RKI Instruments GX-2012 User Manual

GX-2012

Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0239RK

Revision: H

Released: 3/17/14

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.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Warranty

RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants the GX-2012 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 GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

About the GX-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Chapter 2: Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Instrument Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Purge Tee Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

External Dilution Fitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Table of Contents

Chapter 3: Using the GX-2012 in Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Start Up, Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Turning On the GX-2012, Normal Mode Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Turning On the GX-2012 in Normal With All Modes Active . . . . . . . 25

Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Turning Off the GX-2012, Normal Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Measuring Mode, Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Monitoring an Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Using Optional Probes and Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Combustible Gas Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Snap Log Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Measuring Mode, Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Alarm Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Resetting and Silencing Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Responding to Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Inert Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Start Up and Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

HC Range Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Peak Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

STEL Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

TWA Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Alarm Points Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Operation Time Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Date/Time Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Remaining Log Time Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Clear Data Logger Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Pump Off Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

User ID Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Station ID Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Snap Logging Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Peak Bar Select Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Datalogging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

SDM-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Calibration Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Calibration/Bump Test Supplies and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Table of Contents GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Preparing for Calibration or Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Calibrating the GX-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Bump Testing the GX-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Chapter 4: Using the GX-2012 in Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Start Up, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Turning On the GX-2012, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Bar Hole Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Performing a Bar Hole Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Turning Off the GX-2012, Bar Hole Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Chapter 5: Using the GX-2012 in Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Start Up, Leak Check Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Turning on the GX-2012, Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . 90

Leak Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Setting the Display Range Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Locating a Leak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Overscale Conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Turning the Alarm On and Off in Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Peak Hold Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Viewing Snap Log Data in Leak Check Mode Operation . . . . . . . . . 97

Turning Off the GX-2012, Leak Check Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Chapter 6: Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Tips for Using Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Using Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

Updating the Date and Time Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Calibrating Using Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105

Calibration Using Single Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Performing a Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Turning the Lunch Break Setting On or Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Table of Contents

Updating the Alarm Latching Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

Updating the Alarm Silence Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Updating the Data Logging Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Updating the Alarm Point Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Turning the Clear Data Logger Screen On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Turning the Pump Off Screen On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

Updating the Bump Test Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Updating the Confirmation Beep Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Updating the DataLog Overwrite Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Updating the Calibration Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Updating the Calibration Reminder Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Updating the Calibration Expired Action Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Updating the Calibration Check Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Updating the Bump Test Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Updating the Bump Test Reminder Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Updating the Bump Test Expired Action Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Updating the Bump Test Check Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Turning the ID Display Function On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Updating the LCD Backlight Time Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Updating the Autozero Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Updating the Demand Zero Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Updating the Leak Check/Bar Hole Mode Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Updating the Bar Hole Sampling Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Turning Portuguese On or Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Updating the Leak Check Mode CO Channel Display Setting . . . . 139

Viewing the ROM/SUM Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Turning the Password Function On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Performing a Low Flow Setpoint Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Exiting Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Chapter 7: Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Replacing or Recharging the Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Replacing Alkaline Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Replacing the Lithium Ion Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack in the Instrument . . . . . . 148

Table of Contents GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Out of the Instrument . . 150

Replacing the LEL and CO Filters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Replacing a Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Replacing the Hydrophobic Disk Filter, Cotton Filter,

and Wire Mesh Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Appendix A: Calibrating and Bump Testing

with a Sample Bag. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Calibration/Bump Test Supplies & Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Preparing for Calibration or Bump Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162

Calibrating the GX-2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

Bump Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177

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%).

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Introduction

Overview

This chapter briefly describes the GX-2012. This chapter also describes the
GX-2012 Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this
chapter lists the specifications for the GX-2012.

About the GX-2012

Using an advanced detection system consisting of up to five gas sensors, the
GX-2012 sample draw gas monitor detects the presence of combustible gas,
oxygen (O

simultaneously. The GX-2012’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 GX-2012 offers a full range of features, including:

), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S)

2

• Simultaneous four-gas monitoring of combustible gases, O
(in Normal Mode)

• Choice of two operating modes: Normal Mode for typical confined space
or area monitoring and Bar Hole Mode for checking of bar holes when
searching for underground 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)

• STEL/TWA (when used in Normal Mode) and over range alarm display

, CO, and H2S

2

• Peak hold and average readouts (when used in Normal Mode)

• Built-in time function

• RF shielded high impact plastic case

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Overview • 1

• CSA classification pending for Class I, Division I, Groups A, B, C, and D
hazardous atmospheres

WARNING: The GX-2012 detects oxygen deficiency, elevated levels of

oxygen, combustible gases, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen
sulfide, all of which can be dangerous or life threatening.
When using the GX-2012, 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 GX­2012 as described in this manual.

