7.4.1 7.4.

10 Riken portable oxygen indicator,

model Ox-226
7.4.2

7.4.3

1. Summary
Riken portable oxygen indicator, Model OX-226 and OX-227 provide a quick, convenient
method for determination of oxygen content of any atmosphere. It is intended primarily as an
indicator of oxygen deficiency, with good readability from 0 – 25%. The instrument is routinely
calibrated on normal atmospheric oxygen concentration (21%). These models are most
suitable and recommended for testing tanks, manholes, vessels and other spaces to determine
safety from the standpoints of oxygen deficiency before entering and while work is in progress.

2. Principle
The oxygen cell operates by an electro-chemical process in which a voltage is set up between
two electrodes. Under a test where one electrode is exposed to the atmosphere, a change in
oxygen concentration on this electrode produces a proportional change in the cell’s output
voltage.
Therefor, an increase in oxygen concentration will "speed up" the electro-chemical process,
producing a higher output voltage, and a decrease in oxygen concentration will "slow down"
the process, lowering the output voltage. The centre electrode is exposed to the atmosphere
by means of a Teflon membrane placed directly in contact with the polished top surface. This
Teflon membrane serves two functions simultaneously. First, it has the ability to pass oxygen
molecules freely, thus placing the electrode in direct contact with the atmosphere and
secondly, it keeps the electrolyte contained in the cavity between the two electrodes.

3. Measurement procedure
a). Preparation - Connect the sampling hose (6) to the gas sampling probe (7) and then
connect it to the gas inlet of the instrument.
b). Voltage checks of battery - Turn the control switch (1) to "Batt" zone and check the meter
needle marks inside of "Batt" zone. If the case of model OX-226, the battery drop can be
heard as a buzzer sound.
c). Span adjustment - Turn the control switch (1) to "25" and make span adjustment by
spanning adjusting knob so as to bring the meter needle to 21%. When making span
adjustment of Model OX-227, try it with 0-25% range.

4. Measurement
After finishing the above procedure items 1, 2 and 3, the instrument is ready to run. Introduce
the sampling probe to the source and start measurement. In the case of Model OX-226, when
the oxygen concentration is less than 18% by volume, alarm light (4) illuminates and it gives
us the warning of oxygen deficiency by buzzer sound.

Caution
1. 1. Check the flow pump by the flow monitor during operation.
2. 2. Operate the instrument in leather case when in use.
3. 3. The replacement of batteries and recharging procedure must be done in non-
hazardous areas.

Maintenance procedure
The replacement of batteries and recharging procedure:
a). Take off the leather case from the instrument and turn the battery box knob (11) to "open"
position.
b). Pull out the whole battery box and replace the batteries with new ones.
c). When the replacement of batteries is finished, put back the battery box in correct position
and turn the battery box knobs (11) to "Lock" position with finger press.

Replacement procedure (Ni-Cd battery).

When Ni-Cd batteries are used for the instrument, detach the label (12) of charging inlet and
insert the exclusive charger to the charging jack, and plug the charger into AC 100V. The
recharging takes 15 hours.

Replacement of sensor.
When the meter needle can not be adjusted to 21% by turning the span adjusting knob and
the indication of meter needle gets unstable, this is the sign to replace the sensor. In this
case, take off the bottom screws of the instrument and remove the cover. The cover comes off
by sliding it sidewise. Turn the sensor to left and adjust the mark to "open". Now the sensor
can be removed. Insert the new sensor and turn it in clockwise direction to the mark "lock".
Place the cover back.
Replacement of filter

The filters are filled in the gas-sampling probe and in instrument. When they appear dirty,
replace them with new ones.

Take off the tip of the sampling probe by turning the metal part of roulette and replace the
cotton filter with a new one.

Pull out the filter holder (10) of the instrument’s flank and take out the filter. Replace it with a
new one.

