PlantCO2 is a technical partner that provides cultivators with CO2 enrichment solutions to maximize their yields. David Goodnack, an engineer with an indoor agriculture background founded PlantCO2 while frustrated by traditional food and beverage CO2 suppliers that lacked cultivation knowledge or cultivation specific solutions. For facility owners and cultivators, PlantCO2 is the technical partner that brings innovation and cultivation knowledge to the CO2 space.
When it comes to cultivation facilities, the need to implement CO2 is an essential component for growth and development of overall crops. Enhanced CO2 levels can significantly impact plant yields by 30%. At PlantCO2, they are changing the game in the indoor grow space by providing full turn-key solutions specific to cultivation needs including stamped MEP drawings, enrichment manifolds, CO2 safety equipment, bulk CO2 tanks, and CO2 supply contracts. Customers start by receiving free CO2 usage estimates, tank sizing, and enrichment / life safety design.
While there are many others working in the indoor cultivation space, few are offering such turn-key solutions and truly making a recognized name for themselves like David at PlantCO2. By challenging industry norms and providing turnkey CO2 solutions, they are able to develop cultivation facilities from design to production. This is particularly relevant for indoor cultivation, where urban farmers continue to search for innovators in the space to help them maximize yields.
The team at CO2Meter has been fortunate to forge great partnerships like that with PlantCO2, who utilize our multi gas safety systems for their life safety design. This helps growers stay protected from elevated gas concentrations and safeguard themselves should a potential leak ever occur. By installing CO2 safety systems in their facilities, growers can continuously monitor CO2 with alerts at pre-set elevated levels. These systems can also trigger third party control panels or send an alert to the fire department in the event of a leak to meet local fire code compliance.
We recently interviewed David Goodnack, CEO at PlantCO2, to discuss the importance of our partnership and how their experience has been with using our carbon dioxide safety solutions in the field.
About PlantCO2
CO2Meter: Tell us a little bit about your company and how you got started?
David: “I worked for the past 5 years selling automation and environmental controls equipment in the cannabis and leafy green space. I noticed that cultivators continuously asked for referrals for CO2 equipment. Unlike other categories like lights and HVAC I didn’t have any great options for my customers. Months later I left my job to start PlantCO2.com knowing that I could offer the industry a better solution. PlantCO2.com now offers free CO2 design, CO2 usage calculations, Bulk CO2 tank sizing and CO2 equipment. Using these tools, I help cultivators create a solution for their facility that maximize yields while keeping their employees safe and fire code compliant. Customers no longer need to utilize multiple vendors to source equipment to then have to figure out how it can all work together.”
CO2Meter: Tell us about your fields specialty areas?
David: “At PlantCO2, our specialty areas include engineering, cultivation environments, CO2 enrichment, CO2 life safety, and overall creating a complete package and experience for our customers."
CO2Meter: What are you trying to solve by using our products?
David: “CO2Meter.com provides a simple, easy to use, and easy to understand system. Life safety is a critical component when enriching environments with CO2. CO2Meter.com is the foundation of my solution that I build upon to provide a complete commercial solution to cultivators. By building my solution starting with great partners, I have technical resources, great customer service, and a very reliable product. The RAD-0102-6 or CM-7000 units are used to sense elevated CO2 levels, alarm, isolate CO2 sources, and trigger exhaust fans for my customers."
CO2Meter: How has monitoring the CO2 in your space (or your customers) affected the crops?
David: ““PlantCO2.com is using CO2Meter.com for life safety monitoring. Without CO2Meter.com products in place the customers would not be able to enrich their spaces with CO2. The CO2 enrichment can increase plant growth by 30% and their safety monitors help ensure they are protected from higher-than-normal thresholds."
Pictured Above: Multi Gas Safety System
CO2Meter: Tell us about the device(s) you chose specifically and any main features you feel are most valuable?
David: “The RAD-0102-6 is the workhorse of our solution as it provides a reliable simple to use system that can be applied to each cultivation room. The CM-7000 system is when we have challenging facilities that need a customizable solution. PlantCO2 integrates to safety isolation valves, exhaust purge systems, and cultivation systems using the relays on the RAD-0102-6 or the CM-7000.
CO2Meter: Why did you choose CO2Meter as a solutions provider, and utilize them for your business?
David: “CO2Meter.com has a very straight forward package (RAD-0102-6) specifically. Customers understand how to set this up and I get very few support calls to assist in setup. If I went with another manufacturer, I would likely have a lot more support involved with the product."
CO2Meter: When looking at overall documentation and/or resources, what did you find the most helpful?
David: “Josh Pringle is an Allstar! The product resources like the wiring diagram and FAQ's were very helpful. The manual was fairly straightforward as well."
CO2Meter: What, if any, recommendations would you have for us to improve our devices for your industry?
David: "I'd like to see some modifications to allow the equipment to be hardwired. In commercial grow environments no one wants to plug something into a wall outlet. Installers are also expecting to be able to run conduit to the device and teh equipment it's controlling."
CO2Meter: Can you tell us briefly about your overall experience in using CO2Meter gas detection solutions?
David Goodnack: "So far CO2Meter.com has excellent customer service and has helped me design initial solutions for customers. CO2Meter.com continues to support me to be successful with the solutions I provide to my customers."
"PlantCO2.com trusts CO2Meter.com in all of our solutions for commercial cultivation facilities. CO2Meter.com is aligned with PlantCO2.com with respect to supporting their customers, product reliability, and great experiences every time."
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While there are many types of cultivation specialists in the indoor agriculture space providing CO2 solutions, PlantCO2 is at the forefront of this evolving field and David Goodnack is committed to providing quality solutions at full-scale for his customer base.
We're proud to help them achieve customer safety and aid in continuing to grow their business.
A CO2 gas detector is at the heart of any CO2 safety system. A CO2 safety system used audible and visual alarms to warn if indoor carbon dioxide concentrations exceed the normal gas safety thresholds.
CO2 safety systems are used in restaurants, breweries, indoor agriculture facilities and industrial manufacturing plants, to name a few.
Overall, CO2 safety systems are crucial for maintaining safe working environments in settings where tanks or cylinders of compressed CO2 is present, helping to prevent accidents, injuries, and potentially fatal situations caused by high concentrations of carbon dioxide. Click here to learn more about CO2 safety systems and gas detection solutions.
Most modern carbon dioxide detectors use a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor that measures infrared light in a sample of air. This technology is useful as the amount of light that passes through the air sample is inversely proportional to the number of carbon dioxide molecules in the air.
CO2 gas detectors use an NDIR CO2 sensors that detects the presence of CO2 molecules in the air based on the absorption of infrared light.
As IR light passes through a sample tube of air, the CO2 gas molecules absorb a single band of IR light while letting other wavelengths of light pass through. At the other end of the tube, the remaining light hits an optical filter that absorbs every wavelength of light except the wavelength absorbed by the CO2. The remaining CO2 molecules are counted by an infrared light detector which sends an analog voltage to the sensor's circuitry. In this way, a carbon dioxide sensor can be said to "count" the number of CO2 molecules in the air.
Learn more about how a CO2 sensor works here
For those that store, produce, or use carbon dioxide - exposure to high levels of CO2 in enclosed areas can lead to severe negative health effects like headaches, dizziness, fatigue, asphyxiation, and even fatality. Because of injuries in buildings that do not have proper monitoring in place, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established a permissible exposure limit (PEL) for CO2 of 5,000 ppm averaged over an 8-hour work day.
Overall, if you are using carbon dioxide and working in or around the gas, CO2 safety detectors should always be used in order to initiate an audible or visual alarm to alert individuals in the room where potential CO2 levels could be dangerous to their health.
See our CO2 gas detectors for safety.
CO2 detectors are also used as a proxy measurement of indoor air quality. High levels of CO2 indicate poor air exchange. Poor air exchange is linked to room occupant discomfort as well as increased levels of mold, mildew, bacteria, particulate matter and viruses either floating in the air or carried on water droplets in the air.
See our CO2 gas detectors that measure indoor air quality.
No. While both carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are important, they are very different. A CO2 detector will not detect CO, and vice versa. While both gases have some similarities they are very different.
One critical differentiator is that carbon dioxide is natural and non-flammable, while carbon monoxide is the product of incomplete combustion and flammable. While carbon dioxide can be naturally found in the earth's atmosphere, carbon monoxide is not.
Note that the density of both gases is also very different. CO2 is heavier than CO. For this reason, a CO2 detector should be near the floor while a CO detector should be placed near the ceiling to ensure proper detection.
No. A CO2 gas detector cannot detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas. Conversely, a CO detector will not detect CO2.
A CO detector sounds an alarm if it senses elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the air near a furnace or gas burning appliances.
Learn more about the difference between carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide here.
While carbon dioxide is in the air naturally, in larger volumes (> 1,000 ppm) it can affect your health. For instance, excess CO2 can cause individuals to experience headaches, fatigue, nausea, asphyxiation, or convulsions.
Fortunately, being aware of carbon dioxide concentrations indoors can help prevent negative health effects from occurring and create healthier lifestyles.
Here are 4 sources of carbon dioxide indoors, and how to lessen their impact:
By using a carbon dioxide detector or indoor air quality monitor like the Aranet4 PRO indoor air quality monitor, you can easily and affordably measure carbon dioxide levels.
These devices also use a quality NDIR sensor that gives the device the ability to quickly measure the amount of CO2 in the air in real-time.
Should levels exceed the normal threshold the device will show instant visual/audible indication so you are alerted to ventilate the space and mitigate from harmful CO2 exposure. When it comes to CO2 levels in a home, many individuals also look to ASHRAE which sets standards in place for recommended indoor air CO2 concentrations.
According to ASHRAE, the recommended CO2 level in buildings should be no more than 700 parts per million (ppm) above the levels in the outdoor air. Since outdoor air in most areas is approximately 400 ppm, indoor CO2 levels should be no more than approximately 1,100 ppm.
Here are 3 benefits to improving indoor air quality with CO2 monitoring:
See all our desktop CO2 monitors here.
This depends on your application:
CO2 detectors are commonly triggered when the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air exceeds a predefined threshold level. This threshold is typically set to ensure the safety of individuals or employees within the space. Several factors can trigger a CO2 detector:
The primary trigger for a CO2 detector is often a high concentration of CO2 in the air. When the CO2 level exceeds the predetermined safe limit, the detector will be activated. In settings where CO2 is stored or used in compressed form, such as breweries or industrial plants, leaks from storage tanks, faulty lines, or equipment can also result in a sudden increase in CO2 concentration, prompting the CO2 gas detector to alarm.
Once triggered, CO2 detectors typically activate alarms or warning signals instantly in order to alert occupants and prompt appropriate action to mitigate hazard or personal harm from occurring.
The average lifespan of a CO2 detector can vary depending on factors such as quality of the device, its components, usage, and overall environmental conditions.
The most common carbon dioxide detectors typically use nondispersive infrared sensors at their core and last anywhere from 10-15 years with proper use.
When it comes to purchasing or selecting your first C02 detector there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best quality product for your industry or application.
For starters, you want to have a detector that includes quality features and should look at CO2 detectors similar to purchasing a car. Not only do you want a quality product, you want an affordable cost, easy operation - and above all else the ability to ensure safety or air quality analysis.
Below are the top 5 features customers look for prior to purchasing any CO2 detector:
For more information on CO2 sensing technologies or to speak to a CO2Meter expert, contact us at Sales@CO2Meter.com or 877-678-4259
]]>Compressed gas safety is critical to anyone working around cylinders or tanks of compressed or liquid gas.
Compressed gas is typically stored in a high-pressure vessel designed to transport gas at pressures above atmospheric. These cylinders are made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum, and is fitted with a valve to control the release of the gas.
Compressed gas cylinders and tanks are also used in a wide range of industries for a variety of purposes, including welding, pharmaceutical, hospitality, agriculture, and industrial manufacturing. Proper handling and storage of compressed gas cylinders is critical to ensure safety and prevent accidents.
Compressed gas is defined as, "a mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 40 psi at 70°F (21.1°C); or a gas or mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at 130°F (54.4°C)."
Many hazards are commonly associated with working in and around compressed gases including:
Because of these hazards, standards have been put in place in order to mitigate injury and provide awareness to the hazards associated with compressed gases, equipment, control, and handling.
Compressed gases can be categorized into four different types based on their properties and applications. These four types are:
Compressed gas can be dangerous for many reasons but one of the main reasons is due to its storage and high pressure. When gas is stored in specific environments under pressure the gas can escape with great force causing physical harm to those working near the gas or to the property surrounding it.
In addition, some compressed gases can be toxic and can cause severe harm or fatality for anyone exposed to high concentrations. Serious negative health effects could occur such as long-term damage to respiratory systems, nervous damage, or asphyxiation.
Some compressed gases are also reactive and can cause explosions or fires when they come in contact with other substances or chemicals. Mixing incompatible gases can also cause a violent reaction and release of energy. In order to minimize the risks associated with compressed gases, individuals should understand how to safely handle these gases and adhere to proper protocol to safeguard themselves and those around them when working with the gases.
Compressed and industrial gas cylinders or tanks are used to store flammable or inert gases. Many of these cylinders are often stored at extremely high pressures (around 2,000 psi). This represents a massive amount of potential energy. If the gas is suddenly released it is an immediate hazard to life and health.
Improper handling of cylinders could results in sprains, falls, bruises, and severe injury. Other hazards from improper handling of industrial gas cylinders include fire, explosion, burns, and overexposure if gases escape from the cylinders due to mishandling.
OSHA states that compressed gases must be handled and used only by trained employees. Employers must inform employees about chemical hazards through a hazard communication program, labels, and other forms of warnings. It's also important to always consult the gas manufacturer's safety data sheets (SDSs) for specific information.
In addition the immediate release of compressed gas in an enclosed area can cause asphyxiation due to the mixture of the gas in the air quickly lowering the oxygen level.
When handling compressed gas cylinders of any size there are a few safety recommendations such as:
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has established several guidelines for the handling, storage, and use of compressed gas in the workplace. Here are some of the key OSHA guidelines for compressed gas:
Labeling: All compressed gas containers must be labeled with the name of the gas, the hazard warning, and any safety precautions.
Storage: Compressed gas containers must be stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources, open flames, or other sources of ignition. They must be properly secured and protected from damage.
Handling: Compressed gas containers must be handled carefully, using appropriate lifting equipment or carts. They must not be dropped, rolled, or struck.
Transport: Compressed gas containers must be transported securely and in accordance with OSHA regulations, using appropriate vehicles and shipping methods.
Inspection: Compressed gas containers must be inspected regularly for signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks. Damaged or leaking containers must be removed from service immediately.
Training: Employees who handle, use, or store compressed gas must receive appropriate training on the hazards and safety precautions associated with each gas. They must also be trained on the proper handling, storage, and emergency procedures.
Emergency procedures: Employers must have written emergency procedures in place in case of a gas release or other emergency. Employees must be trained on these procedures and know how to respond in case of an emergency.
By following these OSHA guidelines, employers can ensure a safe working environment for employees who handle or work with compressed gas.
OSHA has several regulations specifically addressing the safe handling, storage, and use of compressed gas cylinders in the workplace. Some of the key OSHA regulations related to cylinders include:
These regulations provide further detail and guideline for employers to follow to ensure the safe handling and storage of compressed gas cylinders in the workplace. Employers are responsible for familiarizing themselves with these regulations and implementing appropriate measures to protect the health and safety of their employees.
Here are the OSHA compressed gas cylinder storage tips:
Other precautions and DON'TS:
At CO2Meter we are fortunate to have forged great partner relationships with gas suppliers like Helget Gas Products, systems integrators like General Air Products as well as trade associations like the Compressed Gas Association (CGA), all of whom all stand by carbon dioxide safety as a key component to the services and standards that they offer.
And, when we think about key players when it comes to compressed gases, no association puts greater emphasis on the development and promotion of safety standards in the industry than the Compressed Gas Association. For more than 100 years, the CGA has continued to help promote, develop, and train individuals around the world on compressed gas safety and compliance.
The team at CO2Meter has been more than fortunate to partner with the CGA in getting the gas safety messaging out in the public realm as well as sharing valuable tools to our customers.
Below, we have highlighted a few of the main Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards and CGA references as they relate to compressed gas, safety, and equipment protocols.
