RKI Instruments Gas Tracer User Manual

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Gas Tracer

Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0244RK

Revision: K

Released: 12/31/13

www.rkiinstruments.com

WARNING

Read and understand this instruction manual before operating instrument. Improper use of the gas monitor could result in bodily harm or death.

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

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)

• 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

• 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

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)

± 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

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

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

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

S and should

S absorbing material. The CO sensor will

S and certain hydrocarbon gases. The

S, change the charcoal filter.

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

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

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

continue.

• If the unit is due for a bump test and BP EXPRD is set to NOT

USE, then the following screen displays.

FAIL

B--LIMIT

The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a bump test has been performed by selecting BUMP in the Maintenance Mode menu. See “Performing a Bump Test” on page 129 for bump testing instructions.

• If a bump test is not due or BP EXPRD is set to NO EFFECT,

then the following screen appears for a few seconds indicating when the next bump test is due.

2011 9 30 10d

NEXTBUMP

NOTE: If both CL RMNDR and BP RMNDR are turned off, a WARM

UP screen will display before the warm up sequence continues.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Start Up, Normal Mode • 23

7. If ID DISP is turned on (see page 167), the User ID Screen displays for a few seconds and then the Station ID Screen displays for a few seconds.

U Id

- - - - - - - -

S Id

- - - - - - - -

8. The Date/Time Screen appears for a few seconds.

2011 8 31 22:39

DATE

This screen displays the current year, month, day, and time.

9. The Battery Level and Alarm Pattern Screen appears next.

bAtt

3.7

AL-H V

AL -- H indicates latching (hold) alarms and AL -- A indicates selfresetting (automatic) alarms. The number shown indicates the voltage of the batteries. A fully charged lithium ion battery pack will display 3.7 V. If the unit is powered by alkaline (dry cell)

24 • S t a r t U p , N o r m al M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

batteries, a “D” will appear in front of the “V” in the lower right corner.

bAtt

3.7

AL-H D: V

10.The display then indicates the following items for about a second each:

• Full scale values for all channels

• Warning setpoint (low gas alarm) for all channels

• Alarm setpoint (high gas alarm) for all channels

• STEL alarm setpoint for the CO channel

• TWA alarm setpoint for the CO channel

NOTE: If the combustible channel is factory set as %volume only, all

gas alarms are turned off. You must press and release the RESET SILENCE button at the warning, alarm, STEL, and TWA screens to acknowledge that there are no gas alarms. The warm up will not proceed until you do so.

If the combustible channel is set as %volume only using the HC Range Screen in Display Mode, it will automatically revert to Autoranging when it is turned off and on again and the no alarm acknowledgement screen will not appear.

11.If the Gas Tracer experiences a sensor failure during start up, a screen indicating which sensor failed displays. In the example below, the CO sensor has failed.

FAIL

SENSOR

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Start Up, Normal Mode • 25

ppm

If you wish to continue, press and release the RESET SILENCE button to acknowledge the failure. The gas reading for the failed sensor will be replaced by “---” . Replace the failed sensor as soon as possible.

12.The Gas Tracer is now operating in Normal Mode and monitoring for gas in Measuring Mode. The Normal Operation Screen appears.

CH4

22:37

20.9 0

%LEL

ppm

The concentrations of the target gases are displayed along with the time and battery charge level. The heart symbol displayed just to the left of the battery charge level flashes while the instrument is functioning properly. If it disappears or is steadily on, the unit is experiencing a micropr oces sor error. The fan symbol just to the left of the heart symbol spins while the pump is operating.

Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode With All Modes Active

If the L./B. MODE item in Maintenance Mode is set to LC, bH, or LC bH (see “Updating the Leak Check/Bar Hole Mode Setting” on page 169), then the user must select Normal Mode during the start up sequence to operate in Normal Mode. The standard factory setting is LC. See “Chapter 4: Using the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode” on page 91 for a description of Bar Hole Mode or “Chapter 5: Using the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode” on page 101 for a description of Leak Check Mode.

The following description of the Gas Tracer start up sequence assumes that the following menu 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 scr een will not appear. It also assumes that L./B. MODE is set to LC bH. If L./B. MODE is set to LC, the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen will not appear. If L./B. MODE is set to bH, the Leak Check Mode Select Screen will not appear.

1. Connect the tapered rubber nozzle or the sample hose to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

26 • S t a r t U p , N o r m al M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

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. The Normal Mode Select Screen displays.

vol%

CH4

%LEL

NORMAL ?

20.9 0

ppm

4. You can use the AIR▲ button to scroll to the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen.

BAR HOLE MODE

CH4

20.9 30

B.H. MODE?

vol% %LEL

sec

5. Press the AIR▲ button again to display the Leak Check Mode Select Screen.

LEAK CK MODE

CH4

L.C. MODE?

5000

ppm

LEAK CK MODE

CH4

L.C. MODE?

0 0

5000

ppm

CO DISP OFF CO DISP On

NOTE: If the CO DISP parameter in Maintenance Mode is set to On,

the CO channel will appear in Leak Check Mode. If the CO DISP parameter is set to OFF (factory setting), the CO channel will not appear in Leak Check Mode. See “Chapter 5: Using the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode” on page 101 for more information.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Start Up, Normal Mode • 27

You can scroll up or down through these screens using the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons.

6. With the Normal Mode Select Screen displayed, press and release the POWER ENTER button and continue with the startup sequence as described in the previous section, “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only”, from step 4 on page 21 on.

NOTE: If no button is pressed for 20 seconds, the unit will proceed

into whichever mode is displayed.

7. To exit Normal Mode and return to the Mode Select Screen, press and hold the (SHIFT)▼ button for 5 seconds while in the Normal Operation Screen.

Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Normal Mode

Before using the Gas Tracer, it is recommended to set the fresh air readings for the target gases by performing a fresh air adjustment. This will set the combustible gas and CO channels to zero and the OXY channel to 20.9%.

1. Find a fresh-air environment. This is an environment free of toxic or combustible gases and of normal oxygen content (20.9%).

2. Tu rn on the unit as described above in “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” or “Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode With All Modes Active”.

3. Press and hold the AIR▲ button. The display prompts you to hold the AIR▲ button.

AIr CAL

HOLD AIR

4. Continue to hold the AIR▲ button until the display prompts you to release the AIR▲ button. The Gas Tracer will count down from 8 on an autoranging combustible gas channel as it sets the fresh air reading for all channels. Once the countdown has finished, start up is complete and the unit is ready for monitoring.

28 • S t a r t U p , N o r m al M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Turning Off the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode

1. Press and hold the POWER ENTER button.

2. The buzzer will pulse for about three seconds and TURN OFF will be displayed along the bottom of the screen.

3. Release the button when TURN OFF disappears.

Measuring Mode, Normal Operation

The Gas Tracer has three operating modes within Normal Mode: Measuring Mode, Display Mode, and Calibration Mode. This section describes using the Gas Tracer in Measuring Mode during normal operation.

In Measuring Mode the Gas Tracer continuously monitors the sampled atmosphere and displays the gas concentrations present for its target gases. In a low-light environment, press and release any button to turn on the display backlight. See “Updating the LCD Back Light Time Setting” on page 167 to program backlight duration. If BEEP. SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is turned on, the Gas Tracer beeps once every 5 minutes to confirm that it’s operating. See “Updating the Confirmation Beep Setting” on page 160 for instructions to update the setting.

Monitoring an Area

1. Start up the Gas Tracer as described above in “Start Up, Normal Mode” on page 20 or “Turning On the Gas T racer in Normal Mode With All Modes Active”. It is now in Measuring Mode.

2. Take the Gas Tracer to the monitoring area. If the tapered rubber nozzle is used, put the nozzle tip in the ar ea to

be monitored. If the hose and probe is used, put the probe tip in the area to be

monitored.

3. Wait 10 - 15 seconds and observe the display for gas readings. If a reading is observed, allow the reading to stabilize to determine the gas concentrations present.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Normal Operation • 29

NOTE: Response time increases with the length of the sample hose.

Long sample hoses will require mor e time to show a r esponse at the Gas Tracer. The maximum sample hose length recommended for the Gas Tracer is 50 feet. Consult RKI Instruments, Inc. for longer sample hose lengths.

4. If a gas alarm occurs, take appropriate action. See “Responding to Alarms” on page 41.

Using Optional Probes and Fittings

This section describes how to use the 8 meter hose with floating head and the purge tee fitting.