Zero adjustment
As the zero adjustment is factory set, there is no need of zero adjustment procedure in normal
operation. But, when it is high sensitive type instrument such as Model OX-227A with 0-5 and
0-25% etc., make zero adjustment. Induct 100% clean nitrogen and turn the adjusting screw to
bring the needle to zero.
7.4.4
7.4.5
7.4.6 7.4.11 Detector tubes for health hazardous
gases
Health hazardous gases may be detected through chemical colour reactions, and several
manufacturers make metering pumps and accompanying detector tubes for a great number of
various gases.
Probably the most convenient and suitable equipment to use for measuring very low
concentrations of toxic gases on board tankers are chemical indicator tubes.
These tubes consist of a sealed glass tube containing a proprietary filling which is designed to
react with a specific gas and to give a visible indication of the concentration of that gas. To
use the device, the seals at each end of the glass tube are broken, the tube is inserted in a
bellows-type fixed volume displacement hand-pump, and a prescribed volume of gas mixture
is drawn through the tube at a rate fixed by the bellow’s expansion rate. A colour change
occurs along the tube and the length of the discoloration, which is a measure of the gas
concentration, is read off a scale integrated with the tube. In some versions of these
instruments, a hand operated injection syringe is used instead of a bellow pump.
It is important that all the components used for any measurement should be from the same
manufacturer. It is not permissible to use a tube from one manufacturer with a hand pump
from another manufacturer. It is also important that the manufacturers’ operating instructions
are carefully observed.
Since the measurement depends on passing a fixed volume of gas through the glass tube, if an
extension hose is used it should be placed between the glass tube and the hand pump.
The tubes are designed and intended to measure concentrations of gas in the air. Thus
measurements made in a ventilated tank, in preparation for tank entry, should be reliable.
Under some circumstances errors can occur if several gases are present at the same time, as
one gas can interference with the measurement of another. The manufacturer should be
consulted for guidance.
For each type of tube the manufacturer must guarantee the standards of accuracy laid down
by national standards. Tanker operators should consult the regulatory authority appropriate
for the ship’s flag.

7.4.7 7.4.12 Dräger Multi Gas Detector

In our experience, detector tubes and metering pumps made by "Dräger" are the most
frequently used. A more detailed description is given in the instruction book for "Dräger Multi
Gas Detector".
Various chemical substances are used for tube fillings, depending on the gas to be analysed.
For some gases there are several types of tubes, so that there are tubes for measuring very
low concentrations and for measuring larger concentration ranges. In some cases two scales
will be marked on the tube, corresponding to different numbers of pump strokes.
It is important that the pump is checked to see if it is tight before it is being used, sealing the
opening with an unused detector tube does this. The bellows should then use more than 10
minutes to expand for the pump to be satisfactory. Cleaning the valves, according to the
instructions accompanying the instrument may usually eliminate any leakage that has arisen.
To avoid corrosion, the pump must be purged with air by performing a number of pumping
strokes each time after use.
To perform measurements with difficult accessibility, an extension hose may be used. The
detector tube is placed in the suction of the hose.

Opening of the tubes

Both ends of the tube are opened in the hole, which is provided for that purpose in the pump.
A breaking socket accompanying the apparatus can also be used for this. This prevents glass
fragments from falling down.
Installation of the tube in the pump
The opened sampling tube is inserted into the pump head so that the arrow on the tube points
toward the pump. The tube must be attached firmly and tightly in the pump head so that false
air is not sucked in.

Suction of a gas sample

The bellow is pressed together completely and is then released. During the compression the air is
squeezed out of the bellow through an exhaust valve. The suction action of the pump takes place
when the compression springs inside the bellow expand after the compression. The air (to be
measured) flows through the sampling tube and into the bellow while this again expands to its
original volume. The suction movement comes to an end when the distance chain is tight once
again, and at this stage 100cm3 has been sucked through the tube.

The operating instructions, which accompany each packet of tubes, give i.e. the approximate
time for each pump stroke, for example 15 - 25 seconds. The time will depend on how tightly
the powder is packed in the tube.
The specified number of pump strokes, indicated in the operating instructions, should be used
for each sampling tube.
7.4.8 7.4.13 MSA – Detector Tubes and Kwik-
draw Pump
Features
1. 1. Quick and inexpensive to use.
2. 2. A reliable method of testing more than 120 hazardous gases and vapours.
3. 3. Kwik-draw pumps offer accurate one-handed automatic stroke counter and unique
end of stroke indicator on deluxe version.

4. 4. Tubes are printed with easy-to-read scales.

5. 5. Specialised kits are available for use in HAZMAT work and underground storage tank
applications.

Description
SA’s Kwik-Draw and Kwik-Draw Deluxe Pumps can be used with an assortment of MSA detector
tubes to spot-test the atmosphere for a wide variety of toxic substances. Kwik-Draw Pumps
are designed for one-hand operation and consistent delivery of a sample draw volume of 100
millilitres (ml). The pumps are constructed with a shaft-guided compression system for a more
consistent and replicable flow rate and volume per stroke than may be available with hand-
guided pumps. MSA offers detector tubes for measuring more than 150 gases and vapours.