NOTE: ONLY THE COMBUSTIBLE GAS DETECTION PORTION OF

THIS INSTRUMENT HAS BEEN ASSESSED FOR
PERFORMANCE.

2 • Abou t the GX-2012 GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Specifications

Table 1: GX-2012 Specifications

Target Gas %LEL

Combustible

Gas

(Methane
Calibration
Standard)*

Range

(Increment)

Leak Check

Mode

Range

(Increment)

0-100% LEL

(1% LEL)

0-5,000 ppm

(100 ppm)

NOTE: Detection
range is 0-5,000
ppm, but displayed
range can be set to
0-500 ppm, 0-1000
ppm, 0-2000 ppm,
or 0-5000 ppm.

Sampling

Method

Response

Time

% Volume

Combustible

Gas

Oxygen (O2) Hydrogen

Sulfide

(H

S)

2

(Methane

Calibration

Standard)

0 - 100% vol

(1% vol)

0-40.0% vol

(0.1 vol%)

0-100 ppm

(0.5 ppm)

N/A N/A N/A N/A

Sample Draw

T90 Within 30 Seconds

Carbon

Monoxide

(CO)

0-500 ppm

(1 ppm)

Accuracy ± 5% of reading

or ± 2% LEL

(whichever is

greater)

± 5% of

reading or

± 2% full

scale

± 0.5% O

(whichever

is greater)

Display Digital LCD Display

Gas Alarms

(Factory

Settings)

Alarm 1

10% LEL

None Alarm 1

19.5 vol%

(Decreasing)

Alarm 2

50% LEL

Alarm 2

23.5 vol%

(Increasing)

Operating

-20°C to 50

°

C/Below 85% RH (Without Condensation)

Temperature

& Humidity

2

± 5% of

reading or

± 2 ppm H

(whichever

is greater)

Alarm 1

5 ppm

Alarm 2

30 ppm

TWA

1 ppm

STEL

5 ppm

S

2

± 5% of

reading or

± 5 ppm

CO

(whichever

is greater)

Alarm 1

25 ppm

Alarm 2

50 ppm

TWA

25 ppm

STEL

200 ppm

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Specifications • 3

Safety/

Regulatory

C US

pending

CSA classified, “C/US”, as Intrinsically Safe. Exia. Class I,

Groups A, B, C, & D. Temperature Code T3C.

Power

Supply

Continuous

Operating

Hours

@ 25 °C

Case High-impact Plastic with protective rubber layer, RF Shielded, Dust and

Standard

Accessories

Optional

Accessories

• Three AA size alkaline batteries standard

• Lithium Ion Battery Pack (3.7 VDC Nominal) optional, Direct Charging

• Alkaline Batteries: 15 Hours (Non Alarm Operation, Fully Charged)

• Lithium Ion Battery Pack: 10 Hours (Non alarm Operation, Fully Charged)

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

• IrDA/USB Cable for Downloading Data to a Computer With Data Logger
Management Program Software (not needed if computer has an infrared
port)

• SDM-2012 Automatic Calibration Station & Software

• Various Probes (see “Parts List” on page 177)

Dimensions

and Weight

*Some versions of the GX-2012 are available with the LEL sensor factory set for HC (general
hydrocarbons) and calibrated to isobutane. Consult RKI Instruments, Inc. for further information.

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 GX-2012 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 • Abou t this Manual GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Chapter 2: Description

Overview

This chapter describes the GX-2012 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 Filter

Holder

Tapered
Rubber
Nozzle

Inlet Fitting

Exhaust

Buzzer

Opening

Alarm

LED

Arrays

DISPLAY

(ADJ)

AIR

POWER

ENTER

(SHIFT)

RESET

SI LENCE

Chamber

LCD

Control
Buttons

IR Port
(behind
button label)

Flow

Battery
Cov er
(alkaline
version)

Charging
Contacts

Figure 1: Components of the GX-2012, Front & Back

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Overview • 5

Rechargeable Version

Battery Pack

Battery Pack

Release Latch

Figure 2: Components of the GX-2012, Bottom

Alkaline

Version

Battery Cover
Release Knob

Case

The Model GX-2012’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 GX­2012 is placed in the charging station are on the back of the case. Both the
rechargeable and alkaline versions 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 GX-2012. The inlet filter holder is located on the
top of the GX-2012 case.

