SKC Limited SPLIT2 User Manual

World leader in sampling technologies

SKC Ltd

11 Sunrise Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford Forum, Dorset DT118ST

f: 01258 450968 e: [e-mail]

CONTACT NUMBERS for SKC Ltd

Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Web: http://www.skcltd.com

Keep a record of your equipment history in the space provided

Model

Serial number

2

Date of purchase

Recalibration record

year

month

day

This manual is for Split2 units supplied after September 2004

05 06

07

08

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

Copyright SKC Ltd 2004. All rights reserved

FM 24816

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION .................................................................................. 4

APPLICATIONS ................................................................................... 4

3

SKC Ltd

11 Sunrise Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford Forum, Dorset DT118ST

f: 01258 450968 e: [e-mail]

DIAGRAMS AND PARTS LIST OF THE SPLIT2................................ 5

BATTERY DETAILS, CLEANING OPTICS, SOFTWARE ................... 6

SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................... 7

CONTROLS.......................................................................................... 7

BEFORE YOU START.......................................................................... 8

INITIAL SET UPS ................................................................................ 9

SETTING UP THE TIME AND DATE................................................. 10

PASSIVE OR PUMPED MODE ..........................................................11

THE DIFFERENT INLETS ..................................................................11

PREPARING TO TAKE A SAMPLE .................................................. 13

DOING AN AUTO-ZERO .................................................................... 13

SETTING THE ALARM ...................................................................... 14

SETTING THE SAMPLE RATE ......................................................... 15

TAKING A SAMPLE ........................................................................... 16

REVIEWING THE DATA AND DOWN LOAD TO PC ................... 17-18

CORRECTION FOR DIFFERENT DUST FRACTIONS .................... 19

CALCULATING THE SCALE FACTOR ............................................ 20

SPAN CHECK USING THE CALIBRATION POST .......................... 21

TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCES ..................................................... 22

PARTS LIST AND CONSUMABLES ................................................ 22

INTRODUCTION

The SPLIT2 uses the principle of near-forward light scattering of an infrared radiation to immediately and continuously measure the
concentration in mg/m3 of airborne dust particles. It can be used as a passive monitor or by connecting a sampling pump such as the
SKC Sidekick, an active monitor.

• This principle utilizes an infrared light source positioned at a 90 degree angle from a photodetector.

• As the airborne particles enter the infrared beam, they scatter the light. The amount of light received by the photodetector

is directly proportional to the aerosol concentration.

• A unique signal processes internally and compensates for noise and drift. This allows high resolution, low detection limits
and excellent base line stability.

4

The SPLIT2 direct reading dust monitor is a small and compact unit, and can be used as a personal sampler that not only gives a real
time profile of dust concentration, but the facility for a concurrent filter sample, all at an extremely low cost.

‘Straight out of the box’ SPLIT2 is used in a passive mode to monitor dust concentration, giving a displayed value on the LCD of the
Respiable fraction, while simultaneously data logging this information for reviewing at a later time. Display will show actual, time
weighted average, minimum and maximum concentrations

To monitor for Inhalable, or Respirable dust to ISO/CEN criteria, an I.O.M. inlet with optional foam plug is used. The I.O.M. sampler
is accepted as the preferred sampling head in MDHS 14 and complies to the ISO/CEN criteria for particulate sampling. The addition
of an external sampling pump, capable of drawing a flow of 2 litres per minute and maintaining this flow within +5%. turns the SPLIT2
into an active monitor capable of collecting a filter sample at the same time. The filter sample can be used for compliance to the
health regulations which currently require a gravimetric sample to compare against national exposure level standards. With SPLIT2
you also have a real time profile of the dust concentration over 8 hours, and the facility to correct the real time data to the
gravimetric sample. Direct reading instruments are usually calibrated against Arizona Road Dust (ARD) or dust particles with similar
characteristics. SPLIT2 allows customisation of its monitoring system to the type of dust you have on your site for more accurate and
viable results.

APPLICATIONS

The unit can be used for workplace or environmental monitoring such as:

• Personal monitoring for compliance to health related effects

• Walk through surveys to find ‘hot spots’

• Background sampling for general levels of contamination

• Fugitive emission monitoring - find out where the dust is coming from

• General site dust levels

• Fence line monitoring to ensure dust is not being emitted to public places

• Checking that filter systems are working correctly

• Indoor air quality

• Spray booth emissions

• Exhaust fume particulate concentrations

• Roadside dust levels

DIAGRAMS AND P A RTS LIST

Please unpack your new SPLIT2 and ensure that your kit is complete.

