How often should I calibrate my combustible gas sensors?
We recommend that all combustible gas detectors be calibrated at least once every 90 days to ensure integrity. We are not implying that the sensor will drift or have problems within this period but frequent calibration checks merely ensure the integrity and operation of the life protecting equipment.

This should be used as a guideline only and in some applications more frequent calibrations may be required. Each application must be carefully evaluated to determine the frequency of calibration.

Catalytic Bead
What is your typical catalytic bead sensor life?
We state 3-5 years in our literature but we have seen sensors last over 10 years and still function properly. It really depends on the application.

What gas is used to calibrate your catalytic sensors?
We normally use 50% LEL of the target gas. The calibration kits consist of a bottle of gas, .45 liter / min regulator, tubing and calibration cup.

Should I calibrate with the splashguard on the sensor?
Yes, if the sensor is fitted with a splashguard, it should be calibrated with the splashguard in place.

How far can I remote mount a catalytic bead sensor from the S4000CH's electronics?
The maximum distance the catalytic bead sensor can be remote mounted from the S4000CH's electronics is 633 ft. (193 m) using a three-conductor 14 AWG shielded cable/wire. For remote mounting applications, you will require the explosion-proof sensor junction box part number 10252-1. Contact your local representative or factory for additional accessories and assistance.

I have a 610A controller that I'm currently using only 3 channels. Is there a way I can have the fourth channel not show as being in fault?
Yes, you can use our sensor simulator (p/n 10102-1) for any unused channel(s) on any of our combustible controllers.

What accessories do you offer for your catalytic bead sensors?
There are a variety of accessories for our catalytic bead sensors such as a splash guard (P/N 10395-1), dust guard (P/N 10110-1), sintered stainless steel dust guard (P/N 1800822), sensor flow chamber (P/N 10066), and duct mounting plate (10041) to name a few. For more details on our catalytic bead sensors and accessories, download the Catalytic Bead Sensor and Accessories data sheet.

Point Infrared
Can infrared gas sensors detect hydrogen?
No, hydrogen is not infrared active so the infrared sensor would not be able to detect a hydrogen leak. Catalytic bead or ultrasonic gas detectors should be used for hydrogen applications.

Can I remote mount and remote calibrate the IR400?
The IR400 can be remote mounted from the IR4000S and IR4000M. The IR400 can be remote tested for response operation. It can be remote zeroed but cannot be remote calibrated due to air currents around the sensor. A calibration cup will have to be placed over the sensor head for span calibration.

What is the expected life expectancy of the IR400?
Since poisons will not affect the IR400, customers should expect 10 years of life.

Will fog prevent the IR400 from working properly?
No. We also have rain shields to prevent heavy rains from blocking the IR beams.

Open-Path Infrared
Will the IR5500 tell me where the gas leak is along its path of detection?
No. The IR5500 lets you know that there is a leak somewhere between the IR5500 source and receiver. Only point detectors such as the IR400 or S4000CH will tell you more information as to the leak location.

Can I use the same unit to detect a methane gas leak and a propane gas leak?
No. Because of the bond structure of the heavy gases you must use an IR5500 which is programmed different than the unit for methane.

How do you calibrate the IR5500?
The IR5500 is calibrated at the factory. The unit can be re-zeroed but does not need to be recalibrated in the field. We use a set of films to check the operation of the unit. This is typical of all open path gas detectors.