ION Science India
#1-90/B/C/3/1,G-10, Charmy,
Vittal Rao Nagar, Image Hospital Lane
Madhapur, Hyderabad – 500 081,
Telangana State,
INDIA
Tel: +91-40-4853 6129 or +91-40-4853 6130
info@ionscience-india.com
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- All FAQs
- Tiger VOC detector
- Tiger LT VOC detector
- Tiger Select handheld benzene detector
- Cub personal VOC detector
- Cub TAC personal benzene detector
- Falco fixed VOC detector
- Titan fixed benzene detector
- Gascheck G helium leak detector
- Gascheck Tesla helium leak detector
- MVI mercury vapour detector
- SF6 Areacheck P2 leak detector
- SF6 GasCheck 6000 leak detector
- SF6 LeakCheck P1:p leak detector
- Fire Investigation Kit
- MiniPID 2 PID PPB
All FAQs
Q: Why does the 10 eV MiniPID 2 use the same lamp as the 10.6 eV MiniPID 2?
A: The 10 eV MiniPID 2 has an extra window embedded within the electrode stack which allows 10 eV light through but not 10.6 eV light.
Q: Are there 3rd party results to support that Fence Electrode Technology is better than other technology available?
A: Yes, Ion Science has received independent verification from the state of Maine Department of Environmental Protection (ME DEP). Contact info@ionscience.com to obtain the information.
Q: What are the acceptable mV outputs shown during TVOC calibration?
A: From new; Zero: 30mV100ppm, Span: 100 to 250mV. Returned to Service; 100ppm, Span: >60mV
Q: What is the best way of delivering a sample to the MiniPID 2?
A: The MiniPID2 has a filter which allows for free diffusion of ambient air into and out of the sensor whilst minimising ingress of contaminants and particulates. The MiniPID2 can also sample from a gas stream passed over the filter exterior. The flow should be a minimum of 100 mbar.L/min, ideally 300 mbar.L and above. For more information please see the MiniPID 2 PID sensor manual.
Q: Can I calibrate my GasCheck?
A: Custom calibration can be carried out on the GasCheck G, with the option for cc/sec or ppm calibration. Please refer to the calibration section of the GasCheck G leak detector user manual for further information.
Q: Can I change the alarm level of my MVI?
A: It is possible for the MVI mercury vapour detector alarm to be adjusted below the specified safety alarm which is pre-set within the instrument, however, this should only be carried out by an authorised service technician. Please contact your local authorised service centre, who will be able to discuss with you an appropriate alarm level to suit your needs, and make the necessary arrangements for this to be completed.
Q: Can I detect individual chemicals with a PID?
A: No, PID sensors are non-selective and non-discrimatory. If a chemical can be ionised by the light then it will be sensed.
Q: Can my GasCheck measure more than one gas?
A: The GasCheck G2 is configured to display only one detectable gas and one unit of measure; these settings are chosen by the user during initial purchase. However, it is important to note that the GasCheck is not selective and cannot distinguish between detectable gases, therefore, GasCheck will respond to the presence of other detectable gases. For more information, please refer to our GasCheck G leak detector brochure.
Q: Can I get a calibration certificate?
A: Yes, you can. Please contact your local Ion Science Authorised Service Centre. Please note, a small fee applies.
Q: Can I get a replacement calibration certificate?
A: Yes. Contact your local Authorised Service Centre and request a replacement certificate. Please note, a small fee applies for this request.
Q: How can I make my lamp last longer?
A: The lamp life is based upon total hours illuminated, so powering off the sensor when measurements are not required will extend the lamp life.
Q: Can I have an MSDS for PID Cleaning Compound?
A: MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheet. This is a guide to cautions, hazards and first aid measures you need to be aware of when using DRY POWDER GAMA ALUMINA. The MSDS for the PID Cleaning Compound can be found here.
Q: Can I obtain a copy of your instrument ATEX Certificates?
A: Yes, you can. Please see a copy of each below.
Q: Can I obtain evidence of your IECEx approvals?
A: Yes, you can access the IECEx documents from the following product pages, within downloads:
Q: Can I replace the internal components of the MVI?
