Many devices nowadays are becoming portable and even some complex instruments have become too with a good example being an exhaust analyzer. Also known as a flue gas analyzer, it's a tool that measures gases produced by a fossil-burning system. Be it an appliance or a vehicle, a portable exhaust gas analyser is able to provide you with the exact levels of different gasses.
These gasses are usually CO (Carbon Monoxide), CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) and O2 (Oxygen). With a flue exhaust gas analyzer, you ensure that your vehicle's exhaust system is running safely and efficiently. Since we're talking about the portable version you need to keep certain things to get accurate results.
Tips on Using an Exhaust Gas Analyzer
Water Trap
Make sure that the water trap of the device is always dry and clear before you switch it on as it should be getting fresh air when you do so. You should also check water trap levels as well as the filters. If there is water ingress in a portable exhaust gas analyzer you could be expecting quite an expense. A dirty set of filters can also bring down your device's performance.
Probe
Avoid putting the probe first and then turning on your car. This is because upon startup a vehicle generates high levels of CO2 which can end up damaging your device's CO2 sensor. You should use a unit with CO2 over-range protection.
Checks
Before you use a portable exhaust gas analyzer you should make sure that you check its time and date. Set them up correctly if they're not correct and also check the charge of the battery. If there isn't enough juice make sure to charge it. Also, check the calibration period of the device it should be well within it otherwise it won't give correct results.
Overnight
When you store a flue gas analyzer overnight you should be careful not to leave it in a cold place. Because when you take it into a warm place in the morning condensation can affect the operation of the analyzer.
Exhaust Gas Analyzer Maintenance
When Using
What you should be careful of most when using an exhaust analyzer is the CO level it's measuring. If it's too high it can get the sensor damaged. But some analyzers will warn you with an audible alert when CO levels are high.
After Use
It's important that when you're done using an exhaust gas analyzer you get rid of any excess condensation from the probe and trap. Make sure to reseal the trap and check the filter for any dirt. Replace it if needed.
Storage & Calibration
An exhaust gas analyzer should be stored in a way that it'll stay protected from extreme temperatures. You should keep it at room temperature as an extreme case of cold or heat can cause damage to the battery as well as the sensors. After a certain period of using a flue gas analyzer, it will go out of calibration. While not using the device as much will make it drift off slower but that doesn't mean you should bring it in for calibration according to local regulations.
What to Look for in Exhaust Gas Analyzers
Functions
There are some features that you should have on your exhaust gas analyzer as they will help make your use and measurements more convenient and adequate. These involve stack or inlet temperature measurement, combustion efficiency or excess air measurement, a logger function, draft measurement and a tuning guide for the adjustment of the combustion process.
Battery
Since this is a portable device, battery life plays a big role in how it functions and how long it can perform measurements. Battery life varies as not every device has the same battery capacity or capabilities. But if you can work for 6 hours without a break then you have yourself a dependable device.
Weight & Size
Portability depends on the weight and size of a gas analyzer. Therefore you should look for a light and small device. While this shouldn't go to extremes as you could end up sacrificing performance for it which is a no-go. Usually, a device that is under 700 g is considered to be quite portable.
Ease of Use
Although this is a complex device, this shouldn't be the case when it comes to using it. A gas analyzer should have a large display and it should come with touchpad operation so you don't need to use buttons. You should also be able to print out any measurements on site which will make it a lot easier to share results with others. Also, a graphic display of results will make it a lot easier to scan through them.
Conclusion
While gas analyzers are used to keep your vehicle and even appliances running properly they too need to be running properly as otherwise it would all be for nothing. Knowing how to properly use a gas analyzer means you're taking good care of it and your vehicle.