5

1 SPLIT2 unit in carry pouch, with detachable strap
2 Detachable sensor on a ‘curly’ cable, with IOM body,

and complete IOM cassette.

3 Sensor mounting bracket with lapel clip
4 IOM cassette front with washer, cap and clip
5 IOM front plate

1 SPLIT2 unit, carry pouch not pictured
2 Detachable sensor on a ‘curly’ cable

5 IOM front plate

3 Sensor mounting bracket with lapel clip

2 Detachable sensor on a ‘curly’ cable as above

with IOM fitted to rear. (Bracket not attached)
Diagram shows the parts of the rear to sensor head

6 Calibration post
7 Zeroing filter
8 Computer cable
9 Factory calibration certificate
10 CD - manual and software

Data
Transfer
port

Sensor head with IOM
attached

}

4 button
controls

not illustrated

Side view
of sockets
See below

4 IOM cassette front with washer, cap and clip

Sensor head
front view

parts of the front
cassette

6 Calibration post

Location Pin

side view

rear view

Side View

Attaching accesories

Sensor plugs in here

7 Zeroing filter

On/off reset

Charging socket

(Unit pictured from side in
pouch)

BA TTERY AND OPTIC MAINTENANCE

Battery Relacement & charging

6

This instrument operates on a rechargeable NiMH battery pack.
This is recharged while in the unit, using the jack socket and
charger supplied.

Please note that the battery charger provided is not

recommended for use as a mains adaptor.

The SPLIT2 has a Lithium battery back up for data retention even
if the main batteries are exhausted or not fitted.

Cleaning the Optics

Regular cleaning of the optics will maintain and optimise the
accuracy of the SPLIT2.

• Switch off the unit and disconnect the sensor from the unit

• Remove the sensor from the back plate by unscrewing

the two retaining screws.

• Unscrew the 3 retaining screws on the light chamber.

• Remove the light chamber cover.

• This allows access to the emitter and receiver lenses.

• Clean the lenses with Isopropyl Alcohol using a cotton bud

•

If required the chamber can also be cleaned with compressed
air, of the type used to clean cameras lenses.

• Replace the light chamber cover and retaining screws.

• Remount the sensor on the back plate using the two

screws

• An AutoZero should now be performed. see p14.

Should it be necessary to replace the battery pack, it is located in
the side panel.

• Unscrew the two battery compartment retaining screws

and slide out the battery holder.

• Unclip the connector and remove battery pack

• Replace with a suitable SPLIT2 battery pack.

IOM Front

Plate

Lenses

Light chamber cover

Complete sensor

Back plate

Retaining screws

Using the Software

Take full advantage of all the SPLIT2 features. Save data, create reports, and much more.

Use of the software is covered in the separate manual also included on the CD.
Please read through the software manual before attempting to install the software to your PC.

SPECIFICATION

Calibration NIOSH 0600 with ARD
Accuracy + 10%
Precision 0.02 mg/m
Sensing range 0.01 to 200 mg/m
Particle size ranges 0.1 to 10 micron Respirable (Use IOM and selective foam)

0.1 to 50 micron Thoracic (Use IOM and selective foam)

0.1 to 100 micron Inhalable (Use IOM inlet)
Recording time 1 second, 1 minute and 10 minute averages
Memory 21,500 data points
Locations Up to 999 storage locations
Data display 20 character, 4 line backlit LCD
Output RS-232
Operating temperature 0°-50°C
Humidity range 95% non-condensing
Battery NiMH rechargeable battery
Battery life 8 hours minimum when fully charged
Size 18 x 8.. x 4.5 cm protruding sockets and belt clip excluded from measurements
Weight 780 grammes
Software WindowsTM 98, 2000, NT, XP
Flow rate 2.0 litres per minute using external pump (not included)
Optional Sampling Pump Sidekick Pump. Part #224-50 or 224-52TX

3

3

7

CONTROLS & LCD

Switching on the SPLIT2

SPLIT2 version 3.2 onwards features a manual on/off switch on
the side, located adjacent to the charger socket.

This must be on for the control panel to become activated.