Industry | OSHA Standards | Additional Resources | ||
1910 Subpart H - Hazardous Materials |
|
Related Information | ||
1910 Subpart M - Compressed Gas and Compressed Air Equipment | 1910.169, Air receivers. | Related Information | ||
1910 Subpart Q - Welding, Cutting and Brazing |
|
Related Information | ||
1910 Subpart T - Commercial Diving Operations |
1910.430, Equipment. |
Related Information |
When it comes to protecting yourself from compressed gases, gas detection safety devices are ideal and can provide protection for yourself, your employees, and your establishment by monitoring and assessing one of the four main gases: oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, or methane.
While these devices can typically come in two forms either portable gas detectors or fixed gas detectors - both options can be used to detect hazardous gas concentrations by audible and visual alarms should dangerous concentrations occur and indicate should a confined space be dangerous to enter.
Learn more about choosing the right gas detection safety solution here.
See all our gas safety monitors that meet OSHA compliance standards here.
Whether your company has just received a visit from a compliance officer or you are setting up a new facility, it's important to understand how to handle compressed gas cylinders and the safety precautions to take.
While each type of industrial gas has its own hazards, it is vital to understand that you should always read the label on the cylinder and the material safety sheet (MSDS) for specific safety instructions and information.
Below we highlight a few additional gas safety training courses to provide further insights to safe use, handling and storage:
When it comes time to act fast in an emergency, such as a chemical fire or a gas cylinder leak you must be able to do the following:
Please note: In most compressed gas emergencies, all major compressed gas suppliers have an emergency response team that can be activated by calling the number directly printed on the shipping document or MSDSs.
To view CO2Meter's best practice guide and whitepaper on standard operating procedure in the event of a gas leak, click here to download.
For more information on OSHA compliance and best practices, click here or contact a CO2Meter specialist at Sales@CO2Meter.com
]]>Cryogenic safety is ensuring proper procedures are followed when working with cryogenic gases and liquids.
Cryogenic gases (called cryogens) include argon, helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, methane and CO2. These gases are used to produce very low temperatures in the laboratory, in research facilities, in medicine and in industry.
Cryogens are created by pressurizing gases above their triple point where they change state from a gas to a liquid. In their liquid state they are very cold. The development of the process of creating and storing low temperature gases has opened up the field of cryogenics from the research lab to a host of industrial and health-related processes around us.
Learn more about cryogenics here.
While cryogenics has created great benefits, cryogens, if not handled correctly, can be unsafe. It's important to know what cryogenic gases are, how they are used and how they can be used safely.
Cryogenic gases and liquids are used far more often than you might imagine. For example, the cryogenic liquid; nitrogen, is used as an industrial cryogenic gas to freeze plastic before it is ground up and recycled. Applications such as these continue to use cryogenic gases in many different areas such as cryogenics, food preservation, cryosurgery, cryotherapy and cryospa services.
All applications that use cryogenic liquids or gases require safety monitoring as detailed by OSHA. Monitoring nitrogen or carbon dioxide requires oxygen depletion monitoring. Oxygen is normally 20.9% in ambient air. As it is displaced by other gases in an enclosed area, the oxygen level can drop to 18% - the OSHA minimum oxygen level for workplace safety.
Here are some of the many applications where cryogenic gases are used:
Food processing, an industry that mainly uses liquid nitrogen driven with high density (BTU) available by weight. CO2 is used as well where higher volumes of gas are required because of the process dynamics. Either gas is interchangeable with modified process times, in flush tunnel and immersion processes.
In the case of CO2 storage, normally 0.04% in the atmosphere, gas or liquid CO2 storage requires additional monitoring. While any gas can displace oxygen, the CO2 displacement of oxygen adds a potential for oxygen depletion and is monitored to the personal exposure limit of 1.5% CO2 concentration.
Some health applications, chemical properties, temperature or economics favor the cryogen liquid helium. For example, liquid helium is essential for operating MRI machines and many superconducting applications, such as infrared imaging.
Argon is also used to cool infrared-sensitive detectors to “see” in the long wavelengths. For example, argon is used to cool the underground FermiLab particle detector used to scan for neutrinos
Liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide are used to freeze tissue samples in labs or research facilities, or to store embryos for invitro fertilization. Surgeons and dermatologists also used liquid nitrogen as an aerosol to freeze and cauterize basil cells and tumors.
Cryosurgery is used to freeze or destroy tissues like cancer in the body during surgery or on the skin to kill cancer cells. While cryosurgery is a type of cryotherapy, most people today think of athletes who use cold therapy as a way to deaden nerves and potentially speed healing. While some types of cryotherapy are controversial, they have lead to the creation of cryospas where the general public can get cryotherapy treatments.
Another application where cryogenic fluids are used is dry cleaning, which uses liquid CO2 as a solvent to remove soil from fabric without the need for flammable solvents like methylene chloride.
If you drink decaffeinated coffee, the caffeine is removed by CO2 which is selective to dissolving caffeine while leaving the terpenes that influence the flavor. Previous methods using methyl solvents removed desired tastes or added undesired flavors and aroma.
A similar process is used to extract oils from cannabis and hemp using CO2 where butane or ethane are used to achieve the desired result. In the case of cannabis hydrocarbon extraction, this process requires complete evacuation of oxygen in the process chamber, and is done by a nitrogen flush. Even a small amount of oxygen can affect the oil extracted in many undesirable ways including taste, selectivity, and potency. All of the extracted product is the result of solvent distillation, when the pressure is reduced and the solvent returns to a gaseous state and the oil or resin remains in liquid state to further reduce to the desired product.
In addition, precision welding on an industrial scale uses liquid argon, CO2 or nitrogen to displace all the oxygen at the point of the weld for specific metals. This oxygen purging creates maximum penetration with the minimum distortion. This is where the ability to measure oxygen concentration at the parts-per-million level can improve the quality and consistency of the weld while reducing the explosive potential.
In every application above, cryogenic safety is important when handling or working around tanks of liquid cryogenic gases.
This chart lists all the common cryogenic gases as well as the temperature at which they change from liquids to gas (boiling point). The lower the boiling point, the more colder the gas can become. Note that at these low temperatures, skin can freeze instantaneously.
Also note that the liquids to gas expansion ratio shows how much air is displaced by a given amount of gas. For example, one liter of liquid argon expands to 860 liters of gas. This means that even a small leak of cryogenic gases can quickly displace all the breathable air in an enclosed area.
Cryogen |
Boiling point (1 atm) oC(oF) |
Critical pressure psiga |
Liquid density, g/L |
Gas density (27oC), g/L |
Liquid-to-gas expansion ratio |
Type of gas |
Argon |
-186(-303) |
710 |
1402 |
1.63 |
860 |
Inert |
Helium |
-269(-452) |
34 |
125 |
0.16 |
780 |
Inert |
Hydrogen |
-253(-423) |
188 |
71 |
0.082 |
865 |
Flammable |
Nitrogen |
-196(-321) |
492 |
808 |
2.25 |
710 |
Inert |
Oxygen |
-183(-297) |
736 |
1410 |
1.4 |
875 |
Flammable |
Methane |
-161(-256) |
673 |
425 |
0.72 |
650 |
Flammable |
CO2 |
-79(-108) |
1071 |
100 |
20 |
535 |
Inert |
The challenge with cryogens is safety. All of the cryogenic gases have potential safety problems beyond their freezing hazards. As they return to a gas they expand rapidly to many times greater than their volume. For example, nitrogen gas expands 700 times its liquid volume (see chart). As a result, the expanding gas can quickly displace other gases. The main area of concern is oxygen, where oxygen displacement can result in asphyxiation or death.
Aside from these use cases and applications regarding ensuring safety in the workplace, one should adhere to the following:
Skin tissue: Extreme cold can rapidly freeze skin tissue, which is why liquid Nitrogen is often used to freeze off unwanted tissue by dermatologists. However, this presents a danger when it meets healthy tissue: skin can crack and freeze causing frostbite. Some extremities might be protected by the Leidenfrost Effect in which liquids that comes into contact with something much hotter than itself forms an insulating layer of vapor to prevent the liquids from immediately boiling, this can only last so long, and it is for ones best interest to wear gloves and PPE - personal protective equipment.
Asphyxiation: Inert gas asphyxiation is a form of asphyxiation which results from breathing in a gas in the absence or Oxygen or low amount of Oxygen rather than air. Physiologically inert gases such as liquid Nitrogen does not act upon the heart or hemoglobin and instead reduces Oxygen concentration in blood to low levels, depriving cells of Oxygen. Breathing in these gases with deficient Oxygen can have immediate and serious effects after a few short breaths. Gases such as liquid Nitrogen have no taste or smell, so it is impossible to know if you are inhaling the hazard.
Pressure build up: We know that heating materials up to extremely high temperatures can cause explosions, but so can cooling them down. Cooling a substance makes it denser and less likely to expand, however gases under pressure risk leaking and expanding inside their container. When a gas expands inside an enclosed container, the pressure inside can push outwards causing leaks or even an explosion.
The use of cryogenic gases and liquids such as nitrogen and helium require careful handling and adherence to specific guidelines and procedures.
In this whitepaper, CO2Meter delivers key insights that help educate on the hazards associated with cryogenic gases and liquids and safety best practices to keep you, your staff, and your establishment protected.
Contents
Protecting yourself from exposure to cryogenic gas or liquid starts with an Oxygen Deficiency Safety Alarm. It is designed notify staff in enclosed areas near storage cylinders of nitrogen, argon, ammonia, chlorine, propane, nitrous oxide, helium, argon, or other inert gases if a leak occurs.
One cannot talk about cryogens without talking about proper safety training. In addition to wearing the proper PPE and having proper signage, employees around cryogens need training to determine what to do in the event of an emergency. One good place to start is the OSHA website.
Although cryogenic gases are necessities in many applications, they are still hazardous, and the proper precautions must be taken in order to avoid catastrophes.
https://www.ncnr.nist.gov/equipment/cryostats/CryogenSafety.pdf
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inert_gas_asphyxiation
https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-19870668
https://io9.gizmodo.com/how-liquid-nitrogen-can-make-things-explode-5981695
https://www.cganet.com/refrigerated-and-cryogenic-liquid-safety/
https://lasers.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Cryogenic-Safety-Manual.pdf
https://www.airgas.com/msds/001190.pdf
https://chemistry.berkeley.edu/research-safety/manual/section-7/cryogenic-liquids
https://www.co2meter.com/blogs/news/cryogenic-safety-working-near-cryogens
]]>People often confuse carbon monoxide (CO) with carbon dioxide (CO2). Both gases have similar names and both are potentially harmful. Yet there are clear differences you should be aware of..
While they both have the word "carbon" in their name, -monoxide (mono in Greek means 1) refers to the bond between a single carbon molecule and a single oxygen molecule while -dioxide (di in Greek means 2) refers to the bond between a single carbon molecule and two oxygen molecules, (oxide means a simple compound of oxygen). In other words, CO is C+O while CO2 is O+C+O.
Both carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are colorless, odorless and tasteless gases. However, some describe the odor of high levels of CO2 as “acidic” or “bitter.”
While both CO and CO2 are potentially deadly, this happens at vastly different concentrations. While 35 ppm (0.4%) of CO is quickly life threatening, it takes more than 30,000 ppm (3%) of CO2 to reach the same risk level.
Compressed carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are both important industrial gases. For example, CO2 is used to carbonate beverages and to increase plant growth in indoor greenhouses. CO is used during the manufacturing of iron and nickel as well as the production of methanol. In spite of their molecular similarity, they both behave very differently when interacting with other molecules.
The most important difference is that carbon dioxide is a common, naturally occurring gas required for plant and animal life. CO is not common. It is a byproduct of the burning of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and gas.
CO poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide builds up in your bloodstream. Your body replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells with carbon monoxide. leading to serious tissue damage. CO2 poisoning occurs when the lungs cannot take in enough oxygen.
CO2 does not undergo oxidation reactions and is a non-flammable gas. CO undergoes oxidation reactions and is therefore a flammable gas.
Another general difference is the number of carbon and oxygen atoms. Carbon Monoxide contains one carbon and one oxygen atom, whereas carbon dioxide contains one carbon and two oxygen atoms.
Both carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) are very harmful when present in high concentrations, however, they do hold different levels of toxicity and effects when it comes to the environment and human health.
Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas and a significant component of Earth's atmosphere. It is produced through natural processes, such as respiration and volcanic activity, and is also a byproduct of human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels (e.g., coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas produced primarily by incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels. Common sources include vehicle exhaust, malfunctioning home heating systems, and fires.
In summary, both carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide have their risks and dangers, especially in confined spaces. While carbon dioxide contributes to global warming and climate change, carbon monoxide poses an immediate threat to human health. It is crucial to address both of these issues differently and reduce emissions of both gases to protect both the environment and human well-being.
While both carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are gases that can pose health risks, they each have different effects on the body.
When an individual inhales or breathes in high concentrations of CO2, it can lead to hypercapnia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, confusion, and in severe cases, unconsciousness or death.
When we look at long-term exposure, chronic exposure to elevated levels of CO2 can lead to respiratory acidosis, a condition where the lungs cannot remove enough carbon dioxide, resulting in an imbalance of acidity in the blood. This can lead to fatigue, confusion, and eventually, organ damage.
Alternatively, carbon monoxide is highly toxic, as it binds to hemoglobin in the blood more strongly than oxygen does, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues and organs. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, weakness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or death.
Prolonged exposure to low levels of CO can cause chronic health problems, including cardiovascular issues and neurological damage. Pregnant women, infants, and individuals with cardiovascular diseases are also particularly vulnerable.
While both CO2 and CO can pose severe health risks, carbon monoxide is generally considered more immediately toxic at lower concentrations, while high levels of carbon dioxide primarily lead to respiratory problems. However, both gases can be dangerous if not properly monitored and proper ventilation and is essential to minimize exposure and mitigate risks.
When it comes to choosing the right gas detector for the workplace, a single-gas CO detector will not measure CO2 levels, and vice-versa. Gas detectors are made with one or more gas sensors. A CO sensor cannot detect CO2. A CO2 sensor cannot detect CO.
The bright side is that there are a few options when it comes to the best gas detectors for carbon monoxide or carbon dioxide. The most important factor is that you can understand the environment that you are measuring and know what gas you will need to be monitoring.
Cars emit both gases.Carbon dioxide is the result of complete fuel combustion, while some carbon monoxide is emitted from incomplete combustion.
Newer vehicles emissions systems keep carbon monoxide levels low. However, CO from older cars (pre-catalytic converter) or poorly tuned cars can increase the risk of hazard if this system isn't working properly.
However, in an enclosed garage, you can get deadly levels of carbon monoxide from a gas vehicle at idle. This is why many garages and parking ramps have CO detectors.
Both carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are commonly used gases in various applications and industries. Below, we highlight the main applications the gases can be found in.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas. It is nonflammable at room temperature. The linear molecule of a carbon atom that is doubly bonded to two oxygen atoms, O=C=O.
CO2 is a naturally occurring gas in earth's atmosphere. It is naturally produced by the decomposition of organic matter. It is also naturally produced by animal and human respiration, which takes in oxygen and exhales CO2. Plants and trees depend on CO2 for life (they take in CO2 and give out oxygen).
Carbon dioxide can also be produced through industrial processes. For example, industrial plants that produce hydrogen or ammonia from natural gases are some of the largest commercial producers of carbon dioxide.
Solid carbon dioxide is also known as "dry ice." An interesting fact about CO2 is that it coverts directly from a solid to a gas at -78°C or above.
While not as deadly as carbon monoxide, high levels of CO2 in an enclosed space – for example, in a submarine – can suffocate you long before the oxygen runs out. In fact, dozens of people die or are injured each year as the result of CO2 leaks in bars, restaurants or in unventilated keg coolers when a beer line is left open. Others die in dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) storage lockers used for temporary food storage.
For protection from CO2 in enclosed spaces, CO2Meter offers CO2 safety alarms.
See our carbon dioxide levels chart here.
Like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide is also a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas - that is toxic and has the molecular formula CO. Many refer to carbon monoxide (CO) as one of the most dangerous gases.
Carbon monoxide is the result of incomplete combustion. This happens when there is a limited supply of oxygen available.
While not normally occurring in nature, CO is a commercially important chemical, and is the result of oxygen-starved combustion from improperly ventilated fuel-burning motors and appliances like:
Too much carbon monoxide in an unventilated space is deadly.
In fact, carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common type of fatal poisoning worldwide. This is why many new homes are built with CO detectors in addition to smoke detectors.
See our carbon monoxide safety levels chart here.
While large gas concentrations in a volume of air are measured in percentages, small volumes are measured in parts-per-million - ppm.