Using the 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. To use the 8 meter hose with floating probe:

1. Start up the Gas Tracer as described in “Start Up, Normal Mode” on page 20.

2. Connect the 8 meter hose with floating probe to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

3. Slowly lower the probe into the area you wish to monitor. If the probe hits water, it will float and continue to monitor the area.

Figure 15: 8 Meter Hose with Floating Head

Using the Purge Tee Fitting

The purge fitting is used to detect gas levels in a pressurized gas stream from a pipeline or vessel being purged.

1. Start up the Gas Tracer as described in “Start Up, Normal Mode”

30 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , N o r m a l O p e r a t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

on page 20.

2. Connect the purge tee fitting to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

3. Insert the sample port into the flowing gas. 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-2012 Inl e t

Figure 16: Purge Tee Fitting

Vent Port

Excess Pressurized Sample

Using the Dilution Fitting

The external dilution fitting is a 1:1 dilution fitting. It 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

1. Start up the Gas Tracer as described in “Start Up, Normal Mode” on page 20.

2. Install the dilution fitting to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

3. Connect the tapered rubber nozzle or the sample hose to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

4. If a sample hose is used, screw the probe onto the sample hose’s threaded fitting.

5. Monitor the sampling area.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Normal Operation • 31

NOTE: The Gas Tracer can be calibrated either with or without the dilution

fitting in place. If calibrated without the dilution fitting in place, then display readings must be doubled to determine the actual gas concentration. If calibrated with the dilution fitting in place, then a sample bag must be used during calibration, and the display readings will be the actual gas concentrations.

CAUTION: If the dilution fitting is in place for calibration, do not use a

demand flow regulator. Use a sample bag. The use of a demand flow regulator with a dilution fitting when calibrating will result in an inaccurate calibration.

Figure 17: Dilution Fitting

Combustible Gas Detection

The Gas Tracer can support two combustible gas sensors, a TC (thermal conductivity) sensor for detection in the % volume range, and a catalytic sensor for detection in the % LEL range. Either or both sensors may be installed in your unit.

If both the % volume and % LEL sensors are installed, the combustible gas channel is setup at the factory as % LEL/% volume autoranging. In this case, the combustible gas channel will display the combustible gas concentration in % LEL up to 100% LEL. If the combustible gas concentration rises above 100% LEL, then the unit au tomatically b egins displaying the concentration in % volume.

CAUTION: If both combustible sensors are installed in your instrument,

make sure you follow the recommendations in the next section, “Applications with High Levels of Combustible Gas” on page 33, to protect the % LEL sensor . Failur e to do so will result in damage to the % LEL sensor.

WARNING: If the combustible channel is set for % volume only, then

there are no gas alarms for any detection channel. See “HC Range Screen” on page 46.

There are three important issues to keep in mind when monitoring for combustible

gas.

32 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , N o r m a l O p e r a t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Applications with High Levels of Combustible Gas

The Gas Tracer provides the % LEL sensor with some protection by turning off the % LEL sensor power temporarily when it determines that a % LEL over scale (more than 100% LEL) concentration of combustible gas is present. When this happens, “OVER” is displayed below the gas list and the display units to the right of the combustible gas channel change to % volume. However, this protection is not adequate to completely prevent damage to the sensor when it is exposed to moderate or high levels of % volume gas.

Combustible gas is present at moderate or high % volume levels in many applications such as purging applications. If your Gas Tracer is equipped with both the % LEL and %volume sensors, you must set up the instrument so that the combustible channel operates in the %volume only range when you use the instrument for this type of application to protect the % LEL sensor from damage. You can set the combustible channel to opera te in the % volume range only in the HC Range Screen of Display Mode. See “HC Range Screen” on page 46 for instructions to set the combustible channel to operate in the % volume range only.

CAUTION: Failure to set the combustible channel to % volume only

operation when using the Gas Tracer for applications with moderate to high % volume levels of combustible gas wi ll result in damage to the % LEL sensor.

The instrument may be set up for combustible channel autoranging operation when it is used for confined space applications where % volume combustibl e gas concentrations are not likely to be found.

Silicone & Other Potentially Damaging Compounds

Silicone vapors and chlorine and fluorine compounds, such as chlorinated hydrocarbons, can damage the %LEL sensor. These compounds should be avoided. If exposure to these compounds is suspected, verify the %LEL response on a known gas sample.

%LEL Sensor Relative Responses

Although the standard factory setup and calibration for the combustible gas channel is to methan e (C H

), the combustible sensors will respond to other

combustible gases as well. The table below list s the conversion factors for several hydrocarbon gases for

the % LEL combustible sensor if it is calibrated to methane. Conversion factors are not available for the % volume TC sensor. To use this table, multiply the display reading on the combustible gas channel by the factor in the appropriate row to obtain the actual gas concentration. For example, if

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Normal Operation • 33

you are detecting pentane and the display reads 10% LEL on the combustible gas channel, you actually have 10% LEL x 1.35 = 13.5% LEL pentane present.

Table 3: LEL Hydrocarbon Conversions

LEL Conversion

Gas

Acetone 1.92 Iso Butane 1.56

Acetylene 2.00 MEK 1.92

Benzene 2.00 Methane 1.00

Ethane 1.25 Methanol 1.65

Ethanol 1.75 Pentane 1.35

Ethylene 1.20 Propane 1.52

Heptane 1.92 Propylene 1.33

Hexane 1.65 Toluene 2.00

Hydrogen 1.00 Xylene 0 .93

IPA 2.50

Factor (Methane

Calibration)

Gas

LEL Conversion Factor (Methane

Calibration)

CO with H2S Response Configuration

Some applications may require the user to know if H2S is present while monitoring with a Gas Tracer. The Gas Tracer does not have an

S sensor installed but if the charcoal filter is removed from the CO

sensor, it will respond to H Since the CO sensor cannot distinguish between CO and H

channel reading on the display could be a mix of CO and H

S, the CO

If the environment you are monitoring is completely free of CO, there is an approximate response factor that varies from sensor to sensor that can be used. The CO sensor’s response to H

than the actual H reading is 25 ppm, the actual H

S concentration. For example, if the CO channel

S concentration is 5 ppm. This

S is 5 times greater

approximation is not applicable if CO is present in the monitoring environment.

NOTE: If your Gas Tracer is configured to respond to both H

S and

CO, be sure to calibrate the CO channel using CO.

34 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , N o r m a l O p e r a t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation

NOTE: For instructions to take snap log data if using the Gas Tracer

in Leak Check Mode, see “Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation” on page 112.

The snap logging function in Snap Log Mode allows the user to rec ord data at a specific time and have it saved to the data logger. The data is assigned a snap log ID and is saved with the station ID that was in use when the data was taken.

To enter Snap Log Mode and record snap log data:

1. Turn the Gas Tracer on as described in “Turning On the Gas T racer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20. Press and hold the (SHIFT)T button, then press and hold the AIRS button and hold both until you hear a beep. The unit will cycle through the following screens.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Normal Operation • 35

REC. DATA

016

001

YES/ENT.

S Id

2011 9 27 22:37

CH4

O2 CO H2S

NO /DISP

19.2 10

7.8

%LEL

ppm

The first screen displays what snap log ID will be given to this particular set of data. This ID number increases sequentially with each set of snap log data taken. The second screen displays what Station ID will be associated with this snap log. The third screen displays the year, month, day, and time of the snap log, and that

36 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , N o r m a l O p e r a t i o n Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

you should press the POWER ENTER button to save a set of snap log data. The fourth screen displays the current gas readings, and that you should press the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to exit Snap Log Mode without saving a set of snap log data.

2. You can change the Station ID to be used with the snap log by pressing the (SHIFT)T button and then pressing the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. The Station ID Select Screen will appear and the current Station ID will be flashing.

S Id

001

SEL

3. Use the (SHIFT)T and AIRS buttons to scroll to the desired station ID, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the Snap Logging Screen sequence.

To return to the Snap Logging Screen sequence without changing the station ID, press and release RESET SILENCE.

4. To take a snap log of the current gas r eadings, pr ess and release the POWER ENTER button. The unit will display SAVED along the bottom of the screen before returning to the Snap Logging Screen sequence.

SAVED

To exit Snap Log Mode without taking a snap log or when you are finished recording snap logs, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. The unit will immediately return to the Normal Operation Screen.

