Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual Part Number: 71-0244RK Revision: K Released: 12/31/13 www.rkiinstruments.
WARNING Read and understand this instruction manual before operating instrument. Improper use of the gas monitor could result in bodily harm or death. Periodic calibration and maintenance of the gas monitor is essential for proper operation and correct readings. Please calibrate and maintain this instrument regularly! Frequency of calibration depends upon the type of use you have and the sensor types.
Warranty RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants the Gas Tracer sold by us to be free from defects in materials, workmanship, and performance for a period of two years from the date of shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. This includes the instrument and the original sensors. Replacement parts are warranted for 1 year from the date of their shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. except for replacement sensors which are warranted for 2 years.
Table of Contents Chapter 1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . About the Gas Tracer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 3: Using the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Start Up, Normal Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal With All Modes Active . . . . Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Normal Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Calibration Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calibration/Bump Test Supplies and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preparing for Calibration or Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calibrating the Gas Tracer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bump Testing the Gas Tracer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor . . . . .
Calibrating Using Auto Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calibration Using Single Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Performing a Bump Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor . . . . Turning the Lunch Break Setting On or Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Updating the Alarm Latching Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing or Recharging the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Replacing Alkaline Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Replacing the Lithium Ion Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack in the Instrument . . . . . Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Out of the Instrument . Replacing the LEL and CO Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Replacing a Sensor . . . . . . .
Chapter 1: Introduction Overview This chapter briefly describes the Gas Tracer. This chapter also describes the Gas Tracer Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this chapter lists the specifications for the Gas Tracer. About the Gas Tracer Using an advanced detection system consisting of up to five gas sensors, the Gas Tracer sample draw gas monitor detects the presence of combustible gas, oxygen (O2), and carbon monoxide (CO) simultaneously.
• Peak hold and average readouts (when used in Normal Mode) • Built-in time function • RF shielded high impact plastic case • CSA classification pending for Class I, Division I, Groups A, B, C, and D hazardous atmospheres WARNING: The Gas Tracer detects oxygen deficiency, elevated levels of oxygen, combustible gases, and carbon monoxide, all of which can be dangerous or life threatening.
Specifications Table 1: Gas Tracer Specifications Target Gas • %LEL Combustible Gas (Methane Calibration Standard)* • PPM Combustible Gas (Methane Calibration Standard)* % Volume Combustible Gas (Methane Calibration Standard) Oxygen (O2) Carbon Monoxide (CO) Range (Increment) 0-100% LEL (1% LEL) 0 - 100% vol (1% vol) 0-40.0% vol (0.
Safety/ Regulatory Power Supply Continuous Operating Hours @ 25 °C Case C US pending CSA classified, “C/US”, as Intrinsically Safe. Exia. Class I, Groups A, B, C, & D. Temperature Code T3C. • Three AA size alkaline batteries standard • Lithium Ion Battery Pack (3.
Chapter 2: Description Overview This chapter describes the Gas Tracer instrument and accessories. Instrument Description The instrument includes the case, sensors, LCD, control buttons, printed circuit boards, alarm LED’s, infrared communication port, buzzer, vibrator, batteries, pump, flow chamber, and inlet filter holder.
Rechargeable Version Alkaline Version Battery Pack Battery Pack Release Latch Battery Cover Release Knob Figure 2: Components of the Gas Tracer, Bottom Case The Gas Tracer’s sturdy, high-impact plastic case is radio frequency (RF) resistant and is suitable for use in many environmental conditions, indoors and out. The case is dust proof and weather resistant. A rubber layer on the outside of the case protects it from scratches and impact damage.
Combustible Gas Sensors % LEL Sensor (NC-6264A) The % LEL sensor detects combustible gas in the % LEL range. It uses a catalytic element for detection. The reaction of gas with oxygen on the catalyst causes a change in the resistance of the element which affects the current flowing through it. The current is amplified by the Gas Tracer’s circuitry, converted to a measurement of combustible gas concentration, and displayed on the LCD.
Dummy Sensors Any unit that has less than 5 sensors will have a dummy sensor installed in one or more sensor positions. Dummy sensors are factory installed. The flat top of the dummy sensor should face up and the bottom hollow side should face down. The unit shown below is a standard 4-sensor unit for LEL/O2/ ppm/CO and has a dummy sensor installed in the %volume combustible sensor position.
LCD A digital LCD (liquid crystal display) is visible through a clear plastic window on the front of the case. The LCD display simultaneously shows the gas reading for all installed sensors. The display also shows information for each of the Gas Tracer’s program modes. Control Buttons Five control buttons are located below the LCD. They are arranged around a central button, the POWER ENTER button.
The data transmitted through the port is in standard IrDA protocol. A computer’s infrared port or an IrDA/USB cable connected to a computer’s USB port can be used to download data saved by the Gas Tracer to a computer using the Gas Tracer Data Logger Management Program. See the GX-2012 Data Logger Management Program operator’s manual for data logging and downloading instructions. Buzzer One solid-state electronic buzzer is located inside the case.
WARNING: To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must only be changed or charged in an area known to be nonhazardous. Pump A diaphragm pump inside the Gas Tracer draws the sample to the sensors. It can draw sample from as far as 50 feet from the Gas Tracer. The pump is not user serviceable. CAUTION: Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended for the Gas Tracer because of flow rate reduction.
Inlet Filter Holder The filter holder is a clear plastic dome shaped piece on the top of the case. A male quick connect fitting is located on the inlet filter holder. This is the Gas Tracer’s inlet fitting. A cotton dust filter is inside the filter holder. The filter holder may be removed by turning it counterclockwise and pulling it away from the case.
CAUTION: Sample hose lengths of more than 50 feet are not recommended for the Gas Tracer because of flow rate reduction. Sample Hose Probe Figure 4: Sample Hose and Probe Optional Accessories Several optional accessories are available for the Gas Tracer. They include a rechargeable lithium ion battery pack, battery charging stations, various special probes, a purge tee fitting, and a dilution fitting. The most commonly used optional accessories are described below.
AC Powered Charging Station The standard AC powered charging station consists of an instrument charging base and an AC adapter. The AC adapter plugs into a 115 VAC wall outlet and connects to the charging station with a jack on the end of a five foot DC output cable. The AC adapter will also work for 100 VAC or 220 VAC if an appropriate plug adapter is provided. The AC charging station is shown below in Figure 5.
DC Powered Charging Station An optional DC powered charging station is available with a vehicle plug 12 VDC adapter. It uses the same charging base as the AC charging station but comes with a velcro strap to secure the Gas Tracer in the charging base.
interruption of sampling and a low flow alarm if the probe tip is blocked. • 30 inch stainless steel probe Figure 8: 30 Inch Stainless Steel Probe This probe is physically the same as the 30 inch aluminum probe and is intended for applications where a high level of corrosion resistance is required in the long probe tube. • Barhole probe End Plugged Figure 9: Barhole Probe An optional bar hole probe is available for the Gas Tracer.
• 7 foot telescoping probe with dust filter Figure 11: 7 Foot Telescoping Probe with Dust Filter This probe is designed for use where it is necessary to put the probe tip in areas not accessible with the 32 inch telescoping probe with dust filter and applications where the probe tube must be collapsible for storage. • 8 meter hose with floating head This probe is designed to be used in a tank or a well that may have water or some other liquid at the bottom.
Purge Tee Fitting The 17-4430RK-01 purge fitting is used to detect gas levels in a pressurized gas stream from a pipeline or vessel being purged. The sample port of the purge fitting is inserted into the flowing gas, and the vent port will allow any excess gas to release to the atmosphere to avoid damage to pump or sensors.
purchase a humidifier tube in order to properly calibrate the ppm combustible gas sensor. Use the humidifier tube to connect the ppm calibration cylinder to the Gas Tracer. If you are using a zero air cylinder to perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor in Leak Check Mode or a WET fresh air adjustment in Calibration Mode, you will need to use the humidifier tube to connect the zero air cylinder to the Gas Tracer.
Chapter 3: Using the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode Overview This chapter explains how to operate the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode. Normal Mode is used to perform confined space entry monitoring or general area monitoring. While in Normal Mode, Display Mode and Calibration Mode are accessible. Start Up, Normal Mode This section explains how to start up the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode, get it ready for operation, and turn it off.
4. If LNCH BRK is turned on, the Resume Datalog Screen displays. rESU 4 RESUME • Press and release the POWER ENTER button to continue accumulating time-weighted average (TWA), PEAK readings, and time in operation from the last time the Gas Tracer was used. The short-term exposure limit [STEL] reading is reset each time the Gas Tracer is turned on. • Press and release the DISPLAY(ADJ) button to reset the accumulation of these measurements.
• If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to NOT USE, then the following screen displays. FAIL C--LIMIT The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a calibration has been performed either by selecting AUTO CAL or ONE CAL in the Maintenance Mode menu. See “Calibrating Using Auto Calibration” on page 123 or “Calibrating Using Single Calibration” on page 126 for calibration instructions.
continue. • If the unit is due for a bump test and BP EXPRD is set to NOT USE, then the following screen displays. FAIL B--LIMIT The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a bump test has been performed by selecting BUMP in the Maintenance Mode menu. See “Performing a Bump Test” on page 129 for bump testing instructions. • If a bump test is not due or BP EXPRD is set to NO EFFECT, then the following screen appears for a few seconds indicating when the next bump test is due.
