Process instrumentation: Sensors add VOC detection to monitors

By Control Engineering Staff April 3, 2007

Two piD-Tech plus photoionization sensors for portable and stationary gas monitors, from Baseline-Mocon Inc., include Black Label and Silver Label models with linear dynamic ranges of 0.1 to 2,000 ppm and &0.01 to 20 ppm respectively.

Lyons, CO —Two patented piD-Tech plus photoionization sensors from Baseline-Mocon Inc . add state-of-the-art, low-level volatile organic compound (VOC) detection to portable and stationary gas monitors. New generation devices are said to measure concentrations lower than previously possible with other comparably sized sensors.

Units are described as offering a broad dynamic range and being the least sensitive to humidity compared to other piD sensors. (Humidity interferes with accurate gas measurement.) Accuracy is achieved by adding a dual-layer ionization detector cell with a grounding plane in the middle. Improvements in the gold cell production process also is said to result in a more robust device with better cell surface characteristics.

The two models include the Black Label, with a linear dynamic range of 0.1 to 2,000 ppm and the Silver Label, with a linear dynamic range of &0.01 to 20 ppm. Both have passed UL’s certified component requirements to reduce the number of steps manufacturers need to take to obtain an intrinsically safe rating for instruments containing the sensors.

The sensor series is based on a photoionization detector (PID) and features a compact design for easier integration into multi-use portable instruments. Applications include gas analyzers for industrial hygiene and safety monitoring, Hazmat sites and spills, low-concentration leak detection, and emissions monitoring.

—Edited by Jeanine Katzel , senior editor, Control Engineering Weekly News ( Register here and scroll down to select your choice of eNewsletters free.)


Related Resources