A: No. Especially since dealing with mercury, the MVI mercury vapour detector should only be opened by an Ion Science Ltd Authorised Service Centre, trained to service the MVI. Any instrument opened by unauthorised persons will void the warranty, and may put users at risk. If you believe that there is an issue with your unit, please return it to your nearest MVI authorised Service Centre for inspection. If you can’t find one in your area you will need to return your instrument to the Ion Science head office. Please contact our Service department to arrange this; Email: service@ionscience.com, Tel: 44 (0) 1763 208 503.
Q: Can I turn my filter around and re-use?
A: We would not recommend switching the orientation of the filter, as dirt/particles which had previously been captured by the filter may then be drawn into the instrument. Once the filter has been fitted, the orientation should remain the same.
Q: Can the TVOC be used in a vacuum?
A: PID can be used at any reasonable pressure down to vacuum, as long as it is used as a diffusive monitor. A response of, say, 100 ppm isobutylene is normalised to 100 ppm isobutylene in air at 1 bar pressure and 20 °C. This reading in a vacuum would relate to the same concentration of isobutylene as in air at 1 bar and 20°C.
Q: Can I upgrade my firmware?
A:
Yes, for Tiger handheld VOC detector, Tiger Select handheld benzene detector, TigerLT handheld VOC monitor and Cub personal VOC detector. The instrument firmware can be upgraded via the PC software. Please refer to the instrument user manual for further details.
For GasCheck G leak detector, GasCheck IS handheld leak detector and GasCheck Tesla helium leak detector, the Firmware can be upgraded by your local authorised service centre.
Q: Can I use competitor’s lamps with the MiniPID 2?
A: The MiniPID 2 PID sensor is designed to fit Ion Science lamps. Using lamps from other sources could potentially damage the sensor and will void warranty.
Q: Can I use my MVI instrument to monitor an area whilst it is on charge?
A: No. The unit will not charge whilst the unit is switched on; the MVI mercury vapour detector must be switched off when charging and the green LED light will illuminate to confirm charging is in progress. The instrument cannot be used to monitor an area whilst on charge.
Q: Why can’t I gain access to the factory calibration menu on my instrument?
A: The factory calibration data is set during a factory calibration and can be selected at any time by the user. Factory calibration can only be unlocked by an Authorised Service Centre.
Q: How do I correctly operate and maintain the 11.7 eV lamp?
A: Life…The life expectancy of Photoionisation Detector (PID) lamps depends on how they are operated. Factors such as detector temperature, current through the lamp, sample type and window cleaning procedures all directly affect useful life. Operation…Typical useful life for lamps with lithium fluoride window (11.7eV or more) is about 200 hours when the lamp is operated at room temperature. Lamps with these windows should not be operated above room temperature because lithium fluoride is susceptible to degradation by water vapour at elevated temperatures. During normal operation of the photoionisation detector, the lamp window can become coated with a film of UV absorbing materials which is deposited from the gas stream. This reduces the lamp’s effective light output, results in a loss of sensitivity and shows as a substantial drop in peak height or area on the chromatogram. Removal of the lamp and proper cleaning of the lamp window will usually restore the detector sensitivity. Maintenance…Since some UV inhibiting deposits are invisible to the eye, regular cleaning of the lamp window is strongly recommended. It is best to clean the lamp frequently, once a week or more depending on the detector usage, to prevent heavy build-up of deposits that may be difficult to remove. Lamps with lithium fluoride windows can be cleaned by gently polishing the surface of the window with anhydrous alcohol on a cotton swab, followed by an anhydrous methanol or ethanol rinse and then wiping dry with a soft tissue. Do not allow the alcohol to remain on the window surface as it will leave a film. Use care during the polishing step so that the film is removed without damage to the window surface. Stubborn films may require multiple cleanings for complete removal. Lamps not in use should be stored in an anhydrous environment to prevent slow degradation of the lithium fluoride window by ambient moisture.
Q: Is there any difference between MiniPID 2s running below 3.6 V and over 3.6 V?
A: For MiniPID 2s with supply voltages between 3.0 and 3.6 V the internal rail voltage will be the same as the supply voltage. This means that a higher rail voltage will increase the brightness of the lamp and therefore increase sensitivity. A lamp will be approximately twice as bright running at 3.6 V compared to running at 3.0 V. MiniPID 2s with supply voltages above 3.6 V have an internal voltage regulator. This means the internal rail voltage is kept at a constant 3.3 V irrespective of the supply voltage, and therefore the lamp brightness is kept constant too.