We recommend switching off by this method, to deactivate the
keypad at the end of sampling or whenever the unit is put away.

The manual switch can also be used as a reset if required.

ON/OFF button:
Turns the SPLIT2 on and off

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto Zero

Example of 4 line LCD display of the SPLIT2

DOWN button

ON/OFF button ENTER button

ENTER button: Activates the SELECTED
option. Shown by an arrow to the left of the
menu line

Scrolls the Selection Arrow up one line

Scrolls the Selection Arrow down one line

UP button

BEFORE YOU START!

The following conditions must be met BEFORE starting a sampling process

Whether PASSIVE or PUMPED sampling will be used?

If Passive Mode is chosen the following should be noted:

In the passive mode the SPLIT2 is used without any inlets or a filter cassette on the sensing head (see page 11 for details).
This mode means the instrument relies on the NIOSH 0600 method of calibration. This method uses ARD (Arizona Road Dust) as
a calibration media and responds to the RESPIRABLE fraction only.
In other words the instrument displays a concentration as if it is seeing ARD and through the design of the sensing head responds to the
Respirable fraction only. The SPLIT2 must be set up, through the menus, to the RESPIRABLE option. (see page 12 on how to do this).

The advantage of the SPLIT2 is its ability to be calibrated to the type of dust present in your own specific atmosphere.

This is achieved by placing the SPLIT2 in the pumped mode with a design inlet attached.

If PUMPED Mode is chosen the following should be observed:

1. The correct particle size must be selected through the instruments menu

2. The correct sampling inlet must be attached

3. The correct date and time must be set

4. The Auto-Zero process must be completed

5. The Alarm level must be set if sampling with the alarm feature.

6. A suitable air sampling pump must be attached to the unit

8

An explanation of the different dust fractions that can be monitored.

Each dust fraction affects different parts of the respiratory system as shown in the diagram below and follows the ISO Cen convention.
To sample for each fraction the appropriate inlet must be used.

Inhalable. ....................... IOM inlet.100 micron at 50% cut point

Thoracic. ....................... IOM inlet with Black foam insert. 10 micron at 50% cut point

Respirable...................... IOM inlet with White foam insert. 4 micron at 50% cut point

INHALABLE UP TO 100 MICRONS

THORACIC UPTO 30 MICRONS

RESPIRABLE UPTO 10/12 MICRONS

If you would like learn more on the different dust fraction and the appropriate sampling device, may we suggest you attend the SKC Basic
Course on Air Sampling. Please contact SKC customer care for more details on 44 (0) 1258 480188

INITIAL SETTING UP OF THE SPLIT2

Attach the sensor. Activate the keypad using the manual on/off switch on the side. Switch the unit on using the I/O button. The
LCD will show the screen below and a ‘beep’ heard. (To turn the instrument off please hit the I/O button again)

** SPLIT2 **
Real-Time

Dust Monitor

SKC Ltd V3.2 2/03

It is recommended that you allow at least 10 minutes for the electronics to settle down to ensure a stable base line

Run

9

After stabilizing press ENTER to access the main menu

Setting the TIME and DATE:

This only has to be done once. The SPLIT2 has a lithium battery
back up for the clock
Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the DOWN

button or the UP button until the arrow is opposite

Special Functions. Press ENTER button

Scroll arrow to Date/Time option and press the ENTER button

Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

System Options
Date/Time
Set Alarm
Cancel

Press the ENTER button to view date and time. If OK press the
ENTER button to return to the previous menu

If the Date/Time is incorrect select Set Date/Time and press
ENTER

View Date/Time
Set Date/Time
Cancel

View Date/Time
Set Date/Time
Cancel

10

INITIAL SETTING UP OF THE SPLIT2

Time: 0 :

The following screen will appear with a cursor
(line) under the 0 character

The TIME is configured as a 24 hour clock in hours/minutes/seconds. The date is configured as day/month/year. The day is by accepted
abbreviation e.g MON

To set all parameters on this screen the following procedure applies:

To increase the value of the selected digit... Press the UP button.

To decrease the value of the selected digit .... Press the DOWN button.

To confirm the digit and select the next field.... Press the ENTER button

Cursor

Date: _ _
Day:

When all the data is correct press ENTER and a screen appears
with the following options.
Press ENTER again with the arrow opposite the Set Time/Date
option to confirm the new data OR...
select the Cancel option to return to the Date/Time screen
without saving the changes, so you can re-enter the data.

