Ion Science SF6 P1:p - Manual (Page 8)

SF6 P1:p MANUAL Ion Science Ltd
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System properties
General properties
The P1:p leak detectors are rugged, mains power independent instruments for leak detection and leek
measurements involving electron capturing gases, SF6 in particular. All necessary operating and display
elements have been combined in the handset. The quantitative determination of a leak is performed through
the numeric display on the screen of the base unit (P1:p case cover). For documentation purposes,
measured values can be saved, subsequently reviewed on the screen and printed out or transferred to a
computer.
All components subject to wear have been combined in the exchangeable ISM SmartSensor. Base unit and
handset will not require any maintenance or care except for external cleaning from time to time. Worn out
sensors are replaced.
During leak searching, the operator is supported through the following facilities:
1. An easy to read pointer gauge, which, depending on the operating mode indicates the measured value
by way of a percentage of the preset limit, thus excluding the possibility of any incorrect interpretation,
or (in the Search Mode) a full-scale response is attained whenever a leak is detected.
2. The peak-hold function for the pointer gauge which can be programmed to an adjustable time or for
manual deleting.
3. A vibration alarm which lets the handset vibrate noticeably as soon as a certain limit is exceeded.
4. A notification LED which comes on as soon as the measured value exceeds 20% of the preset limit and
which can be reset by operating the Zero button or the Save button.
5. A differentiated audible alarm, enabling unrestricted leak searching even at inaccessible places, when
you cannot see the display.
Measuring principle
A further developed high-voltage ionization detector (NIC
©
) is used and which has been optimised in
consideration of the following:
– sensitivity
– precision
– service life
– reliability
Through miniaturisation it has been possible to accommodate the sensor directly in the measurement tip,
thereby attaining excellent response and recovery timings.
Measurement reliability
The processor constantly monitors all operating values relevant for the measurements, and, if necessary,
adjusts them. For example, drift of the sensor and reducing air permeability of the front filter are
compensated for.
Proper operation of the SmartSensor is only possible under constant and precise control through the
software. For this reason there exists a closed signal loop from the processor, over the high-voltage
generator, the sensor itself and the processing circuitry back to the processor. A fault at any place within this
loop will immediately cause the sensor signal to fail resulting in an error message.
Together through monitoring of the taken in the airflow, the possibility of the worst conceivable fault
condition is excluded: An instrument which presents itself to the operator as being ready but which
actually is incapable of “seeing” existing leaks.
Programmable parameters which have an influence on the measurements, are protected through password
queries within the different levels against unauthorised or inadvertent changes. Access to the LCD touch
screen is only necessary when wanting to change the programming.