sensitivity is a particular concern. Super cially, a gas sensor might appear to the untrained eye to be no more than a simple small cylinder, 20mm in diameter and 17mm high, with two or three electrodes. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Such an unremarkable looking component is the operating heart of all gas detection equipment, which saves countless lives and prevents damage to property worth billions of dollars.
Oxygen Sensors Gas sensors are in fact complex pieces of equipment: 4OXV, the new oxygen sensor, is constructed from more than 20 individual components, which are manufactured to exceedingly tight tolerances and assembled to create the nished product on an automated assembly and test line. As an example of the technology behind the design of gas sensors, consider the 4OXV oxygen sensor that is used in portable gas detectors in mines. Humidity changes are another signi cant cause of false alarms. 4OXV features an integrated moisture protection membrane to prevent the ingress of humid air into the chamber. �e implications in the mining environment are self-evident.
Bump testing for personal gas detection equipment, in which the instrument is exposed to its target gas to check for correct operation, would normally take place on the surface. Descending in high speed li�s to the working levels will result in rapid increases in temperature and humidity, potentially causing the instrument to false alarm, with a consequent loss of time and con dence while the issue is sorted out. Instruments tted with 4OXV do not suffer from such issues, improving efficiency and reducing down time.
Carbon Monoxide Sensors“ Speed is of the essence”. A truism applied to many different situations, but a statement that is arguably critical in mining life safety applications, where delay can literally prove to be fatal. Carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless, tasteless, and initially nonirritating gas is very difficult for people to detect. Exposure to 100 ppm or greater can be dangerous to human health, and as the symptoms of mild exposure include lightheadedness and confusion, while larger exposures can lead to death, the provision of an effective CO detector is an imperative for personnel who may encounter it during the course of their work. CO is commonly found in mines, so a fast and effective CO detector is an essential piece of equipment.
�e Future Without doubt, today ' s sophisticated gas detection technology has saved many lives in what is still one of the world ' s most dangerous industries. Gas detection instrument manufacturers typically rely on gas sensors from specialist manufacturers. Typically b as e d on electro chemical technology, the characteristics of the gas sensor itself determine, to a great extent, the instrument ' s performance and reliability in use. To offer their users reduced lifetime cost of ownership, enhanced performance and features that improve the functionality, reliability and effectiveness of personal and xed gas detection, OEMs require the gas sensor manufacturers to innovate sensors that have better stability, greater resistance to cross-contamination, longer life and faster response.
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FMDZ | Jan- Feb 2017 | Page37