Q: What is the difference between MiniPID and MiniPID 2?
A: The MiniPID 2 has revised circuitry to improve consistency and temperature stability. Aside from improvements made, MiniPID and MiniPID 2 are totally interchangeable as sensors. Please note though that lamps are not, as MiniPID 2 exclusively uses our recently developed long-life 10.6 eV lamps which are more powerful. This means if a long-life lamp is used in MiniPID the maximum detection range may be lower than specified. If a MiniPID lamp is used in MiniPID 2 then sensitivity may be lower than specified. For further information please see Technical Bulletin 168.
Q: Can the TVOC be connected to a data logger?
A: Since the TVOC fixed PID detector can display mg/m3 and outputs 4-20mA it does, therefore, have the capability to connect to the U12-006 HOBO data logger. Please note, however, that the output does not supply power for the 4-20mA and, therefore, external power will be required.
Q: How easy is the MiniPID 2 to service?
A: A clip tool is provided with the sensor which quick-releases the electrode stack and lamp for inspection, cleaning and replacement. For reassembly, the lamp and electrode stack quickly and easily click back into place.
Q: How do I find out what the response factor is for the chemical I am interested in?
A: A searchable database is available on our website. If your chemical cannot be found please contact us at info@ionscience.com and advise the Chemical name and Formula and CAS No to ensure no ambiguity in answer.
Q: How frequently should my MVI be serviced?
A: MVI mercury vapour detector should be returned on an annual basis for refurbishment and calibration. To help preserve the performance of your MVI, we would recommend regular user maintenance of the unit.
Q: The fuse in my TVOC keeps blowing. Why does this happen and can I replace the fuse?
A: Fuses may be replaced by end users who are using the TVOC fixed PID detector in a non-intrinsically safe application. If the application is for intrinsically safe use, using barriers, the TVOC will need to be returned to the nearest service centre. The125mA fuse will rupture due to over voltage or power surge. Considering this, if this fuse is continuously blowing, that would suggest that the TVOC may not be being used with barriers. Please contact your local service centre for advice.
Q: My GasCheck instrument is showing me a fan error, why?
A: This is an indication that there may be a problem with the fan assembly. Please contact your local Authorised Service Centre for further information.
Q: Is my Gascheck Intrinsically Safe?
A: The presence of 'is' at the end of the instrument model number is an indication that a unit has Intrinsically Safe approval. Gascheck 3000is and 5000is instruments, which have black mouldings, are Intrinsically Safe. Instruments which have grey mouldings, such as the Gascheck 3000, 5000 and G models, are not Intrinsically Safe. Please do not hesitate to contact your local distributor for further information or advice.
Q: How do I clean a lamp?
A: We supply cleaning kits for lamps consisting of alumina powder and cotton swabs. For light contamination a high-grade anhydrous solvent can be gently wiped on the surface and left to completely evaporate.
Q: How does a PID work?
A: A PID measures volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air by photoionisation detection (PID). A lamp emits photons of high energy UV light and photoionisation occurs when a photon is absorbed by a molecule generating two electrically charged ions, one positively charged, and one negatively charged. An electric field generated between electrodes attracts these ions and the resulting current is proportional to the concentration of the VOC. The MiniPID includes a third fence electrode (patented) to ensure that the amplified current does not include significant contributions due to other current sources such as water condensation on the chamber walls.
Q: How frequently should my instrument be serviced?
A: Ion Science recommends instruments should be serviced once every 12 months. Contact your local Authorised Service Centre for more information.
Q: What materials are the TVOC instruments comprised of?
A: Powder coated painted mild steel back. 304 stainless steel front plate. Nickel coated brass sensor cap.
Q: Why does my instrument beep every couple of seconds?
A:
The beep is called a 'confidence beep' for when the instrument is used in an area where you can't see the display, to indicate that the unit is on.
Q: Is my instrument Intrinsically Safe?
A: The following instruments are all Intrinsically Safe, please click on the links below to view the document for each instrument. You can also find further details on Intrinsic Safety in the specification for each instrument.
Q: Why won’t my instrument switch on?
