3 sensor contaminants and interference – Detcon TP-700 User Manual
Page 10
Model TP-700
TP-700 Instruction Manual
Rev. 3.5
Page 6 of 38
When possible mount in an area void of high wind, accumulating dust, rain or splashing from hose spray,
direct steam releases, and continuous vibration. If the sensor cannot be mounted away from these conditions
then make sure the Detcon Harsh Environment Splashguard accessory is used.
Do not mount in locations where temperatures will exceed the operating temperature limits of the sensor.
Where direct sunlight leads to exceeding the high temperature-operating limit, use a sunshade to help reduce
temperature.
2.3 Sensor Contaminants and Interference
Solid State H
2
S sensors may be adversely affected by exposure to certain airborne substances.
Loss of
sensitivity or corrosion may be gradual if such materials are present in sufficient concentrations.
The more common materials that potentially cause problems with the sensors are as follows:
Silicone vapors such as those found in greases and lubricants
Halide Compounds containing Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, Fluorine, HF, HCl, and Bromine
Caustic and Acid liquids and concentrated vapors
Heavy metals such as tetraethyl lead
The presence of such contaminants in an area does not preclude the use of this H
2
S sensor technology,
although it is likely that the sensor lifetime will be shorter as a result. Use of this sensor in these environments
may require more frequent calibration checks to ensure safe system performance.
Solid State H
2
S sensors require O
2
in the background gas and the reading is affected by changing O
2
levels.
Interference Data
There are some gases typically found in industrial environments that can cause a cross-interference response
on the sensor. See the Table below for some examples.
Table 1 Cross Interference Gases
GAS
PPM
GAS
PPM
Methane
25,000 = 0
Ammonia
500 = 1
Ethane
5,000 = 0
Diesel Fuel
1000 = 0
Hexane
5,000 = 0
Dimethyl Sulfide
4.4 = 0
Propane
5,000 = 0
Ethylene
200 = 0
Butane
5,000 = 0
Freon 12
1,000 = 0
Carbon Monoxide
800 = 0
Hydrogen
1,000 = 8
Carbon Dioxide
5,000 = 0
Methyl Mercaptan
10 = 5
Carbon Disulfide
14 = 0
Sulfur Dioxide
300 = 0
Methanol
500 = 5
Toluene
32 = 0
Isopropanol
500 = 3
Ethanol
500 = 5
NOTE: The Detcon MOS Sensor Cell can be damaged to the point of non-functioning if the
unit is left off power and in the presence normal air levels of moisture for periods exceeding 8
hours.
NOTE: Always protect the sensor cell with the Detcon Sealing Cap and a fresh desiccant