Kwik-Draw Detector Tube Pumps

Kwik-Draw Pumps allow detection of gases and vapours with the squeeze of a handle. To
obtain a precise (100ml) sample volume, the user simply grasps the handgrip and pushes the
knob. The pump’s compression system provides the guiding action to drive a spring-loaded
bellow pump.
An internal easy-to-read stroke counter shows the exact number of strokes performed and
provides a positive stop when the stroke is fully compressed.
A second model, the Kwik-Draw Deluxe Pump has a unique end-of-stroke indicator that "winks"
after the precise volume of air is drawn, confirming that enough air has been sampled for a
successful reading.

Detector tubes.
MSA/Auer detectors are made of glass, have break-off tips and are filled with treated chemical
granules for sampling a variety of substances. Most MSA/Auer detector tubes are packaged 10
in a box.
For ordering information, see the Detector Tube Summary Chart which follows the Detector.
After selecting the appropriate tube, the user would break off the tubes’ end tips and attach
the tube to the sampling pump. After air is drawn through the tube by the pump, the chemical
layer in the tube changes color if the test gas or vapor is present in the air.
The length or shade of the color-change indicates the concentration of the gas or vapor in the
air. A scale is printed on each tube for interpretation of data.

Controlled Interchangeability of MSA/AUER Detector Tubes and Pumps with

Other Manufacturers’ Tubes and Pumps.
As long as a pump meets the following criteria, it may be used with any detector tube
designed for use with that kind of pump. Pumps meeting these criteria are interchangeable.
1. 1. The characteristics of the pump- volume per stroke, sampling time and flow – must
be within the same accuracy range.

2. 2. The detector tubes must have an outer diameter of 7 mm and be factory-calibrated

with a pump that meets the criteria of (1) above.

3. 3. The manufacturer of tubes and pumps must operate under a certified quality
assurance program.

Based on these criteria, the following pumps are interchangeable:

  MSA's Kwik-Draw Pumps.
  AUER's Gas Tester II H Pump.
  Dräger's Model 31 Bellow Pump.
  Dräger's Accuro Pump.

Sampling Pump Operation and Maintenance.

The Kwik-Draw Pump is designed to measure concentrations of gases and vapours when used
with AUER/MSA Detector Tubes.

Description - The Kwik-Draw Pump is a one-handed, manually operated bellow pump of 100cc
capacity.

Tube Holder - This rubber part permits mounting of detector tubes, remote sampling lines or
other detectors.

Filter Disc - This porous plastic disc mounted in the rubber tube holder protects the pump
from dirt and dust particles, which may alter the flow or damage the pump.

Exhaust Valve - Located under the valve cover, this valve closes as the bellow re-inflates, and
readily opens on the exhaust stroke so that blow-back through the tube holder is negligible.

Stroke counter - For convenience, a stroke counter is incorporated into the pump handle.

End-of-stroke indicator - As the bellow begins to re-inflate, and after the knob is released,
the indicator eyeball turns high visibility green. As the vacuum decreases, the eye begins to
roll back to black. The stroke is over when the eye is all black.

Note! - Kwik-Draw Pump (part no. 488543) does not have an end-of-stroke indicator.

Operation
1. 1. Using the breaker on the pump, break off both tips of the detector tube.
2. 2. Using a twisting motion, insert the tube into the rubber tube holder. The arrow on
the tube should point toward the pump.

3. 3. Re-zero stroke counter.

4. 4. With all four fingers on the handle, depress the knob with your palm.
Note! Watch the stroke counter to ensure proper sample volume, the counter will only
advance if a full pump stroke is taken.
5. 5. Release the knob.
6. 6. As the pump re-inflates, the end-of-stroke indicator turns to high-visibility green.
The stroke is over when the eye returns to the all black state.

Note! If your pump does not have the end-of-stroke indicator, wait 30 seconds after full
bellow inflation to ensure that all 100cc of the sample has been drawn through the tube. The
detector tube must be held in the sampling area during this period.

7. 7. To evaluate the stain, follow the instructions provided with the detector tubes.

Remote sampling
Remote sampling is accomplished by putting the pump, connecting tube, remote sampling line
and detector tube together, in this order.

