HC/LEL Sensor Addendum to Reference Manual Cannonball 3 · PDF fileHC/LEL Sensor Addendum to Reference Manual Cannonball 3 ... OXYGEN, ACCUMULATIONS OF ... A sensor that cannot be

0

HC/LEL SensorAddendum to

Reference ManualCannonball 3 Multi Gas Detector

GasTech Australia Pty Ltd 24 Baretta RdWangara Western Australia 6065

Tel 1800 999 902 Fax 1800 999 903 http://www.gastech.com.au

1

THE Cannonball 3 PERSONAL PORTABLE GAS DETECTOR HASBEEN DESIGNED FOR THE DETECTION OF DEFICIENCIES OFOXYGEN, ACCUMULATIONS OF FLAMMABLE GASES ANDVAPORS AND ACCUMULATIONS OF TOXIC VAPORS.IN ORDER TO ENSURE THAT THE USER IS PROPERLY WARNEDOF POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS, ITIS ESSENTIAL THAT THE INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS REFERENCEMANUAL AND THE CANNONBALL3 REFERENCE MANUAL BEREAD, FULLY UNDERSTOOD, AND FOLLOWED.THIS MANUAL IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE THECANNONBALL3 REFERENCE MANUAL. IT IS ONLY ANADDENDUM AND SHOULD BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITHTHE CANNONBALL3 REFERENCE MANUAL AT ALL TIMES.

HC/LEL Sensor Addendum to the Cannonball 3 Reference ManualPart Number 13-236

Version 1.00Copyright 2002

byBiosystems

Middletown, Connecticut 06457

All rights reserved.No page or part of this operation manual may be reproduced in any form

without written permission of the copyright owner shown above.

2

3

Table of ContentsSignal Words ................................................................................................................... 4Warnings ..................................................................................................................... 4Section 1 Overview..................................................................................................... 7

1.1 LEL/PPM theory................................................................................................................. 71.2 Scale .................................................................................................................................. 81.3 LEL-PPM Ratio options..................................................................................................... 8

1.3.1 Define ratio through SELECT LEL GAS ____________________________________________81.3.2 Define CUSTOM RATIO ________________________________________________________91.3.3 Define ratio through dual source calibration _________________________________________9

1.4 Instrument Firmware Requirements ................................................................................ 9

Section 2 Using the HC/LEL sensor.......................................................................... 92.1 Enable/Disable HCPPM reading ..................................................................................... 102.2 HC/LEL Display ............................................................................................................... 10

Section 3 Alarms related to HC/LEL.......................................................................... 113.1 LEL overrange alarm....................................................................................................... 113.2 Entering the Alarms Menu.............................................................................................. 123.3 Custom HC/LEL alarm settings...................................................................................... 12

Section 4 Calibration.................................................................................................. 134.1 Verification of accuracy.................................................................................................. 144.2 Effect of contaminants on the HC/LEL sensor.............................................................. 15

4.2.1 HC/LEL sensor desensitization __________________________________________________154.2.2 Effects of high concentra-tions of combustible gas on the HC/LEL sensor ________________16

4.3 Calibration Menu ............................................................................................................. 164.4 Calibration Gas Settings................................................................................................. 17

4.4.1 Changing HC Calibration Gas Values_____________________________________________174.5 Single LEL gas calibration for both scales.................................................................... 18

4.5.1 Enable CAL PPM WITH LEL____________________________________________________194.5.2 Select LEL GAS _____________________________________________________________204.5.3 Custom Ratio________________________________________________________________21

4.6 Dual HC and LEL calibration options............................................................................. 224.6.1 Disable CAL PPM WITH LEL ___________________________________________________22

4.7 Automatic Span Calibration Guidelines ........................................................................ 23Appendix A:Data on Flammable Gases and Vapors.................................................... 24Appendix B:Biosystems Standard Warranty Gas Detection Products ...................... 25

4

Signal WordsThe following signal words, as defined by ANSI Z535.4-1998, are used in the HC/LEL Sensor Addendum to theCannonball 3 Reference Manual.

indicates an imminently hazardous situationwhich, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

indicates a potentially hazardous situationwhich, if not avoided, could result in death or seriousinjury.

indicates a potentially hazardous situation,which if not avoided, may result in moderate or minorinjury.

CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicatesa potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, mayresult in property damage.

Warnings1. The Cannonball 3 personal, portable gas detector has been

designed for the detection of dangerous atmospheric conditions. An alarmcondition indicates the presence of a potentially life-threatening hazard andshould be taken very seriously. Failure to immediately leave the areaduring an alarm condition may result in serious injury or death.

2. In the event of an alarm condition it is important to followestablished procedures. The safest course of action is to immediatelyleave the affected area, and to return only after further testing determinesthat the area is once again safe for entry. Failure to immediately leave thearea during an alarm condition may result in serious injury or death.

3. Use only Energizer E95 or EN95, Duracell MN1300, or DuracellPC1300, 1.5V D cell Alkaline batteries in the Cannonball 3. Substitution ofbatteries may impair intrinsic safety.

4. The accuracy of the Cannonball 3 should be checkedperiodically with known concentration calibration gas. Failure to checkaccuracy can lead to inaccurate and potentially dangerous readings.

5. The accuracy of the Cannonball 3 should be checkedimmediately following any known exposure to contaminants by testing withknown concentration test gas before further use. Failure to checkaccuracy can lead to inaccurate and potentially dangerous readings.