Clearing the memory

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the
DOWN button or the UP button until the arrow is opposite
Special Functions. Press ENTER button

Scroll arrow to System Options and press the ENTER button

Set Date/Time
Cancel

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto Zero

System Options
Date/Time
Set Alarm
Cancel

Scroll arrow to Erase Memory option and press the ENTER
button

Scroll arrow to Yes option and press the ENTER button.
If the data is to be kept, scroll arrow to NO .
The screen will now return to the Main Menu.

Extended Options
Sample Rate
Erase Memory
Cancel

No

Yes
Erase Memory?
*DATA WILL BE LOST!*

PASSIVE OR PUMPED?

There are two modes in which the SPLIT2 can be used: PASSIVE or PUMPED.

PLEASE NOTE: Go to the section on Sampling (p14) before attempting to use the SPLIT2 in the Pumped mode.

11

To use in the passive mode the sensing head must be
configured without any inlets or filter cassettes. The
sensor must be mounted ‘across’ the back plate in
order to allow air movement through it. See the
picture opposite. To fix sensor to the bracket use the
IOM front plate without the O ring in or the threaded
portion present.

For use in the pumped mode an external sample pump
MUST be attached as shown. We recommend the SKC
Sidekick (part # 224-50 or 224-52TX) as your
PREFERRED SAMPLE PUMP. The pump must be set
at a flow rate of 2.0 litres/minute

To use in the pumped mode the sensing head must be
configured with the appropriate inlet e.g Inhalable,
Thoracic or Respirable and with a pre weighed filter in
place. The sensor must be mounted on the back plate
pointing forward. See the pictures below and on page

13.

Passive mode: use sensing head like this

Active Mode: use sensing head like this

PLEASE NOTE: To configure the sensing head for different dust fraction the IOM inlet with suitable
foam is used as shown below. A preweighed filter must also be fitted.

INHALABLE

Filter only

THORACIC

Filter plus BLACK foam

This O ring is permanently affixed.

Note; for weighing procedures when using the IOM with foam inserts please refer to the IOM instruction sheet

RESPIRABLE

Filter plus WHITE foam

PREPARING TO TAKE A SAMPLE

If PUMPED mode is chosen the following should be observed:

1. The correct particle size must be selected

2. The correct sampling inlet must be attached

3. The correct date and time must be set if not done already in the INITIAL SETTING UP, see page 10

4. The Auto - Zero process must be completed

5. The Alarm level must be set, if sampling with the alarm feature.

1. Selecting the correct particle size:

12

PLEASE NOTE: The SPLIT2 will always default to the last
used size selection if turned off and back on again.

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite Special
Functions. Press ENTER button

Scroll arrow to System Options option and press the
ENTER button

Scroll arrow to Extended Options and press the ENTER button
Scroll arrow to Size Select and press ENTER

Run

Review Data

Special Functions

Auto-Zero

System Options

Date/Time

Set Alarm

Cancel

Extended Options

Sample Rate

Erase Memory

Cancel

Size Select

Scroll arrow to Select and press ENTER

Scroll arrow to Respirable or Thoracic or Inhalable

Option and press ENTER. The fraction selected depends on the
fraction you want to sample.
NOTE: If using the SPLIT2 in the passive mode Respirable
MUST always be selected.
The screen will now return to the Run screen

2. Fitting the correct inlet:

Battery Status

Cancel

Select

Apply Scale

Restore Default

Cancel

Respirable

Thoracic

Inhalable

Run

Review Data

Special Functions

Auto-Zero

PREPARING TO TAKE A SAMPLE

The correct inlet must now be fitted as shown below:

13

Filter ring
already comes

Cassette grid Rubber sealing ring

Filter

ATTACHED to
sensor

SPLIT2 Sensor

3. Setting the time and date:

See page 10.

Optional Foam Insert

None for Inhalable,

BLACK for Thoracic,.

WHITE for Respirable

IOM Cassette
Front ONLY

Front plate

4. Doing an Auto-Zero

Before using the SPLIT2 to do an actual sample an AUTO-ZERO must be performed.
To carry out an AUTO-ZERO in either the Passive or Pumped mode please do the following.
Configure the sensing head for the type of dust fraction required, as shown in the previous page. e.g. Passive or Pumped.
Only if using the Pumped mode Set the pump to run at 2.0 L/min before the Auto - Zero is carried out. Make sure the pump is
switched ON during Auto-Zero. Only fit the Zero filter for pumped mode. For passive mode choose a clean air area.