7. If ID DISP is turned on (see page 167), the User ID Screen displays for a few seconds and then the Station ID Screen displays for a few seconds. U Id -------S Id -------8. The Date/Time Screen appears for a few seconds. 2011 8 31 22:39 DATE This screen displays the current year, month, day, and time. 9. The Battery Level and Alarm Pattern Screen appears next. bAtt 3.7 AL-H V AL -- H indicates latching (hold) alarms and AL -- A indicates selfresetting (automatic) alarms.
batteries, a “D” will appear in front of the “V” in the lower right corner. bAtt 3.7 AL-H D: V 10.The display then indicates the following items for about a second each: • Full scale values for all channels • Warning setpoint (low gas alarm) for all channels • Alarm setpoint (high gas alarm) for all channels • STEL alarm setpoint for the CO channel • TWA alarm setpoint for the CO channel NOTE: If the combustible channel is factory set as %volume only, all gas alarms are turned off.
If you wish to continue, press and release the RESET SILENCE button to acknowledge the failure. The gas reading for the failed sensor will be replaced by “---”. Replace the failed sensor as soon as possible. 12.The Gas Tracer is now operating in Normal Mode and monitoring for gas in Measuring Mode. The Normal Operation Screen appears. CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 %LEL % ppm 22:37 The concentrations of the target gases are displayed along with the time and battery charge level.
2. If a sample hose is used, screw the probe onto the sample hose’s threaded fitting. 3. Press and briefly hold down the POWER ENTER button. The Normal Mode Select Screen displays. CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 vol% %LEL % ppm NORMAL ? 4. You can use the AIR▲ button to scroll to the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen. BAR HOLE MODE CH4 O2 0 20.9 vol% %LEL % 30 B.H. MODE? sec 5. Press the AIR▲ button again to display the Leak Check Mode Select Screen. LEAK CK MODE LEAK CK MODE CH4 0 CH4 ppm 0 0 5000 L.C.
You can scroll up or down through these screens using the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons. 6. With the Normal Mode Select Screen displayed, press and release the POWER ENTER button and continue with the startup sequence as described in the previous section, “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only”, from step 4 on page 21 on. NOTE: If no button is pressed for 20 seconds, the unit will proceed into whichever mode is displayed. 7.
Turning Off the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode 1. Press and hold the POWER ENTER button. 2. The buzzer will pulse for about three seconds and TURN OFF will be displayed along the bottom of the screen. 3. Release the button when TURN OFF disappears. Measuring Mode, Normal Operation The Gas Tracer has three operating modes within Normal Mode: Measuring Mode, Display Mode, and Calibration Mode. This section describes using the Gas Tracer in Measuring Mode during normal operation.
NOTE: Response time increases with the length of the sample hose. Long sample hoses will require more time to show a response at the Gas Tracer. The maximum sample hose length recommended for the Gas Tracer is 50 feet. Consult RKI Instruments, Inc. for longer sample hose lengths. 4. If a gas alarm occurs, take appropriate action. See “Responding to Alarms” on page 41. Using Optional Probes and Fittings This section describes how to use the 8 meter hose with floating head and the purge tee fitting.
on page 20. 2. Connect the purge tee fitting to the Gas Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting. 3. Insert the sample port into the flowing gas. The vent port will allow any excess gas to release to the atmosphere to avoid damage to pump or sensors. Pressurized Stream Excess Pressurized Sample Sample Port Vent Port GX-2012 Inlet Figure 16: Purge Tee Fitting Using the Dilution Fitting The external dilution fitting is a 1:1 dilution fitting.
NOTE: The Gas Tracer can be calibrated either with or without the dilution fitting in place. If calibrated without the dilution fitting in place, then display readings must be doubled to determine the actual gas concentration. If calibrated with the dilution fitting in place, then a sample bag must be used during calibration, and the display readings will be the actual gas concentrations. CAUTION: If the dilution fitting is in place for calibration, do not use a demand flow regulator. Use a sample bag.
Applications with High Levels of Combustible Gas The Gas Tracer provides the % LEL sensor with some protection by turning off the % LEL sensor power temporarily when it determines that a % LEL over scale (more than 100% LEL) concentration of combustible gas is present. When this happens, “OVER” is displayed below the gas list and the display units to the right of the combustible gas channel change to % volume.
you are detecting pentane and the display reads 10% LEL on the combustible gas channel, you actually have 10% LEL x 1.35 = 13.5% LEL pentane present. Table 3: LEL Hydrocarbon Conversions Gas LEL Conversion Factor (Methane Calibration) Gas LEL Conversion Factor (Methane Calibration) Acetone 1.92 Iso Butane 1.56 Acetylene 2.00 MEK 1.92 Benzene 2.00 Methane 1.00 Ethane 1.25 Methanol 1.65 Ethanol 1.75 Pentane 1.35 Ethylene 1.20 Propane 1.52 Heptane 1.92 Propylene 1.33 Hexane 1.
Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation NOTE: For instructions to take snap log data if using the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode, see “Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation” on page 112. The snap logging function in Snap Log Mode allows the user to record data at a specific time and have it saved to the data logger. The data is assigned a snap log ID and is saved with the station ID that was in use when the data was taken. To enter Snap Log Mode and record snap log data: 1.
no 016 REC. DATA S Id 001 2011 9 27 22:37 YES/ENT. 34 O2 19.2 CO 10 H2S 7.8 NO /DISP CH4 %LEL % ppm ppm The first screen displays what snap log ID will be given to this particular set of data. This ID number increases sequentially with each set of snap log data taken. The second screen displays what Station ID will be associated with this snap log.
you should press the POWER ENTER button to save a set of snap log data. The fourth screen displays the current gas readings, and that you should press the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to exit Snap Log Mode without saving a set of snap log data. 2. You can change the Station ID to be used with the snap log by pressing the (SHIFT)T button and then pressing the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. The Station ID Select Screen will appear and the current Station ID will be flashing. S Id SEL 001 3.
Measuring Mode, Alarms This section covers alarm indications in Measuring Mode. It also tells you how to reset the Gas Tracer after an alarm has occurred and how to respond to an alarm condition. NOTE: False alarms may be caused by radio frequency (RF) or electromagnetic (EMI) interference. Keep the Gas Tracer away from RF and EMI sources such as radio transmitters or large motors.
Table 4: Alarm Types and Indications Alarm Type High Alarm Concentration of gas rises above the Alarm level, or rises above the High Alarm level for O2. TWA or STEL Concentration of CO rises above the TWA or STEL alarm point setting. Over Range* Visual Indications Other Indications • ALARM appears below the gas list.
Table 4: Alarm Types and Indications Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications Sensor Failure* • FAIL appears at the bottom of the display and the failed sensor(s) are indicated • Alarm LED arrays flash Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession) Clock Failure* • FAIL CLOCK appears on the display • Alarm LED arrays flash Buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone (two pulses in quick succession) System Failure* • FAIL SYSTEM appears on the display • Alarm LED arrays flash
flash, and the Gas Tracer continues to display the current alarm level. The gas reading must fall below (or rise above for an oxygen low alarm) the low alarm setting before you can reset the alarm. Press the RESET SILENCE button to reset the alarm. The LEDs turn off and the Gas Tracer alarm indications on the display turn off. With ALRM SLNC OFF and LATCHING ON: The gas reading must fall below (or rise above for an oxygen low alarm) the low alarm setting before you can reset the alarm.
sensor that has triggered the over range alarm. 6. If the over range condition continues after you have replaced the sensor, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. for further instructions. Responding to Battery Alarms WARNING: The Gas Tracer is not operational as a gas monitoring device during a dead battery alarm. Take the Gas Tracer to a non-hazardous area and replace or recharge the batteries as described in “Replacing or Recharging the Batteries” on page 178.
Maintenance Mode. See “Updating the Date and Time Settings” on page 121. 3. If the date cannot be set correctly, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible. Responding to System Failure Alarms 1. If a system failure occurs, the system failure screen will display an error code as shown below: FAIL 031 SYSTEM 2. The error code meanings are shown below: Table 5: Error Code Explanation Error Code Explanation 000 MPU failure 010 RAM failure 021 EEPROM failure 031 FLASH memory failure 3.
Inert Mode Inert Mode is used to measure the combustible gas and/or oxygen level in a purged environment. In order for the instrument to operate in Inert Mode, the oxygen alarm must be set to H-HH operation in which both alarms are increasing. The oxygen Warning and Alarm points are factory set at 5.0% and 10.0%. It is recommended that the %volume sensor be installed in a unit that is used to monitor combustible gas during Inert Mode operation since it does not require oxygen to work properly.
2. Once the warm up sequence is complete, the Normal Operation Screen will display and INERT will appear along the bottom of the display. CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 %LEL % ppm INERT 3. Since the oxygen concentration in fresh air is above both oxygen alarm points, the Gas Tracer will go into alarm if turned on in a fresh air environment. Display Mode This section describes using the Gas Tracer in Display Mode.
NOTE: Each screen displays for 20 seconds. If you do not press the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to scroll to the next screen or press the POWER ENTER button to enter an item within 20 seconds, the Gas Tracer automatically returns to Measuring Mode. HC Range Screen This screen displays only if your Gas Tracer is equipped with both the catalytic % LEL combustible sensor and the TC % volume combustible sensor.
Peak Screen The Peak Screen displays the highest (lowest for O2) concentrations detected since the Gas Tracer was turned on. Peak readings are stored in the Gas Tracer’s memory until a higher level is detected, the peak reading is reset, or the Gas Tracer is turned off. The lunch break feature enables the Gas Tracer to remember peak readings when it is turned off so it can continue them when it is turned on again. See “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20.