5

6. A sensor that cannot be calibrated or is found to be out oftolerance should be replaced immediately. An instrument that failscalibration may not be used until testing with known concentration test gasdetermines that accuracy has been restored, and the instrument is onceagain fit for use.

7. Do not reset the calibration gas concentration unless you areusing a calibration gas concentration that differs from the one that isnormally supplied by Biosystems for use in calibrating the Cannonball 3.Use of inappropriate calibration gas may lead to in accurate and potentiallydangerous readings.Customers are strongly urged to use only Biosystems calibration materialswhen calibrating the Cannonball 3. Use of non-standard calibration gasand/or calibration kit components can lead to dangerously inaccuratereadings and may void the standard Biosystems warranty.

8. Use of non-standard calibration gas and/or calibration kitcomponents when calibrating the Cannonball 3 can lead to inaccurate andpotentially dangerous readings and may void the standard Biosystemswarranty.Biosystems offers calibration kits and long-lasting cylinders of test gasspecifically developed for easy Cannonball 3 calibration. Customers arestrongly urged to use only Biosystems calibration materials whencalibrating the Cannonball 3.

9. Substitution of components may impair intrinsic safety.

10. For safety reasons this equipment must be operated andserviced by qualified personnel only. Read and understand this referencemanual before operating or servicing the Cannonball 3.

11. A rapid up-scale reading followed by a declining or erraticreading may indicate a hazardous combustible gas concentration thatexceeds the Cannonball 3’s zero to 100 percent LEL detection range forunits without a dilution pump, or zero to approximately 200 percentdetection range for units with a dilution pump. The safest course of actionis to immediately leave the affected area, and to return only after furthertesting determines that the area is once again safe for entry.

6

7

Section 1OverviewThis manual is intended as anaddendum to the Cannonball3Reference Manual and should beused in conjunction with theCannonball3 Reference Manual at alltimes.HC-PPM stands for HydroCarbonParts Per Million and allows theCannonball3 to be used to detectboth explosive (% LEL) and trace(PPM) levels of hydrocarbons andother combustible gases in thepresence of air. A secondary displaylocated between the LEL and O2readings shows the level ofhydrocarbons detected from 0 to10,000 PPM in 10 PPM increments.Once the levels of hydrocarbonexceeds 10,000 PPM, the HC displaywill shift to percent by volume since10,000 PPM = 1.00% by volume.Note: The HC/LEL sensor is notdesigned to work with aCannonball3 in Dilution Mode.Dilution Mode will be automaticallydisabled once the HC/LEL sensoris installed.

1.1 LEL/PPM theoryCombustible gases and vapors willform fully explosive mixes in air at alevel based on a certain volumepercent in air. The lowest level atwhich a gas or vapor becomesexplosive in air is known as theLower Explosive Limit and is referredto as 100% LEL. The exact volumeconcentration yielding 100% LEL inair for a specific material can befound in materials property tables onthe combustibility of gases and

vapors in air. For convenience, atable of values is included inAppendix A for some of the morecommon materials.For any gas/vapor, one volumepercent (1% vol.) is always equal to10,000 PPM. This followsmathematically from the fact that100% by volume is equal to onemillion parts per million (PPM).1% volume of any gas/vapor =10,000 PPMIn the case of most hydrocarbons,the lower explosive limit is equal tosomewhere between 0.5 and 5.5%by volume depending on the specifichydrocarbon(s) involved.100% LEL gas/vapor ~ 0.5-5.5% byvolume hydrocarbonIt follows then that each 1% LEL ofany given hydrocarbon is equal tosomewhere between 50 and 550PPM (depending on the specifichydrocarbon(s) involved).Each 1% LEL gas/vapor ~ 50-550PPMA standard LEL-style combustiblegas sensor typically has a lowerdetectable limit of 1-3% LEL, whichcorresponds to a minimum detectionrange of 50-1,650 PPM, dependingon the specific material involved.Due to this limited resolution, astandard combustible gas sensor isof very limited or no use when itcomes to work requiring PPM ortrace level combustible gas/vapordetection.Operations frequently requiring tracelevel of detection may include:1. Pinpointing small gas/vapor leaks.

8

2. Determining levels of toxicityassociated with proper selection ofPPE.

3. Field screening of samples forresidual solvent or fuelcontamination.

1.2 ScaleThe HC/LEL sensor factory defaultcalibration is on a propane equivalentscale. The lower explosive limit(LEL) for propane is known to be2.2% vol., so in the default set upeach 1% LEL corresponds to 220PPM propane.The output of the HC-PPM sensor isvery linear throughout the range fromPPM levels up to volume percent andthe corresponding percent LEL. Inmost applications a single point(typically 50% LEL) calibration canbe used to set the sensitivity for bothscales. If a more direct confirmationof accuracy is desired in the PPMrange, the PPM and the LEL scalemay be de-coupled. An independentcalibration at the PPM level will thenestablish a second response scalefor PPM, which will be related to theLEL scale by a ratio.

1.3 LEL-PPM Ratio optionsThe key to understanding theworkings of the HC/LEL sensor isrealizing that both the HC and theLEL readings are generated from asingle sensor. The Cannonball3software interprets the sensor outputand converts it into two separatereadings. Since these readings aregenerated from a single output, theycan always be related by a ratio.

