failure alarms.
Infrared Communications Port
An infrared (IR) communications port is located just below the RESET SILENCE button. The signal goes through the control button material.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Instrument Description • 9
The data transmitted through the port is in standard IrDA protocol. A computer’s infrared port or an IrDA/USB cable connected to a computer’s USB port can be used to download data saved by the Gas Tracer to a computer using the Gas Tracer Data Logger Management Program. See the GX-2012 Data Logger Management Program operator’s manual for data logging and downloading instructions.
Buzzer
One solid-state electronic buzzer is located inside the case. Holes on the top front of the case allow the sound to exit the case. The buzzer sounds for gas alarms, malfunctions, low battery voltage, and as an indicator during use of the Gas Tracer’s many display and adjustment options.
Vibrator
A vibrating motor inside the Gas Tracer case vibrates for gas alarms, unit malfunctions, and as an indicator during normal use of the various modes of the Gas Tracer.
Batteries
Three AA-size alkaline batteries (standard) or an optional rechargeable lithium ion battery pack (3.7 VDC) power the Gas T racer. Instrument run time is dependent upon battery type. At 25°C the alkaline batteries last up to 15 hours and the lithium ion battery pack lasts up to 10 hours. The battery icon in the upper right of the LCD shows remaining battery life.
When the Gas Tracer detects a low battery voltage, a low battery warning is activated. When battery voltage is too low for normal operation, the Gas Tracer sounds a dead battery alarm.
The alkaline batteries can be replaced by removing the battery cover on the back of the case. The lithium ion pack can be replaced by removing the entire battery pack. Push the battery pack latch on the bottom of the unit toward the front of the unit to release the pack.
The lithium ion battery pack can be recharged by placing the Gas T racer in its optional battery charging station or by placing the battery pack in the charging station.
NOTE: Use of batteries or battery chargers not specified by RKI
Instruments, Inc. will void the CSA classification and may void the warranty. See “Replacing or Recharging the Batteries” on page 178.
10 • I n s t r u m e n t D e scr i p t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
WARNING: To prevent ign iti on of a hazard ous atmosph er e, batt eries
must only be changed or charged in an area known to be nonhazardous.
Pump
A diaphragm pump inside the Gas Tracer draws the sample to the sensors. It can draw sample from as far as 50 feet from the Gas Tracer. The pump is not user serviceable.
CAUTION:Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended
for the Gas Tracer because of flow rate reduction.
Flow Chamber
The flow chamber is on the back of the Gas Tracer and is held in place by three phillips screws. The flow chamber seals to the rubber sensor gasket which seals to the sensor faces inside the Gas Tracer and routes flow from the pump to the sensors to the exhaust port (also a part of the flow chamber).
Sensors and Filters
The sensors are located underneath the flow chamber and are only accessible if you remove the flow chamber and the sensor gasket.
An H over the %LEL sensor. This filter darkens as it absorbs H be replaced when it is a dark brown color. Check the condition of this
filter quarterly. A charcoal filter is placed into a recess in the sensor gasket over the
CO sensor. The charcoal filter is black, has a woven texture, and is impregnated with an H
respond if exposed to H charcoal filter disk scrubs these gases out of the sample to avoid false
CO readings. If false or elevated CO r eadings are noticed, especially in the presence of H
NOTE: If you have a Gas Tracer that is intended for CO with H
S removal filter disk is placed into a recess in the sensor gasket
2
S and should
2
S absorbing material. The CO sensor will
2
S and certain hydrocarbon gases. The
2
S, change the charcoal filter.
2
S
2
response operation, a charcoal filter will not be installed. Do not install a charcoal filter.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Instrument Description • 11
Inlet Filter Holder
The filter holder is a clear plastic dome shaped piece on the top of the case. A male quick connect fitting is located on the inlet filter holder. This is the Gas Tracer’s inlet fitting. A cotton dust filter is inside the filter holder. The filter holder may be removed by turning it counterclockwise and pulling it away from the case. Two flat membrane disk hydrophobic filters, a wire mesh disk, and a rubber filter retaining gasket are held in place by the filter holder and are located in the bottom of the case chamber where the filter holder is installed.
Standard Accessories
The standard accessories include the tapered rubber nozzle, belt clip, sample hose, and 10 inch probe. An optional bar hole probe is also available and is described at the end of this section.
Tapered Rubber Nozzle
A cone shaped 4 inch long rubber nozzle is included with the Gas Tracer as standard. It can be installed on the inlet fitting by pushing the larger end over it. The smaller end can be inserted through a hole in a wall or some other access to an enclosed area to sample the environment.
Belt Clip
A belt clip can be mounted to the back of the case using 3 phillips head screws. The belt clip allows the Gas Tracer to be securely attached to a belt.
Wri st Strap
A wrist strap is included with the Gas Tracer and can be attached to the right or left wrist strap installation feature.