5. The data recorded in Snap Log Mode can be viewed in Display Mode. See “Snap Logging Screen” on page 56 for more information.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Normal Operation • 37

Measuring Mode, Alarms

This section covers alarm indications in Measuring Mode. It also tells you how to reset the Gas Tracer after an alarm has occurred and how to respond to an alarm condition.

NOTE: False alarms may be caused by radio frequency (RF) or

electromagnetic (EMI) interfer ence. Keep the Gas T racer away from RF and EMI sources such as radio transmitters or large motors.

Alarm Indications

CAUTION: If the combustible channel is set for %volume only, then there

are no gas alarms for any detection channel. See “HC Range Screen” on page 46.

The Gas Tracer will sound an alarm, the unit will vibrate, and the LED arrays will flash when one of the target gas concentrations rises above the Warning level, or in the case of oxygen, falls below the Low Alarm setting for that gas.

The Gas Tracer also sounds an alarm, vibrates, and flashes the LED arrays when the Alarm level is reached for combustible gas and CO, when the concentration of oxygen rises above the High Alarm level, and when the STEL and TWA alarm points are reached for CO.

When a failure condition occurs, such as a sensor failure, low flow, or dead battery condition, the unit will also sound an alarm, flash the LED arrays, and vibrate.

The table below summarizes the types of alarms produced by the Gas Tracer.

Table 4: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

Low Alarm

Concentration of gas rises above the Warni ng level, or falls below the Low Alarm level for O

• WARNING appears below the gas list.

• Reading for the gas in alarm flashes

• Alarm LED arrays flash

• Backlight turns on

• Buzzer sounds alternating between a low and high pitch

• Vibrator pulses

38 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , Al a r m s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Table 4: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

High Alarm

Concentration of gas rises above the Alarm level, or rises above the High Alarm level for O

TWA or STEL

Concentration of CO rises above the TWA or STEL alarm point setting.

Over Range*

• ALARM appears below the gas list.

• Reading for the gas in alarm flashes

• Alarm LEDs flash

faster than warning indication

• Backlight turns on

• TWA or STEL appears below the gas list.

• Alarm LEDs flash

• Back light turns on

• Gas reading replaced by brackets flashing at same rate as alarm indication

• Alarm LEDs flash at same rate as alarm indication

• Back light turns on.

• OVER appears below the gas list.

• Buzzer sounds alternating between low and high pitch faster than warning indication

• Vibrator pulses fas ter than warning indication

• Buzzer sounds alternating between a low and high pitch at the same rate as warning indication

• Vibrator pulses at same rate as warning indication

• Buzzer sounds alternating between a low and high pitch at same rate as alarm indication

• Vibrator pulses at same rate as alarm indication

Low Flow*

Low Battery

• The display indicates

FAIL LOW FLOW

• The Alarm LED’s flash

• Battery icon blinks • None

• Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession)

Warning* Dead Battery Alarm*

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Alarms • 39

• Gas readings replaced by FAIL

• Fan symbol disappears

• BATTERY displayed along bottom of screen

• Alarm LED arrays flash

Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession)

Table 4: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

Sensor Failure*

Clock Failure*

System Failure*

Microprocessor Failure*

• NOTE: The unit will not operate if this alarm occurs.

• FAIL appears at the bottom of the display and the failed sensor(s) are indicated

• Alarm LED arrays flash

• FAI L CLOCK appears on the display

• Alarm LED arrays flash

• FAIL SYSTEM appears on the display

• Alarm LED arrays flash

• Heart indicator is steadily on or not on at all

Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession)

• Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession)

• A failure code appears

• None

*This alarm can also occur in Bar Hole Mode

Resetting and Silencing Alarms

You can set the Gas Tracer’s gas alarms as latching or self-resetting alarms (See “Updating the Alarm Latching Setting” on page 149) and the buzzer operation as silenceable or not silenceable (See “Updating the Alarm Silence Setting” on page 150).

• Self-resetting alarms (LATCHING set to OFF)

Self-resetting alarms automatically shut off and reset when the gas reading falls below (or rises above for an oxygen low alarm) the alarm setting. You cannot silence or reset self-resetting alarms.

• Latching alarms (LATCHIN G set to ON)

You can set latching alarms with or without Alarm Silence (see “Updating the Alarm Silence Setting” on page 150).

With ALRM SLNC On and LATCHING On:

When the Gas T racer goes into a gas alarm, pr ess the RESET SILENCE button to silence the buzzer. If the gas concentration was still above the alarm level when the button was pressed, the LEDs continue to

40 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , Al a r m s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

flash, and the Gas Tracer continues to display the current alarm level. The gas reading must fall below (or rise above for an oxygen low

alarm) the low alarm setting before you can reset the alarm. Press the RESET SILENCE button to reset the alarm. The LEDs turn off and the Gas Tracer alarm indications on the display turn off.

With ALRM SLNC OFF and LATCHING ON:

The gas reading must fall below (or rise above for an oxygen low alarm) the low alarm setting before you can reset the alarm. Press the RESET SILENCE button to reset the alarm. The LEDs and buzzer turn off and the Gas Tracer alarm indications on the display turn off.

NOTE: With ALRM SLNC set to OFF in Maintenance Mode, you

cannot silence the buzzer while the gas reading is above (below for an oxygen Low Alarm) the low alarm setting.

Responding to Alarms

This section describes response to gas, over range, battery, and sensor failure alarms.

Responding to Gas Alarms

1. Determine which gas alarm has been activated.

2. Follow your established procedure for an increasing gas condition or a decreasing oxygen condition.

3. If necessary , r eset the alarm using the RESET SILENCE button once the alarm condition has been cleared.

Responding to Over Range Alarms

WARNING: An over range alarm may indicate an extreme

combustible gas, toxic gas, or oxygen concentration. Confirm a normal condition with a different Gas Tracer or with another gas detecting device.

1. Determine which gas alarm has been activated.

2. Follow your established procedure for an increasing gas condition.

3. Reset the alarm using the RESET SILENCE button once the alarm condition has cleared.

4. Calibrate the Gas Tracer as described in the calibration section of this manual.

5. If the over range condition continues, you may need to replace the

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Alarms • 41

sensor that has triggered the over range alarm.

6. If the over range condition continues after you have replaced the sensor, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. for further instructions.

Responding to Battery Alarms

WARNING: The Gas Tracer is not operational as a gas monitoring

device during a dead battery alarm. Take the Gas Tracer to a non-hazardous area and replace or recharge the batteries as described in “Replacing or Recharging the Batteries” on page 178.

The Gas Tracer is fully functional during a low battery warning. However, only a limited amount of operating time remains, approximately 1 - 2 hours. The amount of time depends on how often the LCD backlight is used and how often the unit is responding to alarm conditions. Recharge the battery pack or replace the alkaline batteries as soon as possible as described in “Replacing or Recharging the Batteries” on page 178.

NOTE: Alarms and the back light feature consume battery power

and reduce the amount of operating time remaining.

Responding to Sensor Failure Alarms

1. Determine which sensor has triggered the sensor failure alarm.

2. Try calibrating the sensor first, as described in “Calibration Mode” on page 61 before replacing it.

3. If the sensor failure continues, replace the sensor as described in “Replacing a Sensor” on page 187.

4. If the sensor failure condition continues after you have replaced the sensor, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. for further instructions.

Responding to Clock Failure Alarm

This alarm occurs if the internal unit date has been changed to something unreasonable like 15/34 (month/day).

1. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button to continue into normal operation.

CAUTION:There will be no datalogging function if you operate the

instrument after a clock failure.

2. Attempt to change the date using the DATE menu time in

42 • M e a s u r i n g M o d e , Al a r m s Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Maintenance Mode. See “Updating the Date and Time Settings” on page 121.

3. If the date cannot be set correctly, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.

Responding to System Failure Alarms

1. If a system failure occurs, the system failure screen will display an error code as shown below:

FAIL

SYSTEM

031

2. The error code meanings are shown below:

Table 5: Error Code Explanation

Error Code Explanation

000 MPU failure 010 RAM failure 021 EEPROM failure 031 FLASH memory fail u re

3. If the error code is anything but 031 as shown above, the instrument cannot be used. Contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.

If the error code is 031, you may press and release the RESET SILENCE button to continue to normal operation if the instrument must be used temporarily.

CAUTION:There will be no datalogging function if you operate the

instrument after a 031 system failure. Contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.