There are three possible ways todefine the ratio between the %LELand PPM scales. The SELECT LELGAS and CUSTOM RATIO optionsrequire a single source of calibrationgas for the HC/LEL sensor. TheCannonball3 then computes the PPMdisplay based on the preset ratio,whether it is chosen from a list ordefined by the user.For increased accuracy to a specificmaterial in the PPM range, a dual-source calibration option is available,which establishes independentresponse values for the PPM andLEL displays. This increasesaccuracy because the software isable to compute the exact responseratio based on two specific andcontrolled calibration sources.

1.3.1 Define ratio through SELECTLEL GAS

The SELECT LEL GAS option allowsthe user to choose a preset ratio thatwill be used to automatically computethe PPM readings based on theoutput of the LEL sensor. Thisapproach has the advantage of usinga single cylinder of calibration gas tocalibrate the LEL and PPM sensor.In the example given above insection 1.2, the user would selectpropane as the LEL gas and the HCresponse scale would be set topropane. Since 1% LEL propane isequal to 220 PPM propane, each 220PPM registered on the HC displaywould be shown with a reading of 1%on the LEL display.See section 4.5.2 for the SELECTLEL GAS option.

9

1.3.2 Define CUSTOM RATIOThe CUSTOM RATIO option is usedfor materials that do not appear onthe SELECT LEL GAS list. The userenters a custom ratio that is used tocompute the PPM readings based onthe output of the LEL sensor. Thisapproach also has the advantage ofusing a single cylinder of calibrationgas cylinder to calibrate the LEL andPPM sensor.In this case, the software determinesthe PPM readings based on theoutput of the LEL sensor and factorsin the custom ratio to determine thePPM reading. The PPM reading willthen equal the custom ratio valuetimes 100 PPM per 1% LEL that isregistered.See section 4.5.3 for the CUSTOMRATIO option.

1.3.3 Define ratio through dualsource calibration

To increase accuracy in the PPMrange to a specific material, or to setthe trace PPM scale consistentlydifferent from the LEL scale, the usercan set independent response scalesfor the %LEL and PPM displays bycalibrating the PPM scaleindependently of the LEL scale. Thedual calibration option is typicallydone to address concerns associatedwith toxicity in the PPM range. Anexample of this would be a casewhere the Cannonball3 is used tomonitor for natural gas in the LELrange and a secondary gas, such astoluene in the PPM range (atdifferent times). This is done bydisabling the CAL. PPM WITH LELoption in the Calibration Menu and

then calibrating the HC and LELscales independently with theappropriate gases.See section 4.6 for the dual sourcecalibration option.

1.4 Instrument FirmwareRequirements

To use the HC-PPM LEL sensor, theCannonball3 must have aninstrument firmware version of 2.00or higher. Earlier versions ofCannonball3 firmware will notrecognize the HC-PPM LEL sensor.Software upgrade instructions aregiven on Biosystems website atwww.biosystems.com.

Section 2Using the HC/LELsensor

Upon instrument turn on, instrumentsequipped with the HC-PPM sensorwill indicate the HC/LEL on thebottom line of the display.

biosystems

Cannonball 3Program Version 2.05

Loading Sensors

O2 HC/LEL

There are very few differences in theinitial start up screens with theHC/LEL sensor installed versus thestandard LEL sensor. One notabledifference is the alarm display, whichwill show the distinct HC and LELalarm setpoints.

10

CURRENT ALARM SETTINGS

LOW CEILINGO2 19.5 22.0HC/LEL 1000ppm 10%

CEIL STEL TWACO 35 100 35H2S 10 15 10

Once the start up sequence iscomplete, the current gas readingsscreen will be shown. Due to thesensitivity of the HC/LEL sensor, astabilization period is necessary.The automatic calibration functionswill be locked out for the first 90seconds of use to allow the HC/LELsensor to stabilize. The current gasreadings screen will indicate that thePPM-HC sensor is stabilizing for 90seconds.

O2 HCPPM LEL20.9 170 0

PPM HC SENSOR STABILIZING

Time 6:15 RT 1:04

If the HC PPM sensor exceeds thedefault HC warning alarm theHCPPM level will be shown inreverse flashing text.


Time 6:15 RT 1:04

Other sensor readings may also beshown depending on theconfiguration of your Cannonball3.

2.1 Enable/Disable HCPPMreading

To enable or disable the HCPPMreadout during normal operation,simultaneously press the up anddown navigation arrows at thecurrent gas readings screen. TheCannonball3 will then prompt you asto whether you’d like to turn off orturn on the HC PPM display.

Turn Off HC PPM Display

YES NO

2.2 HC/LEL DisplayIn order to eliminate any possibleconfusion between the displayedreadings, a Cannonball3 with theHC/LEL sensor enabled will alwaysindicate the %LEL scale on thedisplay in the upper right corner ofthe display.

11

O2 LEL20.9 0

Time 6:15 RT 1:04

The user may elect to show the“HCPPM” scale along side of the%LEL scale, which will appear in theupper center of the display.


Time 6:15 RT 1:04

In the HCPPM mode, readings aredisplayed in 10-PPM incrementsfrom 0 – 10,000 PPM. At 10,000PPM, the reading automaticallyswitches to percent by volume (vol%)with 0.01 % resolution (100 PPM).The following table summarizes thedisplay resolution across all ranges.