TWA Screen The TWA Screen displays the time-weighted average (TWA) readings for CO only. The TWA reading is the average reading during the last 8 hours. If 8 hours have not elapsed since the last time the TWA reading was cleared, the average is still calculated over 8 hours. The missing time is assigned a 0 value for readings.
CH4 O2 CO 10 19.5 25 %LEL % ppm WARNING CH4 O2 CO 50 23.5 50 %LEL % ppm ALARM CO 200 ppm 25 ppm STEL CO TWA Pressing and releasing POWER ENTER while in a settings screen will cause the instrument to simulate that condition. The buzzer, LEDs, and vibration will activate. Press and release POWER ENTER again to stop the simulated alarm.
Operation Time Screen The operation time screen displays the time in minutes since the Gas Tracer was last turned on. The operation time may be continued from the last time the Gas Tracer was in operation by using the lunch break option. See “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Normal Mode Only” on page 20. 0:11 OP. TIME Date/Time Screen The date/time screen displays the current date and time with the order being year, month, day, time.
The table below illustrates how much data logging time is available for the various interval times. It assumes that the unit is set up with all 5 sensors and there are no alarm occurrences.
bottom line of the screen alternates between CONFIRM?, YES/ ENT., AND NO /DISP. CLr LOG CONFIRM? 2. To cancel the clear data log and return to the Clear Data Logger Screen in Display Mode, press and release DISPLAY (ADJ). To continue with the clear data log, press and release POWER ENTER. 3. The Gas Tracer displays 4 dashes and as the Gas Tracer clears the data, the dashes disappear. When the last dash is gone, the Gas Tracer has been cleared and the remaining log time value is reset.
Pump OFF Screen WARNING: The Gas Tracer is not a gas monitoring device while the pump is off. NOTE: This item appears in Display Mode only if the POFF DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is turned ON. The factory setting for POFF DSP is OFF. The Gas Tracer pump can be turned on and off in this screen. The bottom line of this screen alternates between PUMP OFF, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT.
saved to the data logger for that session when you turn off the Gas Tracer or change users during operation. This allows you to change the user ID during operation and have each user ID that was used during an operating session saved for the corresponding data. U Id SEL YES/ENT. NOTE: As shipped from the factory, the user ID on this screen is shown as -- -- -- -- -- -- until you enter this screen and select a user ID. To change a user: 1.
Uppercase letters, numbers, asterisks (*), dashes (-), and a blank space are available characters. The Gas Tracer can store 128 station IDs. Use this screen to identify or change the station. The station ID provides a way to identify the station during a data logging session. The station ID is saved to the data logger for that session when you turn off the Gas Tracer or change stations during operation.
Snap Logging Screen The Snap Logging Screen allows you to view data from previous snap logs. For information on how to use the snap logging feature, see “Snap Log Mode, Normal Operation” on page 35 or “Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation” on page 112. 1. To view snap logging data, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to the Snap Logging Screen. The bottom line of this screen alternates between REC. DATA, NO /DISP, and YES/ENT. d ISP REC. DATA 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button.
3. If snap logs have been performed in either Normal Operation or Leak Check Mode Operation, one of the following screens will appear. LEAK CK MODE will appear in the upper left corner of Leak Check Mode Operation data to indicate that the snap log was taken during Leak Check Mode Operation. LEAK CK MODE 2011 8 31 22:39 M023 Normal Operation Snap Log 2012 2 15 14:17 M009 Leak Check Mode Operation Snap Log This screen indicates the year, month, day, and time that the most recent snap log was taken.
4. To view the data in a snap log ID, press and release the POWER ENTER button. You can also go back and forth between the ID and data screens by pressing and releasing the POWER ENTER button. 2011 8 31 22:39 M011 Normal Operation Data AIR▲ (SHIFT)▼ AIR▲ O2 ENTER CO 50 23.
The gas readings that were taken during the snap log are displayed and the Station ID that was in use during the snap log is displayed along the bottom of the screen. Snap log data that was taken in Leak Check Mode operation will have 2 sequential screens that are part of one data set. One screen is for the base reading and the other screen is for the peak reading. The peak reading value will have PEAK displayed below the peak bar.
2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. On PEAK BAR 3. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to make your selection and press and release the POWER ENTER button. Data Logging NOTE: The Gas Tracer logs data while in Normal Mode or in Bar Hole Mode. If the Gas Tracer is used in Leak Check Mode, no downloadable data will be logged.
SDM-2012 The Gas Tracer can be used with the SDM-2012 if desired. The SDM2012 can charge the instrument if the lithium ion battery pack is being used. It can also bump test, calibrate, and retrieve saved data. The SDM-2012 can be operated as a single, stand-alone unit or can be used with up to 9 other SDM-2012s and operated using a computer. For more information about the operation of the SDM-2012, see the SDM2012 operator’s manual.
Calibration/Bump Test Supplies and Equipment To calibrate or bump test the Gas Tracer, you will need: • Known calibrating samples of the gases being detected. The combustible and toxic gas samples should have concentrations in approximately the middle of the range of detection. An oxygenfree source, such as 100% nitrogen is recommended for setting the oxygen zero when using single calibration.
3. With the unit on, perform a fresh air adjust by pressing and holding the AIR▲ button. The display prompts you to hold the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 4. Continue to hold the AIR▲ button until the display prompts you to release it. The Gas Tracer will set the fresh air reading for all channels as it counts down from 8. If the combustible channel is set as %LEL only or vol% only, there is no countdown period. The fresh air reading is set immediately. 5.
MAINTENANCE will appear along the top of the screen once you have entered Calibration Mode. The first item in the calibration menu, AIR CAL, displays. NOTE: The following screens illustrate a three-gas Gas Tracer with both a %LEL and %volume combustible gas sensor as examples only. Your Gas Tracer may display slightly different screens.
Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method This section describes calibration using the auto calibration method. To calibrate using the single calibration method, see “Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method” on page 68. NOTE: If the combustible gas channels are calibrated to a gas other than methane, use an appropriate multigas cylinder or use single calibration to calibrate the combustible channels. 1.
sensor is shown here. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- %LEL AUTO CAL 6. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the sensors and select the sensor whose calibration gas value you want to adjust. 7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The sensor’s calibration gas value will begin to flash. 8. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to set the correct calibration gas value. 9. Press and release POWER ENTER button to save the change. 10.
13.With the 3-gas calibration values screen displayed, press the POWER ENTER button. AUTO CAL begins to flash and the current gas readings are displayed. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 %LEL % ppm AUTO CAL 14.Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the gas to flow for one minute. 15.
%volume calibration gas value screen in step 12 and using a %volume methane cylinder. If you are finished calibrating, use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode. Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method This section describes calibration using the Single Calibration method. To calibrate using the Auto Calibration method, see “Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method” on page 65.
1. While in the calibration menu, use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to navigate to the ONE CAL menu option. MAINTENANCE ONE CAL 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the single calibration menu. The %LEL sensor will be displayed first. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- %LEL ONE CAL 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the sensor you want to calibrate (in this example the combustible gas % LEL sensor). If you have a 5 sensor unit, the %vol sensor will be one of the choices. It is shown below.
5. Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute. 6. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to adjust the reading to match the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder. If the reading already matches the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder, press and release the AIR▲ button then press and release the (SHIFT)▼ button so that the instrument sees a change and resets the calibration date. 7.
Bump Testing the Gas Tracer NOTE: The BUMP DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is factory set to OFF. The BUMP menu item will not appear unless BUMP DSP is set to ON. See “Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off” on page 157 for instructions. NOTE: The Gas Tracer uses parameters defined in the BUMP--SET menu item of Maintenance Mode while performing a bump test. To view or update these parameters, see “Updating the Bump Test Parameters” on page 158.
3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer. 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP menu item. MAINTENANCE BUMP 5. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the bump test gas values. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 50 12.0 50 BUMP %LEL % ppm 30 6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to see the %volume combustible gas bump test value. MAINTENANCE CH4 BUMP 100 vol% 30 7. A bump test may be performed on the standard 3 sensors or on the %volume combustible sensor.
ENTER button. The unit will begin counting down from 30. 10.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to OFF: • The instrument will display which channels passed or failed the bump test with a P (pass) or an F (fail) to the right of the gas. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO F P F %LEL % ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.
11.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to ON: If all channels pass the bump test, • The following screen appears: MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO P P P %LEL % ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 45 12.0 47 %LEL % ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER.
lower right of the screen. The calibration time counted down during a calibration initiated because of a failed bump test is the difference between the bump test gas time and the calibration time defined in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 1 20.9 37 CAL • %LEL % ppm 60 At the end of the calibration, the instrument displays the results from both the bump test and the calibration.
MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 49 12.0 5 %LEL % ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER at any time. If any channel failed the calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the tubing from the probe. 12.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder. 13.With the BUMP menu option displayed, press the (SHIFT)▼ button until the NORMAL menu option is displayed. 14.
password number and then pressing and releasing POWER ENTER to confirm it and move on to the next number. To go back a number, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. The factory set password is the same as the factory set password for Maintenance Mode: 2102. You can change the password by entering the PASSWORD menu item in Maintenance Mode. See “Turning the Password Function On or Off” on page 172. If you enter an incorrect password, an error screen will display.
3. The recommended calibration sequence for a quarterly calibration is WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment. The recommended calibration sequence for a biannual calibration (every 6 months) is DRY fresh air adjustment, WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment. Performing a Wet Fresh Air Adjustment This section describes how to perform a fresh air adjustment on the PPM combustible gas sensor using the WET setting.