A: Please contact your local service centre - ensure the battery power is sufficient to operate the instrument.
Q: Why does my instrument read high in a humid environment and what can I do to prevent this?
A: The detector has three electrodes which are very close to each other. If no filters are used dust, lint or small particles can get lodged between the electrodes. When the sample air is humid the particles will conduct electricity and you can see a reading that rises slowly but steadily and keeps on going. The dust can easily be cleaned by removing the lamp and liberally blowing clean compressed air into the detector. Consult an up to date user manual for instructions. Alternatively, we have developed an internal filter which may be inserted to minimise ingress of particles. For further information contact Ion Science.
Q: My instrument reads very high, even after I did a custom calibration. Why?
A: The span gas portion of the custom calibration may be inaccurate. Set back to factory calibration and see if you get a similar response. If yes, then ensure there are not some high levels of VOCs present. Remove lamp and clean, blow out cell and re-calibrate. Contact your local Authorised Service Centre if this fails.
Q: My instrument is showing me a pump error. What do I need to do?
A:
The pump error indicates that there may a blockage or leak within the system. Firstly, we would recommend checking to ensure that the inlet and outlet of the instrument are not blocked or restricted. Next, please check the PTFE filter at the probe inlet to see whether this requires replacement.
Then, please inspect the sensor compartment, in which the mini PID sits, and inspect the blue sensor seal, electrode stack and lamp for signs of discolouration or residue. It may be necessary to carry out some simple user maintenance. Please refer to the Tiger user manual, and ensure that the instrument is reassembled securely.
If problems persist, please contact your local authorised service centre for further assistance.
Q: What is the Intrinsic Safety rating for MiniPID 2?
A: II 1G Ex ia IIC T4 (-40oC ≤ Ta ≤ +55oC) @ 1.1W limitation (-40oC ≤ Ta ≤ +65oC) @ 0.9W limitation BS EN 60079-0:2012+A11:2013 Electrical Apparatus for Potentially Explosive Atmospheres – General Requirement BS EN 60079-11:2012 Explosive Atmospheres - Equipment Protection by Intrinsic Safety ‘i’ BS EN 61010-1:2010 Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use – General requirements UL913; 2nd Edition Intrinsically safe apparatus and associated apparatus for use in Class I, II, III, Division 1, Hazardous (Classified) Locations CSA-C22.2 No157-92 Intrinsically safe and non-incendive equipment for use in Hazardous Locations (Update 2)
Q: Is Ion Science ISO certified?
A: Yes, we are. You can view our certificate of approval here: Ion Science ISO 9001:2008
Q: How do I safely dispose of my instrument?
A: Ion Science is part of an organisation called WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). Being part of the WEEE directives, our WEEE Compliance Partner collects our disused instruments and takes them to a registered recycling centre. The instruments are then broken down/recycled/disposed of in an environmentally safe manner. To dispose of your old instrument safely, please return it to us and we will take care of it. Please note: there will be a cost to send your instrument back to our Ion Science UK Office. Please contact us for more information.
Q: How do I know if the lamp has illuminated?
A: The ‘HPPM’ MiniPID2 has the ability to detect whether the lamp is illuminated and will output a fault signal if it has not. There is also a hole at the base of the sensor through which the illuminated lamp can be seen.
Q: How do I know which MiniPID 2 is best to use?
A: Please contact info@ionscience.com with details on your application. Our technical team can then best advise which product is most suitable.
Q: How long should I leave my instrument on to charge?
A:
The Tiger handheld VOC detector should be charged for at least 7 hours before using it for the first time. To ensure optimum charging the Tiger should be switched off during charging. If left on, the Tiger will take longer to charge, but should not suffer any damage. The Tiger should be charged in a non-hazardous environment only.
The Cub personal VOC detector should be charged for at least 4 hours before using it for the first time. The Cub should be charged in a non-hazardous environment only.
It is important to ensure that the MVI mercury vapour detector is not left to charge for longer than 16 hours from a fully discharged battery. If the unit requires a top up charging then 2 – 8 hours charging should be sufficient. Please be aware that the MVI must be switched off to enable successful charging.
If you require any further information please contact your local authorised service centre.
Q: How long should I leave my MVI to charge?
