The GasAlertMax XT from BW Technologies/Honeywell International Inc. offers municipal workers a compact, lightweight, hand-held monitor with one-button operation for monitoring the levels of dangerous gases in sewer lines for confined-space entry. The water-resistant unit weighs 11.1 ounces and measures 5.1 by 2.8 by 2 inches. An easy-to-read LCD panel can display data in English, French, German, Spanish and Portuguese. It simultaneously displays the concentrations of oxygen (0 to 30.0 percent), carbon monoxide (0 to 1,000 ppm), hydrogen sulfide (0 to 200 ppm) and combustible gases (0 to 100 percent LEL and 0 to 5.0 percent v/v).
The data is displayed in real time, along with the units of measurement. The panel also displays icons that verify that the detector and pump are functioning and indicate the remaining life of the rechargeable battery, which can operate for 13 hours.
The unit warns operators of dangerous gas levels with an audible alarm, vibration and a visual cue. Alarm modes include low, high, time-weighted average, short-term exposure limit, and over limit. The alarm set points for all sensors can be adjusted for different applications. When the unit is turned on, it automatically self-tests the sensor, battery, circuit integrity and the audible and visual alarms.
An advantage of the device is an integrated sampling diaphragm pump that is easier to use than external pumps and promotes uniform, consistent airflow. SmartSample technology improves the accuracy of remote sampling.
“An integrated pump allows real-time sampling, and the instrument monitors the operation of the pump,” says Billy Grewal, product marketing manager. “There’s not a lot of training required. And if it’s easier to operate, even if you’re wearing gloves, there’s a higher likelihood it will be used.”
Other features include a built-in, concussion-proof boot to increase durability; tamper-proof field operation; simple auto-calibration; and standard data-logging and event-logging software. For information, call 888/749-8878 or visit www.gasmonitors.com.