HC-PPMRange

Resolution

0-10,000 PPM 10 PPM

1.00+ vol % 0.01% or 100PPM

The upper range of vol % reading isdetermined by the % vol. gas yielding100% LEL and the calibrationsetting(s) of the detector. TheCannonball3 will automaticallydisable the LEL sensor whenreadings reach 100% LEL.

Section 3Alarms related toHC/LEL

Cannonball 3 gas alarms are user-adjustable and may be set anywherewithin the range of the sensorchannel. When an alarm set point isexceeded for a sensor, a loudaudible alarm sounds, and the threebright red LED alarm lights blink.

In the event of analarm condition it is important tofollow established procedures.The safest course of action is toimmediately leave the affectedarea, and to return only afterfurther testing determines that thearea is once again safe for entry.Failure to immediately leave thearea during an alarm conditionmay result in serious injury ordeath.Cannonball 3 alarms are self-resetting unless the alarm latch isenabled. With the alarm latchdisabled, visible and audible alarmscease when readings drop backbelow the pre-set alarm levels. Withthe alarm latch enabled, visible andaudible alarms continue to soundafter the atmospheric hazard hascleared. The user must thenmanually reset the instrument bypressing the MODE button.

3.1 LEL overrange alarmAn LEL overrange alarm occurswhen the instrument registers areading in excess of 100% LEL,which indicates a combustibleatmosphere. During an LELoverrange alarm, the HC/LEL sensorwill be automatically shut down by

12

the instrument and both the LEL andthe HC-PPM scales will display an“X”.

O2 HCPPM LEL20.9 X X

Time 6:15 RT 1:04

3.2 Entering the Alarms Menu1. Turn the instrument on and wait until

the gas readings screen appears.2. Press the MODE button until the

information screen is displayed.INFORMATION

Date 28 OCT 00Time of day 14:51Runtime 0:00Points logged 0Temperature 77F 25CBattery 6.6V

EXITMENU

3. Hold down the left navigation arrowfor 3 seconds or until EXIT appearsand is highlighted.

INFORMATION

Date 31 JUL 00Time of day 14:51Runtime 10:07Points logged 100Temperature 77F 25CBattery 6.6V

EEXXIITTMENU

4. Press the down navigation arrowonce to highlight MENU and pressthe MODE button.

MAIN MENU

SCREEN CALIBRATIONVIEW ALARMSTIME OPTIONSID INFO EXIT

5. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight ALARMS and press theMODE button. The Alarms Menu willthen be shown.

ALARMS MENU

CUSTOM LATCHDEFAULT TEMPERATURE

EXIT

3.3 Custom HC/LEL alarmsettings

Cannonball 3 gas alarms are user-adjustable and may set anywherewithin the range of the sensorchannel. The HC/LEL sensorresponds predictably from 0 PPM to100% LEL. The range for theHC/LEL sensor is from 0% LEL (or 0PPM hydrocarbon) to 100% LEL.To customize alarm settings:1. Enter the Alarm Menu as described

above in section 3.2.

13

ALARMS MENU

CUSTOM LATCHDEFAULT TEMPERATURE

EXIT

2. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight CUSTOM and press theMODE button. The current alarmsettings screen will then be shown.




EXIT3. To modify the HC/LEL alarm

settings, use the up and downnavigation arrows to select theHC/LEL sensor.




EXIT

4. Press the MODE button to confirmthe selection.


HC LEL

HC/LEL 1000ppm 10%

5. Use the right and left navigationarrows to select the specific alarmfor modification. Once the specificalarm is selected, use the up anddown navigation arrows to modifythe current alarm setting.


HC LEL

HC/LEL 1000ppm 12%

6. When the alarm adjustment iscomplete, press the MODE button toenter the new setting.


HC LEL

HC/LEL 900ppm 12%

Save Changes?

YES NO CANCEL

7. Press the MODE button with YEShighlighted to save the new alarmsettings. The instrument will thenreturn to the current alarm settingsscreen.

Section 4CalibrationThe Cannonball 3 multi-gas detectorhas been designed for easycalibration. A single control, the

14

on/off MODE button, is used to bothenter “Auto-Calibration” mode and toautomatically make calibrationadjustments. Manual and single-sensor calibration procedures canalso be initiated by using thenavigation arrows located on theinstrument.The operating software used tomonitor the HC/LEL sensor allows fortwo simultaneous scales of detection.To increase accuracy in the PPMrange for a specific material, theCannonball3 offers independentcalibrations for PPM and LEL gaslevels. The HC/LEL sensor respondspredictably from 0 PPM to 100%LEL. Independent calibration forboth PPM and LEL gas levelsestablishes a specific output ratiothat will be used to calculate the HCreading.Note: As discussed above, thismanual is intended to be used inconjunction with the Cannonball3Reference Manual. The calibrationinstructions contained here coverspecific procedures involving theHC/LEL sensor only. For moredetailed calibration instructionsand a complete list of warningsand cautions, see the Cannonball3Reference Manual.

4.1 Verification of accuracy Accuracy of the

Cannonball 3 should be checkedperiodically with knownconcentration calibration gas.Failure to check accuracy can leadto inaccurate and potentiallydangerous readings.