A: The MVI mercury vapour detector requires a long charging period, however, we would recommend that the instrument is not left to charge for longer than 16 hours as this can damage the batteries and result in a shorter battery life. Charging your unit for 16 hours should result in a running time of approximately 6 – 8 hours. It is also important to ensure that the instrument is charged using the charger provided.
Q: How long will my PID lamp last?
A: A 10.6eV lamp has a life expectancy of 10000 hours continuous use. An 11.7eV lamp has a much lower life of approximately 200 hours. The life expectancy of these lamps is also dependent on the maintenance and application they are used in.
Q: What maintenance can I carry out, as a user, between services?
A: Although we do not permit users to open the MVI units, there are some external checks and maintenance that may be carried out. We would advise that users always run the unit using the external filters provided; this reduces the chance of contaminants being drawn into the unit and causing internal damage to components. Filters should be replaced on a regular basis; depending on application and environmental conditions, this could be once every week to once every 3 months. When the filter is showing signs of contamination replace immediately. For further details, please refer to the MVI mercury vapour detector manual.
Q: What makes the Fence Electrode Technology better than other PID technology?
A: The patented Fence Electrode PID manufactured by Ion Science eliminates problems relative to humidity and accurate VOC detection. Fence Electrode PIDs deliver faster and more dependable readings in varying environments. VOC instruments are more repeatable and have a faster clear down compared to other PID electrode technology.
Q: What is the maximum pressure that can be exposed to the TVOC sensor?
A: The maximum flow pressure into the sensor itself should be no more than 300mL/min to avoid excessive pressure build up which can affect the detection signal.
Q: Why is my MiniPID 2 giving me a lamp error even though I can see the lamp is illuminated?
A: The MiniPID 2 PID sensor detects whether the lamp is illuminated by the ionisation current within the electrode stack. If the lamp is not illuminated then there will be no ionisation current and the MiniPID 2 will signal a lamp error (35 mV) on the output pins. The lamp error will also be raised if the lamp light is very weak. The lamp error is only available on the ‘HPPM’ MiniPID 2.
Q: The MiniPID 2 is reading high in a humid environment, doesn’t the fence electrode stop this?
A: If the MiniPID 2 PID sensor is reading high in a humid environment then it likely that the electrode stack has become heavily contaminated and the electrode stack should be changed.
Q: How does the MiniPID 2 signal change over time?
A: Over a lifetime of usage the lamp power will decay, and therefore the sensitivity of the sensor will do too. This can be up to 5% per month, and should be taken into account when considering calibration periods.
Q: Does the MiniPID 2 take time to ‘warm-up’?
A: The lamp will take a maximum of 15 seconds to illuminate, after which the sensor will be stable. After periods of storage or non-usage the MiniPID 2 PID sensor may be susceptible to baseline settlement issues as the light from the lamp can generate an ion current when impacting the electrodes within the detection volume. In such an event, it is recommended that the MiniPID 2 sensor is left powered in a clean air environment for an hour or two.
Q: Why do MiniPIDs used in Ion Science instruments have a different connector?
A: The MiniPIDs in Ion Science instruments have a six rather than three pin connector, which allow for additional diagnostics and functionality. 6-pin MiniPIDs are not available for OEM use.
Q: Do I need to be careful when handling a lamp?
A: Care must be taken to avoid touching the window surface as any grease or film will occlude the light. It is advised that powder-free gloves are used whenever handling lamps to prevent contamination.
Q: I noticed my lamp has a chip on it. It still lights up and the instrument reads gas okay. Do I need to get a new lamp?
A: Any chip on the lamp window will reduce the lamp energy and therefore results could be low. Now would be a good time to get a spare lamp in case the seal between the window and lamp has been compromised and is slowly leaking.
Q: Do you offer test samples?
A: Yes, please contact info@ionscience.com for more information.
Q: How often should I replace filters on my instrument?
A: When the filter is showing signs of contamination, replace immediately. Frequency of replacement is dependent on application and environmental conditions.
Q: How often should the SF6 P1 or P1:P be calibrated?
A: Normally we suggest to perform a bump test in normal measure mode with a CalCheck SF6 attached to the probe. If the bump test is not within the tolerance level (approx. +/- 5 .. 10 %) than we suggest to perform a calibration. The frequency of bump test is in relation to the user profile of the instrument. For example, if the instrument is being used as a service instrument for field use, it should be tested before it is sent out. On the other hand a production instrument should be tested either every morning or every week. The calibration of the instrument is quite stable and we believe the clients will find out rather quickly if they need to perform a test every morning or every week.
Q: What operating systems are the instrument softwares compatible with?
A: All of our instrument software is thoroughly tested before being launched and is compatible with the most current Windows operating platform. For more information please contact us.
Q: Why does the output signal response seem much less than what it should be?
A: There are three likely causes:
- Damage or contamination of the lamp window
- Damage or contamination to the electrode stack
- The lamp has aged through use and is now weak
Q: Please may you clarify the Ingress Protection (IP) rating of the TVOC?
A: Please be aware that the IP rating of the TVOC enclosure is IP65 and the sensor housing is IP54. The TVOC can be mounted in areas subject to rainfall, however, Ion Science suggests mounting the TVOC at least 300mm (12”) above any other object to avoid rain splashing water up into the sensor chamber.
Q: Is it possible to site the sensor away from the TVOC body?
A: Unfortunately, no.
Q: What is the power consumption of the MiniPID 2?
A: During normal operation the MiniPID 2 PID sensor will nominally consume 110 mW. During start up a 100 ms 130 mA (430 mW) transient will occur.
Q: Are Ion Science part of the WEEE Compliance Scheme?
A: Ion Science are part of an organisation called WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment). Being part of the WEEE directives, our WEEE Compliance Partner collect the instruments and take them to a registered recycling centre, where the instruments are broken down/recycled/disposed of in an environmentally safe manner. All you need to do is send us your old instrument which you wish to dispose of. We then take it from there. Please note: there will be a cost to send you instrument back to our Ion Science Office. Please contact us for more information.
Q: I have supplied the TVOC with input power. Why can I not see the 4 to 20 mA output?
A: The TVOC fixed PID detector display can still operate even if the power required for the 4 to 20 mA is not supplied. The Orange connector will require 5V to 28V input power; this will allow the display to start up and run the TVOC. The Green connector will require 8V to 35V output power; this will be linked to the 4 to 20 mA.
Q: When I switch my MVI on, the display does not show 0.0μg/m3?
A:
It is not uncommon for the displayed reading to drift slightly. Ensuring that you are in a clean environment or using a carbon filter, adjust the central Zero Adjust Button to set the display to 0μg/m3, or 0.0μg/m3 on the 200μg/m3 range. If you feel that the displayed response is changing rapidly, please contact your nearest Authorised Service Centre.
Q: Is there a test board I can use to evaluate the MiniPID 2?
A: A development board for MinPID 2 PID sensor evaluation is in progress and will be released early 2017.
Q: If the TVOC is being use in an application in which temperature changes drastically over one hour, will this affect the PID performance?
A: Whilst the temperature itself should not be an issue, the quick change in temperature may result in condensation forming on the electronics; please be aware that the TVOC fixed PID detector spec states 0-95% non-condensing RH. Providing condensation does not form, this should be fine.
Q: What voltage does my instrument need to charge?
A: Ion Science recommends that you use only the provided charger. Please see the instrument brochure for specific instrument details.
Q: What is the warranty period for the MiniPID 2?
A: The MiniPID 2 PID sensor body and 10.6 eV lamps have a warranty period of 1 year. 11.7 eV lamps and electrode stacks have a warranty on receipt only. Our full limited warranty statement can be found here.
Q: What does a PID detect?
A:
Q: What is a response factor?
A: A response factor is a number which relates the MiniPID 2 response to a particular VOC relative to isobutylene. If you know what VOC you are measuring then multiplying the displayed concentration by the RF of the VOC will result in the actual concentration of VOC. Response factors values can be either inferred from the chemical structure or tested directly. Response factors for gases are different for the MiniPID 2 10, 10.6 and 11.7 eV.
Q: What version of firmware do I have?
A: Firmware versions are displayed on your instrument during start-up.
Q: What versions of Firmware do I have?
A: When instruments are first switched on, the firmware version will be displayed during the initial start-up sequence.
Q: Where does the humidity go?
A: The Fence Electrode allows the humidity to pass through the detector with minimum reduction or interference to the PID/VOC signal.