Preferably fit the Zero Filter or make sure you are in a dust free
area. To go to the AUTO-ZERO option press either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite the Auto­Zero option. Press ENTER button to go to Auto -Zero mode.

A screen will briefly appear suggesting that the optics are cleaned.
To clean the optics, remove the cover of the sensing head. Wipe
with a lint free cloth or clean with Isopropyl alcohol. Do not
spill IPA over the sensor head as this may cause damage

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

*AUTO - ZERO*

Please clean optics
before Auto - Zero

Within a couple of seconds another screen will appear giving the
choice of continuing with the Auto - Zero or Cancelling
The arrow should be opposite the Auto - Zero option
Press the ENTER button to Auto - Zero
If the Cancel option is taken, additional screens will appear. To get
back to the main menu select Cancel on all the screens

Auto - Zero
Cancel

PREPARING TO TAKE A SAMPLE

14

The Split2 is now Auto - Zeroing. The time in seconds will appear
in the bottom right hand corner of the LCD indicating how long
for the Auto - Zero to be completed.

Once completed the SPLIT2 will return to the main menu

5. Setting the Alarm:

Go to the main menu screen. (As a starting point we recommend
the alarm is set at 80% of the Occupational Exposure Limit)

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite Special
Functions. Press ENTER button

Auto - Zeroing

Please Wait

24

Run

Review Data

Special Functions

Auto-Zero

Run

Review Data

Special Functions

Please NOTE: Alarm only works if the Alarm Continue
option is taken from the RUN menu. Please see section
on TAKING A SAMPLE page 17

Scroll arrow to Set Alarm option and press the ENTER button

The following screen will appear with a cursor (line) under
the 0 character

Auto-Zero

System Options

Date/Time

Set Alarm

Cancel

* SET ALARM *

Conc: 000.00 mg/m

Cursor

3

The ALARM is configured as concentration in Milligrams per cubic metre (Mg/m3)

To set all parameters on this screen the following procedure applies:

To increase the value of the selected digit... Press the UP button.

To decrease the value of the selected digit .... Press the DOWN button.

To confirm the digit and select the next field.... Press the ENTER button

When all the data is correct press ENTER The screen will now return to the Main Menu

PREPARING TO TAKE A SAMPLE

Setting the Sample Rate:

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite Special
Functions. Press ENTER button

Scroll arrow to System Options and press the ENTER button

15

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto Zero

System Options
Date/Time
Set Alarm
Cancel

Extended Options

Scroll arrow to Sample Rate option and press the ENTER button

Scroll arrow to sample rate required and press the ENTER
button. The screen will now return to the Main Menu

Checking the Battery Status:

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite Special
Functions. Press ENTER button

Scroll arrow to System Options and press the ENTER
button

Sample Rate
Erase Memory
Cancel

1 Sec (6 hrs)
10 Sec (60 hrs)
1 Min (15 days)
30 Mins (1 mos)

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

System Options
Date/Time
Set Alarm

Scroll arrow to Extended Options and press the ENTER
button

Scroll arrow to Battery Status and press ENTER. A screen
will now appear showing the battery voltage. To return to the
Main Menu press the ENTER button

Cancel

Extended Options
Sample Rate
Erase Memory
Cancel

Size Select
Battery Status
Cancel

TAKING A SAMPLE

Monitoring Dust Concentrations with the SPLIT2

Once all the preparations have been carried out and the SPLIT2
set up to the correct mode and dust fraction to be monitored,
we can start taking samples.