Sample Hose & 10 Inch Probe
A 10 foot sample hose and a 10 inch probe are included as standard with the Gas T racer . When desired, the rubber nozzle may be removed and the sample hose and 10 inch probe may be connected to the inlet fitting. Sample hose lengths are available from 10 feet to 50 feet (see “Parts List” on page 190). The quick connect end of the sample hose connects to the inlet fitting of the Gas Tracer and the probe screws onto the end of the hose with the threaded fitting.
12 • S t a n d a r d A c c e s sor i e s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
CAUTION:Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended
for the Gas Tracer because of flow rate reduction.
Figure 4: Sample Hose and Probe
Optional Accessories
Several optional accessories are available for the Gas Tracer. They include a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, battery charging stations, various special probes, a purge tee fitting, and a dilution fitting. The most commonly used optional accessories are described below. Detailed instructions regarding the use of these and other available accessories are included in other parts of this manual. Data logging accessories are briefly described in “Data Logging” on page 60.
Sample Hose
Probe
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack
A rechargeable lithium ion battery pack is available for the Gas T racer. A fully charged battery pack will power the Gas Tracer for 10 hours. The batteries will last for a minimum of 500 charge cycles. See the “Parts List” on page 190 for ordering information.
Charging Stations
The Gas Tracer lithium ion battery pack is charged with the Gas Tracer charging station. Two battery charging stations are available for the Gas Tracer, the standard AC charging station, and a DC charging station with a vehicle plug adapter.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 13
AC Powered Charging Station
g s
The standard AC powered charging station consists of an instrument charging base and an AC adapter. The AC adapter plugs into a 115 VAC wall outlet and connects to the charging station with a jack on the end of a five foot DC output cable. The AC adapter will also work for 100 VAC or 220 VAC if an appropriate plug adapter is provided. The AC charging station is shown below in Figure 5.
AC Adapter
Adapter Jack
Figure 5: Gas Tracer AC Powered Charging Station
To AC
Outlet
Charge LED
Adapter Jack
Top
ViewRear Vi ew
Chargin Contact
14 • O p t i o n a l A c c e s so r i e s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
DC Powered Charging Station
g
An optional DC powered charging station is available with a vehicle plug 12 VDC adapter. It uses the same charging base as the AC charging station but comes with a velc ro strap to secur e the Gas T racer in the charging base.
Adapter Jack
Rear View
To Vehicle
12 VDC
Power Socket
Adapter Jack
Vehicle Plug
Top
Chargin Contacts
Charge LED
View
Figure 6: Gas Tracer DC Powered Charging Station
Optional Probes
Various optional probes designed for specific applications are available for the Gas Tracer. They include the following:
• 30 inch aluminum probe
Figure 7: 30 Inch Aluminum Probe
This probe is designed for applications where it is necessary to put the probe tip in areas that are out of reach with the standard pr obe . A small breather hole near the end of the probe tube prevents
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 15
interruption of sampling and a low flow alarm if the probe tip is blocked.
• 30 inch stainless steel probe
Figure 8: 30 Inch Stainless Steel Probe
This probe is physically the same as the 30 inch aluminum probe and is intended for applications where a high level of corrosion resistance is required in the long probe tube.
• Barhole probe
End Plugged
Figure 9: Barhole Probe
An optional bar hole probe is available for the Gas Tracer. It is designed to be used when the Gas Tracer is operated in Bar Hole Mode to check bar holes when tracking down underground gas pipe leaks (see “Chapter 4: Using the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode” on page 91). The bar hole probe has the same handle as the standard probe, but has a 30 inch fiberglass tube instead of the standard tube. Four holes are drilled through the 30 inch tube’s wall near the end and the end is plugged so that debris from the barhole cannot be drawn into the tube. The sample is drawn through the drilled holes in the tube wall.
• 32 inch telescoping probe with dust filter
Figure 10: 32 Inch Telescoping Probe with Dust Filter
This probe is designed for use where it is necessary to put the probe tip in areas not accessible with the 10 inch probe with dust filter and applications where the pr obe tube must be collapsible for storage.
16 • O p t i o n a l A c c e s so r i e s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
• 7 foot telescoping probe with dust filter
Figure 11: 7 Foot Telescoping Probe with Dust Filter
This probe is designed for use where it is necessary to put the probe tip in areas not accessible with the 32 inch telescoping probe with dust filter and applications where the probe tube must be collapsible for storage.
• 8 meter hose with floating head
This probe is designed to be used in a tank or a well that may have water or some other liquid at the bottom. As you lower the probe down, if it hits water, it will float and continue to monitor the area.
See the “Parts List” on page 190 for probe ordering information.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 17
Purge Tee Fitting
The 17-4430RK-01 purge fitting is used to detect gas levels in a pressurized gas stream from a pipeline or vessel being purged. The sample port of the purge fitting is inserted into the flowing gas, and the vent port will allow any excess gas to release to the atmosphere to avoid damage to pump or sensors.