Verification of accuracy is a two stepprocedure.Step one is to take the Cannonball 3to an area where the atmosphere isknown to be fresh and check thereadings. If the readings differ fromthose expected in fresh air, then afresh air calibration adjustment mustbe made.Step two is to make sure the sensorsare accurate by exposing them to atest gas of known concentration andnoting the sensor response. LELsensor readings are consideredaccurate when they are within ±10%of the expected concentration asgiven on the calibration gas cylinder.If readings are accurate, there is noneed to adjust your gas detector. Ifthe readings are inaccurate, theinstrument must be span calibratedbefore further use.If independent calibrations havebeen selected for the HC and LELscales, the instrument should beexposed to both LEL-rangecalibration gas and PPM-rangecalibration gas.Biosystems offers calibration kits andlong lasting cylinders of test gasspecifically developed for easyCannonball 3 calibration.

Use of non-standardcalibration gas and/or calibrationkit components when calibratingthe Cannonball 3 can lead toinaccurate and potentiallydangerous readings, and may voidthe standard Biosystemswarranty.Customers are strongly urged touse only Biosystems calibration

15

materials when calibrating theCannonball 3.

4.2 Effect of contaminants onthe HC/LEL sensor

The atmosphere in which theCannonball 3 is used can havelasting effects on the sensors. LELsensors may suffer losses insensitivity leading to degradedperformance if exposed to certainsubstances.

Accuracy of theCannonball 3 should be checkedperiodically with knownconcentration calibration gas.Failure to check accuracy can leadto inaccurate and potentiallydangerous readings.

4.2.1 HC/LEL sensordesensitization

Hot-bead combustible sensors,including the HC/LEL sensor, will beadversely affected by exposure tosubstances containing volatilesilicone, which is found in manycommercial formulations such asspray lubricants, plastic mold(ing)release agents, waterproofingagents, heat transfer fluids, and isreleased during the cure of silicone-based caulks and rubbers (RTV).Other combustible gas sensorpoisons and inhibitors include, butare not limited to: tetraethyl lead asin "leaded" gasoline grades (aviation"low-lead" fuel), halogenatedhydrocarbons such as FreonsTM,other such refrigerants and solventssuch as 1,1,1-trichloroethane,perchloroethylene and methylenechloride. Chronic exposures to high

concentrations (above human healthand safety levels) of hydrogen sulfide(H2S) and Phosphine (PH3) can alsoimpair combustible sensorperformance.After any detector exposure to asuspected or known poison/inhibitorsource, combustible sensor accuracyshould be verified immediately byexposure to calibration gas of knownpercent LEL concentration.Note: If the combustible sensor inthe Cannonball 3 suffers a loss ofsensitivity, it tends to be lost firstwith regards to methane.As described above, combustible gassensors may become desensitized ifexposed to certain substances. Insome cases a desensitizedcombustible sensor may still respondaccurately to propane while showinga dangerously reduced response tomethane.Biosystems’ “Propane Equivalent”calibration gas mixtures have beendeveloped to eliminate thispotentially dangerous source ofcalibration error. Biosystems’“Propane Equivalent” mixtures arebased on methane, so any loss ofsensitivity to methane is detected(and can be corrected) immediately.Using Biosystems brandcalibration gas and regularlyverifying accuracy ensures thatproper sensitivity is maintained forthe life of the sensor.

16

4.2.2 Effects of high concentra-tions of combustible gas onthe HC/LEL sensor

The accuracy of combustible sensorsmay also be affected by exposure tohigh concentrations of combustiblegas. To minimize the chance fordamage or loss of HC/LELsensitivity, the Cannonball 3’s alarmwill “latch" whenever theconcentration of combustible gasexceeds 100 percent LEL for unitswithout a dilution pump, orapproximately 200 percent LEL forunits with an enabled dilution pump.Under these conditions an “X” willappear in place of the combustiblegas reading to indicate that an over-limit condition has occurred, and“LEL OVERRANGE” will bedisplayed at the bottom of the LCD.During an “LEL OVERRRANGE”condition, the audible and visiblealarms will be activated until theinstrument is manually reset byturning it off.

A combustiblesensor overrange alarm indicatesa potentially explosiveatmosphere. Failure to leave thearea immediately may result inserious injury or death!

In the event of acombustible sensor overrangealarm the Cannonball 3 must beturned off, brought to an area thatis known to be safe and thenturned on again to reset the alarm.

Make sure that theCannonball 3 is located in fresh airbefore turning the instrument backon after a combustible sensor

alarm latch condition hasoccurred. Fresh air calibrationadjustments may only be madewhen the Cannonball 3 is locatedin air that is known to be fresh.After a combustible sensor alarm-latch condition occurs, theaccuracy of the combustible gassensor must be verified byexposure to known percentageLEL concentration test gas beforefurther use.Note: The combustible sensorused in the Cannonball 3 designrequires the presence of oxygen inorder to detect combustible gas.The accuracy of the combustiblesensor may be affected if theinstrument is used in oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

A rapid up-scalereading followed by a declining orerratic reading may indicate ahazardous combustible gasconcentration that exceeds theCannonball 3’s zero to 100 percentLEL detection range for unitswithout a dilution pump, or zero toapproximately 200 percentdetection range for units with adilution pump. The safest courseof action is to immediately leavethe affected area, and to returnonly after further testingdetermines that the area is onceagain safe for entry.