When measuring small volumes, the range of concentrations is from 0 to 1,000,000, which equals 0-100%. Every 10,000 ppm equals 1% concentration. For example, instead of saying "1% gas by volume," scientists will say "10,000 ppm." This is because 10,000 / 1,000,000 = 1%.
Read more about parts-per-million here.
For additional information on CO or CO2 measurement contact our technical sales team or learn more about our carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide detectors.
]]>Industrial gas detectors are crucial in many industries, such as mining, refining, petroleum extraction, hospitality, brewing and manufacturing. These devices ensure the safety of employees when working around hazardous gases. But selecting the right type of detector to meet your specific needs can seem intimidating.
When it comes to gas leaks in industry, they are far from uncommon. For those working around compressed gases, asphyxiation and explosions can be a constant risk that is faced each day.
That's why CO2Meter has put together this overview of different types of industrial gas detectors, their operating principles, and their unique strengths and weaknesses.
With industrial gas detectors, employees can have peace of mind and make smart decisions to ensure they are protected and that productivity is continually maintained.
An industrial gas detector has several components such as a sensor, industrial enclosure, display screen, and audible/visual indicators. Industrial gas detectors are commonly used in facilities where fixed gas detection devices are required to ensure employee safety and also meet code compliance. An industrial gas detector is also installed on-location and can also be connected to a control panel or ventilation system.
Because industrial gas detectors are most often regulated as required by code, they can easily help facilities meet inspection criteria while protecting workers. These industrial fixed gas detectors are used most commonly to ensure gas safety in industries such as food production, food packaging, canning and bottling of beverages, pharmaceutical, indoor agriculture, cold storage, manufacturing, safety and industrial process.
The primary function of an industrial gas detector is to continuously or periodically sample the air in a specific area and alert users if the concentration of a particular gas exceeds a normal threshold. Industrial gas detectors can be configured to monitor various types of gases.
The most common include:
Toxic Gases: Examples include carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), ammonia (NH3), chlorine (Cl2), and others.
Flammable Gases: Gases that can ignite and pose a fire hazard, such as methane (CH4), propane (C3H8), and hydrogen (H2).
Oxygen Depletion/Enrichment: Monitoring the gas levels of oxygen (O2) in the air is also crucial. Too little oxygen can be harmful, while too much can increase the risk of fire.
Depending on the manufacturer, industrial gas detection systems also come in different types depending upon the gas sensing technology that is used. These sensing technologies are what enable the gas detectors to accurately detect the presence of gases and accurately notify personnel of higher than normal thresholds.
An industrial fixed gas detector is a device used in factories, labs or any industrial setting to continuously monitor and detect hazardous gases. If a hazardous gas or low oxygen level is senses, they alert personnel by audible and visual alarms. These industrial gas detectors typically detect a single gas, such as carbon dioxide, or can also measure oxygen deficient environments.
Industrial gas detection systems serve several important purposes essential to industry:
Safety of Personnel: The primary purpose of industrial fixed gas detectors is to ensure the safety of workers. Many gases that are present in industrial environments can be harmful, toxic, or pose a risk of asphyxiation. By continuously monitoring the air for the presence of such gases, these detectors can provide early indication and allow personnel to evacuate or take appropriate measures to protect themselves.
Prevention of Accidents: Industrial processes often involve the use, production, or storage of gases that can be flammable or explosive. Fixed gas detectors help prevent accidents by monitoring the levels of flammable gases and triggering alarms or automatic shutdown systems if concentrations exceed safe limits. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the risk of fires and explosions.
Compliance with Regulations: Many industries are subject to regulations and safety standards that require the monitoring of specific gases. Industrial gas detectors help businesses comply with these regulations and demonstrate a commitment to workplace safety. Non-compliance can result in legal consequences and jeopardize the well-being of employees.
Early Detection of Gas Leaks: Fixed gas detectors are continuously operational and can detect gas leaks promptly. This early detection is crucial for preventing the buildup of dangerous gas concentrations, minimizing the potential for explosions, fires, or other hazardous situations.
Protection of Equipment: Some gases can be corrosive and damaging to equipment. Detecting the presence of these gases early on allows for preventive maintenance and protection of industrial equipment, reducing the likelihood of equipment failure and associated downtime.
24/7 Monitoring: Fixed gas detectors operate around the clock, providing continuous and accurate monitoring even when personnel are not present. This ensures a constant level of vigilance and allows for the detection of gas hazards at any time, including during non-working hours.
Process Optimization: In addition to safety considerations, fixed gas detectors can contribute to process optimization by providing real-time data on gas concentrations. This information can be used to adjust processes, improve efficiency, and minimize waste.
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Industrial fixed gas detectors are employed in a wide range of industries where the presence of hazardous gases poses a potential threat to workers, processes, and equipment. Some of the industries that commonly use industrial fixed gas detectors include:
Oil and Gas:
Chemical Manufacturing:
Mining:
Laboratories:
Warehousing and Storage:
These industries all use fixed gas detectors as a crucial component of their safety protocols to protect personnel, assets, and the environment. The specific types of gases monitored depend on the industry and the processes involved. Common gases include flammable gases, carbon dioxide, oxygen, and other gases relevant to the specific industrial activities.
When it comes to industrial gas detectors, many come in series that offer multi-gas options dependent upon your application or industry. These devices further ensure protection for those individuals working near hazardous gases like CO2, nitrogen, argon, helium, and others.
Many customers stand by these solutions due to their ability to integrate into harsh environments and their ability to maintain compliance with current carbon dioxide and oxygen safety standards.
Most devices come hard wired in order to integrate into the facilities electrical system for permanent power, providing a display screen to show gas levels in real-time. Additionally an industrial gas detector should offer audible and visual alarms if one of the gas levels is dangerous, it will indicate to personnel that a potential hazard has occurred mitigating employee injury and saving facilities time and money.
While many customers find both industrial gas detectors critical across applications, they work differently based on the gas concentration one is looking to target. These devices are commonly found beneficial in areas such as food production and packaging, beverage systems, breweries, cold storage, pharmaceutical, indoor agriculture, gas distribution and chemical manufacturing.
Overall, industrial fixed gas detectors are instrumental in creating a safe work environment, preventing accidents, and ensuring compliance with current safety code regulations. The benefits extend to both the well-being of personnel and the protection of assets and equipment in various industrial settings.
For more information on gas detection and to better assist you in choosing the right gas detector, one of our gas detection experts would be happy to walk through some common questions to better select the right device that fits your individual needs and environmental requirements. Contact us online, email an expert at Sales@CO2Meter.com or call (877) 678 - 4259.
]]>There are many types of gas detectors, each designed to detect one or more gases or operate in different environments. While each type differs in variation and design, they all work towards a common goal in monitoring and measuring gas concentrations for safety, analysis, or control.
Overall, gas detectors can be characterized most commonly by the gas sensors inside. Below we discuss the four main types of gas detectors by sensing technology: electrochemical, catalytic, infrared and photoionization sensors.
While these sensor types are just some of the primary categories, within each type there are variations and specialized designs to cater to specific applications and detection requirements.
Catalytic Bead Sensors: These detectors are commonly used for detecting combustible gases. They operate by measuring the heat of combustion produced when the target gas comes into contact with a heated catalyst. The change in resistance of the bead due to the heat is measured to determine the gas concentration.
Infrared (IR) Gas Sensors: IR gas detectors are utilized for detecting various gases, including hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide. They work by measuring the absorption of infrared radiation by the target gas. Each gas has a unique infrared absorption spectrum, allowing the detector to identify and quantify its presence.
Electrochemical Sensors: These detectors are often employed for detecting toxic gases like carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and chlorine. They rely on chemical reactions between the target gas and an electrolyte solution to produce an electrical signal proportional to the gas concentration.
Photoionization Detectors (PID): PID detectors are used for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gases with ionization potentials below that of the air. They operate by ionizing gas molecules using ultraviolet (UV) light and then measuring the resulting electrical current.
These four types of gas detectors cover a wide range of applications and are commonly used in industrial settings, laboratories, environmental monitoring, and personal safety.
It’s essentially all in the name. Just as there are different types of gas detectors, there are also different categories. And like the name notes, Single gas detectors are monitoring one gas in particular — an multi-gas detectors monitoring multiple gases simultaneously.
Single gas detectors and multi-gas detectors also serve different purposes and cater to different needs dependent upon ones environmental requirements.
Below we take a look at some of the key differentiators between single vs. multi gas solutions:
The choice between single and multi-gas detectors depends on several factors such as the nature of the work environment, the types of gases present, and the specific monitoring needs for the application.
A typical multi-gas detector is capable of monitoring a range of gases commonly found in industrial, commercial, and hazardous environments. The specific gases that a multi-gas detector can monitor may vary depending on the model and configuration, but here are some of the most common gases that they can typically detect:
Combustible Gases: Multi-gas detectors can detect various combustible gases and vapors, including:
Toxic Gases: Multi-gas detectors are equipped to detect a range of toxic gases and vapors, such as:
Oxygen (O2): Multi-gas detectors also monitor oxygen levels in the environment to ensure that they remain within safe limits. They can detect oxygen deficiency (lower than normal oxygen levels).
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Some multi-gas detectors are equipped with photoionization detectors (PIDs) to detect volatile organic compounds.
Other Gases: Depending on the specific application and requirements, multi-gas detectors may also be able to detect additional gases such as:
These are just some examples of the gases that a typical multi-gas handheld detector can monitor. The exact capabilities and sensor configurations may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the detector. However, it's essential to select a multi-gas detector that is appropriate for the specific hazards and conditions present in the intended work environment.
Selecting the right gas detector depends on several factors, including your specific needs, the environment in which it will be used, the types of gases you need to monitor, and many times even jurisdictional or regulatory requirements. Here are some steps to help you determine which gas detector is right for you:
By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can select the right gas detector that meets your requirements and helps ensure the safety of your work environment. If you're unsure, consulting with a safety professional or contacting a CO2Meter sales specialist can also be helpful.
Gas detectors work by sensing the presence of specific gases in the surrounding environment. There are various types of gas detectors, but one common type is the nondispersive infrared (NDIR), which is often used for detecting hazardous gases like carbon dioxide (CO2). Here's a simplified explanation of how such detectors work based on their sensing principles:
Electrochemical Reaction: In an electrochemical gas sensor, there are electrodes immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrodes are typically made of materials that react with the target gas. For instance, in a carbon monoxide detector, one electrode might be made of lead dioxide (PbO2) and the other of lead (Pb).
Gas Diffusion: The gas being detected diffuses into the sensor through a membrane. This membrane allows only the target gas to pass through, ensuring the specificity of the detection.
Chemical Reaction: When the target gas comes into contact with the electrodes, a chemical reaction occurs. In the case of carbon monoxide, it reacts with the lead dioxide electrode, producing lead ions and releasing electrons. This reaction causes a flow of electrons from one electrode to the other, generating an electrical current.
Nondispersive Infrared (NDIR): The NDIR sensors work by using an infrared (IR) lamp to direct waves of light through a tube filled with a sample of air. This air moves toward an optical filter in front of an IR light detector. The IR light detector measures the amount of IR light that passes through the optical filter.
Gas detectors may also use other sensing principles such as catalytic combustion, or semiconductor gas sensing, depending on the type of gas being detected and the application requirements. Each sensing principle has its advantages and limitations in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, response time, and cost.
Overall, although many gases and vapors are invisible to our eyes, they still pose a significant hazard to employee health and workplace safety. The presence of dangerous gases and vapors creates the potential for injury, explosions, and even fatalities. Additionally, inhaling toxic materials can severely damage an employee’s lungs, kidneys, and other parts of their body. Although these workplace accidents are all different, they share the commonality that they’re easily avoidable with the right preventative safety measures in place.
By implementing and installing gas detection safety alarms, these devices can be instrumental in creating a safe work environment and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
For more information on gas detection and to better assist you in choosing the right gas detector, one of our gas detection experts would be happy to walk through some common questions to better select the right device that fits your individual needs and environmental requirements.
Fill out our contact form here, or email an expert at Sales@CO2Meter.com
]]>Oxygen generators separate oxygen from compressed air so that the gas can be fed into industrial processes in real-time or stored in pressure tanks. Oxygen generators are used in dozens of industrial applications ranging from gold mining to aquaculture.
Normal ambient air is made up of 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and other trace gases like argon and CO2. In order to remove the nitrogen and trace gases, an oxygen generator is used.
The smallest oxygen generators are no larger than a soda can, while industrial oxygen generators can fill a room. However, all oxygen generators have the same purpose: to provide a safe supply of concentrated oxygen gas.
Businesses who need bulk oxygen gas often start by purchasing tanks of the gas from other companies who fill those tanks using an industrial oxygen generator. If their need for pure oxygen is large and ongoing, it may be cost-effective to purchase their own oxygen generator and produce oxygen on site. While the up-front cost of the machinery is significant, the cost per cubic foot of oxygen generated is 1/3 to 1/2 that of purchasing bulk oxygen, so over time, the oxygen generator can pay for itself.
One example of this is hospitals that pipe oxygen into patient rooms. Instead of using bottled oxygen, most hospitals have one or more industrial oxygen generators in the building. A system of pressurized pipes are used to flow oxygen to each room.
An oxygen generator works by separating oxygen from other gases in the air using various technologies. The specific method employed depends on the type of oxygen generator. Here are the main features of an oxygen generator and its operation:
Air Intake: The oxygen generator draws in ambient air from its surroundings. The air typically contains approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and trace amounts of other gases.
Filtration: The incoming air goes through a series of filters to remove impurities, dust, and other particulate matter. These filters ensure that the oxygen produced is of high quality and free from contaminants.
Compression: After filtration, the air enters a compressor, where it is pressurized. This compression process increases the concentration of oxygen while reducing the concentration of nitrogen and other gases.
Separation: The pressurized air moves into a molecular sieve bed, which consists of zeolite material. Zeolite is a substance with a high affinity for nitrogen. As the air passes through the sieve bed, the zeolite selectively absorbs nitrogen molecules, allowing oxygen molecules to pass through more readily.
Oxygen Collection: The purified oxygen, now separated from nitrogen and other gases, is collected and stored in a reservoir within the oxygen generator.
Delivery: The collected oxygen is then delivered to the user through a flowmeter and a delivery system such as nasal cannulas or a face mask. The flow rate can be adjusted according to the user's prescribed oxygen therapy requirements.
Continuous Operation: Oxygen generators are designed to operate continuously, ensuring a steady supply of oxygen. They often incorporate cycling systems that alternate the adsorption and desorption phases of the molecular sieve bed, allowing for continuous oxygen production.
Overall, oxygen generators provide a convenient and cost-effective solution for individuals needing supplemental oxygen therapy, allowing them to receive the required oxygen concentration without the need for bulky oxygen tanks or frequent refills.
An oxygen concentrator and an oxygen generator are two different devices used for generating or concentrating oxygen, but they are unique in the way in which they operate.
An oxygen concentrator is a small medical device that takes in ambient air and removes nitrogen from it in real time, providing breathing air with a higher level of oxygen to the user. They are an alternative to replaceable oxygen tanks, and can be plugged in or portable. According to WebMD, about 1.5 million oxygen concentrators are used in the United States.
Here are the key points about oxygen concentrators:
An oxygen generator, also known as an oxygen plant, is a device that generates oxygen by separating it from other gases in the atmosphere. Oxygen generators are typically used in industrial applications, but they can also be found in medical settings for large-scale oxygen supply.
Here are the key points about oxygen generators:
Operation: Oxygen generators employ various methods such as pressure swing adsorption (PSA), membrane separation, or cryogenic distillation to separate oxygen from air. The specific technique used depends on the scale and requirements of the application.
Concentration Levels: Oxygen generators can produce high-purity oxygen with concentrations ranging from 90% to over 99.9%.
Power Source: Oxygen generators can be powered by electricity or other energy sources, depending on the design and size. They are generally larger and more powerful than oxygen concentrators.
Portability: Oxygen generators are large, stationary units installed in industrial or medical facilities to meet the demand for large volumes of oxygen.
Industrial Use: Oxygen generators are commonly employed in industries such as steelmaking, chemical processing, water treatment, and aerospace. They are used for applications that require high-purity oxygen in large quantities.
Overall, the main difference between an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen generator lies in their operation, concentration levels, power source, portability, and overall applications or industry focus. While oxygen concentrators are primarily used for medical purposes, oxygen generators are larger devices primarily used in industrial settings to produce high volumes of oxygen.
Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) is the most common method of producing oxygen at an industrial scale. PSA generators separate nitrogen from ambient air inside a pressurized tank filled with Zeolite. Zeolite is a natural or man-made mineral that acts as a “molecular sieve.” It is this ability to “sort” molecules by size that makes zeolite so useful. The larger nitrogen molecules are adsorbed by the sieve material while the smaller oxygen molecules drift past and are collected. Pressure is then released, the nitrogen molecules are vented to the atmosphere, and the tank is pressurized again.
Using PSA will result in 90-95% oxygenated gas. Further refinement can be achieved by repeating the process until over 99% “pure” oxygen is generated.
As a side note, the PSA process can also be used to generate nitrogen by collecting the nitrogen molecules and venting the oxygen. PSA is also used in the large-scale commercial synthesis of hydrogen used in oil refineries and in the production of ammonia for fertilizer.
Membrane oxygen generators us a compressed air stream passed through semi-permeable materials that allow for the passage of specific molecules. Under pressure, smaller oxygen molecules pass through the membrane, filtered out and collected leaving a stream of nitrogen flowing out the opposite end of the membrane. While membrane-type generators are not as common, they are considered to be more reliable because there are no moving parts that can fail.
A chemical oxygen generator is a device that releases oxygen by a chemical reaction. A container of inorganic salts called “superoxides” or sodium chlorate are ignited. As they heat they give off oxygen until the compound is consumed.
Because of their long shelf-life, stability and small size (about the size of a can of soda) chemical oxygen generators are used in commercial airliners. Mounted over the seats, each generator can produce enough oxygen for 2-3 masks for 10-20 minutes. A similar device is called an oxygen candle. It works using the same principle of releasing oxygen with heat, and is used as a personal safety oxygen supply in mines, submarines and on the space station.
While there are dozens of uses for industrial oxygen generators, some of the most common ones are listed below.
Medical grade oxygen used in hospitals or for home health care is certified to meet the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) XXII Oxygen 93% Monograph. USP requirements are the oxygen level is between 90 and 96% pure with the remainder made up of argon and hydrogen. No more than 300ppm of CO2 or any other gases or molecules are allowed.
The International Space Station, submarines and SCUBA divers all rely on oxygen generators to produce breathable air. Because they are closed systems, each work in conjunction with carbon dioxide “scrubbers” to remove the CO2 while bringing the oxygen level back to 20.9% oxygenated air.
Like humans, fish and other marine animals required oxygen to survive. With the prevalence of fish farms, the “farmers” must insure their livestock gets proper oxygen to survive. Before fish farming was done on an industrial scale, the farmers would fence off an area of water at the edge of a lake to raise their catch. With industrial oxygen generators, farmers now have the ability to raise fish in man-made pools of oxygenated water. The benefit to the farmer is higher stock densities in a smaller area and faster fish growth.
In waste water treatment plants oxygen generators are used to provide additional oxygen to the bacteria that enable biodegradation to occur. The bacteria break down the sludge into CO2 and water faster if supplemental oxygen is added during the process.
Industrial oxygen generators are used in the steel manufacturing process in several ways. Oxygen furnaces are used for decarburization, the process of decreasing the carbon in the metals while in a molten state. Oxygen is also used to increase the melting rates in the furnaces and reduces scaling when reheating furnaces.
Mines that extract gold on an industrial scale use oxygen generators during the cyanide leaching process. A sodium-cyanide solution is mixed into crushed gold-bearing rocks along with oxygen to release the gold from the rock.
Oxyacetylene cutting and welding of metals use liquid fuel and oxygen to increase the flame temperature so that the metal is melted at the point of the welding tip. This melting can be used to weld or to cut the metal.
Like welding, glass blowing requires high levels of heat to melt the glass. Oxygen is used to increase the temperature of the flames both in ovens and for torches used to shape the glass pieces.
Delignification is the process of extracting lignin from the plant material in one of the steps required to make paper from trees. Large amounts of oxygen are required in this process, as well as several other later steps in pulp and paper manufacturing.
Enclosed areas with higher than normal levels of oxygen are typically not a medical hazard, but do increase the risk of fire. Even 2-3% increase in normal room oxygen levels when combined with fuel and a spark can result in a flash fire.
Industries who use oxygen generators rely on devices like our Remote Oxygen Deficiency Safety Alarm to protect workers around bulk liquid stored oxygen or where oxygen generators are used. This includes applications like steel manufacturing, welding and cutting, cryogenics, hospitals, diving tanks, underwater facilities and emergency air backup systems.
While there are dozens of types and uses for oxygen generators, there are only two ways to purchase them.
Commercial Oxygen Generators are large pieces of industrial equipment that must be professionally installed. Because so many people search for "oxygen concentrator" they are difficult to find. We suggest searching for:
Thomasnet is where many of the top industrial oxygen generator manufacturers advertise online, so it is is a good place to start your research.
Because of the size, cost and output differences between industrial oxygen generator manufacturers there are no direct online comparisons between manufacturers, nor can we recommend which one to buy. However, a useful resource may be online discussion groups related to your industry where you can ask questions or see recommendations from companies like yours.
Home Oxygen Concentrators are small, lightweight units sold for home use through medical supply houses, retail outlets or online. Because they don't technically "produce" oxygen they can be purchased with or without a doctor's prescription.
Click the links below to gain more information on further solutions for nitrogen separation please visit:
Image used with permission from Rifair and Bubinek / CC BY-SA
]]>One of the things we take pride in at CO2Meter is discussing new applications that our customers share with us. We always say “now we've heard it all. Then someone calls with a new application that amazes us all over again.
However, we are rarely asked about the difference between food, beverage, or medical grade CO2. Yet we've learned that, after buying hundreds of cylinders of CO2 for product testing over the years, the grade of CO2 is important.
That’s right – there are different grades or “purities” of CO2 that are produced and used.
The purity of CO2 is important across various industrial, restaurant, medical, and scientific applications. This is because different grades of CO2 purity ensure that the gas meets specific requirements for its intended use.
The importance of using the correct CO2 purity grade also stems from its potential impact on the properties and characteristics of the materials or substances with which it interacts. Carbon dioxide is a widely used gas in various applications, such as analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and medical procedures. In these contexts, the purity of CO2 plays a critical role in ensuring accurate measurements, reliable data, and safe operations.
The presence of impurities, even in trace amounts, can cause interference or contamination, affecting the quality and reliability of the results. Furthermore, certain impurities may react with the materials or substances, causing undesirable changes or damage.
For example, industrial applications like welding utilize 99.5% pure CO2. In welding, higher purity CO2 produces better welds because the process is heating less impurities in the process. Those impurities have been found to produce less stable welds.
Here are some additional reasons why CO2 purity grades are so vital:
Industrial Applications: In industrial settings, CO2 is used for processes such as welding, food and beverage production, and chemical manufacturing. Impurities in CO2 can negatively impact the quality and safety of these processes. For example, impurities like moisture, hydrocarbons, or sulfur compounds can contaminate products or damage equipment.
Beverage Carbonation: In the food and beverage industry, CO2 is commonly used to carbonate beverages like soda and beer. The purity of CO2 is crucial to ensure the taste, quality, and consistency of the final product. Even small impurities can alter the flavor or appearance of beverages.
Medical Applications: In the medical field, CO2 is used in applications such as respiratory therapy, laparoscopy, and cryotherapy. High purity CO2 is essential to prevent contamination and ensure patient safety during medical procedures.
Analytical and Laboratory Use: In scientific research and laboratory settings, CO2 is often used as a carrier gas in chromatography and as a calibration gas for analytical instruments. Impurities in CO2 can interfere with analytical measurements, leading to inaccurate results.
To meet the specific requirements of different applications, various grades of CO2 purity are defined by organizations such as the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) in the United States or the European Industrial Gases Association (EIGA) in Europe. These grades specify maximum allowable impurity levels and other quality parameters to ensure that CO2 meets the necessary standards for its intended use.
GRADE | PURITY | OTHER GASES |
Research | 99.999% | 0.001% |
Super-critical Fluid | 99.998% | 0.002% |
Laser | 99.95% | 0.05% |
Anaerobic | 99.95% | 0.05% |
Beverage | 99.9% | 0.1% |
Food | 99.9% | 0.1% |
Bone Dry | 99.8% | 0.2% |
Medical | 99.5% | 0.5% |
Industrial | 99.5% | 0.5% |
The biggest difference between the grades are the amounts and kinds of impurities that are allowable in the CO2.
As you ascend the list the amount of impurities like ammonia, benzene, oxygen, carbon monoxide, and others allowed to be in specific grades of gas are lessened. While nobody wants to ingest benzene or ammonia those hydrocarbons are far more dangerous when working with lasers than with lagers.
Specialty gases have become key components for almost every industry, including beverage, restaurant, scientific, incubation, agriculture, safety and others. The grade or "purity" of the gases can be influenced by elements such as oxygen, moisture content, total hydrocarbons, nitrogen, and carbon monoxide - to name a few.
In the U.S. specifically, beverage grade CO2 will almost always be at least 99.90% pure; many other molecules can compromise the other 0.10% (1,000 parts per million), including water, oxygen, and hydrocarbons such as benzene, acetaldehyde, and other molecules.
Here are a few other helpful hints to ensure you are gaining the highest grade CO2 when looking at beverage application:
Then ask yourself these simple questions:
Food grade CO2 is tested to a different standard than beverage grade CO2. The standards and criteria for each grade of CO2 are established by both the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For example, the USP sets specific purity standards for food grade CO2, which must meet stringent requirements to ensure that it is safe for use in food processing, storage, and transportation. These standards include limits on impurities, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and microbiological contaminants.
In the EU, food grade CO2 is regulated by the European Commission (EC) who states a minimum purity criteria for food grade gases such as CO2, N2 and O2. Each having to adhere to a number code and must be of high purity.
In contrast, beverage grade CO2 must meet specific standards established by the beverage industry to ensure that it does not contain any off-flavors, odors, or impurities that could affect the taste or appearance of the final product.
CO2 purity for beverage grade gases is now also mandated by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA regulations allows for the other .09% of the gas to be made up of other hydrocarbons.
Therefore, while both food grade CO2 and beverage grade CO2 are high-purity gases, they are tested to different standards to meet the unique requirements of their intended applications.
When it comes to using medical grade carbon dioxide these applications typically encompass hospitals, scientific research, or laboratory discoveries. For instance, medical grade CO2 is used for:
If you are unsure of your gas quality or call your suppliers analysis in to question you can contact an outside laboratory for third party testing services. You can contact airbornelabs.com as an example.
Also consider testing the water in your process as well. Brewers and vintners are keenly aware that water purity is just as important to end quality as the gas that they are using in your process. In fact, hydrocarbons like benzene are more likely to appear in the water in your process then in the gas you are using.
If you are interested in further details about beverage gas and its chemical composition please visit the International Society of Beverage Technologist, which CO2Meter, Inc. is a member of, at bevtech.org.
Carbon dioxide has become such an integral part of many industries and applications. Understanding the importance of gas purity, trace-ability in its use, and specific regulation/standards is crucial.
For more information on other gas purity grade charts like oxygen, click here.
An oxygen depletion alarm or oxygen deficiency monitor constantly monitors oxygen levels in a room and warns occupants of low oxygen levels.
Room oxygen depletion alarms or oxygen deficiency monitors are critical in any room or enclosed area in which low oxygen levels can occur.
By volume, atmospheric air contains 78.09% nitrogen, 20.95% oxygen 0.93% argon, 0.04% carbon dioxide, and small amounts of other gases.
At normal temperatures and pressures, 20.9% oxygen in the air is considered optimal for humans. When oxygen levels drop below 19.5% hypoxia (lowered oxygen levels) begins to occur. The air is considered oxygen-deficient, although it is still relatively safe for short periods of time or for people who have acclimated their bodies to lower oxygen levels.
Oxygen deficient atmospheres are dangerous for human life. The challenge is that the difference between 16% and 21% oxygen is typically made up of inert, invisible and odorless gases like nitrogen, argon or carbon dioxide, so the oxygen deficiency may not be noticed immediately. If oxygen levels remain low, sudden unconsciousness or death without symptoms may occur.
Oxygen deficiency monitors will go into alarm mode at readings below 19.5%. This enables audible/visual alarms to indicate to personnel that an action needs to be taken prior to injury.
Humans will not detect ill effects for short duration exposures until oxygen levels reach 14-16 %, but caution is required. If an oxygen deficiency monitor detects levels at or below 14% an extreme emergency condition exists.
Most oxygen depletion alarms are set to give a first warning alarm when it senses oxygen below 19.5%. Subsequent alarm levels can be sent depending on the users or local jurisdictions requirements. Devices should allow for end user configuration of alarm levels to meet their specific needs. These alarms enable action to be taken before an evacuation is required or before a potential incident occurs.
Oxygen depletion alarms are used in any place where low oxygen levels can occur. While most people think of a closed environment like an airplane or submarine, a much more common example is a room where pressurized cylinders of hydrogen, helium, argon, or nitrogen are stored. If a hose or fitting leaks, the depressurization of the gas storage system can rapidly lower the oxygen level in the room.
Examples of stored gases where oxygen depletion alarms are necessary include:
While carbon dioxide could be added to this list, common practice is to use a CO2 Safety Alarm to measure high CO2 levels instead of an oxygen deficiency alarm. This is because studies show that even in the presence of normal concentrations of oxygen, exposure to 5% CO2 can cause fatality in just minutes.
In addition, carbon dioxide is heavier than air but oxygen is not. While CO2 tends to lay low to the ground, oxygen is evenly dispersed. This means that in an enclosed workplace the level of concentration relative to oxygen could be significantly different dependent upon where you measure. Further, an oxygen monitor could give you a different result depending on where it is installed.
Reliance on monitoring oxygen levels to protect against a rise in carbon dioxide levels has led to many incidents where further education and proper monitoring could have saved lives.
OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.146, "Permit Required Confined Spaces," contains the requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees in general industry from the hazards of entry into permit-required confined spaces.
The standard defines an oxygen-deficient atmosphere as any atmosphere containing less than 19.5 percent oxygen by volume. Any atmosphere that contains less than 19.5 percent oxygen is hazardous and may not be entered by unprotected workers.
An atmospheric test should be performed in any confined space to ensure the required ambient conditions - greater than 19.5 percent and less than 23.5 percent oxygen exist.
Further, an oxygen depletion monitor should have warning levels set according to these oxygen concentration levels.
While not law or an OSHA regulation, the National Institutes of Health Protocol for use and maintenance of Oxygen Monitoring Devices has been established to provide guidance on the installation, maintenance, and calibration of oxygen monitoring devices in animal and laboratory areas in all NIH owned and leased buildings. It states:
"An oxygen monitoring device shall be installed in any indoor location where compressed gases or cryogenic liquids are stored and/or dispensed in manner that could create the potential for the displacement of oxygen. At a minimum, the following factors should be used in determining if a device should be installed: manufacturer (e.g., magnet) guidance, volume of gas used, location of gas, and air changes/hour in the room/area. The 2008 NIH DRM notes that both ‘carbon dioxide manifold rooms… [and] nitrogen holding rooms and shall include oxygen level monitoring alarms’ (section 8, pages 8-80). Additionally, compressed gases or cryogenic liquids shall not be located or dispensed in any indoor location that does not have proper ventilation.
All gases have their own molecular weight. Depending on the gas weight, as it displaces air with oxygen, over time it will tend to collect or pool higher or lower in a room.
The molar mass of dry air mixed with oxygen, nitrogen and the other components is 28.9647 g/mole. In areas that are unoccupied, when testing for gases that are heavier, the oxygen sensor should be mounted lower on the wall in a room. When testing for gases that are lighter, the oxygen sensor should be mounted higher.
Here is a list of where to mount the oxygen sensor on a wall for the most common gases:
This chart lists the most common stored gases by molecular weight, with the lightest gases on top and the heaviest gases on the bottom.
Note that in rooms that are continuously occupied, it makes sense to put the oxygen depletion sensor close to the pipe or fittings where a gas leak is most likely to occur.
While there are risks in the industry pertaining to oxygen depletion, the use of inert gases are widespread across applications such as:
Cold Storage and Freezers: Cold storage facilities like food storage warehouses and walk-in freezers can become oxygen-deficient if there is a refrigerant or CO2 leak. Oxygen deficiency alarms are essential to protect workers who may need to enter these environments.
Confined Space Entry: Workers who need to enter confined spaces such as tanks, vessels, sewers, tunnels, and underground areas can be exposed to reduced oxygen levels. Oxygen deficiency alarms are crucial in these environments to ensure the safety of workers.
Laboratories: Laboratories that work with gases that could potentially displace oxygen or create hazardous atmospheres use oxygen deficiency alarms to protect lab personnel from oxygen-depleted environments.