Go to the main menu and by pressing either the down button
or the up button position the arrow opposite RUN. Press the

ENTER button

16

Run

Review Data

Special Functions

Auto Zero

Scroll arrow to type of run you want and press the ENTER button.
RUN means the unit will monitor without an alarm sounding. Alm
means the unit will run and the alarm sound if the preset level is
exceeded
To erase all previously recorded data in all locations select
OVERWRITE. To add data points to the next consecutive location
(Tag) choose Continue

Run or Alarm (Alm) Continue:

If either of these options is selected and the ENTER button pressed
a screen will appear for a few seconds stating ‘Preparing
Compensation’. This means the SPLIT2 is now configuring all
the options selected during set up ready to start monitoring

Very quickly a new screen will appear with all the sample details.
To stop the unit monitoring press the ENTER button. Please
note that the unit will not stop for 20 seconds after this first
screen appears.
NOTE: The concentration reading will only change as dust is
detected. Don’t worry if the concentration reading appears to
be static. To test the unit is working, simply place the sensor
head near the carpet or an upholstered seat and smartly hit the
fabric. This normally release enough particles to register an
increase in the concentration reading display.
The LCD backlite is on a timer. Should you wish to turn it back
on press either the UP or DOWN button.

Run - Continue

Run - Overwrite

Alm - Continue

Alm - Overwrite

Preparing

Compensation

Tag: 001

run

Date: Fri 01-Jan-00

Time: 15:01:01

Conc: R 1.25 mg/m3

Time and Date

Memory Location

Tag: 001
Date: Fri 01-Jan-00
Time: 15:01:01
Conc: R- 1.25 mg/m3

Type of Dust Selected.
I for Inhalable
T for Thoracic
R for Respirable

Battery Status

run

Dust Concentration

Minus sign. If this is present
The Unit is reading a minus amount
Please Auto Zero again if judged to
be significant

REVIEWING DATA

The Run screen display:

Run and Alarm (Alm) Overwrite:

To erase all previously recorded data in all locations select either
of the OVERWRITE options. Scroll arrow to Yes and press the

ENTER button.

17

No
Yes
* Confirm overwrite
of data

The new data will be logged in Tag 1 (memory location 1)
A new screen will appear for a few seconds stating ‘Preparing
Compensation’. This means the SPLIT2 is now configuring all
the options selected during set up ready to start monitoring

Very quickly a new screen will appear with all the sample details.
To stop the unit monitoring press the ENTER button. Please
note: the unit will not allow you to exit from this screen for 20
seconds after it first appears.

Review Data:

After the sample is completed, data can be reviewed on the
LCD display.
Scroll arrow to Review Data option and press the ENTER
button. NOTE: It may take a while before the statistics appear
on the LCD. This is due to the large number of data points
recorded.

Preparing

Compensation

Tag: 001

run

Date: Fri 01-Jan-00
Time: 15:01:01
Conc: R 1.25 mg/m3

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

Scroll arrow to Statistics option and press the ENTER button.
A screen will appear offering the following options:-

Review Tag 00?. The number at the end will be the last Tag
(memory location) reviewed. If this is the sample data you want
to look at press the ENTER button .
If you want to look at any previous sample data scroll the arrow
to NEW TAG and press ENTER

A screen will appear with the Range: (number of Tags - memory
locations saved) and an option of which Tag you want to review.

To increase the value of the selected digit... Press the UP button.

To decrease the value of the selected digit .... Press the DOWN

button.

To confirm the digit and select the next field.... Press the ENTER

button

Statistics
Download
Cancel

Review Tag 00?
New Tag
Cancel

* TAG SELECT *
Range: 001 thru 00?
Tag: 000

DOWNLOADING TO A PC

18

TAG: 002 * STATS *

Once the Tag has been selected and the ENTER button pressed
you may see a screen stating ‘SCANNING MEMORY’ for a time.
This will change to the first of 5 information screens. The first
screen shows the Start and Stop time, date and Tag number.

Press the DOWN arrow to display the next screen, which will
detail the MAXIMUM Concentration in mg/m3.
Press the DOWN arrow again for the next screen which will
detail the MINIMUM concentration in mg/m3. Next comes the
TWA screen followed by the STEL screen. To view a STEL the
unit must have run for at least 30 minutes.

A final press of the DOWN button will return to the STATISTICS
screen.

Date: THURS 04-NOV-99
Start: 10:57:09
Stop: 11:35:19

** MAXIMUM **
Date: THURS 04-NOV-99
Time: 10:57:09
Conc: R 0.45 mg/m

3

Statistics

Download

Cancel

Downloading data to a PC:

To download the data to a PC scroll the arrow down to the
DOWNLOAD option and press the ENTER button. Make sure
the SPLIT2 is connected to the computer and follow the
instruction on screen, while referring to the SPLITCOMM
SOFTWARE users Guide provided with the instrument.
Downloading can take several minutes to complete. Please be
patient during this operation.

