Phocheck PID Detects Volatile Organic Compounds

Ion Science has introduced the Phocheck Tiger photoionisation detector (PID) for rapid, accurate detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The instrument's PID technology provides a dynamic detection range of 1ppb to 20,000ppm. Phocheck Tiger is pre programmed with more than 450 response factors. Its software features mean the instrument requires no complicated programming and set-up procedures to perform both basic and advanced functions.

The instrument has a fast response time and is quick to clear down. Phocheck Tiger can be connected directly to a PC via the USB for fast data download capabilities. Wireless data download via a Bluetooth interface is available as an option. The instrument's Fence Electrode Technology has received independent verification for speed and accuracy, effectively minimising contamination effects. The instrument's high performance in high humidity environments is achieved without impairing other features.

Phocheck Tiger has been designed for the safe replacement of batteries in hazardous environments. Long-life rechargeable Li-ion batteries give up to 30 hours of use. Fast battery charging allows the instrument to be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours charge. The six-pin miniPID detector cell with anti-contamination design extends run time in the field. Low-cost filters and lamps can be changed in seconds, minimising downtime.

Inexpensive disposable parts mean Phocheck Tiger has low running costs. The detector can be upgraded with a range of functions to choose from. A base unit can be upgraded with data logging, health and safety and ppb options, remotely, without needing to be returned to the factory. Phocheck Tiger has a rugged design and its protective, removable rubber boot withstands harsh environments. The large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument's probe into dimly lit areas.

The device offers simple keypad operation with an icon-driven menu. The illuminated software keys are large enough to be operated even when wearing thick gloves. The instrument has two 95dBA audible alarms, two bright flashing LEDs and a vibration alarm. Each function can be selected, switched off or turned down as required. IECEx, UL and CSA approved, Phocheck Tiger is globally certified as intrinsically safe for use in hazardous areas.

Designed to IP65, the instrument provides optimal resistance to moisture, dust and contamination. Target industries and applications for Phocheck Tiger include industrial safety, environmental, petrochemical, chemical, indoor air quality and hazardous materials. Phocheck Tiger is available from Ion Science or through its global network of distributors and comes with a five-year warranty as standard.

Conductive Compounds Reduce Static Noise

Connectors Unlimited has worked with RTP Company to formulate and supply plastic materials for a shielding solution for analogue cable and circuit connectors. Several static dissipative and conductive compounds were chosen for the improved static control they provided. 'The fundamental reason for using RTP Company's conductive plastics in our analogue connectors is to minimise noise interference in the electronic signal, which is primarily caused by static charge,' explained Marty Ignasiak, president of Connectors Unlimited.

'By effectively reducing static charges, we're able to improve the signal-to-noise ratio in our connectors and thus upgrade overall performance of devices,' he added. When selecting a supplier of conductive plastic compounds, Connectors Unlimited engineers kept three critical requirements in mind: thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity and structural rigidity. Maintaining dimensional stability of the analogue circuits during manufacturing was a huge concern for their engineers, according to Ignasiak.

Company engineers ended up choosing several different RTP Company conductive compounds that provide varying levels of static protection to circuit connectors. Base resins for the compounds are RTP 300 Series polycarbonate and RTP 3400 Series liquid crystal polymer. To maintain rigidity during assembly that may include soldering processes, glass and carbon fibre reinforcement are utilised along with flame-retardant packages to meet UL94 flammability requirements.

The LCP materials are suitable when components must undergo electronic or solvent cleaning. 'The RTP Company materials we chose maintain excellent stiffness, while at the same time providing an array of static reduction levels, ranging from slightly static dissipating to fully conductive,' said Ignasiak.