Responding to Microprocessor Failure

If your unit experiences a microprocessor failure, the heart symbol at the top of the screen will be steadily on or steadily of f. The unit cannot be used in this case. Contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Measuring Mode, Alarms • 43

Inert Mode

Inert Mode is used to measure the combustible gas and/or oxygen level in a purged environment. In order for the instrument to operate in Inert Mode, the oxygen alarm must be set to H-HH operation in which both alarms are increasing. The oxygen Warning and Alarm points are factory set at 5.0% and 10.0%.

It is recommended that the %volume sensor be installed in a unit that is used to monitor combustible gas during Inert Mode operation since it does not require oxygen to work properly. The catalytic LEL sensor does not operate at oxygen concentrations below 10% volume. If it is necessary to use the catalytic LEL sensor during Inert Mode operation, a dilution fitting must be installed. Installing a dilution fitting will affect the oxygen reading since you’re introducing oxygen into the sample.

Alarms

The oxygen channel alarm points in Inert Mode are different from those in Normal Mode. All other alarm point settings remain unchanged.

Since the application for Inert Mode is to detect a rising oxygen level in purged environments, both oxygen alarms are set to rising. The factory set alarm point is 5.0% volume for the Warning and 10.0% volume for the Alarm. These alarm points are user adjustable in Maintenance Mode. See “Updating the Alarm Point Settings” on page 152 for instructions to set the alarm points.

Start Up and Operation

1. With the oxygen alarm pattern set to H-HH, start up the Gas T racer as described in “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20.

44 • I n e r t M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

2. Once the warm up sequence is complete, the Normal Operation Screen will display and INERT will appear along the bottom of the display.

3. Since the oxygen concentration in fresh air is above both oxygen alarm points, the Gas Tracer will go into alarm if turned on in a fresh air environment.

Display Mode

This section describes using the Gas T racer in Display Mode. With the Gas Tracer in Display Mode, you can:

• set the combustible gas channel range

• display peak readings

• display STEL and TWA readings (CO only)

CH4

INERT

20.9 0

%LEL

ppm

• display full scale, warning, alarm, STEL (CO only), and TWA (CO only) values

• display time in operation

• display the date and time

• display remaining log time

• clear the data logger

• turn the pump on or off

• select a user ID

• select a station ID

• display snap logging data

• turn peak bar function on or off

To enter Display Mode, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button while in Measuring Mode. To scroll from one screen to the next press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 45

NOTE: Each screen displays for 20 seconds. If you do not press the

DISPLAY (ADJ) button to scroll to the next screen or press the POWER ENTER button to enter an item within 20 seconds, the Gas Tracer automatically returns to Measuring Mode.

HC Range Screen

This screen displays only if your Gas Tracer is equipped with both the catalytic % LEL combustible sensor and the TC % volume combustible sensor. It allows you to select the display units for the combustible

channel as % LEL/% volume autoranging or % volume. If autoranging is selected, the combustible gas reading will be displayed in % LEL up to 100% LEL, which is equivalent to 5% volume for methane (CH

% volume is selected, the combustible gas reading will be displayed in % volume only.

CAUTION:If the combustible channel is set for % volume only, then there

). Above 100% LEL, it will be displayed in %volume. If

are no gas alarms for any detection channel and NO ALARM will appear in the upper left corner of the screen when you return to Normal Operation.

HC SEL

22:39

HC RANGE

To update the HC range setting:

1. After entering Display Mode and arriving at the HC Range Screen, press and release the POWER ENTER button. The current setting will appear at the bottom of the LCD.

2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼button to change the setting.

3. Press the POWER ENTER button to save the change.

4. Press the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to advance to the next screen.

46 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Peak Screen

The Peak Screen displays the highest (lowest for O2) concentrations detected since the Gas T racer was turned on. Peak readings ar e sto r ed

in the Gas Tracer’s memory until a higher level is detected, the peak reading is reset, or the Gas Tracer is turned off.

The lunch break feature enables the Gas Tracer to remember peak readings when it is turned off so it can continue them when it is turned on again. See “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20. To reset the peak readings during operation, press and hold the RESET SILENCE button for a few seconds while in the peak screen.

CH4

PEAK

20.9 0

%LEL

ppm

STEL Screen

The STEL Screen displays the short-term exposure limit (STEL) readings for CO only. The STEL reading is the average reading during

the last 15 minutes.

STEL

ppm

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 47

TWA Screen

The TWA Screen displays the time-weighted average (TWA) readings for CO only.

The TWA reading is the average reading during the last 8 hours. If 8 hours have not elapsed since the last time the TWA reading was cleared, the average is still calculated over 8 hours. The missing time is assigned a 0 value for readings.

TWA

ppm

Alarm Points Screen

The Alarm Points Screen allows you to view each channel’s alarm settings for full scale, warning, alarm, STEL (for CO only), and TWA (for CO only). The bottom line of the screen will alternate between ALARM--P, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT.

dISP

ALARM--P

Press the POWER ENTER button to proceed to view the full scale settings. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through screens showing the different settings.

vol%

CH4

F. S.

48 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

100

40.0 500

%LEL

ppm

CH4

WARNING

19.5 25

%LEL

ppm

CH4

ALARM

STEL

TWA

23.5 50

200

%LEL

ppm

Pressing and releasing POWER ENTER while in a settings screen will cause the instrument to simulate that condition. The buzzer, LEDs, and vibration will activate. Press and release POWER ENTER again to stop the simulated alarm.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 49

Operation Time Screen

The operation time screen displays the time in minutes since the Gas Tracer was last turned on. The operation time may be continued from the last time the Gas Tracer was in operation by using the lunch break option. See “Turning On the Gas Tracer , Normal Mode Only” on page 20.

OP. TIME

0:11

Date/Time Screen

The date/time screen displays the current date and time with the order being year, month, day, time.

2011 8 31 22:39

DATE

Remaining Log Time Screen

The remaining log time screen displays the time remaining until the data logger memory is full. The remaining log time depends on how often the Gas Tracer stores data to the data log, how many channels are active, and how often the Gas Tracer is turned on and off.

LOG 276

REMAIN

50 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

The table below illustrates how much data logging time is available for the various interval times. It assumes that the unit is set up with all 5 sensors and there are no alarm occurrences.

Table 6: Data Logging Capacity, 5 Sensor Gas Tracer

Interval

Time

10 seconds 10 hours 20 seconds 20 hours 30 seconds 30 hours 1 minute 60 hours 3 minutes 180 hours 5 minutes 300 hours 10 minutes 600 hours

Data Logging Time

Clear Data Logger Screens

CAUTION:Once you clear the data logger, you cannot retrieve any data

previously stored in the data logger.

NOTE: This item appears in Display Mode only if the DLOG DSP menu

item in Maintenance Mode is turned ON. The factory setting for DLOG DSP is ON.

The clear data logger screens allow you to clear the data logger storage. You can set the Gas Tracer to overwrite the oldest data when the data log is full. See “Updating the Datalog Overwrite Setting” on page 160. The bottom line of the screen alternates between LG CLEAR, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT.

CLr

LOG

LG CLEAR

To clear the data log:

1. With the above screen displayed, press and release the POWER ENTER button. The instrument will ask you to confirm that you want to clear the data log and CLr LOG will be flashing. The

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 51

bottom line of the screen alternates between CONFIRM?, YES/ ENT., AND NO /DISP.

CLr

LOG

CONFIRM?

2. To cancel the clear data log and return to the Clear Data Logger Screen in Display Mode, press and release DISPLAY (ADJ).

To continue with the clear data log, press and release POWER ENTER.

3. The Gas Tracer displays 4 dashes and as the Gas Tracer clears the data, the dashes disappear. When the last dash is gone, the Gas Tracer has been cleared and the remaining log time value is reset.

- - - -

LG CLEAR

52 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Pump OFF Screen

WARNING: The Gas Tracer is not a gas monitoring device while the

pump is off.

NOTE: This item appears in Display Mode only if the POFF DSP menu

item in Maintenance Mode is turned ON. The factory setting for POFF DSP is OFF.

The Gas Tracer pump can be turned on and off in this screen. The bottom line of this screen alternates between PUMP OFF, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT. This feature can be used to conserve battery life if there is a significant period of time until the next gas monitoring task, but you do not want to wait for the warmup sequence to complete if you turn the instrument off and on again.