Welding and Cutting: In environments where welding or cutting are done the use of inert gases like argon and helium can displace breathable oxygen. Oxygen deficiency alarms are important to warn welders and workers about potential oxygen depletion.
Water Treatment Plants: Facilities that handle sewage and wastewater may have areas where oxygen is displaced due to various processes. Oxygen deficiency alarms help ensure the safety of workers in such environments.
Aviation and Aerospace: Aircraft maintenance personnel who work in confined spaces within aircraft, spacecraft, or maintenance facilities could encounter oxygen-depleted environments. Oxygen deficiency alarms are employed to mitigate these risks.
These industries further show the importance and need of oxygen depletion safety alarms and their continued use in order to protect individuals and maintain a safe workplace.
When looking for an oxygen deficiency monitor, there are some features to consider:
To warn occupants of oxygen depletion in an enclosed area or room, oxygen deficiency monitors are used. These include two components:
The two components are linked by a cable that sends the oxygen level data and power from the monitor to the remote display in real time. Typically a wireless connection is avoided as problems with networks and interference from building materials like concrete and steel render the system useless.
In addition to the sensor and remote display(s), a data link can be made utilizing the devices 4-20 mA output between the sensor and a control panel or dashboard to warn offsite personnel if an oxygen depletion alarm has occurred.
Our Oxygen Depletion Safety Alarm is designed to protect customers and workers near stored inert gases like nitrogen, argon, helium, nitrous oxide, welding gases and more.
This oxygen monitor has both audible and visual alarms. 3 built-in relays are triggered when oxygen levels fall below 19.5%, 17.5%, and 15% respectively and can control an exhaust fan or send an alarm to the fire department or monitoring company. The alarm levels are user configurable to allow for specific applications.
Additionally, the Oxygen Depletion Safety Alarm can operate in facilities down to -50C (-58F) to protect employees in cold storage areas.
The need for monitoring oxygen levels in a room can be critical for those working and handling the gas type, and CO2Meter strives in being able to provide fixed and personal devices, that continue to save lives today.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmosphere_of_Earth
https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/welding/fumes.html
https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.146
https://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/molecular-mass-air-d_679.html
]]>CO2Meter expands its multi gas safety system line to include oxygen sensing solutions designed to meet safety standards for cold storage applications and more.
CO2Meter, a leading manufacturer in gas detection technologies has introduced its new multi gas safety system oxygen sensor, an important addition to CO2Meter's full line of multi gas safety systems. With the new oxygen sensor, individuals gain continuous monitoring of oxygen levels across a wide variety of applications, including cryogenic facilities, hospitals, food processing plants, pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, laboratories, and cold storage facilities.
Those who have been eagerly awaiting the release of the multi gas safety system oxygen sensor will be excited to see that the sensor can also exceed rigorous temperature requirements. In designing the device, we were sure to use zirconia sensing technology that ensures greater longevity and operating temperatures of -50°C across a multitude of environments. The sensor will also provide customers with the ability to ensure a safe workspace all while monitoring facilities for inert gases, including, but not limited to, nitrogen, helium, and argon.
While monitoring oxygen levels at low temperatures is an important addition to the multi gas safety system, it is not the only feature. The sensor will also include ease of integration and expand industry use by allowing up to 12 easily addressable sensors on one main central display. In addition, this sensor is virtually maintenance-free with its unique oxygen capabilities, delivering a competitive 10-year life expectancy.
The last few years have really allowed us to identify an opportunity to expand our product line which provides a solution for almost every customer and application that requests gas safety monitoring. Multiple sensor points, variable alarm settings, field upgradability, and much more have all been built into this one system. We are excited to see the multi gas safety system gain continued recognition and further cement CO2Meter as a true leader in the gas safety space." states CO2Meter Executive Vice President, Josh Pringle.
Fatalities due to oxygen deficiency is a concern in process industries, refining, manufacturing, and medical industries. Cryogenic liquids also have huge expansion ratios so a large gas cloud from a small amount of cryogenic liquid is common. For example, Liquid nitrogen will expand 696 times as it vaporizes. Further, why gas safety is so important and why a gas safety system is critical to mitigate hazard and ensure personnel safety.
"When it comes to the design of this device, customer input was also extremely influential. By listening to our customers' wants and needs and delivering upon it, this has further positioned CO2Meter as a true "industry leader". Whether it be in gas distribution, beverage, hospitality, laboratories, or industrial settings, CO2Meter is viewed as providing true customer support, reliable technologies, and true customer responsiveness. With the addition of oxygen sensing capabilities to our safety system line I know we will continue to innovate." states, CO2Meter, CEO, Travis Lenander.
The zirconia oxide sensor in the gas safety system line also offers additional benefits beyond its cold operating temperature capabilities. The sensor is an accurate, long-life solution that ensures no false alarms and no cross-sensitivity to other gases. This means a single alarm can be used when working with storage cylinders of nitrogen, argon, ammonia, chlorine, propane, nitrous oxide, helium, argon, and many other gases. We know that oxygen deficiency in enclosed areas is a “silent killer” and by providing low oxygen technologies such as the addition of the gas safety system oxygen sensor we can contribute to this market and protect lives.
This sensor is part of CO2Meter's continual focus on their mission to educate customers about gas detection safety while providing cutting-edge sensing solutions for industries worldwide. It is due to their industry expertise and continued focus on protecting workers that they are cemented as a true "go-to-source" for those individuals who work in challenging conditions and deal with invisible, yet hazardous gases.
"Working with our customers' overall needs and requirements has been key to our success. Whether the application be cryo-storage, pharmaceutical, food preservation, or gas distribution, CO2Meter continues to expand our solutions for partners and customers across the globe. With our multi gas safety system we know we can continue to make a difference in the industry with reputable technologies and continued innovation towards the future.", states VP of Marketing, Morgan Morris.
"And, when there are literally hundreds of situations where workers, and even the public, can be exposed to Oxygen deficient conditions. Some of these are potentially fatal. Beyond the obvious permit required or regular confined space applications, working every day in areas with hazards can produce dangerously low levels of Oxygen. The team at CO2Meter is proud to be able to provide trusted fixed gas safety systems that not only protect individuals but also ensure code compliance by meeting OSHA's confined space requirements.", notes Lenander.
In addition to oxygen and CO2 sensors, we have plans to add additional gas sensing capabilities soon.
For more information on the Multi Gas Safety System or for assistance in selecting the proper gas detection safety solution, please email us directly at Sales@CO2Meter.com.
]]>Cryogenics produces and studies materials in extremely cold temperatures. Ultra-cold temperatures change the chemical properties of materials. This has become an area of study for researchers who examine different materials as they transition from a gas to a liquid to a solid state. These studies have led to advances in not only our understanding of different materials but the creation of entirely new technologies and industries.
The temperature of any material is the measure of the energy that it contains. Rapidly moving molecules have a higher temperature than slower-moving molecules.
For example, while water transforms from a liquid to a solid at 32° F (0° C), cryogenic temperatures range much lower; from -150°C to -273° C. The temperature -273° C is the absolute lowest that can be achieved. At this temperature, the actions of all molecules stop, causing the molecules to be at the lowest possible state of energy.
Liquid gases at or below -150° C are also used to freeze other materials. Once a gas begins to liquefy, the environment is considered a cryogenic one. The most common gases that are turned into liquid for cryogenics are oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and helium.
The word cryogenics comes from the Greek word “Kryos,” which means cold. This combined with the abbreviated English word “to generate” make the word we know as cryogenics.
Temperatures that are very cold are not measured in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius but in Kelvins. Kelvins use the unit symbol K. It is named after Baron Kelvin who believed that at very low temperatures a new scale was needed that was not measured by the material state change of water like Fahrenheit or Celsius. Zero degrees Kelvin (0 K) is the theoretically coldest possible temperature.
In 1877 Rasul Pictet and Louis Cailletet liquefied oxygen for the first time, both using different methods for the process. Eventually, a third method of liquefying oxygen was discovered, and at this point in history oxygen was able to be liquefied at 90 K. Soon after, liquid nitrogen was achieved at 77 K. Scientists all over the world began competing to lower the temperature of matter to absolute zero.
The next breakthrough came in 1898 when James DeWar liquefied hydrogen at 20 K. This presented a new problem to researchers, as 20 K is also at a boiling temperature. However, this presented a further issue on how to handle and store gases at such temperatures. Hence the creation of DeWar flasks, which are used to store gases today.
The last major advance in the cryogenics industry came in 1908 when the physicist Heike Kamerling Onnes liquefied Helium at 4.2 K and then 3.2 K. The advances in cryogenics following this development have been much smaller because it is thermodynamic law that you can approach absolute zero, but never actually reach it. Technology has advanced much more since this last major discovery, and we can now freeze materials within very small distances from absolute zero, yet scientists still have not been able to break thermodynamic law where every particle has zero energy.
Cryogenics is used in a variety of low-temperature physics research and applications. It can be used to produce cryogenic fields for rockets, in MRI machines that use liquid helium and require cryogenic cooling, storing large quantities of food, special effects fog, recycling, freezing blood and tissue samples, and even cooling superconductors.
Applications and uses:
Cryosurgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that involves the use of extreme cold to destroy or remove abnormal tissues, such as tumors or warts. The procedure involves applying a freezing agent, such as liquid nitrogen or argon gas, directly onto the targeted area. This causes the tissue to freeze and ultimately die, allowing the body to naturally eliminate the damaged cells.
The science behind cryosurgery is based on the principle of controlled tissue destruction by rapid freezing and thawing. When the targeted tissue is exposed to extreme cold, the water inside the cells freezes and expands, causing the cell walls to rupture and the cells to die. The body's immune system then works to remove the dead tissue, leaving healthy tissue behind.
Cryosurgery has many advantages over traditional surgical techniques. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis, reducing the need for hospitalization and recovery time. It also results in less scarring and pain compared to traditional surgery, and has a lower risk of infection and complications.
Cryosurgery is commonly used in dermatology to treat skin conditions such as warts, actinic keratosis, and skin cancers. It is also used in other medical specialties such as gynecology, urology, and gastroenterology to treat various conditions.
Cryoelectronic cooling is an innovative technology that has revolutionized the field of superconductivity and spacecraft design. It involves the use of extreme cold temperatures to enable electrons in materials to move freely with little resistance. This technology has many advantages over traditional cooling methods, such as liquid cooling, because it is more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.
In superconductivity research, cryogenic engineering plays a vital role in maintaining the low temperatures required for superconducting materials to operate at their full potential. These materials have the ability to conduct electricity with zero resistance when they are cooled to near absolute zero (-273.15°C). By using cryoelectronic cooling, scientists are able to achieve and maintain these extremely low temperatures, allowing for the creation of more efficient and powerful superconductors.
In addition to superconductivity research, cryoelectronic cooling is also used in spacecraft design. Spacecraft that travel through outer space are exposed to extreme temperatures, which can cause damage to their electronic systems. Cryoelectronic cooling provides a reliable and efficient way to maintain the temperature of electronic systems in spacecraft, ensuring that they operate at optimal performance levels.
One of the major advantages of cryoelectronic cooling is that it is a highly efficient method of cooling, requiring only a small amount of energy to maintain the required low temperatures. This makes it an ideal choice for space applications, where energy conservation is critical. Additionally, cryoelectronic cooling is a reliable and cost-effective method of cooling, with few moving parts and minimal maintenance requirements.
Cryobiology is the study of the effects of low temperatures on organisms. There are six major areas of cryobiology:
Cryogenics keeps foods fresh without chemical risk. It is an effective technique for food preservation that is used to maintain the quality and freshness of various food products.
Cryogenic preservation isn't just about cold - it freezes food products quickly so that it maintains its consistency, texture and taste. This makes cryogenic preservation an excellent option for high-value food items such as seafood, meat, and vegetables. This technique is particularly useful for maintaining the texture and quality of delicate food products that are easily damaged by other preservation methods such as heat treatment or dehydration.
Another benefit of cryogenic preservation is its ability to extend the shelf life of food products. By freezing food products at ultra-low temperatures, the growth of microorganisms that can cause spoilage and decay is inhibited, reducing the risk of foodborne illness and increasing the overall safety of the product.
To preserve packaged foods such as produce, the food items are typically sprayed with liquid nitrogen to absorb the heat within the produce. The nitrogen quickly evaporates before the food is packaged.
Cryogenics is also used to transport gases that are not typically cryogenic. For example, using cryotechnology, gases can be transformed into liquids to make them easier to transport from one place to another. Take natural gas (LNG) which is a combination of ethane, methane and other gases. When these gases become liquefied, they take up far less space than if they remained gaseous. Therefore, transportation expenses become lower and the process becomes much easier.
Cryotherapy is a medical treatment that involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures. This can be achieved through various methods, including cryosaunas and cryospas, which allow individuals to stand in a chamber filled with cryogenic fluids for several minutes.
Proponents of cryotherapy claim that it offers numerous benefits to the body, including reducing inflammation, increasing energy, managing pain, and boosting metabolism. While research on cryotherapy is still relatively new, several studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
However, there are also potential risks associated with cryotherapy. Excessive exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, cryotherapy can cause skin damage, particularly if the skin is wet or has open wounds.
Furthermore, while some individuals may experience immediate relief from pain and inflammation following cryotherapy, the long-term benefits of the treatment are still unclear. Some studies have suggested that cryotherapy may not be effective for all individuals and may even be harmful in some cases.
Cryonics is the process of cryo-preservation of humans or animals in the hope of reviving them at a later time when medical technology is advanced enough to cure the underlying cause of their death. Cryonics involves cooling the body to very low temperatures in a cryonic container filled with liquid nitrogen.
The cryopreservation process is performed immediately after death or sometimes even before if the individual is terminally ill and has chosen to undergo cryonic preservation. The goal of cryonics is to preserve the brain and other vital organs to enable future medical professionals to revive the person with their memories, consciousness, and personality intact.
While cryonics is a controversial topic, proponents argue that it offers hope for individuals who have been diagnosed with terminal illnesses or who may die from other causes. They argue that the advances in medical technology may one day make it possible to revive and cure the underlying cause of death, allowing individuals to continue living. Critics, however, argue that cryonics is a pseudoscience and that the chances of successfully reviving an individual are extremely slim. They also argue that the process of cryopreservation can cause significant damage to the body, and that it is unethical to offer false hope to individuals and their families.
Fluid | Boiling Point (K) | Boiling Point (°C) |
Helium-3 | 3.19 | -269.96 |
Helium-4 | 4.214 | -268.936 |
Hydrogen | 20.27 | -252.88 |
Neon | 27.09 | -246.06 |
Nitrogen | 77.09 | -196.06 |
Air | 78.8 | -194.35 |
Fluorine | 85.24 | -187.91 |
Argon | 87.24 | -185.91 |
Oxygen | 90.18 | -182.97 |
Methane | 111.7 | -161.45 |
As technology rapidly evolves areas of cryogenics will continue to develop and eventually expand to more applications. While we can’t predict what developments will come next, what we do know is that safety around cryogenic fluids is a must, no matter which direction the research will progress.
It is important that all applications handling, studying and using cryogenic liquids use the proper safety precautions and cryogenic oxygen depletion monitors to ensure both safe and accurate monitoring of gas concentrations.
References
https://academickids.com/encyclopedia/index.php/Cryogenics
https://schoolworkhelper.net/cryogenics-history-overview/
https://www.encyclopedia.com/science-and-technology/physics/physics/cryogenics
https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=5091
https://science.jrank.org/pages/1893/Cryogenics.html
https://www.thoughtco.com/cryogenics-definition-4142815
https://www.healthline.com/health/cryotherapy-benefits#benefits
https://www.chilledcryospa.com/what-is-cryo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryosurgery
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons]]>Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is poisonous when inhaled in sufficient quantities. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels, such as gasoline, natural gas, and wood. CO binds to the hemoglobin in red blood cells, preventing oxygen from being transported to the body's tissues and organs. This can lead to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and even death.
Because it is difficult to detect without specialized equipment, it is important to have carbon monoxide detectors in homes and other enclosed spaces where fuel-burning appliances are used.
Whether you are in your home, office, or commercial setting, the burning of gasoline, wood, coal, propane, or natural gases can all produce Carbon Monoxide in hazardous concentrations.
The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that more than 400 people in the U.S. experience fatality from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year. In addition, more than 20,000 individuals visit the hospital emergency rooms and 4,000 individuals are often in critical care each year from Carbon Monoxide exposure.