Pressurized
Stream
Sample Port
GX-201 2 I nlet
Figure 12: Purge Tee Fitting
Vent Port
Excess Pressurized Sample
External Dilution Fitting
An external dilution fitting is available for the Gas Tracer. It is a 1:1 dilution fitting and is designed to mate with the inlet fitting and accept a sample hose or probe. The fittings are made with brass and nickel plated brass and are appropriate for use with the four standard gases. The dilution fitting is normally used when it is necessary to introduce air into a sample that has no oxygen or a very low level of oxygen, such as a nitrogen purged sample. It can also be used when one of the target gas levels in the sample area will likely be present in a concentration above the detection range for that gas. Since the fittings partially consist of unplated brass, they are not appropriate for detection of elevated levels of H
S.
2
Figure 13: Dilution Fitting
Humidifier Tube
A 6 inch humidifier tube comes with any calibration kits purchased for the Gas Tracer. It is for use in calibrating the ppm combustible gas sensor. If you did not purchase a calibration kit for the Gas Tracer and purchased calibration cylinders independently, you will need to
18 • O p t i o n a l A c c e s so r i e s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
purchase a humidifier tube in order to properly calibrate the ppm combustible gas sensor. Use the humidifier tube to connect the ppm calibration cylinder to the Gas Tracer. If you are using a zero air cylinder to perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor in Leak Check Mode or a WET fresh air adjustment in Calibration Mode, you will need to use the humidifier tube to connect the zero air cylinder to the Gas Tracer.
Figure 14: Humidifier Tube
NOTE: When removing the humidifier tube from the Gas Tracer or a
demand flow regulator, be sure to grasp it by the clear tubing at the ends of the humidifier tube assembly, not the humidifier tube itself.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 19
Chapter 3: Using the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode
Overview
This chapter explains how to operate the Gas Trace r in Normal Mode. Normal Mode is used to perform confined space entry monitoring or general area monitoring. While in Normal Mode, Display Mode and Calibration Mode are accessible.
Start Up, Normal Mode
This section explains how to start up the Gas T r acer in Normal Mode, get it ready for operation, and turn it off.
NOTE: The screens illustrated in this section are for a 3-gas unit that
has the % LEL range for the combustible gas channel. The screens displayed by your Gas Tracer may be slightly different.
Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only
The following description of the Gas Tracer start up sequence assumes that the following items in Maintenance Mode are turned on: LNCH BRK, ID DISP, CL RMNDR, and BP RMNDR. If any of these items is turned off, then the corresponding screen will not appear. This description also assumes that Bar Hole Mode and Leak Check Mode are not active.
1. Connect the tapered rubber nozzle or the sample hose to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.
2. If a sample hose is used, screw the probe onto the sample hose’s threaded fitting.
3. Press and briefly hold down the POWER ENTER button. Release the button when you hear a beep.
20 • O v e r v i e w Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
4. If LNCH BRK is turned on, the Resume Datalog Screen displays.
rESU 4
RESUME
Press and release the POWER ENTER button to continue
accumulating time-weighted average (TWA), PEAK readings, and time in operation from the last time the Gas Tracer was used. The short-term exposure limit [STEL] reading is reset each time the Gas Tracer is turned on.
Press and release the DISPLAY(ADJ) button to reset the
accumulation of these measurements.
If you do not press the POWER ENTER or DISPLAY(ADJ) button within 5 seconds, the Gas Tracer automatically resumes accumulating the TWA, PEAK readings, and time in operation.
5. If CL RMNDR is turned on (factory setting), the screen that appears next depends on how CL EXPRD is set in the Maintenance Mode Menu (page 162).
If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to
CONFIRM (factory setting), then the following screen displays.
CAL
C--LIMIT
The alarm LED’s and buzzer will pulse several times. After this, press the RESET SILENCE button until you hear a beep to continue.
Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Start Up, Normal Mode • 21
If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to NOT
USE, then the following screen displays.
FAIL
C--LIMIT
The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a calibration has been performed either by selecting AUTO CAL or ONE CAL in the Maintenance Mode menu. See “Calibrating Using Auto Calibration” on page 123 or “Calibrating Using Single Calibration” on page 126 for calibration instructions.
If calibration is not due or CL EXPRD is set to NO EFFECT,
then the following screen appears for a few seconds indicating when the next calibration is due.
2011 9 30 69d
NEXT CAL
6. If BP RMNDR is turned on (factory setting is OFF), the screen that appears next depends on how BP EXPRD is set in the Maintenance Mode Menu (page 162).
If the unit is due for a bump test and BP EXPRD is set to
CONFIRM (factory setting), then the following screen displays.
tESt
B--LIMIT
The alarm LED’s and buzzer will pulse several times. After this, press the RESET SILENCE button until you hear a beep to
22 • S t a r t U p , N o r m al M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual
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