PUMP OFF

In this screen, press POWER ENTER to turn the pump off. The fan in the upper right corner of the screen will disappear. Once the pump is off, you cannot exit this screen and return to normal operation or continue in Display Mode until you turn the pump back on. To turn the pump back on and continue in Display Mode or return to Normal Operation, press the POWER ENTER button again.

User ID Screen

This screen displays only if ID DISP in the Maintenance Mode menu is set to ON (see “Turning the ID Display Function On or Off” on page 167). Each user ID can contain up to 16 characters but only the first 8 of those characters are visible in the instrument. Be sure that all user IDs are distinguishable from each other by viewing only the first 8 characters. For more information, see the GX-2012 Data Logger Management Program manual. Uppercase letters, numbers, asterisks (*), dashes (-), and a blank space are available characters. The Gas T racer can store 128 user IDs. The bottom line of this screen alternates between YES/ENT., the current user ID, and NO /DISP.

Use this screen to identify or change the user. The user ID provides a way to identify the user during a data logging session. The user ID is

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 53

saved to the data logger for that session when you turn off the Gas Tracer or change users during operation. This allows you to change the user ID during operation and have each user ID that was used during an operating session saved for the corresponding data.

U Id

SEL

YES/ENT.

NOTE: As shipped from the factory, the user ID on this screen is

shown as -- -- -- -- -- -- until you enter this screen and select a user ID.

To change a user:

1. After entering Display Mode and proceeding to the User ID screen, press and release the POWER ENTER button. The bottom line of this screen alternates between YES/ENT, the current user ID, and NO /DISP.

U Id

SEL

USER--001

2. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the 128 possible user IDs.

3. Press the POWER ENTER button to select a user ID.

Station ID Screen

This screen displays only if ID DISP in the Maintenance Mode menu is set to ON (see “Turning the ID Display Function On or Off” on page 167). Each station ID can contain up to 16 characters but only the first 8 of those characters are visible in the instrument. Be sure that all station IDs are distinguishable from each other by viewing only the first 8 characters. For more information, see the GX-2012 Data Logger Management Program manual. The bottom line of the screen alternates between YES/ENT., the current station ID, and NO /DISP.

54 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Uppercase letters, numbers, asterisks (*), dashes (-), and a blank space are available characters. The Gas Tracer can store 128 station IDs.

Use this screen to identify or change the station. The station ID provides a way to identify the station during a data logging session. The station ID is saved to the data logger for that session when you turn off the Gas Tracer or change stations during operation. This allows you to change the station ID during operation and have each station ID that was used during an operating session saved for the corresponding data.

S Id

SEL

YES/ENT.

NOTE: As shipped from the factory, the station ID on this screen is

shown as -- -- -- -- -- -- until you enter this screen and select a station ID.

To change a station:

1. After entering Display Mode and proceeding to the Station ID screen, press and hold the POWER ENTER button. The b ottom line of this screen alternates between YES/ENT., the current user ID, and NO /DISP.

S Id

SEL

001

2. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the 128 possible station IDs.

3. Press the POWER ENTER button to select a station ID.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 55

Snap Logging Screen

The Snap Logging Screen allows you to view data from pre vious snap logs. For information on how to use the snap logging feature, see “Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation” on page 35 or “Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation” on page 112.

1. To view snap logging data, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to the Snap Logging Screen. The bottom line of this screen alternates between REC. DATA, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT.

d ISP

REC. DATA

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. If no snap logs have been performed, the following screen will appear . Pr ess and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to return to the Snap Logging Screen.

NO DATA

56 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

3. If snap logs have been performed in either Normal Operation or Leak Check Mode Operation, one of the following screens will appear. LEAK CK MODE will appear in the upper left corner of Leak Check Mode Operation data to indicate that the snap log was taken during Leak Check Mode Operation.

LEAK CK MODE

2011 8 31 22:39

M023

M009

2012 2 15 14:17

Normal Operation Leak Check Mode Operation

Snap Log Snap Log

This screen indicates the year, month, day, and time that the most recent snap log was taken. The number along the bottom of the screen indicates the snap log ID number. The first snap log that is taken is given an ID of M001. The next snap log ID is M002. The ID number increases sequentially with each set of snap log data. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through different snap log IDs and view what time and day they were taken. Snap log data that was taken in Leak Check Mode operation will have two snap log ID numbers. One number is for the base reading and the other is for the peak reading.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 57

4. To view the data in a snap log ID, press and release the POWER ENTER button. You can also go back and forth between the ID and data screens by pressing and releasing the POWER ENTER button.

Normal

Operation

Data

AIR▲

(SHIFT)▼

Leak Check

Mode Operation

Peak Data

AIR▲

(SHIFT)▼

Leak Check

Mode Operation

Base Data

AIR▲

2011 8 31 22:39

M011

LEAK CK MODE

M010

LEAK CK MODE

M009

2012 2 15 14:18

2012 2 15 14:17

POWER

ENTER

POWER

CH4

BLDNG 1

LEAK CK MODE

ENTER

PEAK

VALVE 3

LEAK CK MODE

POWER

ENTER

VALVE 3

CH4

23.5 50

4500

5000

%LEL

ppm

(SHIFT)▼

CH4

RIG

22.0 45

Normal

Operation

Data

2011 8 31

POWER

ENTER

22:39

M007

58 • D i s p l a y M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

%LEL

ppm

The gas readings that wer e taken during the snap log ar e displayed and the Station ID that was in use during the snap log is displayed along the bottom of the screen. Snap log data that was taken in Leak Check Mode operation will have 2 sequential screens that are part of one data set. One screen is for the base reading and the other screen is for the peak reading. The peak reading value will have PEAK displayed below the peak bar. If a base data point appears without a peak data point after it, it is because a peak data point was not taken. You can use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the different snap logs. The gas readings and station ID will change but the snap log ID is not visible from this screen.

Peak Bar Select Screen

The Peak Bar Select Screen allows you to turn the peak bar on or off. If the function is turned on, the peak bar appears along the left side of the screen during Normal Operation and on the Peak Screen in Display Mode. It shows the peak readings for each channel in bar graph format. The bottom line of this screen alternates between the current setting, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT.

bAr SEL

BAR OFF

To adjust the peak bar selection:

1. Use the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to scroll to the Peak Bar Select Screen. The screen indicates the current setting.

bAr SEL

BAR ON

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Display Mode • 59

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button.

3. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to make your selection and press and release the POWER ENTER button.

Data Logging

NOTE: The Gas Tracer logs data while in Normal Mode or in Bar

Hole Mode. If the Gas Tracer is used in Leak Check Mode, no downloadable data will be logged.

The Gas Tracer features the ability to log data to its internal memory and download it to a computer via the infrared communications port located just below the RESET SILENCE button. It logs gas readings during normal operation, alarm data, and calibration data.

PEAK BAR

NOTE: The data logging function is separate from the snap logging

function. For a description of the snap logging function, see “Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation” on page 35.

To utilize the Gas Tracer’s downloading capability, you will need the Gas Tracer downloading software and a computer with an infrared port or a USB port that runs one of the following operating systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7. If your computer has an infrared port, then no additional accessories are needed to download data from the Gas Tracer. If your computer does not have an infrared port but does have a USB port, a USB/IrDA adapter cable can be used to download data from the Gas Tracer using a USB port. The downloading software is available from RKI Instruments, Inc. The adapter cable is also available from RKI or may be purchased at a computer or electronics supply store.

For a complete description of the downloading software and procedures for downloading data to a computer, see the Gas Tracer Data Logger Management Program Operator’s Manual.

60 • D a t a L o g g i n g Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

SDM-2012

The Gas Tracer can be used with the SDM-2012 if desired. The SDM2012 can charge the instrument if the lithium ion battery pack is being used. It can also bump test, calibrate, and retrieve saved data. The SDM-2012 can be operated as a single, stand-alone unit or can be used with up to 9 other SDM-2012s and operated using a computer. For more information about the operation of the SDM-2012, see the SDM2012 operator’s manual.

Calibration Mode

Calibration mode allows you to calibrate the Gas Tracer’s sensor response, bump test the unit, and calibrate the PPM sensor.

CAUTION:BEFORE EACH DAY’S USAGE, SENSITIVITY IN THE

% LEL RANGE MUST BE TESTED ON A KNOWN CONCENTRATION OF THE COMBUSTIBLE TARGET GAS, METHANE, EQUIVALENT TO 25 - 50% OF FULL SCALE CONCENTRATION (The % LEL full scale is 100% LEL). ACCURACY MUST BE WITHIN -0 to + 20% OF ACTUAL. ACCURACY MAY BE CORRECTED BY FOLLOWING THE CALIBRATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE COMBUSTIBLE CHANNEL BELOW.