3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The unit will display the current fresh air reading and prompt you to push the AIR▲ button. NOTE: If you have just performed a DRY fresh air adjustment, allow the Gas Tracer to sample fresh air for 2 minutes before continuing. MAINTENANCE 50 CH4 ppm PUSH AIR 4. Be sure the Gas Tracer is in a fresh air environment. 5. Hold down the AIR▲ button.
1. Once the warm up is complete, you will be in PPM Cal Mode and AIR CAL will be displayed. You must perform a fresh air adjust before performing an auto calibration, a single calibration, or a bump test. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item. MAINTENANCE WET You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the DRY setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button.
8. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 9. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item. 10.Disconnect the tubing from the probe. 11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.
6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The calibration value screen will be displayed. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 ppm AUTO CAL 7. The gas concentration displayed in the calibration value screen must match the gas concentration listed on the calibration cylinder. If the concentration matches, go to step 13. If the concentration does not match, continue with step 8. 8.
13.With the calibration gas value screen displayed, press the POWER ENTER button. AUTO CAL begins to flash and the current gas reading is displayed. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. MAINTENANCE CH4 0 ppm AUTO CAL 14.Connect the humidifier from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the gas to flow for two minutes. 15.
18.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the ESCAPE menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the PPM CAL menu item in Calibration Mode. 19.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode. Performing a Single Calibration This section describes how to calibrate the PPM combustible gas sensor using single calibration. 1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder. 2.
7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays. The gas reading flashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 0 ppm ONE CAL 8. Connect the humidifier from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for two minutes. 9. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to adjust the reading to match the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder.
NOTE: The Gas Tracer uses parameters defined in the BUMP--SET menu item of Maintenance Mode while performing a bump test. To view or update these parameters, see “Updating the Bump Test Parameters” on page 158. 1. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder. 2. Connect the humidifier to the demand flow regulator. 3. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer. 4. While in the PPM CAL menu, use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP menu item. MAINTENANCE BUMP 5.
ENTER button. The unit will begin counting down from 30. 9. When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to OFF: • The instrument will display if the ppm combustible sensor passed or failed with a P (pass) or an F (fail) to the right of the gas. MAINTENANCE CH4 P ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.
NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself. 10.When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to ON: If the ppm combustible sensor passes the bump test, • The following screen appears: MAINTENANCE CH4 P ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button.
If the ppm combustible sensor fails the bump test, • The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY. The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the lower right of the screen.
MAINTENANCE CH4 950 ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER ENTER at any time. If the sensor fails calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe. NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself. 11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder. 12.
Chapter 4: Using the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode Overview This chapter explains how to operate the Gas Tracer in Bar Hole Mode. Bar Hole Mode is used to perform consistent checks of bar holes when tracking down underground gas leaks. When the Gas Tracer is in Bar Hole Mode, only the combustible and oxygen channels are displayed. If a Gas Tracer is intended for bar hole testing, it is shipped with Bar Hole Mode enabled so that the operator must choose which operational mode to use when the unit is turned on.
2. Screw the bar hole probe onto the sample hose’s threaded fitting. 3. Press and briefly hold down the POWER ENTER button. The Normal Mode Select Screen displays. CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 vol% %LEL % ppm NORMAL ? 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen. BAR HOLE MODE CH4 O2 0 20.9 vol% %LEL ppm vol% % 30 B.H. MODE? sec 5. With the Bar Hole Mode Select Screen selected, press and release the POWER ENTER button to begin the Bar Hole Mode startup sequence.
The alarm LED’s and buzzer will pulse several times. After this, press and release the RESET SILENCE button to continue. • If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to NOT USE, then the following screen displays. FAIL C--LIMIT The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a calibration has been performed either by selecting AUTO CAL or ONE CAL in the Maintenance Mode menu.
The alarm LED’s and buzzer will pulse several times. After this, press the RESET SILENCE button until you hear a beep to continue. • If the unit is due for a bump test and BP EXPRD is set to NOT USE, then the following screen displays. FAIL B--LIMIT The Gas Tracer cannot be used until a bump test has been performed by selecting BUMP in the Maintenance Mode menu. See “Performing a Bump Test” on page 129 for bump testing instructions.
8. If ID DISP is turned on (see page 167), the User ID Screen displays for a few seconds and then the Station ID Screen displays for a few seconds. U Id -------S Id -------9. The Date/Time Screen appears for a few seconds. 2011 8 31 22:39 DATE This screen displays the current year, month, day, and time. 10.The Battery Level and Alarm Pattern Screen appears next. bAtt 3.7 AL-H V AL -- H indicates latching (hold) alarms and AL -- A indicates selfresetting (automatic) alarms.
corner. bAtt 3.7 AL-H D: V 11.The display then indicates the following items for about a second each: • Full scale values for all channels • Warning setpoint (low gas alarm) for all channels • Alarm setpoint (high gas alarm) for all channels • STEL alarm setpoint for the CO channel • TWA alarm setpoint for the CO channel 12.If the Gas Tracer experiences a sensor failure during start up, a screen indicating which sensor failed displays.
13.The Gas Tracer is now operating in Bar Hole Mode. The pump is off and the following screen appears. BAR HOLE MODE CH4 O2 0 20.9 %LEL % 001 The methane and oxygen channels are displayed along with the battery charge level. Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment, Bar Hole Mode Before using the Gas Tracer, it is recommended to set the fresh air readings for the target gases by performing a fresh air adjustment. This will set the combustible gas channel to zero and the OXY channel to 20.9%. 1.
In a low-light environment, press and release the (SHIFT)▼ button to turn on the display backlight. Although the backlight will turn on when any button is pressed, other buttons may initiate an undesired operation sequence. See “Updating the LCD Back Light Time Setting” on page 167 to program backlight duration. If BEEP. SET is turned on in the Maintenance Mode menu, the Gas Tracer beeps once every 5 minutes to confirm that it’s operating.
begin with the sample period counting down in seconds in the lower right corner of the display. The CH4 channel will be displayed in %VOL. The methane channel’s reading will also be displayed in graph format on the left side of the screen. If you wish to cancel the measurement, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. BAR HOLE MODE 25 20.9 CH4 O2 30 MEASURE vol% % sec 5.
• Press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. The display will now indicate PURGE along the bottom of the screen and the purge time will begin counting down from 30 seconds in the lower right corner of the display. If you wish to cancel the purge, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. BAR HOLE MODE CH4 O2 0 20.9 30 vol% % sec PURGE • When the purge is complete, the screen will return to the initial Bar Hole Mode screen. BAR HOLE MODE CH4 O2 0 20.9 %LEL % 001 8.
Chapter 5: Using the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode Overview This chapter explains how to operate the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode. Leak Check Mode is used to pinpoint small leaks of combustible gas from valves, flanges, connections, and other potential leak points. When the Gas Tracer is in Leak Check Mode, only the combustible channel is displayed.
Tracer’s quick connect inlet fitting. NOTE: If a probe is used when using the Gas Tracer in Leak Check Mode, use the standard probe, not the bar hole probe. 3. Press and briefly hold down the POWER ENTER button. The Normal Mode Select Screen displays. CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 vol% %LEL % ppm NORMAL ? 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to scroll to the Leak Check Mode Select Screen. LEAK CK MODE LEAK CK MODE CH4 0 CH4 ppm 0 0 5000 L.C. MODE? CO 5000 L.C.
6. If CL RMNDR is turned on (factory setting), the screen that appears next depends on how CL EXPRD is set in the Maintenance Mode Menu (page 162). • If the unit is due for calibration and CL EXPRD is set to CONFIRM (factory setting), then the following screen displays. CAL C--LIMIT The alarm LED’s and buzzer will pulse several times. After this, press and release the RESET SILENCE button to continue.
• If calibration is not due or CL EXPRD is set to NO EFFECT, then the following screen appears for a few seconds indicating when the next calibration is due. 2011 9 30 69d NEXT CAL 7. If BP RMNDR is turned on (factory setting is OFF), the screen that appears next depends on how BP EXPRD is set in the Maintenance Mode Menu (page 162). • If the unit is due for a bump test and BP EXPRD is set to CONFIRM (factory setting), then the following screen displays.
page 129 for bump testing instructions. • If a bump test is not due or BP EXPRD is set to NO EFFECT, then the following screen appears for a few seconds indicating when the next bump test is due. 2011 9 30 10d NEXTBUMP NOTE: If both CL RMNDR and BP RMNDR are turned off, a WARM UP screen will display before the warm up sequence continues. 8. If ID DISP is turned on (see page 167), the User ID Screen displays for a few seconds and then the Station ID Screen displays for a few seconds.
9. The Date/Time Screen appears for a few seconds. 2011 8 31 22:39 DATE This screen displays the current year, month, date, and time. 10.The Battery Level and Alarm Pattern Screen appears next. bAtt 3.7 AL-H V AL -- H indicates latching (hold) alarms and AL -- A indicates selfresetting (automatic) alarms. The number shown indicates the voltage of the batteries. If the unit is powered by alkaline (dry cell) batteries, a “D” will appear before the “V” in the lower right corner. bAtt 3.7 AL-H D: V 11.
12.If the Gas Tracer experiences a sensor failure during start up, a screen indicating which sensor failed displays. In the example below, the combustible gas ppm sensor has failed. CH4 FAIL ppm SENSOR If the ppm sensor fails, it is not possible to enter Leak Check Mode. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button twice to acknowledge the failure and return to the Mode Select Screen. Replace the failed sensor as soon as possible.