Correction of dust concentrations for
different types of dust:

Why do we need to correct for dust type?

Light scattering instruments are calibrated to the NIOSH 0600
method using Arizona Road Dust. This type of dust is very regular
in shape and gives a good correlation for calibration purposes.

However, as different types of dust have different reflection and
defraction properties that may differ from Arizona Road Dust
the ability to correct for this difference allows the SPLIT2 to be
‘tuned’ to the type of dust your are monitoring. For example;
Wood dust has different light scattering properties than coal dust
even if the concentrations are the same.

The theory:

By collecting the dust that has passed through the sensor onto a
preweighed filter we are doing a basic calibration of the light
scattering system to a gravimetric (mass of dust) sample. Once the
monitoring exercise has finished, the filter is post weighed giving a
Time Weighted Average result in mg/m3.
This TWA is then used to correct the readings on the SPLIT2 by
entering a SCALE factor into the units software. The TWA can

Statistics

Download

Cancel

also be applied to the SPLITCOMM software package to correct
the real time data and hence correct the graphic display of time
against concentration.

If this is done a number of times in the same monitoring situation.
e.g. a work process an average SCALE factor can be obtained for
that particular circumstance. Subsequently this scale factor can be
applied to similar work situations.

The COSHH regulations advise that after monitoring has been
carried out in compliance with the appropriate methodology, in
this case MDHS 14/n, (Gravimetric using a pump, IOM sampler
and filter), providing the material or the process does not change
it can be assumed exposure will remain at or around that level.
The SCALE factor system with the SPLIT2 works on the same
principle. A final note: At this time light scattering instruments
cannot be used to show compliance to Occupational Exposure
Standards in the UK.

To correct the concentration reading on the instrument to the
dust cloud in your particular circumstance the following
procedure is advised.

DUST FRACTION CORRECTION

1. Dust Fraction correction on the SPLIT2

Before a SCALE factor can be entered, a gravimetric result
must be obtained from the filter contained behind the
sensing head. The filter must be preweighed.

Go to the Special Functions option by pressing either the down
button or the up button until the arrow is opposite Special
Functions. Press ENTER button

19

Run
Review Data
Special Functions
Auto-Zero

System Options

Scroll arrow to Systems Options option and press the ENTER
button

Scroll arrow to Extended Options and press the ENTER button

Scroll arrow to Size Select Option and press ENTER

Scroll arrow to apply scale Option and press ENTER

Date/Time
Set Alarm
Cancel

Extended Options
Sample Rate
Erase Memory
Cancel

Size Select
Battery Status
Cancel

Select
Apply Scale
Restore Default

Scroll arrow to Respirable, Thoracic or Inhalable Option and press
ENTER. The fraction selected depends on the fraction you have
sampled and obtained a gravimetric result for.
NOTE: To do this for Respirable you must have a gravimetric
result, obtained by using the IOM with foam and a filter.

A default scale of 01.00 will be seen. Enter the SCALE factor
required by using the UP, DOWN and ENTER buttons.
The screen will now return to the APPLY SCALE screen.

Cancel

Respirable
Thoracic
Inhalable

* SCALE *

Scale: 01.00

CALCULATING THE SCALE

20

How to calculate the SCALE factor:

The TWA result obtained from the filter used during a monitoring
exercise is compared against the TWA displayed by the SPLIT2
LCD in the REVIEW DATA option (see page 17).

From the two results a simple calculation is used to obtain the
SCALE factor for that sample. and atmosphere type.

Filter TWA result

= SCALE

SPLIT2 TWA result

Example:

Filter TWA was 5 mg/m3

SPLIT2 TWA was 2.5 mg/m3

5

= 2

2.5

Help requested with SCALE factors:

As you note down your correction factors using the table below
you are recording actual work place situations and exposures.
In order to build up information on these factors we would very
much appreciate feed back from you on your results.
If you would like to be part of this project, please send a copy of
the table below listing your scale factors to:

SKC Ltd.
Unit 11, Sunrise Park
Higher Shaftesbury Road
Blandford
Dorset DT11 8ST

We assure you that we will not release any information on your
company or employees. The information will be used to
investigate the possibility of issuing correction factors for
common dusts at a future time.