Maintenance
Under conditions of normal use, this pump should require little maintenance. Depending on
the frequency of use, periodic cleaning and checks for correct performance as recommended.
Tube holder - Replace tube holder when it shows signs of wear or loss of elasticity. If filter is
not clogged or cracked, save the filter disc for re-use in new tube holder.

Filter disc - Periodically remove the filter disc for cleaning or replacement.

  Remove filter disc from tube holder by rolling flange part of tube holder down and
away from the disc.
  Gently tap or blow on the surface to remove any foreign matter.
  Replace disc so previously exposed surface is once again facing away from pump.

Shaft
If shaft becomes dirty or if bellow inflation is jerky, remove shaft by unscrewing, then clean
with auto wax.

Valves
With the valve cover removed, check the valves for dirt or debris.
Remove dirt with a gentle puff of air or by using a soft brush.
Replace valve(s) if necessary.

Pump performance test

After extended idleness and periodically during use, check the pump for proper performance
with the following test:
Plug pump inlet by inserting an unbroken detector tube into tube holder.
Deflate pump fully, release, and wait 10 minutes. The pump is leak-free if the distance from
the bellow to the frame is ½ inch or greater after 10 minutes. If the pump leaks check the
tube holder and, if necessary, the valves (see Maintenance). After repair, re-test for leakage.

Warning! Use of a pump that leaks may result in the under-estimation of a hazard
and could result in property damage, injury or death.

Read the instruction book following the Detector!

7.4.9 7.4.14 MSA – Gascope, Model 62

Warning!
Use only genuine MSA replacement parts when performing any maintenance procedures
provided in this manual. Failure to do so may seriously impair instrument performance. Repair
or alteration of the Gascope Combustible Gas Indicator Industrial Model 62, beyond the scope
of these maintenance instructions or by anyone other than a certified MSA serviceman, could
cause the product to fail or perform as designed and persons who rely on this product for their
safety could sustain severe bodily injury or death.

ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Accuracy Power supply life Power supply Range

Factory calibrated 8 hours min. Eight carbon-zinc 0 to 100% LEL

to (+/-) 5% of full- continuous usage "D" cells. and 0 to 100%
scale on pentane with fresh (Everready 950 or gas (calibration
or other specific batteries at Burgess 800). gas marked on
gas (for example normal ambient label inside
methane or temperature. cover).
natural gas).

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Sample flow rate Construction Dimensions Weight
0.03 to o.o5 cfm Plastic case with 6-1/2 x 7-1/4 x 4 in. 5 lb 2 oz.
(0.8 to 1.4 Lpm). stainless steel
hardware.

Operation:

Introduction
This section provides instructions on unpacking and inspecting the Gascope, making initial
checks, operating the instrument and using the Gascope for various applications.

Initial inspection
Remove the instrument from its shipping container and examine the unit carefully. If damage
or shortage is noted, advise the carrier promptly. Make the proper claim with the carrier and, if
necessary, reorder from MSA.

Initial checks
To verify that the instrument is operating properly and retains factory calibration, perform the
procedure, which follows in an atmosphere free of combustible gases. If the proper indications
cannot be obtained, contact the local sales office or return the instrument to Mine Safety
Appliances Co., Repair and Customer Service Department, Walden Road, Mars, PA 16046.
Open cover and set RANGE switch to LEL.
Set ON/OFF switch to ON, Ready indicator should turn on within approximately 4 seconds.
BATT indicator pointer should be at least halfway into white zone.
Squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge instrument with fresh air. Permit bulb to
inflate completely after each squeeze.
Lift and adjust LEL ZERO control to obtain zero indication on meter. (To make zero
adjustments, lift and turn outer sleeve on Zero controls).
Set Range switches to GAS. The READY indicator should momentary turn off and then turn on
within approximately 4 seconds.
Lift and adjust GAS ZERO control to obtain zero indication on meter.
Connect source of 100% methane to inlet fitting of instrument. Pass gas through
instrument and then shut off flow. Meter should indicate 78 to 86 on an instrument
factory calibrated on pentane and at least 95 if calibrated on methane.
WARNING

Do not introduce 100% methane gas to an instrument located near a source of ignition,
otherwise, an explosion may occur.
Repeat step 3 and then set RANGE switch to LEL.
Connect flow control of Calibration Check Kit, Model R, to Calibration Check Gas Cylinder
(0.75% pentane) and connect adapter hose between flow control and inlet fitting of
instrument. For hose instruments calibrated on methane, use 2 % methane cylinder.
Turn flow control valve counter-clockwise to pass gas through instrument. Turn valve clockwise
and, when needle stabilises, meter should indicate between 45 and 55 on an instrument
factory calibrated on pentane and between 37 and 43 if calibrated on methane.
Turn flow control valve clockwise, disconnect hose from inlet fitting and remove flow control
from gas cylinder. Squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge instrument with fresh air.