3. Press and hold the AIR▲ button. The display will prompt you to hold the AIR▲ button. AIr CAL HOLD AIR 4. Continue to hold the AIR▲ button until the display prompts you to release the AIR▲ button. The Gas Tracer will set the fresh air reading for the combustible channel. Once the fresh air adjustment has finished, start up is complete and the unit is ready for leak testing. 5.
NOTE: The Gas Tracer is always detecting combustible gas up to 5000 ppm. The display range value is only adjusting what part of the detection range is displayed on the LCD. To change the display range value: 1. While in Leak Check Mode, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. The display range value displayed along the bottom of the screen will change. LEAK CK MODE CH4 0 500 ppm ppm F.S. Continue to press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button until the desired display range value is displayed. 2.
Overscale Conditions There are two overscale conditions that the Gas Tracer may experience while operating in Leak Check Mode. • Exceeding display range If you are using a display range of 500, 1000, or 2000 ppm and the gas level goes above the display range, the full scale value of the display range will be displayed but it will not be an overscale condition unless the gas level is above 5000 ppm.
NOTE: Pressing and holding the DISPLAY (ADJ) button will change the full scale setting for Leak Check Mode. Once you have made your buzzer selection, use the DISPLAY (ADJ) button to display the desired full scale. 2. Release the button when NO ALARM in the upper left corner appears or disappears. Peak Hold Mode Peak Hold Mode allows the user to view the peak methane reading for the operating session while viewing the current methane reading. To enter Peak Hold Mode: 1.
second beep and the Leak Check Mode Screen displays. Snap Log Mode, Leak Check Mode Operation The snap logging function in Snap Log Mode allows the user to record data at a specific time and have it saved to the data logger. The data is assigned a snap log ID and is saved with the station ID that was selected when the data was taken. NOTE: If CO DISP in Maintenance Mode is turned on and a CO reading is displayed, that CO reading will not be saved in the snap log data.
2. Use the (SHIFT)T and AIRS buttons to scroll to the desired station ID, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to continue to the Base Reading Screen. To return to the Station ID Select Screen without taking a base reading, press and release the RESET SILENCE button. LEAK CK MODE CH4 0 500 ppm ppm BASE 3. In order to get a base, or background, reading, take the instrument a few feet away from where you intend to test. To save the base reading, press and release the POWER ENTER button.
4. The unit will display SAVED along the bottom of the screen before continuing to the Peak Reading Screen. LEAK CK MODE CH4 PEAK 0 ppm 500 ppm PEAK 5. Take the instrument to the monitoring area. The instrument will retain and display the highest gas concentration encountered. To save the peak reading, press and release the POWER ENTER button. The reading on the screen (the highest concentration encountered) will be saved.
Mode. See “Snap Logging Screen” on page 56 for more information. Viewing Snap Log Data in Leak Check Mode Operation Snap log data can be viewed while in Leak Check Mode. If snap log data was taken while in Normal Operation, that data will also appear. 1. Turn the Gas Tracer on as described in “Turning On the Gas Tracer, Leak Check Mode” on page 101. 2. Press and hold the RESET SILENCE button and then press and hold the DISPLAY (ADJ) button and release both. 3.
number increases sequentially with each set of snap log data. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through different snap log IDs and view what time and day they were taken. Snap log data that was taken in Leak Check Mode operation will have two snap log ID numbers. One number is for the base reading and the other is for the peak reading. 5. To view the data in a snap log ID, press and release the POWER ENTER button.
The gas readings that were taken during the snap log are displayed and the Station ID that was in use during the snap log is displayed along the bottom of the screen. Snap log data that was taken in Leak Check Mode operation will have 2 sequential screens that are part of one data set. One screen is for the base reading and the other screen is for the peak reading. The peak reading value will have PEAK displayed below the peak bar.
Chapter 6: Maintenance Mode Overview This chapter describes the Gas Tracer in Maintenance Mode.
• turn the ID display function on or off • update the backlight settings • turn the autozero function on or off • turn the demand zero function on or off • update the Leak Check/Bar Hole Mode setting • update the bar hole sampling time • update the Leak Check Mode CO channel display setting • view the instrument’s firmware version and checksum information • turn the password function on or off and set the password The Gas Tracer is factory-set to suit most applications.
2. Press and hold the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons, then press and hold the POWER ENTER button. When you hear a beep, release the buttons. The unit will prompt you for a password. MAINTENANCE 0000 PASSWORD 3. Enter the password by using the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select each password number and then pressing and releasing POWER ENTER to enter it and move on to the next one. To go back a number, press and release the RESET SILENCE button.
6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to move through the menu item screens. Updating the Date and Time Settings 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the DATE menu item. MAINTENANCE DATE Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The date and time will be displayed with the year flashing. MAINTENANCE 2011 4 23 22:37 DATE 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired year. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting. The month setting flashes. 4.
Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment 1. Confirm you are in a fresh air environment that is free of toxic and combustible gases and of normal oxygen concentration, 20.9%. 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to navigate to the AIR CAL menu option. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter AIR CAL. The current gas readings are displayed. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 %LEL % ppm PUSH AIR 4. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button.
5. When the unit tells you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The unit will count down from 8 as it performs the fresh air adjust. MAINTENANCE AdJ 8 sec RELEASE Once it has finished, it will return to the AIR CAL menu screen.
and the %volume combustible gas calibration values screens. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 50 12.0 50 %LEL % ppm AUTO CAL MAINTENANCE CH4 100 vol% AUTO CAL 8. The gas concentrations displayed in the calibration values screens must match the gas concentrations listed on the calibration cylinders. If all concentrations match, go to step 16. If one or more concentrations do not match, continue with step 9. 9.
additional sensors. 15.After the last calibration value is set, use the AIR▲ button to scroll to ESCAPE and press POWER ENTER to return to the calibration gas values screens. NOTE: The RKI Three Gas Cylinder typically contains 12% O2 by volume. Be sure to set the “OXY” reading to agree with the concentration listed on the cylinder’s label, not zero. 16.Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to select which sensor(s) you want to calibrate, the standard 3 sensors or the %volume combustible gas sensor.
If any of the sensors cannot calibrate to the proper value, FAIL displays along the bottom of the screen and the Gas Tracer lists the sensor(s) that failed to calibrate. In the example below, the OXY channel failed calibration. The other sensors calibrated normally. MAINTENANCE O2 % FAIL The buzzer and alarm lights activate. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button after the buzzer and lights stop to reset the alarm and return to the calibration menu. Attempt to calibrate again.
Calibration cylinders that contain only one target gas may also be used for single calibration. For channels other than oxygen, RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends that you use a cylinder that contains a concentration of 10-50% of the full scale value of the target gas. For example, if you are calibrating the combustible gas channel, your calibration cylinder should have a combustible gas concentration between 10% LEL and 50% LEL. For the oxygen channel, RKI Instruments, Inc.
to calibrate (in this example the combustible gas % LEL sensor). If you have a 5 sensor unit, the %vol sensor will be one of the choices. It is shown below. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- vol% ONE CAL 8. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays for the sensor you selected. The gas reading flashes. MAINTENANCE 0 CH4 %LEL ONE CAL 9. Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute. 10.
12.Disconnect the tubing from the Gas Tracer’s probe. 13.Repeat steps 7 through 12 for any other sensors you want to calibrate. Make sure you use an appropriate calibration cylinder for each sensor. CAUTION: When calibrating the oxygen channel, verify the concentration of oxygen listed on the cylinder’s label. For oxygen-free samples (100% nitrogen for example), set the oxygen zero setting to 0.0%. 14.
bump test. These instructions assume you are using a 3-gas cylinder and a %volume methane cylinder. 1. Before performing a bump test, perform a fresh air adjustment as described in “Performing a Fresh Air Adjustment” on page 122. 2. Install the demand flow regulator onto the calibration cylinder. 3. Connect the sample tubing to the demand flow regulator. 4. Install the hose and probe to the Gas Tracer. 5. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP menu item. MAINTENANCE BUMP 6.
9. Before proceeding, confirm that the bump test gas value(s) are the same as the concentration(s) in the calibration cylinder. If they are not, adjust the bump test gas value(s) by entering the AUTO CAL menu item, changing the values there, and reentering the BUMP menu. 10.Connect the tubing from the demand flow regulator to the rigid tube on the probe, then quickly press and release the POWER ENTER button. The unit will begin counting down from 30. 11.
• To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP If one or more sensors fail the bump test, see “Troubleshooting” on page 175 to investigate the cause of the failure and replace the failed sensor or sensors if necessary. • Disconnect the tubing from the probe. 12.
• To return to the main menu, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the tubing from the probe. If any channel fails the bump test, • The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY. The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the lower right of the screen.
MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 1 12.0 5 %LEL % ppm BUMP/ MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 49 12.0 5 %LEL % ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in Maintenance Mode, press POWER ENTER at any time. If any channel failed the calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the tubing from the Gas Tracer’s probe. 13.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder. 14.
Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor The PPM sensor in the Gas Tracer needs to be calibrated and bump tested separately. It cannot be calibrated using the AUTO CAL or ONE CAL menu items in the main menu or bump tested using the BUMP menu item in the main menu. The PPM CAL menu item must be used. In addition, a 6 inch humidifier tube must be used to connect the zero air cylinder (if used for a WET fresh air adjustment) and the ppm calibration cylinder to the instrument. 1.
NOTE: It is recommended that you perform a fresh air adjust on the ppm sensor using a zero air cylinder and the DRY setting once every 6 months to maintain the accuracy of the ppm combustible gas reading. When performing a DRY fresh air adjustment, be sure to not use the humidifier tube. See “Performing a Dry Fresh Air Adjustment” on page 137 for instructions to perform a dry fresh air adjustment. 1. Once the warm up is complete, you will be in PPM Cal Mode and AIR CAL will be displayed.