We look forward to your involvement.

Scale factor to be entered for the next

* SCALE *

sample in the same atmosphere is 02.00

Scale: 02.00

IMPORTANT NOTE: Applying a scale factor to the instrument should not be done using only a single result. It is strongly recommended

that 10 of the above procedures should be undertaken and averaged to obtain a typical correction factor.

Record your SCALE factor results here for future reference.

DUST TYPE PROCESS TYPE FILTER TWA SPLIT2 TWA SCALE DATE SIGNED

SPAN CHECK USING THE CALIBRATION POST

21

Span Check

Span checks should be performed once per month, but if the
instrument has been dropped or knocked, a span check should
be carried out immediately.

The SPLIT2 MUST be reset to its defaults.

You must then perform the Auto-Zero sequence, see page 13.

Once the Auto-Zero has finished remove the Zero-Filter and
sampler inlet if fitted.

Insert the Calibration Post making sure the location pin is lined
up with corresponding hole in the sensor head. The easiest way
to do this is to push the calibration post into the sensing head
and while maintaining forward pressure, turn the post until you
feel it locate. Once located the post will not twist from side to
side.

Finally run the unit on the RUN OVERWRITE option for at least
2 minutes. The display will show a figure of around 200.00

Compare the displayed figure to the K Factor printed on the
calibration post. If the difference between these two figures is
more than +10% repeat the above procedure.

Span Check correction:

After a Span Check you find the displayed value to be greater
than +10%.

To correct for the difference use the following calculation.

Displayed value

= SCALE

K Factor from calibration post

Example:

Displayed value is 180.00

K Factor is 200.00

180

=0.9

200

If the difference is still greater than + 10% you have two options.

1. Correct for the difference by entering a value in to the SCALE
option. see p19

2. Return the SPLIT2 for a recalibration and service.

Zero Filter

Location Pin

Calibration Post

Calibration Post

* SCALE *

Scale: 00.90

Sensing head

‘K’ Factor

22

TEMPERATURE CHANGES

This section is IMPORTANT as it covers the procedure involved to ensure the reliability and accuracy of your unit is optimised despite
the often unavoidable changes in temperature.

Drastic changes in the environment temperature could affect the readings from the Split2. Temperature changes can occur, for example,
when transferring between indoor and outdoor monitoring, or if the unit has been stored overnight in a cold room or vehicle, before
being used in a warm room.

Follow this procedure:

1. Take the SPLIT2 to the area where you wish to sample

2. Run the unit for 15-20 minutes with the zeroing filter on and the perform an auto zero.

3. Remove zeroing filter.

4. Choose overwrite option. This will erase all the previous memory locations already stored and allow the electronics to

stabilize (to the sampling temperature). The auto zero will activate the temperature compensation.

It is recommended to auto zero the unit each time the user changes location, this resets the temperature compensation to
ambient

CONSUMABLES & SPARES

CONSUMABLES

IOM cassette, plastic 225-71A
Foam inserts for Respirable selection 225-772
Other selector foams not currently available --­GFA 25 mm filters 225-58F

PARTS & ACCESSORIES

Sidekick air sampling pump 224-50
Sidekick air sampling pump with timer 224-52TX
(224-52TX is an intrinsically safe pump)
Charger for Sidekick 223-203C*
Tygon flexible tubing ( one metre) 225-13-4A
DC Lite calibrator 717-01K
Rotameters also available - see options in the latest catalogue
Calidaptor to connect DC Lite/rotameter 390-01

Replacement SPLIT2 Battery Pack 770-303
SPLIT2 Battery Charger 770-310C*
Replacement data cable 770-114
Replacement calibration standard 770-207
Replacement zero filter 770-112
Manual 770-300M

*C denotes a UK plug. For a European 2 pin plug use B

SPECIALISTS IN AIR SAMPLING

23

SAMPLING PUMPS

APPLICATION SPECIFIC SAMPLE PUMP KITS

COSHH OR ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING

NOISE MONITORS

TEMPERATURE, LIGHT,

WORKPLACE LIGHT - NOISE - TEMPERATURE

PASSIVE BADGES

SORBENT TUBES

PASSIVE OR ACTIVE SAMPLE MEDIA

SKC Ltd

11 Sunrise Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road

Blandford Forum, Dorset DT118ST

f: 01258 450968 e: [e-mail]