Sensors

The GX-2012 uses up to five sensors to monitor combustible gas, oxygen

), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) simultaneously.

(O

2

The sensors are located inside the GX-2012 and are held in their sockets by
the flow chamber. The sensors use different detection principles, as described
below.

6 • Instrument Description GX-2012 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 GX-2012’s
circuitry, converted to a measurement of combustible gas concentration, and
displayed on the LCD.

NOTE: The %LEL sensor cannot be used in instruments intended for Leak

Check Mode operation.

LEL/ppm Sensor (NC-6264ALB)

The LEL/ppm combustible sensor is a specialized version of the % LEL
sensor. It is used instead of the % LEL sensor in instruments that are intended
for use in Leak Check Mode. The LEL/ppm sensor can also be used for
detection in Normal Mode.

%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
combustible gas cools the element causing a change in the resistance of the
element which affects the current flowing through it. The current is amplified
by the GX-2012’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 oxygen. The oxygen reacts in the cell and produces a voltage proportional
to the concentration of oxygen. The voltage is measured by the GX-2012’s
circuitry, converted to a measurement of gas concentration, and displayed on
the LCD.

CO and H2S Sensors

The CO and H2S sensors are electrochemical cells 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 GX­2012’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of gas concentration, and
displayed on the LCD.

GX-2012 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

S/CO and has a dummy sensor installed in the %volume combustible

H

2

/

2

sensor position.

Dummy Sensor

Top Flat

Side

Figure 3: Dummy Sensor

Bottom

Hollow Side

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 shows information for
each of the GX-2012’s program modes.

8 • Instrument Description GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

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 AIRS button on
the top, and the (SHIFT)T is on the bottom.

Table 2: GX-2012 Control Button Functions

Button Function(s)

POWER ENTER • turns the GX-2012 on and off.

• used during setup and calibration.

RESET SILENCE silences and resets audible alarm if the GX-2012 is programmed

for latching alarms and the alarm silence option is on

DISPLAY (ADJ) • activates Display Mode

• enters instructions into the GX-2012’s microprocessor

AIRS • activates the demand-zero function (automatically adjusts the

GX-2012 in fresh-air conditions)

• scrolls through the display and settings modes

1

(SHIFT)T • scrolls through the display and settings modes

• enters instructions into the GX-2012’s microprocessor

1 The GX-2012’s alarms are user-adjustable. See “Chapter 6: Maintenance Mode” on page 100.

Printed Circuit Boards

The GX-2012 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. 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 GX-2012 to a computer using the GX­2012 Data Logger Management Program. See the GX-2012 Data Logger
Management Program operator’s manual for data logging and downloading
instructions.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Instrument Description • 9

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 GX-2012’s many display and adjustment options.

Vibrator

A vibrating motor inside the GX-2012 case vibrates for gas alarms, unit
malfunctions, and as an indicator during normal use of the various modes of
the GX-2012.

Batteries

Three AA-size alkaline batteries (standard) or an optional rechargeable
lithium ion battery pack (3.7 VDC) power the GX-2012. 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 GX-2012 detects a low battery voltage, a low battery warning is
activated. When battery voltage is too low for normal operation, the GX­2012 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 GX-2012 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 146.

WARNING: To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries

must only be changed or charged in an area known to be
nonhazardous.

10 • Instrument Descript ion GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Pump

A diaphragm pump inside the GX-2012 draws the sample to the sensors. It
can draw sample from as far as 50 feet from the GX-2012. The pump is not
user serviceable.

CAUTION: Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended

for the GX-2012 because of flow rate reduction.

Flow Chamber

The flow chamber is on the back of the GX-2012 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 GX-2012 and routes flow from the pump
to the sensors and 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
the %LEL sensor. This filter darkens as it absorbs H

S removal filter disk is placed into a recess in the sensor gasket over

2

S and should be

2

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

H

S and certain hydrocarbon gases. The charcoal filter disk scrubs these

2

S absorbing material. The CO sensor will respond if exposed to

2

gases out of the sample to avoid false CO readings. If false or elevated CO
readings are noticed, especially in the presence of H

S, change the charcoal

2

filter.

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 GX­2012’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.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Instrument Description • 11

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 GX-2012 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 GX-2012 to be securely attached to a belt.

Wrist Strap

A wrist strap is included with the GX-2012 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
GX-2012. 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 158).
The quick connect end of the sample hose connects to the inlet fitting of the
GX-2012 and the probe screws onto the end of the hose with the threaded
fitting.

CAUTION: Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended

for the GX-2012 because of flow rate reduction.

Sample Hose

Probe

Figure 4: Sample Hose and Probe

12 • Standard Accessories GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Optional Accessories

Several optional accessories are available for the GX-2012. They include a
rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, 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 56.

Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack

A rechargeable lithium ion battery pack is available for the GX-2012. A fully
charged battery pack will power the GX-2012 for 10 hours. The batteries will
last for a minimum of 500 charge cycles. See the “Parts List” on page 158 for
ordering information.

Charging Stations

The GX-2012 lithium ion battery pack is charged with the GX-2012 charging
station. Two battery charging stations are available for the GX-2012, the
standard AC charging station, and a DC charging station with a vehicle plug
adapter.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 13

AC Powered Charging Station

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: GX-2012 AC Powered Charging Station

To AC

Outlet

Charge LED

Adapter Jack

ViewRear View

Top

Charging
Contacts

14 • Optional Accessorie s GX-2012 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 velcro strap to secure the GX-2012 in the charging base.

Adapter Jack

Rear View

To Vehicle

12 VDC

Power Socket

Adapter Jack

Vehicle Plug

Top

Chargi ng
Contacts

Charge LED

View

Figure 6: GX-2012 DC Powered Charging Station

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Optional Accessories • 15

Optional Probes

Various optional probes designed for specific applications are available for
the GX-2012. 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 probe. A small
breather hole near the end of the probe tube prevents 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 GX-2012. It is designed to
be used when the GX-2012 is operated in Bar Hole Mode to check bar
holes when tracking down underground gas pipe leaks (see “Chapter 4:
Using the GX-2012 in Bar Hole Mode” on page 73). 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.

16 • Optional Accessorie s GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

• 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 probe tube must be collapsible for storage.

• 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 158 for probe ordering information.

GX-2012 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-2012 Inlet

Figure 12: Purge Tee Fitting

Vent Port

Excess
Pressurized
Sample

External Dilution Fitting

An external dilution fitting is available for the GX-2012. It is a 1:1 dilution
fitting and is designed to mate with the inlet fitting and accept a sample hose
or probe. The fittings are made with brass and nickel plated brass and are
appropriate for use with the four standard gases. The dilution fitting is
normally used when it is necessary to introduce air into a sample that has no
oxygen or a very low level of oxygen, such as a nitrogen purged sample. It
can also be used when one of the target gas levels in the sample area will
likely be present in a concentration above the detection range for that gas.
Since the fittings partially consist of unplated brass, they are not appropriate
for detection of elevated levels of H

S.

2

Figure 13: Dilution Fitting

18 • Optional Accessorie s GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

Chapter 3: Using the GX-2012 in Normal Mode

Overview

This chapter explains how to operate the GX-2012 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.

If a standard version of the GX-2012 is ordered, it is shipped with Bar Hole
Mode disabled so that the instrument only runs in Normal Mode when turned
on.

Start Up, Normal Mode

This section explains how to start up the GX-2012 in Normal Mode, get it
ready for operation, and turn it off.

NOTE: The screens illustrated in this section are for a 4-gas unit that has the

% LEL range for the combustible gas channel. The screens
displayed by your GX-2012 may be slightly different.

Turning On the GX-2012, Normal Mode Only

The following description of the GX-2012 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 is not active.

1. Connect the tapered rubber nozzle or the sample hose to the GX-2012’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.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Overview • 19

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 GX-2012 was used. The
short-term exposure limit [STEL] reading is reset each time the GX­2012 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 GX-2012 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 131).

• 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.

20 • Start Up, Normal Mode GX-2012 Operator’s Manual

• If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to NOT USE,

then the following screen displays.

FAIL

C--LIMIT

The GX-2012 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 105
or “Calibrating Using Single Calibration” on page 108 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 131).

• 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 continue.

GX-2012 Operator’s Manual Start Up, Normal Mode • 21

• 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 GX-2012 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 111 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.

22 • Start Up, Normal Mode GX-2012 Operator’s Manual