If the combustible channel passes the above response test and does not require calibration, the unit should still be calibrated periodically. The optimum frequency of calibration depends heavily on how the Gas Tracer is used. For example, instruments used daily may need to be calibrated weekly or monthly, while instruments that are used only a few times a year may need to be calibrated before each use. Typical calibration frequencies range from monthly to quarterly. Make sure to perform the combustible channel response test as described above and make sure to develop a calibration schedule tailored to your application that takes this test and required calibration resulting from this test into account.

You can program the Gas Tracer to notify you when it is due for calibration. See “Updating the Calibration Reminder Setting” on page 162.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual SDM-2012 • 61

Calibration/Bump Test Supplies and Equipment

To calibrate or bump test the Gas Tracer, you will need:

• Known calibrating samples of the gases being detected . The combustible and toxic gas samples should have concentrations in approximately the middle of the range of detection. An oxygenfree source, such as 100% nitrogen is recommended for setting the oxygen zero when using single calibration.

• A demand-flow regulator to provide adequate sample gas flow

• Non-absorbent tubing

• Humidifier tube (for calibration of ppm sensor)

CAUTION:If you are using a calibration kit that includes a gas bag and a

fixed flow regulator or dispensing valve, do not apply gas directly to the Gas Tracer with the regulator or valve or damage to the pump will result. See “Appendix A: Calibrating or Bump Testing with a Sample Bag” on page 193 for instructions to properly use a gas bag kit.

To calibrate the %LEL, Oxygen, and CO sensors at the same time, automatically, with no need for a zero-oxygen source, you can use the auto calibration feature with a 3-gas cylinder. This section includes instructions for auto calibration and bump testing with a demandflow regulator, a 3-gas cylinder, and a %volume methane cylinder. This section also includes instructions for calibrating one channel at a time using single calibration.

NOTE: If the combustible gas channels are calibrated to a gas other

than methane, use an appropriate multigas cylinder or use single calibration to calibrate the combustible channels.

Preparing for Calibration or Bump Test

Whether you will calibrate the Gas Tracer using auto calibration or single calibration or perform a bump test, you will need to set the fresh air readings first.

1. Find a fresh-air environment. This is an environment free of toxic or combustible gases and of normal oxygen content (20.9%).

2. Turn on the unit as described in “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20 or “Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode W ith All Modes Active” on page 26. Use the sample hose and probe.

62 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

3. With the unit on, perform a fresh air adjust by pressing and holding the AIR▲ button. The display prompts you to hold the AIR▲ button.

MAINTENANCE

AIr

HOLD AIR

4. Continue to hold the AIR▲ button until the display prompts you to release it. The Gas Tracer will set the fresh air reading for all channels as it counts down from 8. If the combustible channel is set as %LEL only or vol% only, there is no countdown period. The fresh air reading is set immediately.

5. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder.

6. Connect the sample tubing to the demand flow regulator.

CAL

Calibrating the Gas Tracer

From Measuring Mode, enter Calibration Mode by pressing and holding the (SHIFT)▼ button, then pressing the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and releasing both. If the unit prompts you for the password, enter it by using the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select each password number and then pressing and releasing POWER ENTER to confirm it and move on to the next number. To go back a number, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. The factory set password is the same as the factory set password for Maintenance Mode: 2102. You can change the password by entering the PASSWORD menu item in Maintenance Mode. See “Turning the Password Function On or Off” on page 172. If you enter an incorrect password, an error screen will display.

PASSWORD

Err

To return to normal operation, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. You may then try to reenter Calibration Mode.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 63

MAINTENANCE will appear along the top of the screen once you have entered Calibration Mode. The first item in the calibration menu, AIR CAL, displays.

NOTE: The following screens illustrate a three-gas Gas Tracer with

both a %LEL and %volume combustible gas sensor as examples only. Your Gas Tracer may display slightly differ ent screens.

MAINTENANCE

AIR CAL

The Gas Tracer’s calibration menu includes two methods of calibration:

• Auto Calibration: This method allows you to calibrate the combustible gas (%LEL sensor only), OXY, and CO sensors simultaneously. It is designed for use with the RKI 3-gas calibration cylinder and is the quickest and easiest method to calibrate the Gas Tracer. If installed, you may also calibrate the %volume sensor separately from the standard three.

• Single Calibration: This method allows you to calibrate one sensor at a time. Use this method if you are only calibrating one or two sensors, if you are calibrating only the %volume combustible sensor, or if you are not using the RKI 3-gas calibration cylinder.

NOTE: These methods only apply to the standard 3 sensors and the

vol% sensor (if installed). The PPM sensor must be calibrated independently using PPM CAL. See “Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor” on page 76 for instructions.

64 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method

This section describes calibration using the auto calibration method. To calibrate using the single calibration method, see “Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method” on page 68.

NOTE: If the combustible gas channels are calibrated to a gas other

than methane, use an appropriate multigas cylinder or use single calibration to calibrate the combustible channels.

1. You may only calibrate either the standard 3 sensors or the %volume combustible sensor at a time. Once you are finished, you are returned to the initial AUTO CAL screen and must begin the auto calibration process again.

2. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the AUTO CAL menu item, press and r elease the POWER ENTER button to display the calibration values screen. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button.

3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to alternate between the 3-gas and the %volume combustible gas calibration values screens.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

12.0 50

100

%LEL

ppm

vol%

4. The gas concentrations displayed in the calibration values screens must match the gas concentrations listed on the calibration cylinders. If all concentrations match, go to step 12. If one or more concentrations do not match, continue with step 5.

5. To adjust the values o n the screen, h old down the (SHIFT)▼ button, then press the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and release both. The %LEL

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 65

sensor is shown here.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

- - -

%LEL

6. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the sensors and select the sensor whose calibration gas value you want to adjust.

7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The sensor’s calibration gas value will begin to flash.

8. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to set the correct calibration gas value.

9. Press and release POWER ENTER button to save the change.

10.Repeat steps 6 through 9 to set the correct values for any additional sensors.

11.After the last calibration gas value is set, use the AIR▲ button to scroll to ESCAPE and press POWER ENTER to return to the calibration gas values screen.

NOTE: The RKI Three Gas Cylinder typically contains 12% O

volume. Be sure to set the “OXY” reading to agree with the concentration listed on the cylinder’s label, not zero.

12.Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to select which sensor(s) you want to calibrate, the standard 3 sensors or the %volume combustible gas sensor.

The following instructions illustrate calibrating the standard 3 sensors first, then the %volume combustible gas sensor.

66 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

13.With the 3-gas calibration values screen displayed, press the POWER ENTER button. AUTO CAL begins to flash and the current gas readings are displayed. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

20.9 0

%LEL

ppm

14.Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the gas to flow for one minute.

15.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to set the calibration to the programmed values.

If all channels passed calibration, PASS displays along the bottom of the screen, then the calibration menu displays.

If any of the sensors cannot calibrate to the proper value, FAIL displays along the bottom of the screen and the Gas Tracer lists the sensor(s) that failed to calibrate. In the example below, the OXY channel failed calibration. The other sensors calibrated normally.

MAINTENANCE

FAIL

The buzzer and alarm lights activate. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button after the buzzer and lights stop to reset the alarm and return to the calibration menu. Attempt to calibrate again. If the failure continues, investigate the cause. See “Troubleshooting” on page 175.

16.Disconnect the tubing from the probe.

17.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

18.If you have a 5 sensor unit and wish to calibrate the %volume sensor, go back to step 1 and repeat the process selecting the

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 67

%volume calibration gas value screen in step 12 and using a %volume methane cylinder.

If you are finished calibrating, use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method

This section describes calibration using the Single Calibration method. To calibrate using the Auto Calibration method, see “Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method” on page 65.

The procedure below describes a span adjustment of one channel using a calibration kit that includes a 3-gas calibration cylinder, a 0.5 LPM (liters per minute) regulator, and non-absorbent sample tubing. The standard 3-gas cylinder consists of 50% LEL methane, 12% oxygen, 50 ppm CO, and a balance of nitrogen. In the example below, the CH

channel’s span is adjusted. See “Parts List” on page 190 for

available calibration kits and calibration kit spare parts. Calibration cylinders that contain only one target gas may also be

used for single calibration. For channels other than oxygen, RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends that you use a cylinder that contains a concentration of 10-50% of the full scale value of the target gas. For example, if you are calibrating the combustible gas channel, your calibration cylinder should have a combustible gas concentration between 10% LEL and 50% LEL. For the oxygen channel, RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends using 100% nitrogen to perform the adjustment but any concentration between 0% oxygen (100% nitrogen) and 17% oxygen can be used to make the adjustment.