Operating the Gascope

To measure the concentration of the specific combustible gas for which the instrument is
calibrated, perform the procedure which follows. Leak, flow and calibration checks should be
made periodically as described in the instruction book. (Section 4).
Open cover and set RANGE switch to LEL.
Set ON/OFF switch to ON. BATT indicator pointer should be well into white zone and the READY
indicator should turn on within approximately 4 seconds. If it does not turn on, replace
batteries.
Squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge instrument with fresh air. Permit bulb to
inflate completely after each squeeze. NOTE: if the bulb does not inflate within 2 seconds,
check the flow system as described in the instruction book. (Section 4).
Lift and adjust LEL ZERO control to obtain zero indication on meter. (To make zero
adjustments, lift and turn outer sleeve on ZERO control).
Set RANGE switch to GAS.
When READY indicator turns on, lift and adjust GAS ZERO control to obtain zero indication on
meter.
In area to be tested, squeeze aspirator bulb seven to eight times to draw sample into
instrument. When the needle stabilizes, the meter indicates the concentration of the gas in air
in percent by volume. NOTE: meter indications are valid only when the READY indicator is on.
(When using a sampling line, squeeze the aspirator bulb two additional times for each 10 feet
of line. If a line trap is connected, squeeze the bulb four additional times).

CAUTION

When sampling over liquids, take care that end of sampling line does not touch surface of
liquid. A closed-end probe tube or line trap should be used in this type of test to prevent liquid
from being drawn into instrument. Sampling dusty or smoky atmospheres may clog the flow
system. If either the speed of response of the instrument decreases or the aspirator bulb does
not inflate within 2 seconds, check the flow system as described under Sampling System
Checks in the instruction book (Section 4).
If the meter indicates less than 5, set RANGE switch to LEL and draw sample into instrument by
squeezing aspirator bulb. The meter now indicates the percentage of the lower explosive limit
(LEL) of the gas for which the instrument is calibrated. One of the following conditions may
exist, depending on the deflection of the meter needle:

Explosion hazard not present:

Needle moves upscale slowly and comes to rest somewhere on-scale (not near 100). Gas
concentration below LEL. (Gas concentrations less than 100% of LEL support combustion, but
do not propagate flame on contact with source of ignition).

Explosion hazard exists:

Needle comes to rest near or at 100% gas concentration at LEL.

Explosion hazard exists:

Needle deflects past 100 and remains off-scale when aspirator bulb is squeezed; gas
concentration above LEL and exceeds calibrated range of instrument.

Potential explosion hazard exists:

Needle deflects rapidly above 100 and then deflects rapidly downscale. Gas concentration may
be above explosive range; however, addition of air to gas/air mixture will create concentration
in explosive range.

In atmosphere free of combustible gases, squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to
purge instrument with fresh air. Set ON/OFF switch to OFF, or simply close cover.
WARNING

Do not use the instrument on the LEL range in oxygen deficient (less than 10% oxygen) areas;
the meter may not indicate the actual gas concentration.
The instrument is not designed to test mixtures of hydrogen, acetylene or other combustible
gases, in which the oxygen content exceeds that of normal air (oxygen – enriched
atmospheres). The Gascope is unsafe for use in measuring concentrations of acetylene or
hydrogen in pure oxygen unless specially modified by MSA; however, it can be used to
measure hydrogen or acetylene in air mixtures. It is not suitable to test high boiling point
hydrocarbons which have vaporised in ovens and which will condense in the instrument flow
system at room temperature. In addition, it will not indicate the presence of combustible mists
or sprays such as lubricating oil, or dusts as grain or coal dusts.
Even though the instrument responds to such combustible gases as propane, acetylene and/or
gasoline or solvent vapours, it provides accurate measurements of the specific gas for which it
has been calibrated at the factory. The indications on both ranges are affected by all
combustibles and also may be affected by non-combustibles, due to their thermal conductivity
effects.