Carbon Monoxide is a non-natural gas in the earths atmosphere and is created due to the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Because devices like the combustion engine cannot completely burn all the fuel one of the residual effects is carbon monoxide.
With so many potentially hazardous areas such as exhaust from automobiles, stoves, grills, fireplaces, space heaters, or furnaces, it is important to have a CO monitor to mitigate potential injuries from occurring.
When carbon monoxide gas accumulates in indoor spaces it can quickly poison both humans and animals. Just opening a window or entryway does not guarantee you're safe.
While there are many areas where carbon monoxide exposure could occur, here are the most common source points of carbon monoxide:
One of the most common areas of carbon monoxide in the workplace or any indoor environment, is typically near combustion engines.
For those working around automotive vehicles, boiler rooms, blast furnaces, breweries, warehouses, or steel producers, this makes having a carbon monoxide detector is critical.
For example, many individuals also living in the south, typically prepare for hurricanes by purchasing generators - not thinking about the severe hazards of exposure to CO poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning can go unnoticed at first.
Since symptoms first appear as headaches, dizziness, or fatigue, initial symptoms may not appear as significant. However, with added exposure coworkers, occupants, or customers can experience unconsciousness in just minutes. The typical first reaction to carbon monoxide (CO) exposure also may vary depending upon individual age, health, and fitness.
In normal operation and use these devices and appliances release such small amounts of CO that you’d never notice.
However, OSHA has created guidelines for individuals who may need information to conduct effective safety and health programs.
Measured in parts per million (ppm) CO in your home is normally less than 1-2 ppm. But it only takes 25-35 ppm to make you sick and experience headache, dizziness and nausea.
OSHA and the Centers for Disease Control list 50 ppm as the evacuation level for CO exposure. So, you can see why more than 20,000 people visit emergency rooms annually with CO poisoning symptoms.
As easy as it is to get sick from carbon monoxide it's easier to prevent CO poisoning incidents from occurring. At CO2Meter, we believe awareness is key.
It is more important than ever to continually educate workers, colleagues, and family members about the potential hazard areas that may result in direct CO poisoning. Understanding the importance of safety precautions around combustion equipment is the first step.
Here are a few easy and low-cost tips we recommend per OSHA:
It is important to understand the risks and severe negative health effects that carbon monoxide exposure can cause to the human body. For those who do experience CO poisoning and survive, the recovery is almost always slow.
With the right education and understanding of Carbon Monoxide you can better prepare yourself and your colleagues by monitoring CO and having the proper precautions in place.
We hope that this quick educational guide was helpful and you are able to safeguard knowing what to look out for and what to do when around carbon monoxide (CO) hazard points.
For further information on the difference between carbon monoxide vs. carbon dioxide, read What's the Difference: Bottom CO vs. CO2.
Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector
Even though battery operated CO detectors are critical in your home, portable CO detectors like the one shown are used in industrial and commercial applications.
For more information on carbon monoxide safety solutions, contact us today or call us directly at 877-678-4259.
References:
]]>Cell-based therapeutics, also known as cell therapy, is a rapidly evolving field in medicine that holds significant importance in our world. This advancing field has the potential to transform medicine across disease areas and influence early stages of clinical studies.
Cell-based therapeutics also offers potential treatments for a variety of diseases and conditions, including genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and certain types of cancer. Stem cells, in particular, have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, making them a versatile tool for regenerative medicine. Without regenerative medicine, aiming to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs would be miniscule. Stem cells, with their regenerative capabilities, hold promise for restoring function in tissues or organs affected by injury, disease, or aging.
Today, while there are many others that work towards cell-based therapeutics to treat serious diseases, none are creating such leaps and bounds for patients like Walking Fish Therapeutics.
Walking Fish Therapeutics is creating a broad B cell platform for oncology, regenerative medicine, and autoimmune diseases. As a leader in B cell engineering, Walking Fish has made critical advances in engineering B cells to treat cancer and enhance the antitumor immune response.
The company was founded in 2019, by Dr. Lewis (Rusty) Williams MD, PhD. The company’s roots can be traced back to Rusty's passion and 35 years of academic and biotech research. It was when Rusty realized that there was a large paradigm shift for human protein therapies and B cell therapeutics. Today, the company has continued to grow due to its leadership and experienced team of scientists who are committed to bringing life-changing and life-saving therapeutics to patients worldwide.
The team at CO2Meter has been fortunate to forge great partnerships like that with Walking Fish Therapeutics, who utilize our oxygen deficiency safety monitors to protect employees using liquid nitrogen during the cell preservation. Because liquid nitrogen is a key parameter, it is commonly used in cell therapeutics for various purposes, primarily in the context of cryopreservation and storage of cells. Therefore, the concentration of liquid nitrogen in the culture environment needs to be carefully controlled.
We recently interviewed Judith Cooper, Executive Manager at Walking Fish Therapeutics to discuss the importance of our partnership and how they are using our oxygen deficiency monitors in their facility.
CO2Meter: Tell us a little bit about your company and how you got started?
Judith Cooper: “We are a biopharmaceutical company researching B cell therapies for rare diseases. We have created a broad B cell platform specifically for oncology, autoimmune disease, and recombinant antibody production.”
“Our goal is to harness the B cells capability to activate the immune system and treat diseases such as cancer, and to serve as in vivo protein factories that produce replacement proteins for deficiency diseases, regenerative proteins, and engineered antibodies.”
CO2Meter: Tell us about your overall application and the importance of gas used in the lab?
Judith Cooper: “At Walking Fish, we are using gases like carbon dioxide and liquid nitrogen during the cell process and in order for preservation. These gases are used to store cells for long periods without compromising their viability. Cells are usually cooled gradually and then immersed in liquid nitrogen, effectively slowing down their metabolic processes. This allows us to store cells for extended periods, preserving them for future use."
CO2Meter: When it comes to measuring gases are you more interested in analysis, control, or safety aspects?
Judith Cooper: “When it comes to measuring gases, our primary interest is safety. The use of liquid nitrogen in cell therapeutics requires careful handling and adherence to safety protocols due to its extremely low temperature. Additionally, regulatory guidelines and standards must be followed to ensure the quality and safety of cryopreserved cells for therapeutic application.
CO2Meter: When it comes to CO2Meter technologies can you describe your overall experience and what advantages/disadvantages you have observed within your application?
Judith Cooper: “Regarding CO2Meter, our experience has been great. CO2Meter has played a significant role in ensuring our staff is safe and protected around high concentrations of gas everyday.”
“Advantages of CO2Meter solutions are the devices ease of use and the technicians that are always very attentive and helpful with any questions we might have.”
Pictured Above: Remote Oxygen Deficiency Safety Alarm
CO2Meter: Why did you choose CO2Meter specifically as a source?
Judith Cooper: “We chose CO2Meter specifically as a source because we had a few of their devices installed in our locations initially. We knew that their devices were reputable, efficient, and would protect our staff while meeting code."
CO2Meter: Can you talk about your overall application and how CO2Meter has aided in your project/research/application/mission?
Judith Cooper: “CO2Meter has played a pivotal role in our project by providing accurate and real-time measurements of oxygen concentrations and notifying our staff should a potential oxygen deficient space be present. Through this real-time measuring, we can promptly identify areas with a potential risk and take proactive measures to mitigate them before any issue arises."
"Currently, we are rapidly growing our leadership team and continue to prioritize innovation and collaboration, to accelerate the development of B cell therapies across multiple diseases."
CO2Meter: What would you say the next 1, 2, or 3 years look like in your field in terms of trends and innovation?
Judith Cooper: “Over the next 3-5 years, Walking Fish Therapeutics envisions our field embracing trends like AI integration. We foresee AI being able to analyze vast biological datasets to identify potential drug targets and pathways relevant to cell therapeutics. We also see AI in the future for predictive modeling where an AI algorithms could predict the effectiveness of a new drug or cell-based therapies, accelerating the drug development process.”
CO2Meter: If customers wanted to gain further information on your company, projects, and resources - what URL could we provide them with to gain further insights?
Judith Cooper: "Clients can find us at WalkingFishTX.com if they have any further questions on regenerative medicine or cell based therapeutics."
While there are many types of cell therapies and potential therapeutic applications using B cells, Walking Fish Therapeutics is at the forefront of this evolving field. We're proud to help them achieve employee safety and their goals.
Portable carbon dioxide (CO2) safety monitors are useful tools in breweries, restaurants or any facility that uses tanks or cylinders of stored CO2. While this gas is a necessity, it can also be hazardous to employees or customers if not treated carefully.
After consulting with various partners, customers, and industry professionals in the field, we chose the top 5 portable professional CO2 safety monitors that are deemed the "best" in the industry. We looked at critical features such as safety indicators, ease of use, durability, battery life, customization, and of course cost.
The main importance when it comes to CO2 safety is that carbon dioxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Unless you have a safety monitor installed or on hand, you may never know the gas is present until its too late.
Many incident reviews and case studies have shown the severe health effects of CO2 exposure including the following:
While working in and around CO2 gases in breweries, cannabis cultivation and extraction facilities, wineries, and others, industry leaders rely on Personal CO2 Safety Monitors to ensure safety and accurately monitor gas levels on the go.
It is always important to be aware of what effects CO2 can have on an individual's health.
As an industry employee, you occasionally can spend time cleaning, servicing, or performing maintenance inside fermenters, inside cultivation rooms, grain silos, servicing BIB racks and carbonators, mash tuns, kettles, draft coolers, and more.
How can an employee ensure they are safe and their establishment protected?
What OSHA standards and exposure guidelines apply?
OSHA has established a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for CO2 of 5,000 parts per million (ppm) (0.5% CO2 in air) averaged over an 8-hour work day (time-weighted average or TWA.)
When working in and around these areas it is important to follow specified safety protocols, always wear appropriate protective equipment, ensure CO2 safety monitors are in place, and educate those around you on the proper safety precautions.
If you need to monitor both carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels in a specific environment, it's important to use detectors that are specifically designed for each gas. Using the wrong type of detector could result in inaccurate readings and potentially put individuals at risk.
Carbon monoxide detectors are also calibrated to detect carbon monoxide by using specific sensors that are sensitive to CO gas. These detectors are not designed to accurately detect on carbon dioxide levels. Similarly, CO2 detectors are designed to monitor CO2 levels and are not suitable for detecting carbon monoxide.
For further information on the difference between CO2 vs. CO, read more here.
1. CO2Meter Personal 5% CO2 Safety Monitor and Data Logger
The SAN-10 Personal 5% CO2 Safety Monitor and Data Logger is designed for employees who work in enclosed areas that may contain an excessive amount of carbon dioxide gas. Since many individuals work around the hazardous gas daily they have no means of knowing when CO2 levels have exceeded the normal threshold. The SAN-10 indicates and alerts employees to ensure protection.
The SAN-10 is $399.
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2. Analox CO2 Buddy Personal Monitor
For many brewers and industry professionals, they turn to the CO2 buddy to detect CO2 and warn against dangerous levels in confined spaces. While the cost is higher, the device is easy and convenient. The CO2 Buddy also monitors a time weighted average TWA of exposure to CO2 over an 8-hour period.
The CO2 Buddy is $584
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Third on our list is the LogiCO2 Scout. This device is well-known throughout the space due to its easy-to-use and robust gas detection abilities. The ability to insert it into a ball and "roll it" into a room to remotely monitor CO2 levels prior to entering a hazardous space is one of its main selling points.
Another common feature for the LogiCO2 Scout is its ease of use, one-button operation that provides heightened safety.
The LogiCO2 scout retails for $483 on their website.
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Fourth on our Portable CO2 Safety list is the Draeger Pac 8000 CO2 Personal Gas Monitor.
This is another ideal choice for individuals looking for a robust carbon dioxide safety monitor that is reliable, rugged, and precise when monitoring hazardous gas concentrations in confined spaces.
As a reputable manufacturer, Draeger products are often recognized as user friendly, long-lasting, and high-quality.
The Draeger Pac 8000 Personal Gas Detector list price is $999.
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The AimSafety PM150 CO2 Single Monitor is recognized throughout the restaurant, beverage, and agriculture space for its accuracy, durability, and continuous monitoring of real-time hazardous gas concentrations. It is designed for restaurants, beverage industries, agriculture, laboratory, and manufacturing applications.
The AimSafety CO2 portable monitor provides the ability to measure at high accuracy, however, once activated the devices cannot be shut off and will continue to run for their entire two year life span.
The AimSafety portable monitor is $702.
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In providing industries such as restaurants, breweries, beverage dispensing, draft technicians, laboratories, and indoor growers with an easy to understand guide of portable CO2 safety monitors, are goal is to ensure personal and workplace safety.
Regardless of your industry our team is always available to provide further education for your team members and guide you through choosing the right CO2 solution for your application.
For more information on CO2 safety monitoring, speak to an expert today: Sales@CO2Meter.com or call us directly at 877-678-4259.
]]>The quality of indoor air inside offices, schools, and other workplaces is important not only for workers' comfort but also for their health. Studies show a direct correlation between high concentrations of carbon dioxide, employee productivity and health in office settings. While many of us work in poor indoor air quality, few understand the problems and direct negative impact it can have on our well-being.
From reduced cognitive skills, decision-making functions, respiratory ailments, absenteeism, and higher levels of sickness - these all have been linked to high concentrations of CO2 in the office.
Indoor pollutants in the office generally fall into one of three groups: biological and chemical pollutants, particulate matter, and poor air.
The Environmental Protection Agency has a great reference guide that describes each of these in more detail.
Published research studies have also demonstrated the health effects of high indoor CO2 concentrations, specifically in productivity. However, the increasing cost of energy in the 1970s led to a change in building practices throughout the United States as buildings were increasingly constructed to be airtight and energy efficient.
While recent changes in codes for new office buildings have resulted in increased fresh air flow per office worker, older office buildings continue to have an impact on overall worker health and productivity.
Sick building Syndrome is also used as an indicator to describe office buildings where people seem to always be sick for no apparent reason. Symptoms are positively correlated with the time spent indoors. Occupants tend to get sick the longer they are in a building, whereas their symptoms improve or disappear when they leave.
Poor indoor air quality in office buildings may often mask itself as a cold or the flu. Runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, headache, fatigue, fever, chills, or nausea can all be signs of problems with IAQ.
In order to test the quality of air in your office building, a professional air quality monitor should be used, such as the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality Monitor. to measure and detect carbon dioxide, temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure.
Additional air quality tests can also be done to measure the following:
For some office buildings, it may be more cost-effective to conduct indoor air testing with maintenance staff. The EPA provides an on-line guide for HVAC personnel to develop an IAQ profile or to investigate an IAQ complaint.
A study by a team of Harvard researchers measured a 15 percent decline of cognitive ability scores at 950 ppm and 50 percent decline at 1,400 ppm. Joseph Allen, a Harvard School of Public Health professor stated that his team received multiple inquiries from officials at the Navy and NASA following the study as they became concerned about their crews’ environments after hearing of the research findings.
In understanding the findings from the Harvard study, one can view the demonstrated negative impact that high levels of CO2 can have on ones level of concentration.
Do high levels of carbon dioxide impair decision-making performance According to researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the answer appear to be that it does.
A paper titled "Is CO2 an Indoor Pollutant? Higher Levels of CO2 May Diminish Decision Making Performance" documented the results of research on a group of test-takers subjected to different levels of carbon dioxide in an enclosed chamber. The research found that the increasing CO2 levels alone, without any other variables, had a direct impact on the results of tests designed to quantify decision making performance.
In their conclusion, they write:
"The dramatic direct influence of CO2 on decision making performance was unexpected and the study needs to be replicated. The findings of this study, if replicated, have implications for the standards that specify minimum ventilation rates in buildings, and indicate the need to adhere more consistently to the existing standards."
Building occupants and facility managers consistently rank poor indoor air quality as one of the top 10 complaints of building occupants.
See the IFMA Survey on Top 10 Office Complaints.
According to another study conducted by researchers at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the cognitive impairment due to poor indoor air quality is clear.
Research by Lawrence Berkeley Labs (LBL) found that “Moderately high indoor concentrations of carbon dioxide CO2 can significantly impair people’s decision-making performance. The results were unexpected and may have particular implications for schools and other spaces with high occupant density."
The best cognitive scores occurred at 600ppm CO2, and as LBL noted, "In classrooms and office spaces, concentrations frequently exceeded 1,000 ppm and occasionally exceeded 3,000 ppm."
Despite the uncertainty about which concentration of ambient CO2 levels will be at their peak, the overall research on increased carbon dioxide levels in correlation to an individual’s cognitive influence and productivity levels, is a topic that can not be disregarded or ignored.