NOTE: If you have just performed a DRY fresh air adjustment, allow the Gas Tracer to sample fresh air for 2 minutes before continuing. MAINTENANCE 50 CH4 ppm PUSH AIR 4. Be sure the Gas Tracer is in a fresh air environment. 5. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 6. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it.
1. Once the warm up is complete, you will be in PPM Cal Mode and AIR CAL will be displayed. You must perform a fresh air adjust before performing an auto calibration, a single calibration, or a bump test. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item. MAINTENANCE WET You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the DRY setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button.
8. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 9. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item. 10.Disconnect the tubing from the probe. 11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder.
7. The gas concentration displayed in the calibration value screen must match the gas concentration listed on the calibration cylinder. If the concentration matches, go to step 13. If the concentration does not match, continue with step 8. 8. To adjust the value on the screen, hold down the (SHIFT)▼ button, then press the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and release both. The calibration gas value turns into three dashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- ppm AUTO CAL 9. Press and release the POWER ENTER button.
bottom of the screen, then the AUTO CAL menu item displays. If the ppm sensor cannot calibrate to the proper value, FAIL displays along the bottom of the screen and the Gas Tracer indicates that the ppm sensor failed to calibrate. MAINTENANCE CH4 ppm FAIL The buzzer and alarm lights activate. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button after the buzzer and lights stop to reset the alarm and return to the AUTO CAL menu item. Attempt to calibrate again. If the failure continues, investigate the cause.
5. You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. Use the WET setting. NOTE: The DRY setting in ONE CAL is for factory use only. Do not perform a calibration in ONE CAL using the DRY setting. 6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The gas reading will be replaced by 3 dashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- ppm ONE CAL 7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays. The gas reading flashes.
NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself. 12.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder. 13.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the ESCAPE menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to the PPM CAL menu in Calibration Mode. 14.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.
6. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The bump test gas value will be displayed. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 BUMP ppm 30 7. Before proceeding, confirm that the bump test gas value is the same as the concentration in the calibration cylinder. If it is not, adjust the bump test gas value by entering the AUTO CAL menu item in the PPM CAL menu, changing the value there, and reentering the BUMP menu. 8.
• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP If the sensor fails the bump test, see “Troubleshooting” on page 175 to investigate the cause of the failure and replace the failed sensor if necessary. • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.
• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe. NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself.
If the ppm combustible sensor fails the bump test, • The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY. The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the lower right of the screen.
MAINTENANCE CH4 950 ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER ENTER at any time. If the sensor fails calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe. NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself. 11.Unscrew the demand flow regulator from the calibration cylinder. 12.
readings and reset the time in operation. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the LNCH BRK menu item. MAINTENANCE LNCH BRK 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE OFF LNCH BRK 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu.
2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE On LATCHING 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Alarm Silence Setting With ALM SLNC set to ON (factory setting), pressing and releasing the RESET SILENCE button silences the buzzer when the Gas Tracer is in alarm.
1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the ALM SLNC menu item. MAINTENANCE ALM SLNC 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE On ALM SLNC 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Data Log Interval Setting This setting indicates how often the Gas Tracer saves readings to the data logger.
2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE 300 LG INTVL 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Alarm Point Settings The ALARM--P menu item allows you to update one or more warning, alarm, STEL, and TWA (for CO) settings (the reading at which the Gas Tracer recognizes these conditions).
1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the ALARM--P menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- %LEL ALARM--P 2. You may then select a channel. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select a channel. The combustible gas channel is shown for example. 3. Press the POWER ENTER button to display the warning setting for the combustible channel. It will be flashing. MAINTENANCE CH4 10 %LEL WARNING 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to change the warning setting. 5.
7. Press POWER ENTER to save the setting. The unit will direct you back to the Alarm Points Screen where you can use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select the oxygen channel. MAINTENANCE O2 --- % ALARM--P Press POWER ENTER. 8. The first selection for the oxygen channel is the alarm pattern. MAINTENANCE O2 L-H ALM PTN The choices are L-H, L-LL, or H-HH. The L-H pattern provides a decreasing warning and an increasing alarm. The L-LL pattern provides a decreasing warning and a decreasing alarm.
11.Adjust the values for the warning and alarm settings using the procedure in step 4 through step 7. When you press POWER ENTER after selecting the alarm value, you will then be prompted to select the STEL value. MAINTENANCE CO 200 ppm STEL 12.Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to change the setting and press POWER ENTER when finished to save the setting. You will then be asked to enter a TWA value. MAINTENANCE CO 25 ppm TWA 13.
Turning the Clear Data Logger Screen On or Off The DLOG DSP menu item allows you to turn the Clear Data Logger Screen on or off. When set to ON (factory setting), the Clear Data Logger Screen appears in Display Mode and allows the user to clear any logged data. When set to OFF, the Clear Data Logger Screen does not appear in Display Mode and any logged data cannot be cleared from Display Mode. 1. Use the AIRS or (SHIFT)T buttons to display the DLOG DSP menu item. MAINTENANCE DLOG DSP 2.
Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off The BUMP DSP menu item is used to turn the bump test function on or off. If set to OFF, the BUMP menu item in Calibration Mode and Maintenance Mode does not appear. In addition, the BUMP--SET, BP INTVL, BP RMNDR, and BP EXPRD menu items will not display in Maintenance Mode. The factory setting is OFF. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BUMP DSP menu item. MAINTENANCE BUMP DSP 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button.
1. Use the AIRS or (SHIFT)T buttons to display the POFF DSP menu item. MAINTENANCE POFF DSP 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE OFF POFF DSP 3. Use the AIRS or (SHIFT)T button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Bump Test Parameters The BUMP--SET menu item is used to adjust the bump test parameters.
AUTO CAL. The cursor on the left of the screen shows which setting is associated with the parameter shown at the bottom of the screen. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll up or down along the list. MAINTENANCE 30 30 90 On GAS TIME 3. To update the GAS TIME setting, with the cursor next to the gas time and with GAS TIME displayed along the bottom of the screen, press POWER ENTER. The factory setting is 30 seconds. The value will begin to flash.
screen, press and release the POWER ENTER button. The value will begin to flash. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select a new cal time value. The choices are 90 and 120 seconds. Once a value is selected, press and release the POWER ENTER button to save it. The value will stop blinking. 6. To update the AUTO CAL setting, use the (SHIFT)▼ button to scroll to the AUTO CAL value. The factory setting is ON. With AUTO CAL set to ON, if a bump test fails, the unit will automatically begin a calibration.
full. With OVER WRT set to OFF, the Gas Tracer stops saving data to the data logger when the data logger memory is full. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the OVER WRT menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE On OVER WRT 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu.
Updating the Calibration Reminder Setting With CL RMNDR set to ON (factory setting), the Gas Tracer will give an indication at start up if it is due for calibration. The type of indication will depend on the CL EXPRD setting (see below). 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the CL RMNDR menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE On CL RMNDR 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the desired setting. 3.
1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the CL EXPRD menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE CAL SEL CONFIRM 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to display the desired setting along the bottom of the screen. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Calibration Check Setting This item setting defines which sensors are used to update the calibration reminder screen.
Updating the Bump Test Interval The BP INTVL setting defines the amount of time between bump tests. The minimum setting is 0 days and the maximum setting is 30 days. The factory setting is 30 days. NOTE: If the BUMP DSP menu item is set to OFF, this menu item does not appear. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BP INTVL menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen indicates the current setting. MAINTENANCE 30 BP INTVL 2.
Updating the Bump Test Reminder Setting With BP RMNDR set to ON, the Gas Tracer will give an indication at start up if it is due for bump testing. The type of indication will depend on the BP EXPRD setting (see below). With BP RMNDR set to OFF (factory setting), the Gas Tracer will give no indication at start up if it is due for bump testing. NOTE: If the BUMP DSP menu item is set to OFF, this menu item does not appear. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BP RMNDR menu item.
NOTE: If the BUMP DSP menu item is set to OFF, this menu item does not appear. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the BP EXPRD menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE tESt SEL CONFIRM 2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to display the desired setting along the bottom of the screen. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu.
Turning the ID Display Function On or Off With ID DISP set to ON, the User ID Screen and Station ID Screens display during start up and in Display Mode. The ID’s can be updated in Display Mode. With ID DISP set to OFF (factory setting), the User ID Screen and Station ID Screens do not display during start up or in Display Mode. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the ID DISP menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting.
3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Autozero Function With AUTO.ZERO turned ON, the Gas Tracer will automatically perform a fresh air adjust when it is turned on. With AUTO.ZERO function turned OFF (factory setting), this does not occur. WARNING: If you turn on the autozero function, you must ensure that the unit is in a fresh air environment when it is turned on. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the AUTO.ZERO menu item.
2. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to display the desired setting. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. Updating the Leak Check/Bar Hole Mode Setting With L./B. MODE turned OFF, the Gas Tracer will automatically enter Normal Mode when it is turned on. With L./B. MODE set to bH, you will be prompted to choose between Normal Mode and Bar Hole Mode when the Gas Tracer is turned on. With L./B.
Updating the Bar Hole Sampling Time The Bar Hole Sampling Time is the amount of time that the Gas Tracer samples a bar hole when being used in Bar Hole Mode. The 3 selections are 30, 45, and 60 seconds. The factory setting is 30 seconds. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the B.H. TIME menu item. MAINTENANCE B.H. TIME 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE 30 B.H. TIME 3.