CAUTION

Do not use the instrument at locations where compounds such as tetraethyl lead or hydraulic
fluids or lubricants, which contain silicates or silicones, may be present in the atmosphere.
These chemicals contaminate the sensor and thus reduce measurement accuracy. If it is
suspected that such compounds may be present in the test area, check the calibration of the
instrument after making a maximum of five measurements.
When testing atmospheres contaminated with leaded gasoline, replace the standard cotton
filter in the inlet of the instrument with an inhibitor filter; otherwise, the catalytic sensor may
become coated with lead after several measurements, causing sensitivity to be lost.

Using optional sampling equipment.

Sampling Lines
Sampling lines permit samples to be taken at remote locations or inaccessible areas
to test the atmosphere in such spaces as manholes, sewers and bar-holes. The
available sampling lines, which range in length from 5 to 50 feet, are made of
synthetic material specially compounded to resist absorption of combustible vapors.
CAUTION

Do not use sampling lines made of ordinary rubber or any synthetic material which absorbs
solvent vapours since the absorption will result in erroneous indications that are usually lower
than the actual value.
The shortest possible length of sampling line should always be used to minimize the number of
times the aspirator bulb must be squeezed to obtain a valid indication.
To test the atmosphere at a remote location, position the male coupling of the sampling line at
the desired sampling point so that dirt particles do not clog the tube or liquids are not drawn
into the instrument. Connect the coupling on the other end of the line to the inlet fitting of the
instrument, (fig. 2-2 in the instruction book). Make sure that the connection is gas-tight. The
concentration of the gas at the sampling point can then be measured by performing the
procedure under OPERATING THE GASCOPE.

Probes:
Probes permit samples to be taken in areas that cannot be reached with a sampling line. Bar-
holes, manholes and sewers behind obstructions or accessible only through narrow openings
can be examined by connecting the probe to a sampling line, (see fig. 2-2 in the instruction
book). Three probes are available for use with the Gascope; a four-foot, solid probe rod; a
three-foot, hollow-brass probe tube; and a three-foot, dielectric probe tube. The probe rod may
be used to prevent liquids from entering the instrument if the open end of a sampling line
inadvertently dips into the liquids in tanks etc.

Warning

Do not use the brass probe where shock hazards exist; that is, where contact may be made
with electrical equipment or power lines. The high dielectric plastic probe, which does not
conduct electrical current, should be used in these areas.

Line Trap:
The line trap is used primarily to prevent liquids from being inadvertently drawn into the
instrument when the atmospheres in tanks, sewers or sumps are sampled. (Refer to the sheet
supplied with the line trap for instructions on how to install and use the trap).

7.4.10 7.4.15 Detecting petroleum vapors in

natural gas.
To detect the presence of petroleum vapors in natural gas, perform the following procedure:
Set ON/OFF switch to ON and set RANGE switch to GAS.
Aspirate sample into instrument and record meter indication when needle stabilizes. If
indication is less than 5, set RANGE switch to LEL.
Remove caps on both ends of activated charcoal filter cartridge and insert cartridge in external
cartridge holder (see fig. below).
Connect cartridge holder to inlet fitting of instrument and, if required, connect sampling line to
holder.
Aspirate sample into instrument and record meter indication when needle stabilizes. If this
indication is less than the indication obtained in step 2, the sample contains petroleum vapors.
(The filter absorbs petroleum vapor, but passes natural gas). If both indications are the same,
the sample consists entirely of natural gas.
Remove holder from inlet for standard testing.
7.4.11 7.4.16 Testing lead contaminated
atmospheres
When atmospheres contaminated with leaded gasoline are tested repeatedly with the
Gascope, the catalytic sensor may become coated with a solid product of the combustion of
lead. To minimize the possibility of a loss in sensitivity resulting from this coating effect, the
standard cotton filter in the inlet of the instrument is replaced with the inhibitor filter. Material
in this filter reacts with tetraethyl lead vapors to produce a more volatile lead compound.
Before testing in a lead-contaminated atmosphere, remove the inlet fitting of the instrument
and the cotton filter in the filter chamber. Crush the inhibitor filter between the fingers and
insert it in the chamber. (See fig. below). Then replace the inlet fitting and gasket, ensuring
that the connection is gas-tight. One inhibitor filter provides protection for eight continuous
hours of operation.

7.4.12 7.4.17 Theory of operation

This section contains a summary of the flammable property of combustible gases, a brief
discussion on how the Gascope measures high and low concentrations of combustible gas in
air and a functional description of the Gascope`s flow system and circuitry.