NOTE: If your combustible gas channel is calibrated to a gas other

than methane, use an appropriate gas cylinder to perform the calibration.

CAUTION:The single calibration method does not have a “FAIL”

notification. If a sensor cannot be set to agree with the calibration source, see “Troubleshooting” on page 175.

68 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

1. While in the calibration menu, use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to navigate to the ONE CAL menu option.

MAINTENANCE

ONE CAL

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the single calibration menu. The %LEL sensor will be displayed first.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

- - -

%LEL

3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the sensor you want to calibrate (in this example the combustible gas % LEL sensor). If you have a 5 sensor unit, the %vol sensor will be one of the choices . It is shown below.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

- - -

vol%

4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays for the sensor you selected. The gas reading flashes.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 69

%LEL

5. Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute.

6. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to adjust the reading to match the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder.

If the reading already matches the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder, press and release the AIR▲ button then press and release the (SHIFT)▼ button so that the instrument sees a change and resets the calibration date.

7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the span value. The LCD will indicate that the calibration has ended, then the single calibration menu displays.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

- - -

%LEL

8. Disconnect the tubing from the Gas Tracer’s probe.

9. Repeat steps 3 through 8 for any other sensors you want to calibrate. Make sure yo u use an appropriate calibration cylinder for each sensor.

CAUTION:When calibrating the oxygen channel, verify the concentration

of oxygen listed on the cylinder’s label. For oxygen-free samples (100% nitrogen for example), set the oxygen zero setting to

0.0%.

10.After the last channel is calibrated, disconnect the calibration tubing from the probe, then unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

11.Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to ESCAPE in the ONE CAL menu.

12.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to exit ONE CAL.

13.With the ONE CAL menu option displayed, press the (SHIFT)▼ button until the NORMAL menu option is displayed.

14.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

70 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Bump Testing the Gas Tracer

NOTE: The BUMP DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is factory

set to OFF. The BUMP menu item will not appear unless BUMP DSP is set to ON. See “Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off” on page 157 for instructions.

NOTE: The Gas Tracer uses parameters defined in the BUMP--SET

menu item of Maintenance Mode while performing a bump test. To view or update these parameters, see “Updating the Bump Test Parameters” on page 158.

NOTE: If the combustible gas channels are calibrated to a gas other

than methane, use an appropriate multigas cylinder.

PASSWORD

Err

To return to normal operation, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. You may then try to reenter Calibration Mode.

MAINTENANCE will appear along the top of the screen once you have entered Calibration Mode. The first item in the calibration menu, AIR CAL, displays.

1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder.

2. Connect the sample tubing to the demand flow regulator.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 71

3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer.

4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP menu item.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

5. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the bump test gas values.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP 30

12.0 50

%LEL

ppm

6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to see the %volume combustible gas bump test value.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP 30

100

vol%

7. A bump test may be performed on the standard 3 sensors or on the %volume co m bu st i b le se n so r. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the screen of sensor(s) you wish to bump test.

8. Before proceeding, confirm that the bump test gas value(s) are the same as the concentration(s) in the calibration cylinder. If they are not, adjust the bump test gas value(s) by entering the AUTO CAL menu item, changing the values there, and reentering the BUMP menu.

9. Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe then quickly press and release the POWER

72 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

ENTER button. The unit will begin counting down from 30.

10.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to OFF:

• The instrument will display which channels passed or failed

the bump test with a P (pass) or an F (fail) to the right of the gas.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

F P F

%LEL

ppm

• To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or

(SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

12.0 5

%LEL

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press

POWER ENTER.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

If one or more sens ors fail the bump te st, see “Troubleshooting” on page 175 to investigate the cause of the failure and replace the failed sensor or sensors if necessary.

• Disconnect the tubing from the probe.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 73

11.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to ON:

If all channels pass the bump test,

• The following screen appears:

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

P P P

%LEL

ppm

• To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or

(SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

12.0 47

%LEL

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press

POWER ENTER.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

• Disconnect the tubing from the probe.

If any channel fails the bump test,

• The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and

automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY.

The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the

74 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

lower right of the screen. The calibration time counted down during a calibration initiated because of a failed bump test is the difference between the bump test gas time and the calibration time defined in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

CAL 60

20.9 37

%LEL

ppm

• At the end of the calibration, the instrument displays the

results from both the bump test and the calibration. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll between the calibration/ bump test results, the bump test gas readings, and the calibration gas readings.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP/CAL

FP PP FF

%LEL

ppm

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP/

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 75

12.0 5

%LEL

ppm

MAINTENANCE

CH4

/CAL

12.0 5

%LEL

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press

POWER ENTER at any time. If any channel failed the calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

• Disconnect the tubing from the probe.

12.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

13.With the BUMP menu option displayed, press the (SHIFT)▼ button until the NORMAL menu option is displayed.

14.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor

The PPM sensor in the Gas Tracer needs to be calibrated and bump tested separately. It cannot be calibrated using the AUTO CAL or

ONE CAL menu items in the main menu or bump tested using the BUMP menu item in the main menu. The PPM CAL menu item must

be used. In addition, a 6 inch humidifier tube must be used to connect the zero air cylinder (if used for a WET fresh air adjustment) and the ppm calibration cylinder to the instrument.

76 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

password number and then pressing and releasing POWER ENTER to confirm it and move on to the next number. To go back a number, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. The factory set password is the same as the factory set password for Maintenance Mode: 2102. You can change the password by entering the PASSWORD menu item in Maintenance Mode. See “Turning the Password Function On or Off” on page 172. If you enter an incorrect password, an error screen will display.

PASSWORD

Err

To return to normal operation, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. You may then try to reenter Calibration Mode.

MAINTENANCE will appear along the top of the screen once you have entered Calibration Mode. The first item in the calibration menu, AIR CAL, displays.

1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the PPM CAL menu item.

MAINTENANCE

PPM CAL

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The display will indicate that the ppm sensor is warming up.

MAINTENANCE

WARM UP

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 77

sec

3. The recommended calibration sequence for a quarterly calibration is WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment. The recommended calibration sequence for a biannual calibration (every 6 months) is DRY fresh air adjustment, WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment.

Performing a Wet Fresh Air Adjustment

This section describes how to perform a fresh air adjustment on the PPM combustible gas sensor using the WET setting. Using the WET setting and fresh air or a zero air cylinder with a 6 inch humidifier is appropriate for a quarterly calibration.

NOTE: It is recommended that you perform a fresh air adjust on the

ppm sensor using a zero air cylinder and the DRY setting once every 6 months to maintain the accuracy of the ppm combustible gas reading. When performing a DRY fresh air adjustment, be sure to not use the humidifier tube. See “Performing a Dry Fresh Air Adjustment” on page 79 for instructions to perform a dry fresh air adjustment.

1. Once the warm up is complete, you will be in PPM Cal Mode and AIR CAL will be displayed. You must perform a fresh air adjust before performing an auto calibration, a single calibration, or a bump test.

MAINTENANCE

AIR CAL

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item.

MAINTENANCE

WET

You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY.

78 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release th e POWER ENTER button. The unit will display the current fresh air reading and prompt you to push the AIR▲ button.

NOTE: If you have just performed a DRY fresh air adjustment, allow

the Gas Tracer to sample fresh air for 2 minutes before continuing.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

PUSH AIR

ppm

4. Be sure the Gas Tracer is in a fresh air environment.

5. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button.

MAINTENANCE

AIr

HOLD AIR

6. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item.

CAL

Performing a Dry Fresh Air Adjustment

This section describes how to perform a fresh air adjustment on the PPM combustible gas sensor using the DRY setting. Use the DRY setting with a zero air calibration cylinder for a biannual calibration.

NOTE: It is recommended that you perform a fresh air adjust on the

ppm sensor using a zero air cylinder and the DRY setting followed by a fresh air adjustment using the WET setting once every 6 months to maintain the accuracy of the ppm combustible gas reading. See “Performing a Wet Fresh Air Adjustment” on page 78 for instructions to perform a WET fresh air adjustment.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 79

MAINTENANCE

AIR CAL

2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item.