1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the CO DISP menu item. MAINTENANCE CO DISP 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The screen will indicate the current setting. MAINTENANCE OFF CO DISP 3. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to display the desired setting. 4. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to save the setting and return to the main menu. ROM/SUM The ROM/SUM screen shows the firmware version that is loaded in the instrument and the firmware checksum. 1.
2. Press POWER ENTER again to return to the ROM/SUM menu screen. Turning the Password Function On or Off With PASSWORD set to ON, the Gas Tracer prompts you for a password when you enter Calibration Mode. With PASSWORD set to OFF (factory setting), no password is required to enter Calibration Mode. NOTE: A password is always required to enter Maintenance Mode even if PASSWORD is turned OFF. You may change the factory set password by turning PASSWORD ON and entering a new password when prompted for it. 1.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to select the remaining characters. When you press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the last number, the password is saved and you return to the main menu. Performing a Low Flow Setpoint Adjustment If your instrument repeatedly goes into low flow alarm and you have tried all of the recommendations in the Troubleshooting section, you may need to perform a low flow setpoint adjustment. 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the FLOW ADJ menu item.
4. You will return to the FLOW ADJ menu item in Maintenance Mode. Exiting Maintenance Mode 1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the START menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. 2. The unit will exit Maintenance Mode and begin its start up sequence.
Chapter 7: Gas Tracer Maintenance Overview This chapter describes troubleshooting procedures for the Gas Tracer. It also includes procedures for recharging the battery pack (rechargeable version), replacing the alkaline batteries (alkaline version), and replacing various consumable parts. WARNING: RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends that service, calibration, and repair of RKI instruments be performed by personnel properly trained for this work.
Table 8: Troubleshooting the Gas Tracer Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action • Display indicates “FAIL SYSTEM” during startup along with an error code. • A circuit fault has occurred on one of the PCB’s. 1. If the error code is 031, indicating a FLASH memory failure, press and release the RESET SILENCE button to continue to measuring mode keeping in mind that there will be no datalogging function. 2. If the error code is anything else, the instrument cannot be used. 3.
Table 8: Troubleshooting the Gas Tracer Probable Causes Recommended Action • The unit indicates flow failure and does not recover when RESET SILENCE is pressed and released. • The cotton filter in the probe or filter holder is dirty and clogged. • The sample hose has a kink or obstruction. • The hydrophobic filter disks or wire mesh disk are dirty and clogged. • The pump is malfunctioning. 1. Change the cotton filter in the probe or filter holder. 2.
Replacing or Recharging the Batteries WARNING: To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must only be changed in an area known to be nonhazardous. Replace the batteries when the battery icon indicates that the unit is in low battery warning. When in low battery warning, the lowest battery level indication bar is displayed in the battery icon on the LCD, and it will be flashing.
Replacing the Lithium Ion Battery Pack NOTE: Use Procell PC 1500 alkaline batteries, Duracell MN 1500 alkaline batteries, or RKI Instruments lithium ion battery pack 49-1615RK to maintain the CSA classification of the Gas Tracer. Use of other batteries will void the CSA classification and may void the warranty. 1. Turn off the Gas Tracer. WARNING: Do not remove the battery pack while the Gas Tracer is on. 2.
Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack in the Instrument CAUTION: To be used only with lithium ion battery pack p/n 49-1615RK. Charge only with RKI charger model BC-2009, p/n 49-2180RK, or RKI charger model BC-2009DC, p/n 49-2181RK. Use of other rechargeable batteries or chargers or charging of other rechargeable batteries in the Gas Tracer will void the warranty. 1. Make sure the Gas Tracer is off. 2. Confirm that the adapter’s DC output cord is plugged into the charger. 3.
If using a DC powered charging station, plug the 12 VDC vehicle plug adapter into a vehicle’s 12 VDC power socket. Power Supply Jack DC Adapter To Vehicle 12 VDC Power Socket Charge LED DC Powered Charging Station Figure 22: Connecting the Charging Station’s DC Adapter The construction of the charging stations allows them to be chained together but a separate adapter must be used for each charging station. One adapter will not operate more than one charging station. 4.
Red Charging LED Figure 23: Putting the Gas Tracer into the Charging Station 5. When a full charge has been reached, approximately 4 hours, the red LED on the charging station will turn off. Remove the Gas Tracer from the charging station and unplug the charging station’s power cord from the AC outlet. Recharging the Lithium Ion Battery Pack Out of the Instrument The lithium ion battery pack may be charged using the charging station while it is out of the Gas Tracer.
3. If using an AC powered charging station, plug the AC adapter into an electrical outlet.
If using a DC powered charging station, plug the 12 VDC vehicle plug adapter into a vehicle’s 12 VDC power socket. Power Supply Jack DC Adapter To Vehicle 12 VDC Power Socket Charge LED DC Powered Charging Station Figure 25: Connecting the Charging Station’s DC Adapter The construction of the charging stations allows them to be chained together but a separate adapter must be used for each charging station. One adapter will not operate more than one charging station.
4. Insert the battery pack into the charging station as shown in Figure 26 below so that the metal contacts on the back of the battery pack come into contact with the metal contacts in the charging station. When proper contact has been made, the red LED on the charging station will turn on. Battery Pack CHARGE GX-2012 OFF POWER BUMP CAL. SDM-2012 EDIT ENTER COPY 1SEC ON 3SEC OFF Figure 26: Putting the Battery Pack into the Charging Station 5.
6. To replace the CO filter, pull the old one out of its recess in the sensor gasket if it did not already come out and replace it with a new one. You do not have to remove the sensor gasket to do this. The CO filter sits in a recess on top of it. LEL Filter Sensor Gasket CO Filter Figure 27: Replacing the LEL and CO Filters 7. Insert the flow chamber back into the instrument. 8. Tighten the top screw of the flow chamber completely. 9.
Replacing a Sensor 1. Verify that the Gas Tracer is off. 2. Use a screwdriver to remove the three screws holding the belt clip to the back side of the instrument. Two of these screws also secure the flow chamber. 3. Remove the belt clip and unscrew the remaining screw holding in the flow chamber. 4. Grab the exhaust tube and pull it gently away from the unit to slide the flow chamber out of the unit. 5. Gently pull on the knob of the sensor gasket to remove it.
CAUTION: When replacing a sensor, verify that the sensor is properly aligned with its socket before inserting it into the socket. The CO sensor has alignment slots which match up with alignment tabs in the socket. The combustible sensors each have two nonpolarized contacts which must line up with the contacts in their socket. Forcing a sensor into its socket may damage the sensor or the socket. 8. If a dummy sensor is installed, be sure that it is installed correctly.
5. The hydrophobic disk filters and wire mesh disk are located in the case and are retained by a rubber gasket. Pull out the rubber gasket with needle nose pliers. Rubber Gasket Hydrophobic Disk Filter Cotton Dust Filter Filter Holder Wire Mesh Disk Installation Stub Figure 29: Changing the Filters & Wire Mesh Disk 6. Remove the old hydrophobic filters and/or wire mesh disk from the gasket. A hydrophobic filter is located on either side of the wire mesh disk. 7.
Parts List Table 9 lists part numbers for the Gas Tracer’s replacement parts and accessories.
Table 9: Parts List (cont.) Part Number Description 71-8005RK Gas Tracer Product CD 80-0009RK-XX Sample hose. Replace “XX” with length in feet. Available lengths for the GX2012 are 2, 3, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, and 50 feet.
Table 9: Parts List (cont.
Appendix A: Calibrating or Bump Testing with a Sample Bag Overview The Gas Tracer can be calibrated or bump tested with a gas bag calibration kit instead of a demand flow regulator kit. Appendix A describes how to use a sample bag calibration kit to calibrate and bump test the Gas Tracer. A parts list at the end of this appendix lists spare parts for the calibration kit.
To calibrate or bump test the Gas Tracer, you will need: • Known calibrating samples of the gases being detected. The combustible and toxic gas samples should have concentrations in approximately the middle of the range of detection. An oxygenfree source, such as 100% nitrogen is recommended for setting the oxygen zero when using single calibration. WARNING: When using auto calibration, the multi-gas cylinder must have an oxygen concentration in the range of 10% 18% oxygen.
Normal Mode Only” on page 20 or “Turning On the Gas Tracer in Normal Mode With All Modes Active” on page 26. Use the sample hose and probe. 3. With the unit on, perform a fresh air adjustment by pressing and holding the AIR▲ button. The display prompts you to hold the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 4. Continue to hold the AIR▲ button until the display prompts you to release it. The Gas Tracer will count down from 8 as it sets the fresh air reading for all channels.
the cylinder and immediately clamp down the hose clamp to prevent the release of gas from the gas collection bag. If a fixed flow regulator with a knob or a dispensing valve is used, turn the knob clockwise to stop the gas flow, clamp down the hose clamp and remove the regulator or dispensing valve from the cylinder. 6. Disconnect the tubing from the regulator or dispensing valve.
NOTE: The following screens illustrate a three-gas Gas Tracer with a %LEL and a %volume combustible sensor as examples only. Your Gas Tracer may display slightly different screens. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL The Gas Tracer’s calibration menu includes two methods of calibration: • Auto Calibration: This method allows you to calibrate the combustible gas (%LEL sensor only), OXY, and CO sensors simultaneously.
you are returned to the initial AUTO CAL screen and must begin the auto calibration process again. 2. Fill the gas bag with calibration gas as described in “Filling the Gas Bag” on page 195. 3. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to the AUTO CAL menu item. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the calibration values screen. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. 4.