4.3 Calibration MenuTo enter the Calibration Menu:1. Turn the instrument on and wait at

least 90 seconds for the HC/LELsensor to stabilize.

17

2. Press the MODE button until theinformation screen is displayed.

INFORMATION

Date 28 OCT 00Time of day 14:51Runtime 0:00Points logged 0Temperature 77F 25CBattery 6.6V

EXITMENU

3. Hold down the left navigation arrowfor 3 seconds or until EXIT appearsand is highlighted.

INFORMATION

Date 31 JUL 00Time of day 14:51Runtime 10:07Points logged 100Temperature 77F 25CBattery 6.6V

EEXXIITTMENU

4. Press the down navigation arrowonce to highlight MENU and pressthe MODE button.

MAIN MENU

SCREEN CALIBRATIONVIEW ALARMSTIME OPTIONSID INFO EXIT

5. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight CALIBRATION and pressthe MODE button. The CalibrationMenu will then be shown. Note theaddition of the PPM / LEL option.

CALIBRATION MENU

GAS VALUES SPAN CALHISTORY O2 ZERO CALPPM / LEL FRESH AIR

REMINDEREXIT

4.4 Calibration Gas SettingsCalibration gas concentration valuesmay be viewed and adjusted throughthe gas values screen.

4.4.1 Changing HC CalibrationGas Values

1. Enter the Calibration menu asdescribed above in section 4.3.

2. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight GAS VALUES and pressthe MODE button.

CALIBRATION VALUE

HC 400 PPMLEL 50.0 %

EXIT

Calibration valuesshown in the calibration valuetable must match those appearingon the calibration gas cylinder(s)that will be used to calibrate theCannonball 3. Non-matchingcalibration gas and calibration gasvalue settings will lead toinaccurate and potentiallydangerous readings.3. Use the up and down navigation

arrows to highlight the gas

18

concentration value that requiresadjustment.

CALIBRATION VALUE

HC 400 PPMLEL 50.0 %

EXIT

4. Press the MODE button once theappropriate concentration ishighlighted. The concentration willthen be highlighted.

CALIBRATION VALUE

HC 400 PPM

5. Use the up and down navigationarrows to adjust the calibrationvalue.

CALIBRATION VALUE

HC 500 PPM

6. Once the concentration matches thevalue listed on the calibration gascylinder, press the MODE button.

CALIBRATION VALUE

HC 1000 PPM

Save Changes

YES NO CANCEL

7. Press the MODE button with YEShighlighted to save the new settings.

CALIBRATION VALUE

Saved

Note: The HC calibration gassettings will only be utilized whenthe CAL PPM WITH LEL option isdisabled. See section 4.6 belowfor details.

4.5 Single LEL gas calibrationfor both scales

If a single calibration gas is used tocalibrate the HC/LEL sensor, it isnecessary to declare the PPM-levelhydrocarbon that you expect toencounter in order to generateaccurate HC readings. This is due tothe fact that the LEL value for mosthydrocarbons ranges between 0.5%and 5.5% volume. Declaring thehydrocarbon ensures an accurateconversion of the LEL reading to thePPM reading for the specific materialinvolved.If you are unsure of the particularhydrocarbon that you expect toencounter, or expect to encounter awide range of hydrocarbons,

19

Biosystems recommends leaving thedefault setting in place. The defaultsetting of propane sets the ratio at1% LEL = 220 PPM.The internal circuitry of theCannonball3 allows the instrument tobe configured for sensitivity based onthe LEL of a specific hydrocarbon.The software provides a list ofcommon hydrocarbons with theirparticular LEL value in the SELECTLEL GAS option. If the instrument isto be used to monitor for ahydrocarbon that does not appear onthe list, the LEL value can bemanually entered through theCUSTOM RATIO option.It’s important to understand that theLEL sensor is calibrated through theFresh Air calibration and the Spancalibration. The response ratio thatis selected by the user is used toconvert the LEL reading into a validHC reading for the declared material.

4.5.1 Enable CAL PPM WITH LELTo use a single source of calibrationgas for the calibration of both theLEL and the PPM sensitivity, enablethe “CAL PPM WITH LEL” option.Calibrating the instrument will thenestablish a scale for both the HCreading and the LEL reading.1. Enter the Calibration menu as

described above in section 4.3.

CALIBRATION MENU

GASVALUES

SPAN CAL

HISTORY O2 ZERO CALPPM / LEL FRESH AIR

REMINDEREXIT

2. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight PPM / LEL and press theMODE button.

PPM / LEL CALIBRATION

SELECT LEL GASCUSTOM RATIOCAL. PPM WITH LELEXIT

3. Use the up and down navigationarrows to highlight CAL PPM WITHLEL and press the MODE button.The following screen will be shown.

Calibrate PPM and LELUsing Same Gas

ENABLED

↑↓


DISABLED

4. For single cylinder calibration of boththe LEL and HC ranges, use the upand down navigation arrows to

20

change the setting to ENABLED andpress the MODE button

4.5.2 Select LEL GASOnce the “CAL PPM WITH LEL”option has been enabled, the LELGas should be selected based on thehydrocarbon that you expect toencounter in the PPM range in thefield. If the hydrocarbon is not givenin the list and you know its LEL valuein terms of percent by volume,proceed to section 4.5.3 CUSTOMRATIO.1. Enter the Calibration menu as

described above in section 4.3.