MAINTENANCE

WET

You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY.

3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the DRY setting and press and release th e POWER ENTER button. The unit will display the current fresh air reading and prompt you to push the AIR▲ button. Do not press the AIR▲ button at this time.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

PUSH AIR

ppm

4. Install the demand flow regulator onto the zero air cylinder.

5. Connect the sample tubing to the demand flow regulator.

6. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer.

7. Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the zero air to flow for two minutes.

80 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

8. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button.

MAINTENANCE

AIr

HOLD AIR

9. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item.

10.Disconnect the tubing from the probe.

11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

Performing an AUTO CAL

This section describes how to calibrate the PPM combustible gas sensor using auto calibration.

CAL

1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder.

2. Connect the humidifier to the demand flow regulator.

3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer.

4. To calibrate the ppm sensor using auto calibration, use the AIR▲ button to scroll to AUTO CAL and press and release the POWER ENTER button. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button.

5. You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. Use the WET setting.

NOTE: The DRY setting in AUTO CAL is for factory use only. Do not

perform a calibration in AUTO CAL using the DRY setting.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 81

6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The calibration value screen will be displayed.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

1000

ppm

7. The gas concentration displayed in the calibration value screen must match the gas concentration listed on the calibration cylinder. If the concentration matches, go to step 13. If the concentration does not match, continue with step 8.

8. To adjust the value on the screen, hold down the (SHIFT)▼ button, then press the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and release both. The calibration gas value turns into three dashes.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

- - -

ppm

9. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The sensor’s calibration gas value will flash.

10.If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to set the correct calibration gas value.

11.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the change.

12.Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to ESCAPE and press and release POWER ENTER to return to the calibration gas value screen.

82 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

13.With the calibration gas value screen displayed, press the POWER ENTER button. AUTO CAL begins to flash and the current gas reading is displayed. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

AUTO CAL

ppm

14.Connect the humidifier from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the gas to flow for two minutes.

15.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to set the calibration to the programmed values.

If the ppm sensor passed calibration, PASS displays along the bottom of the screen, then the AUTO CAL menu item displays.

If the ppm sensor cannot calibrate to the proper value, FAIL displays along the bottom of the screen and the Gas Tracer indicates that the ppm sensor failed to calibrate.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

FAIL

ppm

The buzzer and alarm lights activate. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button after the buzzer and lights stop to reset the alarm and return to the AUTO CAL menu item. Attempt to calibrate again. If the failure continues, investigate the cause. See “Troubleshooting” on page 175.

16.Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.

NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the

end, not the humidifier tube itself.

17.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 83

18.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the ESCAPE menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the PPM CAL menu item in Calibration Mode.

19.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

Performing a Single Calibration

This section describes how to calibrate the PPM combustible gas sensor using single calibration.

1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder.

2. Connect the humidifier to the demand flow regulator.

3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer.

4. To calibrate the ppm sensor using s ingle calibration, use the AIR▲ button to scroll to ONE CAL and press and release the POWER ENTER button.

5. You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. Use the WET setting.

NOTE: The DRY setting in ONE CAL is for factory use only. Do not

perform a calibration in ONE CAL using the DRY setting.

6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The gas reading will be replaced by 3 dashes.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

- - -

ppm

84 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays. The gas reading flashes.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

ONE CAL

ppm

8. Connect the humidifier from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for two minutes.

9. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to adjust the reading to match the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder.

10.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the span value. The LCD will indicate that the calibration has ended, then the single calibration menu displays.

11.Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.

NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the

end, not the humidifier tube itself.

12.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

13.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the ESCAPE menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the PPM CAL menu in Calibration Mode.

14.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

Performing a Bump Test

NOTE: The BUMP DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is factory

set to OFF. The BUMP menu item will not appear unless BUMP DSP is set to ON. See “Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off” on page 157 for instructions.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 85

NOTE: The Gas Tracer uses parameters defined in the BUMP--SET

menu item of Maintenance Mode while performing a bump test. To view or update these parameters, see “Updating the Bump Test Parameters” on page 158.

1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder.

2. Connect the humidifier to the demand flow regulator.

3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer.

4. While in the PPM CAL menu, use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP menu item.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

5. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. Use the WET setting.

NOTE: The DRY setting is for factory use only. Do not perform a

bump test using the DRY setting.

6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The bump test gas value screen will be displayed.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP 30

1000

ppm

7. Before proceeding, confirm that the bump test gas value is the same as the concentration in the calibration cylinder. If it is not, adjust the bump test gas value by entering the AUTO CAL menu item in the PPM CAL menu, changing the value there, and reentering the BUMP menu.

8. Connect the humidifier from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe then quickly press and release the POWER

86 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

ENTER button. The unit will begin counting down from 30.

9. When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to OFF:

• The instrument will display if the ppm combustible sensor

passed or failed with a P (pass) or an F (fail) to the right of the gas.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

ppm

• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or

(SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

1000

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER

ENTER.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

If the sensor fails the bump test, see “Tr oubleshooting” on page 175 to investigate the cause of the failure and replace the failed sensor if necessary.

• Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 87

NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the

end, not the humidifier tube itself.

10.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to ON:

If the ppm combustible sensor passes the bump test,

• The following screen appears:

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

ppm

• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or

(SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP

1000

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER

ENTER.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

• Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.

NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the

end, not the humidifier tube itself.

88 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

If the ppm combustible sensor fails the bump test,

• The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and

automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY.

The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the lower right of the screen. The calibration time counted down during a calibration initiated because of a failed bump test is the difference between the bump test gas time and the calibration time defined in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

CAL 60

300

ppm

• At the end of the calibration, the instrument displays the

results from both the bump test and the calibration. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to scroll between the calibration/ bump test results, the bump test gas reading, and the calibration gas reading.

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP/CAL

ppm

MAINTENANCE

CH4

BUMP/

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Calibration Mode • 89

ppm

MAINTENANCE

CH4

/CAL

950

ppm

• To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER

ENTER at any time. If the sensor fails calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button.

MAINTENANCE

BUMP

• Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.

NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the

end, not the humidifier tube itself.

11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.

12.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the ESCAPE menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the PPM CAL menu item in Calibration Mode.

13.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.

90 • C a l i b r a t i o n Mod e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

Chapter 4: Using the Gas T racer in Bar Hole Mode

Overview

This chapter explains how to operate the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode. Bar Hole Mode is used to perform consistent checks of bar holes when tracking down underground gas leaks. When the Gas Tracer is in Bar Hole Mode, only the combustible and oxygen channels are displayed.

If a Gas Tracer is intended for bar hole testing, it is shipped with Bar Hole Mode enabled so that the operator must choose which operational mode to use when the unit is turned on.

NOTE: Units intended for bar hole testing are typically calibrated to

methane. In addition, the unit must have a %volume combustible sensor installed.

Start Up, Bar Hole Mode

This section explains how to start up the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode and get it ready for operation.

Turning On the Gas Tracer, Bar Hole Mode

WARNING: If a CO sensor is installed, this sensor will not be active

while the Gas Tracer is in Bar Hole Mode.

WARNING: Gas alarms are not active when the Gas Tracer is in Bar

Hole Mode.

The following description of the Gas Tracer start up sequence assumes that the following menu items in Maintenance Mode are turned on: LNCH BRK, ID DISP, CL RMNDR, and BP RMNDR. If either of these items is turned off, then the corresponding screen will not appear.

NOTE: In order for BAR HOLE MODE to appear as a selection in the

Mode Select Screen, the L./B. MODE item in Maintenance Mode must be set to bH or LC bH.

1. Connect the sample hose to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting.

Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Overview • 91

2. Screw the bar hole probe onto the sample hose’s threaded fitting.

3. Press and briefly hold down the POWER ENTER button. The Normal Mode Select Screen displays.

vol%

CH4

NORMAL ?

20.9 0

%LEL

ppm

4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen.

BAR HOLE MODE

CH4

20.9 30

B.H. MODE?

vol% %LEL ppm vol% %

sec

5. With the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen selected, press and release the POWER ENTER button to begin the Bar Hole Mode startup sequence.

NOTE: If no button is pressed for 20 seconds, the unit will proceed

into whichever mode is displayed.

6. 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

92 • S t a r t U p , B a r H o le M o d e Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual

RKI Instruments Gas Tracer User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual