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Tag: oxygen deficiency monitors

Oxygen Deficiency Monitor for Your Application

Written by Terri Melle-Johnson on . Posted in Alpha Omega Instruments, Process Insights. No Comments on Oxygen Deficiency Monitor for Your Application

When selecting an oxygen analyzer for your critical process application, consider factors like sensor type, maintenance, and calibration needs. Different oxygen sensors are suited for specific applications, so choose one based on the requirements of your process.

Oxygen Sensor Types:

  • Ambient Temperature Electrochemical Sensors: Known for accuracy in both trace and percent oxygen measurements, these sensors have extended life but are vulnerable to damage from acid gases and over-pressurization.
  • Paramagnetic Sensors: Offering precise measurements across 1%-100% oxygen, these sensors work by detecting the magnetic properties of oxygen. However, they are delicate, sensitive to vibration, and not suitable for trace oxygen measurements.
  • Polarographic Sensors: Ideal for dissolved oxygen in liquids, these sensors are suited for percent oxygen measurements in gases. They have low maintenance requirements but are prone to frequent sensor replacements.
  • Zirconium Oxide Sensors: Operating at high temperatures (650°C), these sensors are ideal for combustion control applications. They can measure a wide range of oxygen concentrations but are unsuitable for trace oxygen measurements when reducing gases are present.

Each sensor type has its strengths and limitations, so assess your process needs carefully before choosing the right oxygen analyzer.

Compare Oxygen Deficiency Monitors

Written by Terri Melle-Johnson on . Posted in Alpha Omega Instruments, Process Insights. No Comments on Compare Oxygen Deficiency Monitors

Not all oxygen deficiency monitors are the same. Like automobiles or cell phones, they vary in quality and performance.

Many monitors use “fuel cell” oxygen sensors, which typically need replacement every 10-14 months. However, as these sensors age, their electrical output decreases, mimicking a low oxygen signal. This can lead to false alarms, which, when ignored, can create dangerous situations. Personnel may dismiss alarms as false, potentially missing real low-oxygen events. This frustration may even lead to disabling alarms, increasing risk.

Zirconium oxide-based monitors often claim to be calibration-free for over 10 years, but these claims are misleading. One major supplier of zirconium oxide sensors makes no such claims. Closer inspection of the user manuals reveals that these sensors require periodic adjustments and calibration. Experts agree that gas monitors need occasional checks to ensure accurate readings and protect personnel. The stakes are high, and cutting corners can be dangerous.

CAPABILITIES
Series 1300 Oxygen
Deficiency Monitor
Fuel Cell Oxygen Monitor
High Temperature (450 °C) Zirconium Oxide Oxygen Monitor
Three-year warranty on both the electronics and      sensor

YES

NO – Typically one year

NO – Typically two years
Accepts up to 3 oxygen sensors with one set of electronics drastically reducing the per point monitoring costs

 

YES

NO

NO
Built-In data logger standard

YES

NO

Limited Availability
Easy field replacement of the oxygen sensor

YES

YES

NO – Both sensor and mating electronics need replacement – an expensive repair
Built in alarm relay contacts

YES (4 Standard)

Some at extra charge

Often an extra charge
Can be affected by changes in ambient air now caused by HVAC / air handling systems

NO

NO

YES – Changes in airflow may sufficiently cool the high temperature sensor producing erroneous oxygen readings.
Can be used in the presence of combustible gases, refrigerant gases, other reducing gases

YES

YES

NO
Long-life oxygen sensor

YES

NO

Can fail prematurely from heat fatigue