Flammable property of combustible gases:

When flammable or combustible gas is introduced into an area, fresh air is gradually displaced
until the area may be completely filled with gas. During this process, the air/gas mixture
passes through three specific regions: lean, explosive and rich.
Mixtures in the lean region, which extends from fresh air to the lower explosive limit (LEL),
contain too little gas in relation to the amount of air to burn; that is, propagation of flames
does not occur on contact with a source of ignition. A mixture at the LEL is the lowest
concentration of combustible gas in air that will explode or burn when ignited.
Mixtures in the explosive or flammable region, which extends from the LEL to the upper
explosive limit (UEL), will propagate flame. Large volumes of combustible gases or vapors in
these concentrations, if ignited, can cause damage and personal injury. A mixture at the UEL
has the highest concentration of combustible gas in air that will burn.

Mixtures in the rich region, which extend from the UEL to 100% gas, contain too much gas in
relation to air to be combustible. However, since the addition of air to these high
concentrations of gas mixture creates mixtures in the flammable region, they must be
considered equally dangerous.

Combustible Gas Measurements.

Low-Range Operation.
The Gascope utilizes the flammable property of the combustible gas for which it is calibrated
to measure its concentration in air below the LEL of the mixture.
The instrument contains a catalytic platinum filament which comprises one arm of a bridge
circuit (see the block diagram in the instruction book). This hot wire filament is activated to
permit combustible gas to combine with oxygen at a much lower temperature than would be
required for normal combustion. In the event that the flammable mixture is drawn into the hot-
wire filament well where ignition can occur, the flashback arresters prevent propagation of the
flame.
When the combustible gas in the atmosphere enters the catalytic filament well and makes
contact with the catalyst on the surface of the filament, a combustible gas-oxygen reaction
occurs which increases the temperature of the filament. This increase in temperature causes a
corresponding increase in filament resistance, which unbalances the bridge. The resultant
bridge signal voltage is read out on the meter as the percentage of LEL.

High-Range operation.
To measure the concentration of combustible gas in air above the LEL of the mixture, the
Gascope employs a heated thermal conductivity (TC) filament which comprises one arm of a
second bridge circuit (see the block diagram in the instruction book). This filament, a
catalytically inert wire that has a high temperature coefficient of resistance, is specially treated
to ensure stable measurements. When combustible gas in the atmosphere enters the TC
filament well and passes over the filament, it lowers the temperature of the filament. This
decrease in temperature causes a corresponding decrease in filament resistance, which
unbalances the bridge. The resultant bridge signal is read out on the meter as the percentage
of gas in the atmosphere between 0 and 100% by volume.

Functional description of operation

When the aspirator bulb is squeezed, a sample of the atmosphere being tested is drawn
through the cotton filter, into the TC filament and catalytic filament wells and then through the
flow regulating orifice in the outlet fitting. The sample enters the TC filament well through a
flashback arrester flows around an absorber and diffuses into the filament area. It then enters
the catalytic filament well, strikes a deflector plate and exits through a flashback arrester.
The rubber suction bulb, fitted with double acting check valves, creates suction at the outlet to
draw the sample through the instrument. The cotton filter prevents large particles of dust and
dirt from entering the filament wells. The flow-regulating orifice maintains the flow rate of a
sample through the instrument between 0.03 and 0.05 cubic feet per minute (0.8 to 1.4 liters
per minute).
If the RANGE switch is set to the GAS position and the instrument is turned on, the meter and
READY indicator circuits are de-energized for approximately 4 seconds to allow the TC filament
to warm up and stabilize. Once the stabilization is complete, the READY indicator turns on to
signify that the instrument can be used.
If the sample drawn into the TC filament well contains no combustible gas, the bridge remains
balanced; the bridge signal is read out on the meter as zero. If the sample contains up to 100%
combustible gas, the amplitude of the bridge signal is proportional to its actual concentration.
The resultant signal is read out on the meter as the percentage of combustible gas for which
the instrument is calibrated in the atmosphere by volume.

If the RANGE switch is now set to the LEL position, the meter and READY indicator circuits are
de-energized for approximately 4 seconds to allow the catalytic filament to warm up and
stabilize. After the stabilization period, the READY indicator turns on to signify that the
instrument cam be used.
If the sample now drawn into the catalytic filament well contains no combustible gas, the
bridge remains balanced and the meter indicates zero. If the sample contains up to the LEL of
the combustible gas, the amplitude of the bridge signal is proportional to its actual
concentration. The resultant signal is read out on the meter as the percentage of the LEL of the
mixture. If the sample contains between the LEL and UEL of the gas, the bridge remains
unbalanced and the resultant signal causes the meter needle to deflect and remain off-scale. If
the concentration of gas exceeds the UEL, the bridge initially becomes unbalanced and the
needle deflects off-scale. The needle then deflects rapidly downscale because the gas absorbs
heat from the filament, increasing its resistance.
The zero adjustments are used to null the bridge signals for both ranges so that the meter
indicates zero when air free of combustible gases is drawn into the instrument. The span
adjustment are used to set the meter indications on both ranges to a given concentration of
calibration gas.
The voltage regulator circuit maintains a constant 0.94 V across the bridges, even as the
battery voltage decreases from its nominal value of 1.5 V to 1.1 V. When the battery voltage
decreases below 1.1 V, the regulator drops out of regulation. When the dropout point is
reached, the READY indicator turns off to automatically signify the end of battery life. The
BATT indicator pointer will either be in or very near the red zone at the end of battery life.

Maintenance
The following maintenance procedures refer to the indicator’s instruction book.
  Instrument cleaning.

  Sampling system checks.

  Troubleshooting.

  Corrective maintenance.

  Replacing catalytic filament.

  Replacing TC filament.

  Replacing flashback arresters.

  Replacing batteries.

  Ordering parts.

7.4.13 7.4.18 Calibration

This section contains a detailed procedure for calibrating the Gascope. Read the entire
procedure before making any adjustments. Note that the Model 62 is normally factory
calibrated on pentane, but may be specially calibrated on other specific combustible gases,
including methane.
Calibration procedure
The Gascope should be calibrated periodically by performing the procedure which follows in an
atmosphere free of combustible gases. This procedure should also be used if either the
catalytic or thermal conductivity filament has been replaced. If the instrument cannot be
calibrated with this procedure, refer to TROUBLESHOOTING in the instruction book.
Open cover and loosen clasps securing top and bottom sections of case.
Remove bottom section of case and position instrument on rubber bumpers, so that meter can
be read. (see the location of span adjustments in the instruction book, figure 5-1).
Set RANGE switch to LEL and ON/OFF switch to ON. Needle should come to rest near 0 and
READY indicator should turn on. If indicator does not turn on, refer to table 4-1 in the
instruction book.

Squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge instrument with fresh air. Permit bulb to
inflate completely each squeeze.
Adjust LEL ZERO control to obtain zero indication on meter.
Connect flow control of calibration Check Kit., Model R, to Calibration Check Gas Cylinder
(0.75% pentane) and connect adapter hose between flow control and inlet fitting of
instrument. For instruments with factory calibration on methane, use 2% methane cylinder.
Turn flow control valve counter-clockwise. When needle stabilises, meter should indicate 50 for
standard instruments factory calibrated on pentane. For instruments calibrated on methane,
reading should be 40. If it does not, turn LEL span adjustments to obtain 50 (40 on methane)
on meter. If 50 (40 on methane) cannot be obtained by turning LEL span adjustment, perform
procedure under Replacing Catalytic Filament in the instruction book and then repeat this
procedure.
Turn flow controls valve clockwise and disconnect adapter hose from inlet fitting.
Squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge the instrument with fresh air. Meter should
indicate 0. If it does not, adjust LEL ZERO control to obtain zero indication on meter; then
connect adapter hose to inlet fitting and repeat steps 7 and 8. Remove flow control from gas
cylinder.
Set RANGE switch to GAS and, when READY indicator turns on, adjust GAS ZERO to obtain zero
indication on meter.
Connect source of 100% methane to inlet fitting. Pass gas through instrument and then shut
off flow. Meter should indicate 82 on an instrument factory calibrated on pentane. If it does
not, turn GAS span adjustment to obtain 82 on meter. If 82 cannot be obtained by turning GAS
span adjustment, refer to Replacing TC Filament in the instruction book, and then repeat
this procedure. For instrument factory calibrated on methane, meter should indicate 100; if it
does not, turn GAS span adjustment to obtain 100 on meter.

WARNING!
Do not introduce 100% methane gas to an instrument located near a source of ignition; otherwise
an explosion may occur.
Disconnect source of methane and squeeze aspirator bulb eight to ten times to purge
instrument with fresh air. Meter should indicate zero. If it does not, adjust GAS ZERO control to
obtain zero indication on meter; then repeat steps 11 and 12.
Place instrument in bottom section of case and clasp top and bottom section together. Close
cover.