In a paper published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, researchers found that "On average, cognitive scores were 61% higher on the Green building day and 101% higher on the two Green+ building days than on the Conventional building day (p < 0.0001). VOCs and CO2 were independently associated with cognitive scores."
People working in buildings with below-average indoor air pollution and carbon dioxide showed better cognitive functioning than workers in offices with typical VOC and CO2 levels.
Would you want to undercut your ability to think at the fullest potential? Clearly, the Navy and NASA are concerned about the operational performance of their crews. Are you any less concerned about your employees, your students or your own health?
Knowing and controlling the PPM (parts per million) of CO2 in your space has become increasingly simpler and more cost effective in the last decade with the creation of smaller and more cost-effective CO2 monitors and data loggers – specifically for Indoor Air Quality.
There are also additional best practice tips to improve the indoor air in your office such as:
Here are some other low-cost or short term solutions from the EPA:
Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem.
Acceptable indoor air quality (IAQ) is defined by specific guidelines and standards established by health and environmental organizations. Different countries and organizations may have slightly varying standards, but they generally cover key parameters that impact indoor air quality.
The most common indoor air quality standard is from The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) that recommends carbon dioxide levels not exceed 700ppm. However, many other standards state that good indoor CO2 levels should fall between 700ppm-1,000ppm for general comfort. Higher levels may indicate inadequate ventilation. above outdoor ambient levels.
Here are some other indicators for indoor air quality and their acceptable levels:
Particulate Matter (PM):
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs):
Carbon Monoxide (CO):
Ozone (O3):
Relative Humidity:
Radon:
It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and specific standards may vary. Additionally, individual sensitivities to pollutants can differ, meaning that some people may experience health effects even at levels considered acceptable for the general population.
Regular monitoring of indoor air quality, addressing potential sources of pollution, ensuring proper ventilation, and following recommended guidelines can help maintain a healthy indoor environment. If there are specific regulations or guidelines in your region, it's advisable to refer to them for more accurate and detailed information.
For more information on indoor air quality in the office contact us.
]]>Indoor air quality has always been a focus at CO2Meter.
Almost two decades ago the company started with a single product: the TIM-8 Indoor Air Quality Monitor. Back then, it seemed like every country in the world except the U.S. monitored indoor CO2 levels for personal health, well-being and energy savings. We set up booths at dozens of tradeshows in the U.S. where we explained to visitors that IAQ was "the next big thing." A survey conducted in April 1999 by the American Lung Association revealed that 87% of homeowners were not aware that indoor air pollution may be more hazardous to their health than that found outdoors.
So much has changed.
Today, there are hundreds of companies offering indoor air quality monitors. Since COVID, millions have been sold. Some states began mandating them in the classrooms, hospitals, and government offices. But less than half of households monitor or take any steps to mitigate indoor air quality issues and protect their well-being.
Because air quality monitoring solutions have always been a passion for us, we were excited to interview Amanda Klecker at Healthy House on The Block. She is a passionate advocate of IAQ as well as a certified building biology practitioner. She has created an online space focused on keeping indoor environments healthier and free of toxins and contaminants. CO2Meter was fortunate to work with Amanda and utilize her expertise in the healthy home space by gaining her feedback on our very own Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality Monitor.
We became quickly fascinated with Amanda's comments on indoor air quality monitors (she's tried dozens!) and her real mission towards creating the healthiest living environments possible. Not only did we gather some new and creative home habits, but we gained further understanding on how to maintain this new "healthy home" style of living.
When it comes to indoor air quality monitoring, it's important to keep in mind that one product can't detect everything. However, air quality monitors can provide information to help individuals identify specific sources and activities that cause pollutant levels to change for the worse.
Indoor air quality monitors can help identify issues that can lead to illnesses or diagnose the well researched "sick building syndrome." For environments with poor air quality individuals could have symptoms such as:
Monitoring indoor air quality in your home is crucial for ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment. There are various methods and devices available for this purpose. However, an indoor air quality monitor like the Aranet4 PRO is one of the most accurate options and can indicate instantly if poor air quality is present and ventilation be required.
These monitors ideally should be placed away from air pollution sources and in a visible location to instantly view levels that could be hazardous to ones health.
Amanda decided to give us a full interview on her use of the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality Monitor in her home and provide further insight to air quality and removing contaminants.
CO2Meter: Amanda, Tell us a little bit about your blog? How did you get started, and what is the main mission or focus?
Amanda: "I have always had a love of houses and an interest in holistic health. I melded these two interests together to create Healthy House on the Block, where I help families create healthy indoor spaces to support their own health and wellness. We work together to eliminate toxins from their home and then move forward creating a system of healthy habits to support their indoor space."
CO2Meter: That's fascinating. What are your specialty areas?
Amanda: "The main focus of creating a healthy home is to eliminate as many toxins from the indoor space as possible. The main avenue I teach is to improve the indoor air quality through natural and mechanical ventilation. Another focus is in whole house inspections and all of the home’s systems and structure."
CO2Meter: In your experience what has been the biggest advent/change in your industry recently?
Amanda: "I feel like just the simple fact that people are becoming more knowledgeable about their indoor air and toxins is a HUGE change to our industry. While I still think that there’s a lot of educating that needs to be done, it takes a little focus off of educating so more emphasis can be put on changing the indoor space for the better."
CO2Meter: What has been the most important need or service you provide for your customers?
Amanda: "I think the most needed service that I offer has been guiding families to choose healthier building materials that won’t off-gas as much into their living spaces. Often times they find me in the midst of a remodel and need help choosing finishes that are low toxin and healthy."
CO2Meter: Tell us about your experience with the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality Monitor?
Amanda: "I have worked with many different indoor air quality devices and I think the Aranet4 PRO offers a good view into our indoor air, without being overly-complex. Families don’t have time to try to figure out what their device is telling them each time they’re curious about their indoor air quality. Being able to see quickly that the indoor air quality is good or bad is a huge benefit for them."
CO2Meter: In terms of overall operation, configuration, and ease of use, could you describe your experience of using the device and what it has provided to you so far?
Amanda: "The set up was a breeze for me. After turning it on I downloaded the app and was ready to go. I feel like the instructions that came with the product were incredibly user friendly and easy to understand. So far I’ve been able to track my indoor CO2 levels, humidity and air pressure throughout the day to determine what I need to make some adjustments on at home."
CO2Meter: Are your customers concerned more about compliance, safety, analysis, or indoor air quality regarding CO2?
Amanda: "Definitely indoor air quality first as it relates to the health and wellness of their family. Second is analysis to see what can be improved upon at home as far as habits go."
CO2Meter: Have you compared other indoor air quality devices, like the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality Monitor and how have they compared to this product?
Amanda: "I haven’t compared them side by side, but I know that I really love indoor air quality monitors that also look at radon, VOCs and particulate matter as well as the things that the Aranet4 PRO monitors specifically like temperature, relative humidity, and pressure."
CO2Meter: With the upcoming trends and technologies emerging, what are a few trends that have become more abundant in your industry as it pertains to Air Quality?
Amanda: "Obviously monitoring indoor air in residential homes is a huge one. I also think the addition of air exchangers in new construction is another important trend that will help improve indoor air quality in homes across the board."
CO2Meter: Would you recommend the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality monitor to other readers? Why or Why Not?
Amanda: "Yes! I think sometimes indoor air quality monitors can get really complex and be overwhelming and cumbersome to try to use and analyze the results. I like the simplicity of the device as well as the detail that it can provide if you want to know that. Most people just want to be able to look at the indoor air quality and know that it’s good. But there are definitely other families, like mine, that want to know what it was over the past few hours and see if there’s any way they could have improved the indoor air."
CO2Meter: What are three main features that stood out particularly on this device, once you received the product?
Amanda: "The biggest feature for me is that the device doesn’t require an outlet, which can make placement difficult. I love that it can be brought from space to space depending on what a family’s needs are. I also love that you can use the app to look at the past hours of indoor air quality readings. It’s so insightful to correlate indoor air quality with habits at home during various periods throughout the day. Finally, I think the relative humidity is a largely underrated part of indoor air quality and I encourage families to keep an eye on their levels at home. An ideal indoor air quality can help lessen off-gassing of VOCs in the home."
CO2Meter: If customers wanted to learn more about your business, what URL could we provide them with to gain further information?
Amanda: They can visit www.healthyhouseontheblock.com
CO2Meter would like to share a huge thanks to Amanda at Healthy House on the Block for providing such tremendous insight to the use of CO2 solutions such as the Aranet4 PRO Indoor Air Quality.
The team at CO2Meter could not be more proud of the relationships we continue to build with individuals across the globe and industry while further providing solutions towards creating a healthier indoor space.
If you are interested in also learning more on indoor air quality solutions to implement into your own home or office space, email us today at Sales@CO2Meter.com or visit our website.
Carbon dioxide is a critical element of any brewing process. In fact, in order to dispense quality beer, carbonation is key. Carbon dioxide plays a big role in brewing and distilling in order to ensure good taste, quality, and shelf stability. However, while carbonation is an important factor, too much CO2 in this process can be hazardous to those working in its presence.
Today, many breweries are using carbon dioxide, yet none quite like 2023 world beer winner, Archibald Microbrasserie. This micro-brewery based in Quebec, is using carbon dioxide under pressure to achieve the desired level of carbonation more quickly and conveniently. They also utilize CO2 commonly in transfer of beer and packaging to prevent oxidation and ensure that the beer remain carbonated throughout the entire process.
Archibald Microbrasserie, was founded in 2005 and has continued to expand rapidly to include four signature restaurants in its chain. Their story began in the Duchesnay Seigneury, a rugged area that lies north of Quebec known as one of the hottest spots in Quebec City. Their focus has remained on the importance of family and authentic cuisine, having created a family of beers that represent signature females from the founder's life. Today, it is grown into a reputable and recognized multinational drink that is sought after across the globe.
The team at CO2Meter has been fortunate to forge great partnerships like that with Archibald Microbrasserie, who utilize our remote co2 storage safety alarms to protect employees working around carbon dioxide in their daily operations. Because carbon dioxide at elevated levels can pose severe health risks to brewery workers, the company stands by carbon dioxide safety solutions to gain early detection should a potential hazard ever occur.
We recently interviewed Sarah Nina Marchessault, Environmental Health and Safety Director, Archibald Microbrasserie to discuss the importance of our partnership and how they are using our carbon dioxide safety monitors to protect staff in their facility.
CO2Meter: Tell us a little bit about your company and how you got started?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “We are a company that operates commercial breweries and restaurants, manufacturing beers under the brand names La Chipie, La Joufflue, La Matante, La Brise du Lac and La Ciboire et La Valkyrie."
“Our goal is to breathe life into the time-honored tradition, delving into the local terroir to brew creations inspired by their surroundings.”
CO2Meter: Tell us about your overall application and the importance of gas in the field?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “At Archibald, we are producing craft beverages and using carbon dioxide in the carbonation process. We dissolve CO2 into the beer and use natural carbonation during fermentation where CO2 is added directly. We also are using a bit of carbon monoxide and natural gases to fuel during mashing, lautering, and boiling in the brewing process. this provides a consistent contribution during the brew stages."
CO2Meter: When it comes to measuring gases are you more interested in analysis, control, or safety aspects?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “When it comes to monitoring gas in the brewery, our primary focus is always safety. We know that there are potential health hazards associated with high concentrations of this gas and that many areas can pose risk to the workers. Specifically during fermentation and conditioning, or carbonation when carbon dioxide is introduced. By using safety meters we can ensure that the concentrations remain always within safe limits."
CO2Meter: When it comes to CO2Meter technologies can you describe your overall experience and what advantages/disadvantages you have observed within your application?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “Our experience with CO2Meter has been very good and efficient. The service team is always very friendly and answers any questions we need further assistance with.
“Advantages of CO2Meter solutions are the devices ease of use, their ease in calibration procedure and the documentation is always easy to read in terms of the installation of the device."
Pictured Above: Remote CO2 Storage Safety Dual Alarm
CO2Meter: Why did you choose CO2Meter specifically as a source?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “We chose CO2Meter specifically because our contractor had chose them and trusted them, making it easy to continue to use them as a gas safety manufacturer."
CO2Meter: Can you talk about your overall application and how CO2Meter has aided in your project/research/application/mission?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “CO2Meter remote co2 storage alarm has helped give us the ability to continuously monitor and act as a early warning system. It allows our operations and staff to be alerted in the case of co2 levels rising beyond safe limits and enables us to take corrective actions promptly, such as improving ventilation or evacuating from an affected area."
"By monitoring it helps ensure that are workers are not being exposed to harmful concentrations and this promotes their health and well-being while also taking a proactive approach for our brewery."
CO2Meter: What would you say the next 1, 2, or 3 years look like in your field in terms of trends and innovation?
Archibald Microbrasserie: “We continue to grow at a rapid pace and their has been an increasingly large focus on microbreweries currently in Canada. Additionally, collaboration between microbreweries and local businesses as well as community engagement is currently on the rise. At Archibald, we are continually innovating our offerings, embracing experimentation with a diverse range of beer styles, and including new initiatives to meet the needs of our customers.
CO2Meter: If customers wanted to gain further information on your company, projects, and resources - what URL could we provide them with to gain further insights?
If you have any further questions on craft beverage applications or carbon dioxide monitoring, please reach us directly at Sales@CO2Meter.com
Nitrogen safety is critical for establishments using or storing liquid nitrogen (LN2). Due to its low temperature, LN2 is extremely dangerous if not handled correctly. This is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed a list of nitrogen safety requirements when working with this gas in its liquid state.
Nitrogen gas is inert, meaning it does not form chemical compounds with other molecules. It is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. This makes it safe to add nitrogen to food or for industrial processes. In addition, Nitrogen, in its liquid form, is easy to transport in tanks or cylinders.
But its most useful property is that liquid nitrogen is cold. Liquid nitrogen has a boiling point of -320°F (-196°C). At any temperature above this is becomes a gas. By piping LN (liquid nitrogen) around or into other gases or objects, it can be used to cool them. This makes it useful as both a coolant and for freezing materials.
One of the most popular industries for liquid nitrogen, is food freezing. Food grade liquid nitrogen holds many advantages over mechanical freezing or chilling processes. In fact, using liquid nitrogen is faster, more flexible, and takes up less space. When it comes to food quality, liquid nitrogen can help food products maintain their moisture, preventing loss from hydration and create greater flavors.
In addition, liquid nitrogen can be used to preserve food and protect the nutrients, because oxygen can oxidize the food material and ingredients. In some environments, liquid is even used to modify the atmosphere of packaging and ensure the products remain safe and high quality for the end customer.
Liquid nitrogen is commonly used in the food industry and offers many benefits, quickly becoming the 'go to' coolant to freeze and powder products that were unimaginable a while back. A few benefits that liquid nitrogen provides include:
Rapid Freezing: Liquid nitrogen has an extremely low temperature of around -320°F (-196°C). This allows for rapid freezing of food products, minimizing the formation of ice crystals and preserving the quality of the food.
Preservation of Texture and Nutrients: The quick freezing process with liquid nitrogen helps maintain the texture, color, and nutritional content of the food. This is especially important for delicate items like fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
Extended Shelf Life: By preventing the growth of microorganisms and enzymes, liquid nitrogen freezing helps extend the shelf life of food products. This is crucial for preserving perishable items and reducing food waste.
Improved Product Quality: The fast freezing process with liquid nitrogen results in smaller ice crystals, which reduces cell damage in the food. This contributes to better texture and taste when the food is thawed and prepared.
Flexible Packaging Options: Liquid nitrogen freezing allows for a variety of packaging options, including individually quick frozen (IQF) items. This enables manufacturers to package and store food in convenient portions, providing flexibility for both producers and consumers.
Energy Efficiency: Liquid nitrogen freezing systems are often more energy-efficient than traditional methods. The quick freezing reduces the overall processing time, leading to energy savings in the long run.
Customization of Freezing Conditions: Liquid nitrogen freezing systems offer control over the freezing process, allowing manufacturers to tailor the conditions based on the specific requirements of different food products.
Reduced Ice Crystal Formation: The rapid freezing with liquid nitrogen minimizes the formation of large ice crystals, which can negatively impact the quality of frozen foods. This is particularly beneficial for items like ice cream and frozen desserts.
Safe Handling: Liquid nitrogen is inert and doesn't introduce any unwanted flavors or chemicals to the food. Proper handling and storage precautions are necessary due to its extremely low temperature, but when used correctly, it is considered safe for food applications.
