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Gas Sensor Calibration: Things to Bear in Mind

From the early-stage method development to conducting ongoing quality assurance, the importance of gas sensor calibration is clear to all. It is recommended by most manufacturers that sensors are calibrated at least twice a year, using traceable reference test gases. This – of course – depends on multiple parameters, including your workflow’s specific risk factors.

For example, regular gas sensor calibration can mean the difference between reliable confirmation of flammable/toxic gas exposure and potentially catastrophic events. Running the mandatory tests using premixed gases is essential to maintaining the integrity of your measurement devices. This ensures the efficacy, safety, and reliability of your gas flow system.

This article will focus on some vital points to bear in mind when it comes to gas sensor calibration so that you can ensure your gas flow system is running safely, efficiently, and reliably.

5 Points or Less: Balancing Accuracy with Cost

Most gas sensors are calibrated using a standardized less-than 5-point calibration technique. The normal 2-point calibration procedure involves two steps:

• Setting the offset reading
• Calibrating the sensor’s span

Increasing the number of calibration points regulates the span and typically offers vastly superior accuracy. The trade-off is that it requires different premixed atmospheres – these can cost more money than the standard premixed atmosphere.

Is Your Premixture Commercially Available?

Gas sensor calibration can often be carried out based on standardized models using readily available premixed gas species. These readily available gas species are a cost-friendly solution for single and few-point gas sensor calibration. However, it rapidly becomes costly when dynamic, multi-point calibration is required. These bespoke mixtures that are required can be difficult to find at a reasonable price.

Should You Use a Gas Mixer Instead?

Often, premixed gases remain an attractive solution for single- and few-point gas calibration. Multi-point gas sensors, however, often require a more precise solution than premixtures when it comes to calibration.

Having a dynamic gas mixer offers much greater performance capabilities when sensors need to be calibrated with various atmospheres over the single reference standard. This provides unparalleled control of gas sensor calibration parameters that empowers researchers.

For instance, gas mixers provide greater levels of control with intuitive firmware. Gas sensor calibration can subsequently be carried out to the parts per million (ppm) range accurately and much more cost-effectively than with pre-mixed cylinders. Simply program the gas mixer and run the process for fully automated, reliable gas sensor calibration.

Gas Sensor Calibration with Fusion Flow Technologies

At Lab Unlimited, we offer a range from Fusion Flow Technologies that specialises in turnkey and modular gas mixing systems for a range of applications. Each system is custom-built to meet client specifications. You can learn more about these applications here: Modular Gas Mixing System and Turnkey Gas Mixing System.

For more information or guidance on the Fusion Flow Technology applications, talk to a member of our sales team today. They will be happy to help.