COMMON INSTRUMENTATION ISSUES

KEEPING READINGS ACCURATE

Over time, the sensitivity of gas sensors decreases, which leads to inaccurate readings or the inability to detect gases effectively. This is a natural part of sensor aging, but it is accelerated by exposure to harsh environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) or high concentrations of the target gas. Regular calibration is the prescribed solution to counteract drift.

CALIBRATE WITH CONFIDENCE

STOP FALSE ALARMS

This occurs when a sensor detects a non-target gas as if it were the intended hazard, leading to false alarms. For example, a sensor designed for one hydrocarbon might react to another present in the environment. This undermines trust in the system and can lead to alarms being ignored.

STOP FALSE NEGATIVES

Exposure to certain chemicals or contaminants (e.g., silicone, lead, sulfur compounds) can chemically damage or "poison" a catalytic or electrochemical sensor, leading to a permanent loss of sensitivity or complete failure. This can cause the sensor to read zero even when gas is present, which is extremely dangerous.

LOCATION IS KEY

For fixed gas detectors, incorrect positioning is a major problem. Gases lighter than air (like Methane) should have sensors near the ceiling, while heavier gases (like Propane or H₂S) should have sensors placed closer to the floor. Incorrect placement can delay or prevent the detection of a leak.

STAY CHARGED AND PROTECTED

For portable monitors, issues include batteries not holding a charge or physical damage to the charging contacts. For fixed systems, problems range from power surges and interruptions to loose wiring, poor grounding, or electromagnetic interference (EMI) from other industrial equipment, which can all cause system malfunction or signal loss.

DON'T SLACK ON MAINTENANCE

Gas detectors aren't "set-it-and-forget-it" tools. A failure to perform regular bump testing and scheduled full calibration is a frequent cause of equipment failure and inaccurate readings. Compounding this, insufficient worker training on proper device operation, maintenance, and alarm response protocols remains a critical safety challenge.