CALIBRATION MENU

GASVALUES

SPAN CAL

HISTORY O2 ZERO CALPPM / LEL FRESH AIR

REMINDEREXIT




3. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight SELECT LEL GAS andpress the MODE button.

Select LEL Gas

PROPANE

100% LEL = 2.20 % by Vol.

4. Use the up and down navigationarrows to scroll through the list ofavailable gases until the specific gasthat you expect to encounter in thePPM range is shown.

Select LEL Gas

PROPANE

100% LEL = 2.20 % by Vol.

↓↑

Select LEL Gas

TOLUENE

100% LEL = 1.30 % by Vol.

5. Once the appropriate gas is shown,press the MODE button.

21

Select LEL Gas

TOLUENE

100% LEL = 1.30 % by Vol.

WARNING: Must Span Cal LELAfter This ChangeSave Changes?

YES NO CANCEL

6. The instrument will issue a warningthat the LEL sensor must be spancalibrated after this change. Pressthe MODE button with YEShighlighted to accept the change.

7. Perform the standard Fresh Air andSpan calibrations as described in theCannonball3 Reference Manual.

The HC/LEL sensormust be calibrated with theappropriate calibration gasfollowing any changes to thecustom ratio settings. Failure tocalibrate may result in inaccurateand potentially dangerousreadings.

4.5.3 Custom RatioIf the PPM-level hydrocarbon thatyou expect to encounter in the field isnot shown in the select LEL Gas list,and you know the LEL for thehydrocarbon it terms of percent byvolume, it can be entered through theCUSTOM RATIO option.1. Enter the Calibration menu as

described above in section 4.3.1.

CALIBRATION MENU


REMINDEREXIT




3. Use the up and down navigationarrows to highlight CUSTOM RATIOand press the MODE button

Adjust Custom Ratio

100% LEL = 2.20 % by Vol.

4. Use the up and down navigationarrows to adjust the ratio. Press theMODE button once the ratio isadjusted to the appropriate level.

22

Adjust Custom Ratio

100% LEL = 2.40 % by Vol.

WARNING: Must Span Cal LELAfter This ChangeSave Changes?

YES NO CANCEL

5. The instrument will issue a warningthat the LEL sensor must be spancalibrated after this change. Pressthe MODE button with YEShighlighted to accept the change.

6. Perform the standard Fresh Air andSpan calibrations as described in theCannonball3 Reference Manual

The HC/LEL sensormust be calibrated with theappropriate calibration gasfollowing any changes to thecustom ratio settings. Failure tocalibrate may result in inaccurateand potentially dangerousreadings.

4.6 Dual HC and LELcalibration options

To enhance the accuracy of the PPMreading for a specific material, theCannonball3 can be calibrate directlyin both the LEL range and the PPMrange with two different gases. Theinstrument will then use the responsevalues derived from both calibrationsto generate accurate PPM and LELreadings in the field for the gases towhich the instrument has beencalibrated.Note: Performing two separatecalibrations with a singlecalibration gas will not increaseaccuracy in either sensor range.

To de-couple the scales for the LELand PPM readings, disable the “CALPPM WITH LEL” option as describedbelow in section 4.6.1. Performingindependent calibrations for both LELand PPM will then establishindependent response scales forreadings in the PPM range versusreadings in the LEL range.Note: The Cannonball3 must becalibrated with two distinctcombustible calibration gasesonce the CAL PPM WITH LELoption is disabled.

4.6.1 Disable CAL PPM WITH LEL1. Enter the Calibration menu as

described above in section 4.3.1.

CALIBRATION MENU


REMINDEREXIT

2. Use the navigation arrows tohighlight PPM/LEL and press theMODE button.



2. Use the up and down navigationarrows to highlight CAL PPM WITHLEL and press the MODE button.The following screen will be shown.

23


ENABLED

↑↓


DISABLED

4. For independent calibration of theHC/LEL sensor in both the LEL andPPM ranges, use the up and downnavigation arrows to change thesetting to “DISABLED” and press theMODE button.

5. Perform the Fresh Air and Spancalibrations as described in theCannonball3 Reference Manual.

4.7 Automatic SpanCalibration Guidelines

The automatic span calibrationfunction for the Cannonball3 withHC/PPM sensor is identical to theautomatic span calibration functionfor all Cannonball3 instruments withan LEL sensor. See chapter 4 of theCannonball3 Reference Manual forexplicit directions on the AutomaticSpan Calibration function.If the “CAL PPM WITH LEL option isdisabled as described above insection 4.6.1, the Cannonball3 willprompt for the HC calibration after

the standard Fresh Air Calibrationand before the standard SpanCalibration.

APPLY 1000 ppm HC

MODE = Cancel

Apply calibration gas with theappropriate level of HC. The sensorwill respond quickly.

HC Sensor Reading 1000 ppm

MODE = Cancel

Once the HC calibration is complete,the display will show the maximumspan calibration value for the HCsensor.

HC Calibrated to 1000 ppmMaximum to 70980

The Cannonball3 will then proceedwith the standard Span calibration asdescribed in the Cannonball3Reference Manual.