6. To adjust the values on the screen, hold down the (SHIFT)▼ button, then press the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and release both. The %LEL sensor is shown. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- %LEL AUTO CAL 7. Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll through the sensors and select the sensor whose calibration gas value you want to adjust. 8. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The sensor’s calibration gas value will flash. 9. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to set the correct calibration gas value. 10.
14.With the 3-gas calibration values screen displayed, press the POWER ENTER button. AUTO CAL begins to flash and the current gas readings are displayed. If you want to exit back to the main menu without completing a calibration, press and release the DISPLAY (ADJ) button. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 0 20.9 0 %LEL % ppm AUTO CAL 15.Open the hose clamp and connect the tubing from the filled gas bag to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the gas to flow for one minute. 16.
%volume calibration value screen. If you are finished calibrating, use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode. Calibrating with the Single Calibration Method This section describes calibration using the Single Calibration method. To calibrate using the Auto Calibration method, see “Calibrating with the Auto Calibration Method” on page 197.
1. While in the calibration menu, use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT) ▼ button to scroll to the ONE CAL menu option. MAINTENANCE ONE CAL 2. Fill the gas bag with calibration gas as described in “Filling the Gas Bag” on page 195. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the single calibration menu. The %LEL sensor will be displayed first. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- %LEL ONE CAL 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button to display the sensor you want to calibrate (in this example the combustible gas % LEL sensor).
5. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays for the sensor you selected. The gas reading flashes. MAINTENANCE 0 CH4 %LEL ONE CAL 6. Connect the tubing from the filled gas bag to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for one minute. 7. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to adjust the reading to match the concentration listed on the calibration cylinder.
11.After the last channel is calibrated, disconnect the calibration tubing from the probe. 12.Use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to scroll to ESCAPE in the ONE CAL menu. 13.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to exit ONE CAL. 14.With the ONE CAL menu option displayed, press the (SHIFT)▼ button until the NORMAL menu option is displayed. 15.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode. Bump Testing NOTE: The BUMP DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is factory set to OFF.
From Measuring Mode, enter Calibration Mode by pressing and holding the (SHIFT)▼ button, then pressing the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and releasing both. If the unit prompts you for the password, enter it by using the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to select each password number and then pressing and releasing POWER ENTER to confirm it and move on to the next number. To go back a number, press and release the RESET SILENCE button.
3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to display the bump test gas values. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 50 12.0 50 BUMP %LEL % ppm 30 4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to see the %volume combustible gas bump test value. MAINTENANCE CH4 BUMP 100 vol% 30 5. A bump test may be performed on the standard 3 sensors or on the %volume combustible sensor. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the screen for the sensor(s) you wish to bump test. 6.
8. When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to OFF: • The instrument will display which channels passed or failed the bump test with a P (pass) or an F (fail) to the right of the gas. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO F P F %LEL % ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 1 12.
9. When AUTO CAL in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode is set to ON: If all channels pass the bump test, • The following screen appears: MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO P P P %LEL % ppm BUMP • To view the bump test gas readings press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas readings with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 45 12.0 47 %LEL % ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER.
lower right of the screen. The calibration time counted down during a calibration initiated because of a failed bump test is the difference between the bump test gas time and the calibration time defined in the BUMP--SET menu item in Maintenance Mode. MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 1 20.9 37 CAL • %LEL % ppm 60 At the end of the calibration, the instrument displays the results from both the bump test and the calibration.
MAINTENANCE CH4 O2 CO 49 12.0 5 %LEL % ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER at any time. If any channel failed the calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the tubing from the probe. 10.With the BUMP menu option displayed, press the (SHIFT)▼ button until the NORMAL menu option is displayed. 11.Press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode.
Calibrating and Bump Testing the PPM Combustible Sensor The PPM sensor in the Gas Tracer needs to be calibrated and bump tested separately. It cannot be calibrated using the AUTO CAL or ONE CAL menu items in the main menu or bump tested using the BUMP menu item in the main menu. The PPM CAL menu item must be used. In addition, a 6 inch humidifier tube must be used to connect the zero air cylinder (if used for a WET fresh air adjustment) and the ppm calibration cylinder to the instrument.
1. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the PPM CAL menu item. MAINTENANCE PPM CAL 2. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The display will indicate that the ppm sensor is warming up. MAINTENANCE 30 sec WARM UP 3. The recommended calibration sequence for a quarterly calibration is WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment. The recommended calibration sequence for a biannual calibration (every 6 months) is DRY fresh air adjustment, WET fresh air adjustment, WET span adjustment.
bump test. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL 2. If the instrument is not in a fresh air environment, fill the ga bag with zero air as described in “Filling the Gas Bag” on page 195. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item. NOTE: If you have just performed a DRY fresh air adjustment, allow the Gas Tracer to sample fresh air for 2 minutes before continuing. MAINTENANCE WET You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. 4.
tube and open the clamp allowing the instrument to draw zero air for 2 minutes. 6. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 7. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item. If a gas bag with zero air was used, disconnect the humidifier from the probe.
1. After entering Calibration Mode, and AIR CAL will be displayed. You must perform a fresh air adjust before performing an auto calibration, a single calibration, or a bump test. MAINTENANCE AIR CAL 2. Fill a gas bag with zero air as described in “Filling the Gas Bag” on page 195. 3. Press and release the POWER ENTER button to enter the AIR CAL menu item. MAINTENANCE WET You will be prompted to choose between WET and DRY. 4.
6. Hold down the AIR▲ button. The unit will prompt you to continue holding the AIR▲ button. MAINTENANCE AIr CAL HOLD AIR 7. When the unit prompts you to release the AIR▲ button, release it. The instrument will perform a fresh air adjustment on the ppm sensor and return you to the AIR CAL menu item. 8. Disconnect the tubing from the probe. Performing an Auto Calibration This section describes how to calibrate the PPM combustible gas sensor using auto calibration. 1.
If the concentration matches, go to step 11. If the concentration does not match, continue with step 6. 6. To adjust the value on the screen, hold down the (SHIFT)▼ button, then press the DISPLAY(ADJ) button and release both. The calibration gas value turns into three dashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- ppm AUTO CAL 7. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The sensor’s calibration gas value will flash. 8. If necessary, use the AIR▲ and (SHIFT)▼ buttons to set the correct calibration gas value. 9.
If the ppm sensor cannot calibrate to the proper value, FAIL displays along the bottom of the screen and the Gas Tracer indicates that the ppm sensor failed to calibrate. MAINTENANCE CH4 ppm FAIL The buzzer and alarm lights activate. Press and release the RESET SILENCE button after the buzzer and lights stop to reset the alarm and return to the AUTO CAL menu item. Attempt to calibrate again. If the failure continues, investigate the cause. See “Troubleshooting” on page 175. 14.
4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The gas reading will be replaced by 3 dashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 --- ppm ONE CAL 5. Press and release the POWER ENTER button. The single calibration screen displays for the sensor you selected. The gas reading flashes. MAINTENANCE CH4 0 ppm ONE CAL 6. Connect the humidifier from the gas bag to the rigid tube on the probe. Allow the calibration gas to flow for two minutes. 7.
PPM CAL menu in Calibration Mode. 11.Use the (SHIFT)▼ button to navigate to the NORMAL menu item, then press and release the POWER ENTER button to return to Measuring Mode. Performing a Bump Test This section describes how to bump test the PPM combustible gas sensor. NOTE: The BUMP DSP menu item in Maintenance Mode is factory set to OFF. The BUMP menu item will not appear unless BUMP DSP is set to ON. See “Turning the Bump Test Function On or Off” on page 157 for instructions.
4. Use the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons to display the WET setting and press and release the POWER ENTER button. The bump test gas value will be displayed. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 BUMP ppm 30 5. Before proceeding, confirm that the bump test gas value is the same as the concentration in the calibration cylinder. If it is not, adjust the bump test gas value by entering the AUTO CAL menu item in the PPM CAL menu, changing the value there, and reentering the BUMP menu. 6.
• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in Calibration Mode, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP If the sensor fails the bump test, see “Troubleshooting” on page 175 to investigate the cause of the failure and replace the failed sensor if necessary. • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe.
• To view the bump test gas reading press the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ button. You can scroll between the bump test results and the bump test gas reading with the AIR▲ or (SHIFT)▼ buttons. MAINTENANCE CH4 1000 ppm BUMP • To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER ENTER. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe. NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself.
If the ppm combustible sensor fails the bump test, • The instrument will beep and a calibration is immediately and automatically started. Continue to apply the calibration gas. CAL on the bottom left of the screen will alternate with APPLY. The calibration time will begin to countdown in seconds in the lower right of the screen.
MAINTENANCE CH4 950 ppm /CAL • To return to the BUMP screen in PPM CAL, press POWER ENTER at any time. If the sensor fails calibration, the buzzer will sound a double pulsing tone until you press and release the POWER ENTER button. MAINTENANCE BUMP • Disconnect the humidifier from the probe. NOTE: Grasp the humidifier tube assembly by the clear tubing at the end, not the humidifier tube itself. 9.
Parts List Table 10: Sample Bag Calibration Kit Spare Parts Part Number Description 81-0016RK-05 Calibration cylinder, 100% volume methane in nitrogen, 58 liter 81-0018RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 50% isobutane in air, 34 liter 81-0090RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 3-gas mix, LEL/Oxygen/CO, 34 liter 81-1001RK Dispensing valve, for 17/34 liter cylinders 81-1051RK Regulator with gauge and knob, 34AL/58 liter/103 liter cylinders,0.