TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Catalytic Gas Sensor Life Expectancy

Det-Tronics catalytic bead combustible gas sensors are relatively low cost, easy to install, and are compatible with a variety of transmitter types. Experience has proven these units to be reliable gas sensors, and very suitable for a variety of industrial applications. Generally, a user can expect an installed service life of 3-4 years per sensor, depending upon the conditions at the application. However, there are many factors that can lead to signal loss and/or premature failure of catalytic gas sensors, including: Clogging of the flame arrestor pores by airborne dirt and oil Water submersion or direct impingement into the sensing chamber Continuous exposure to background combustible gases Inadequate or excessive sensor power Prolonged exposure to low oxygen/anaerobic environments Loss of sensitivity (poisoning) due to exposure to some external substances

Det-Tronics catalytic sensors will provide impressive service life and accuracy when installed and maintained properly. However, all catalytic combustible gas sensors are sensitive to poisoning. This a generic term used to describe the effects of exposure to compounds that either irreversibly tie up the adsorption sites on the active element, erode the elements catalytic coating, or cover the element with an impervious coating. The degree of poisoning depends on the type of contaminant, its concentration in the test atmosphere, and the length of time the sensor is exposed to the poison. Known vapors that poison or inhibit catalytic sensor output include: silicone oils, greases, and resins (RTV silicone sealant) halogens (chlorine, bromine, fluorine, iodine, halon, freon) tetra- and tri-chloroethylene dichlorobenzene vinylchloride monomer and pvc vapors hydrochloric acid phosphate esters silanes phosphorus gasoline antiknock compounds, i.e. tetraethyl lead and tetramethyl lead

Det-Tronics provides a rolling warranty for all new catalytic gas sensors of two years from date of purchase. Damage caused by shock, vibration, known sensor poisons, and other detrimental exposures may void the sensor warranty coverage. Infrared-absorption based combustible hydrocarbon gas detectors such as the Pointwatch IR gas detector is recommended for applications where catalytic sensor life has been unsatisfactory or where known sensor poisons exist.

Page 1 of 1 6/24/99
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