24

Appendix A: Data on Flammable Gases and VaporsLEL*

(Volume %)UEL**

(Volume %)Vapor Density

(air = 1)Alkane (Paraffin) HydrocarbonsMethane 5.0 15 0.55Ethane 3.0 12.5 1.0Propane 2.2 10 1.5Butane 1.8 9.0 2.0Pentane 1.5 7.8 2.48Hexane 1.2 7.5 2.97Heptane 1.1 6.7 3.5Octane 0.8 6.5 3.9Alkene (Olefin) HydrocarbonsEthylene 3.02 34 0.98Propylene 2.4 10.3 1.49Alkyne HydrocarbonsAcetylene 2.5 100 0.91Propyne (methyl acetylene) 1.7 N/A 1.4Aromatic HydrocarbonsBenzene 1.40 7.1 2.77Toluene 1.27 7.0 3.14o-Xylene 1.0 7.6 3.7Cumene 0.9 6.5 4.1Styrene 1.1 6.1 3.6AlcoholsMethanol (wood alcohol) 5.5 44.0 1.1Ethanol (grain alcohol) 3.3 19.0 1.59Isopropyl Alcohol 2.02 11.8 2.1Ketones, Esters & EthersAcetone 2.6 12.8 2.00Methyl Ethyl Ketone 1.8 9.5 2.5Ethyl Acetate 2.2 11.4 3.04Ethyl Ether 1.85 48.0 2.56OxidesCarbon Monoxide 12.5 74 0.97Ethylene Oxide 3.0 80 1.5Propylene Oxide 2.0 22 2.0Elementary & InorganicsAmmonia 15.0 28.0 0.58Hydrogen 4.0 80 0.07Hydrogen Sulfide 4.3 46 1.19Fuels & Natural ProductsGasoline 1.3 6.0 3-4Turpentine 0.8 N/A >1Kerosine (JP-8 or Jet A Fuel) 0.86 N/A >1* LEL = Lower Explosive Limit ** UEL = Upper Explosive Limit

25

Appendix B: Biosystems Standard Warranty Gas Detection ProductsGeneralBiosystems, A Bacou-Dalloz Company, (hereafter Biosystems) warrants gas detectors, sensors andaccessories manufactured and sold by Biosystems, to be free from defects in materials andworkmanship for the periods listed in the tables below.Abuse, mechanical damage, alteration, or repair procedures not made in accordance with theinstrument Reference Manual void the Biosystems standard warranty.The obligation of Biosystems under this warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of componentsdeemed by the Biosystems Instrument Service Department to have been defective under the scope ofthis standard warranty. To receive consideration for warranty repair or replacement procedures,products must be returned to Biosystems at its manufacturing location in Middletown, Connecticut, withtransportation and shipping charges prepaid. It is necessary to obtain a return authorization numberfrom Biosystems prior to shipment.This warranty is expressly in lieu of any and all other warranties and representations, express orimplied, including but not limited to, the warranty of fitness for a particular purpose. Biosystems will notbe liable for loss or damage of any kind connected to the use of its products or failure of its products tofunction or operate properly.

Instrument & Accessory Warranty PeriodsProduct(s) Warranty PeriodPhD5, PhD Lite, PhD Plus, PhD Ultra, Cannonball 3, MultiVision,Toxi Vision and Toxi Series

As long as the instrument is inservice

Mighty-Tox90 days after activation or 90 daysafter the “Must Be Activated By”date, whichever comes first

Mighty-Tox 2Mighty-Tox 2 prorated credit is given towards repair orpurchase of a new unit.

0 – 6 months of use 100% credit6 – 12 months of use 75% credit

12 – 18 months of use 50% credit18 – 24 months of use 25% credit

Series 3000, Airpanel, Travelpanel, ZoneGuard, Gas Chek1and Gas Chek4 One year from the date of purchase

Battery packs, sampling pumps, and other components, whichby their design are consumed or depleted during normaloperation, or which may require periodic replacement

One year from the date of purchase

Sensor Warranty PeriodsInstrument(s) Sensor Type(s) Warranty Period

O2, LEL**, CO, CO+, H2S & Duo-Tox 2 YearsPhD5, PhD Lite,Cannonball 3 All Other Sensors 1 Year

O2, LEL**, CO, CO+, H2S 2 YearsPhD Plus / Ultra, ToxiVision, MultiVision All Other Sensors 1 Year

LEL**, CO, CO+, H2S 2 YearsToxi Series All Other Sensors 1 YearAll Others All Sensors 1 Year

**Damage to combustible gas sensors incurred by exposure to known sensor poisons such as silicone andsiliconized caulks/sealants (a.k.a. RTV - Room Temperature Vulcanizing), silicone rubber molded products &coatings, greases for laboratory glassware (stopcock, ground glass joints, etc.), toner fusing agent in photocopiers,die lubricants in cutting, stamping or other material converting operations, heat transfer fluids in fine chemical &pharmaceutical manufacture, lubricants, waxes & polishing compounds (neat or spray aerosols), mold release agentsfor plastics injection molding operations, waterproofing formulations, vinyl & leather preservatives, or release papersused as the backings of pressure sensitive adhesive backed roll or sheet goods may (at the discretion of BiosystemsInstrument Service Department) void Biosystems’ Standard Warranty as it applies to the replacement of combustiblegas sensors.

Documents

HC/LEL Sensor Addendum to Reference Manual Cannonball 3 · PDF fileHC/LEL Sensor Addendum to Reference Manual Cannonball 3 ... OXYGEN, ACCUMULATIONS OF ... A sensor that cannot be