Overall, liquid nitrogen freezing provides a technologically advanced and efficient method for preserving the quality, increasing freshness and extending the shelf life across a wide range of food products.
The ability to freeze or quickly cool water, living tissue or other materials has also made liquid nitrogen important in many processes that require extreme cooling or freezing. For example:
Although liquid nitrogen is not toxic, it does have two major life threatening hazardous properties. Because liquid nitrogen can evaporate quickly, it can effectively displace air to create an atmosphere that is unable to support life. In addition, it can also cause severe injury due to its intense cold of the liquid.
Liquid nitrogen expands 696 times in volume when it vaporizes and has no warning properties such as odor or color. Hence, why sufficient liquid nitrogen is vaporized to reduce the oxygen percentage to below 19.5%. Here, there is a risk of oxygen deficiency which may cause unconsciousness.
Understanding the hazards associated with the expansion rate of nitrogen is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety. The primary hazard related to the expansion rate of nitrogen is associated with rapid pressure changes that can occur when nitrogen is released from a high-pressure vessel or when there is a sudden release of compressed nitrogen gas.
By following proper nitrogen safety protocols and being aware of the hazards associated with the expansion rate of nitrogen, workers can minimize the risks associated with handling this gas in various industrial settings.
Liquid nitrogen – like nitrogen gas - is not flammable. However, as liquid nitrogen is exposed to normal temperatures and becomes a gas it expands at a rate of 1:694. This has given rise to the idea that LN can cause an explosion. While technically not true, a rapid expansion of the liquid to gas as a result of a leak or a fire surrounding the LN container or transport pipes can create extremely dangerous pressures resulting in an non-flammable explosion of the container.
There are two primary dangers from liquid nitrogen. The first is asphyxiation. Because of its rapid expansion, it can quickly displace oxygen in an enclosed area. The second is the result of its cold temperatures. It will immediately freeze exposed skin.
Asphyxiation is the primary risk. A person exposed to high levels of nitrogen gas should be removed from the source of the gas and administered rescue breathing if required. Rescuers or people working in enclosed areas with the potential of LN exposure should wear a self-contained breathing apparatus.
Proper handling. storage, and use of LN is critical to worker safety. Liquid nitrogen can cause burns equivalent to frostbite. Therefore, a positive pressure, full face, air supplied breathing apparatus should be used when working with LN in confined spaces. A face shield that protects the eyes and face should be used to protect from splashes. Insulated gloves, aprons and footwear covering designed for the handling of cryogenic gases should be worn to minimize contact with accidental splashes.
Liquid nitrogen as a liquid has a very low boiling point of -196°C and accidental ingestion could cause asphyxiation and airway or gastric perforations due to the extreme cold temperature. You could also take the risk of severely burning your mouth and esophagus.
You should always ensure you are using liquid nitrogen in well-ventilated areas and never dispose of it by pouring on the floor or pavement. By using liquid nitrogen in a confined or enclosed space you could displace enough oxygen to cause asphyxiation or suffocation.
By using containers such as dewars, you can ensure that the contents stay in cryogenic state and guarantee safety in operations such as storing or transporting gases.
The occupation Safety Health Administration OSHA Standards number 1910.101, 1910.1200 and 1910.1450 sets the standards for workplace safety for anyone working around LN or other cryogenic gases. Employers or employees should refer to both this OSHA Quick Fact Sheet as well as this published interpretation of the standard for the most current OSHA information.
While there is no standard OSHA signage for LN many safety sign companies offer yellow caution signage with the text "CAUTION - Liquid Nitrogen - Gloves and Face Shield Required".
For more safety resources on liquid nitrogen, download the USDA guide here.
Linde, a supplier of liquid gases in the US, has this material data safety sheet available for download (pdf)
The National Fire Protection Association NFPA 704 Rating diamond for liquid nitrogen is
In the presence of nitrogen we measure the lack of oxygen instead of the specific nitrogen molecules. We choose to measure oxygen for two reasons: the nitrogen molecule is difficult to detect accurately (you'd need a mass spectrometer to be precise), and because our atmosphere is 78% nitrogen any change would be difficult to detect.
The danger of asphyxiation in enclosed areas when liquid nitrogen or any cryogenic gas is stored or utilized can be minimized by installing oxygen depletion safety alarms. The oxygen depletion alarms are designed to measure and alarm before the oxygen concentration in an enclosed space is dangerous to human life. By installing these devices you can provide employee’s adequate warning before entering an enclosed area where the oxygen level may have dropped below the OSHA standard of 19.5%.
For example the Oxygen Deficiency Alarm for Low Temperatures is designed to protect employees and customers near stored inert gases like cylinders of nitrogen, argon, or helium. It meets all OSHA requirements for safety.
For those industries that are using liquid nitrogen in frozen food applications or industrial settings, implementing a industrial gas safety monitoring system, like the CM-902 Industrial O2 Gas Detector is ideal. This device meets the stringent codes of both OSHA and the FDA, including a industrial stainless steel enclosure to meet sanitation requirements.
The CM-902 utilizes a zirconium dioxide oxygen sensor, allowing it measure oxygen deficient environments at extremely low temperatures (down to -50ºC). It's design was created in order to protect individuals and employees working near gases like nitrogen, argon, propane, or helium in confined spaces. The device also is specifically suited for wash-down applications due to its durable enclosure.
For those working in and out of hazardous environments where liquid nitrogen is stored, used, or produced a portable handheld safety monitor is critical. These devices are designed primarily for enclosed areas where oxygen depletion may cause personal harm. The monitor works by use of audible, visual, and vibrating alarms that indicate to personnel should oxygen levels drop below OSHA compressed gas standards. In addition, the portable device holds up to 72+ hours of charge, ideal for workers "on-the-go".
At CO2Meter, we pride ourselves on providing education and training resources on gas detection and what to do in the event of a potential hazard.
We work alongside many reputable associations like the Compressed Gas Association (CGA). The CGA remains dedicated to providing safety standards and safe practices for the industry and CO2Meter ensures that our devices meet these criteria for our partners across the globe.
Below, you will find a few Liquid Nitrogen CGA code standards:
In addition, here are a few additional safety posters in for the "Safe Use of Liquid Nitrogen" and "Liquid Nitrogen in Cryogenic Environments" from the CGA as a free safety resource to share regarding codes, regulations, and industry standards.
For more information on Liquid Nitrogen safety, gas detection safety alarms, or meeting standards you can speak to a CO2Meter specialist at Sales@CO2Meter.com or call us directly at 877-678-4259.
]]>OSHA defines a confined space as: a space large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter and perform assigned work, has limited or restricted means for entry or exit (e.g., tanks, tankers, silos, storage bins, vaults and pits), and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy.
Confined spaces can be dangerous. That's why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set standards that employers and employees must follow when working in confined spaces.
Confined space monitoring provides rules for any confined space or enclosed space with limited entry or exit access. Because of the possibility of harmful gases, limited visibility, or the inability to quickly recover someone who is incapacitated, OSHA has created safety standards for workers who access confined spaces.
These safety standards are used as a means to monitor and identify high hazard areas with poor visibility that could result in dangers for those working around hazardous environments. By monitoring confined spaces, it helps mitigate risk and enhance the decision-making process during an emergency.
Gas detection monitors can also safeguard and are used to detect hazardous gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, or oxygen deficiency before or while the space is being used. This equipment uses a gas sensor to detect or sample for higher than normal gas concentrations, preventing workers from entering or remaining in a hazardous area.
In the gas detection world we rely on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) when referencing required workplace safety standards, assessments, and guidelines. In the United States, OSHA ensures safe and healthy conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards.
According to OSHA, the 3 criteria used to define a confined space is defined as:
A confined space must meet ANY or ALL of the above criteria to be designated as a confined space. Examples include freezers, keg coolers, beverage dispensing rooms, small grow spaces, underground pits, sewers or wells, tunnels, tanks, chimneys, grain silos, or commercial freezers.
For example, even if a worker enters and exits a keg cooler several times a day, because it only has one door to enter and exit it is defined as a confined space.
OSHA also defines two different types of confined spaces:
Non-permit confined spaces are defined as spaces that do not have a hazardous atmosphere, cannot engulf an individual or asphyxiate upon entry, does not hold internal configuration hazards, and does not contain any recognizable hazard. Using our example above, a beer cooler would be classified as a non-permit confined space.
Permit-required confined spaces are defined as a confined space that has any of the following criteria:
The Code of Federal Regulations created 29 CFR 1910.146 for OSHA. This regulation was written to place an affirmative duty on employers to train their employees and staff who work in or around any confined space locations. The code also places a particular emphasis on employers and staff to be aware of the potential hazards, recognize the precautions to take, and be knowledgeable about protective equipment needed to safely perform tasks and duties
Ironically, although OSHA created and actively promotes these standards, many individuals throughout the beverage, brewery, agriculture, and safety industries are unaware of them and lack the knowledge needed to work in and around these hazardous spaces.
Prior to entering a confined space, the air must be monitored. What you're typically looking for includes: the proper levels of oxygen and that no combustible gases are present.
In order to monitor the air in a confined space the space must be continuously monitored and the employer must be able to demonstrate that the equipment for continuous monitoring is periodic and sufficient to safeguard potential hazards.
Yes, continuous monitoring is required in a confined space. Enclosed spaces with potentially hazardous atmospheres should always be monitored prior to entry and continuously during entry to mitigate potential hazards from occurring.
Additional information on confined space monitoring can be found at OSHA.
OSHA provides a few requirements that employees should know when it comes to highlighting the hazards associated with any confined space:
You should understand the following hazards that could be present such as:
OSHA's standard for confined spaces (29 CFR 1910.146) contains the requirements for practices and procedures to protect employees in general industries from the hazards of entering permit spaces. Employers in general industries must also evaluate their workplaces to determine if spaces are permit spaces.
The OSHA standard also states that the standard defines confined spaces as hazard atmospheres, meaning an atmosphere may expose employees to the risk of death, incapacitation, impairment of ability to self-rescue, injury, or illness from one or more of the following causes:
For those individuals, team members, and staff that are required to enter confined spaces, OSHA has established a list of criteria that must be met in order to meet standards and procedures.
OSHA Quick Cards are small cards that offer individuals an overview of important safety topics as well as tips to help staff raise awareness of common workplace hazards. Typically, these cards can be stored in a familiar work space and used as a handy tool to increase productivity and training opportunities.
While OSHA Quick Cards have been made for confined spaces, additional quick card topics include:
See OSHA's full publications and quick cards by type here.
OSHA provided regulatory and recommended limits for dozens of different gases and chemicals. For example, the limits for CO2 are below:
OSHA Regulatory OSHA PEL 5000ppm |
OSHA Regulatory OSHA TWA 9000 ppm |
California Regulatory TWA 5000 ppm |
OSHA Recommended Short term exposure Limit 30,000 ppm |
OSHA Recommended 8-hour TWA 5000 ppm |
* PEL - personal exposure limit
* TWA - Time Weighted Average
* ST - Short term
See a complete list of all OSHA limits here.
There are several safety precautions that individuals need to be aware of in their daily work environments. Confined spaces requirements are recognized as critical due to the number of deaths and fatalities around confined space and hazardous gas exposure each year.
According to OSHA, there were 1,030 confined space occupational injuries between 2011 and 2018. Of these, 94 were fatal injuries as the result of inhalation of a harmful gas.
For further reference of OSHA confined space fact sheets, read more here.
Because confined spaces exist and are potentially dangerous there are certain atmospheric monitors and gas detection solutions that have been designed specifically for detecting gas concentrations in hazardous environments. Although individuals working in and around confined spaces often believe they can detect if a hazardous gas is present by smell, there is no other tool that can sense gas concentrations more effectively, quickly, and accurately than a professionally designed and manufactured gas monitor, detector, or analyzer.
Without proper fixed or portable monitoring in place, individuals can quickly experience overexposure to hazardous gases. Symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, nausea, asphyxiation, and even death from overexposure.
OSHA additionally specifies that "In order to enter any confined space without the use of special types of personal protective equipment or monitoring, such as a self-contained breathing apparatus - atmospheric conditions must have these characteristics:"
Should a hazardous space contain higher than allowable gas concentrations, utilizing a proper gas detection monitor is a must and will instantly alert the users that higher concentrations are present by audible and visual indicators.
Agricultural workers and indoor farmers can be overcome by gases like nitrogen dioxide and carbon dioxide when entering a grow room that does not have proper ventilation. Gases that build in grow rooms, manure pits, or silos can quickly kill an unsuspecting worker if gas detection safety monitors are not present.
Employers also have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following a safe work practice in order to adhere to the proper confined space requirements.
Be aware that there is always a danger of gases or an oxygen deficiency risk in confined spaces and make sure you are trained to use all necessary safety equipment.
Never enter a confined space without:
Confirming the space has sufficient oxygen and is not an oxygen deficient atmosphere.
Verifying it has been ventilated and CO2 levels are within limit
Posting a second person outside the grow space that you can communicate with by sight, sound, or signal.
Entry into storage areas such as grain silos may be necessary for many reasons such as inspection, maintenance, or cleaning. However, entry into a space that was not designated or intended for regular work and one that has limited means of entry/exit contains physical hazards and is considered a confined space.
Possible grain silo confined space hazards include but are not limited to:
Entering confined spaces in a brewery can be very hazardous, and it's crucial to prioritize safety to protect the health and well-being of workers. Some of the main hazards that brewers may encounter when entering confined spaces include fermentation tanks, mash tuns, brew kettles, walk-in keg coolers, cellars, or tanks and vessels.
Employers also have the primary responsibility for protecting the safety and health of their workers. Employees are responsible for following a safe work practice in order to adhere to the proper confined space requirements.
It's important to assess and classify these confined spaces, implement safety measures, and provide proper training and gas detection equipment to workers who may need to enter them.
Proper ventilation, gas monitoring, confined space permits, and rescue plans should be in place to ensure the safety of brewery personnel when working in these confined spaces.
When a CO2 extinguisher is used in a confined space there is danger that he user may become overwhelmed by the sudden increase in carbon dioxide emissions. This occurs because carbon dioxide is a known asphyxiant and the confined space means oxygen can quickly be replaced by the CO2 much faster.
In addition, any individual working in or around confined spaces that they have never entered before, one should test for oxygen, combustible gases, and then for toxic gas and vapors.
In order to help maximize safety for workers and individuals in confined spaces, there are a number of resources out there such as fact sheets to follow prior to any hazardous entry. As a reminder, OSHA requires a signed permit for entry into any confined space with hazards. Below we highlight a few additional resources and fact sheets you an utilize in your own establishment.
In addition, in order to educate you and your employees on proper confined space guidelines, precautions, and standards the best place to start is the OSHA website. OSHA compliant consultants and training sessions are available online as well.
For an example of a confined space written program template, view this free template by the Brewer's Association Safety Committee.
In addition to portable safety monitors or wall-mounted safety monitors confined space equipment includes:
Portable safety monitors and alarms like the SAN-10 Personal 5% CO2 Safety Monitor or the SAN-20 Personal Low Oxygen Safety Monitor are designed for employees who work in enclosed areas where carbon dioxide or other gas buildup may cause personal harm. In addition, the device also features audible/visual alarm indication, exclusive data logging capabilities, and a man down alarm that can be triggered when an employee fall occurs.
For those looking to detect multiple gas concentrations, we recommend a device like the CM-1000 - Multi-Gas Sampling Data Logger.
A common gas detection monitoring system that is used throughout beverage, brewing, agriculture, restaurant, and safety industries is the Remote CO2 Storage Safety 3 Alarm. It is designed to detect and alarm for high carbon dioxide concentrations in confined spaces such as fermentation cellars, keg coolers, indoor greenhouses, and mechanical rooms. The device also allows the user to trigger an exhaust fan or send an alert to the fire control panel.
For other enclosed area applications where there is a danger of inert gases displacing oxygen the RAD-0002-ZR Oxygen Deficiency Alarm is recommended.
See more products to help you meet OSHA Confined Space Requirements.
For more information on confined space and OSHA procedures or additional training, contact us today.
]]>What is an oxygen sensor? How do they work? While there are many types of oxygen sensors, their working principle can be categorized in one of 3 ways:
Each of these ways to measure oxygen has strengths and weaknesses. While oxygen sensors are used in many applications and industries including automotive, health and medicine, industrial, food and beverage packaging, pharmaceutical and more,, each uses a different type of oxygen sensor best suited for the application.
Note that most oxygen sensors are designed to measure between 0 and 25% oxygen by volume or in breathable air. However, specialized oxygen sensors that can measure up to 100% oxygen are also available.
It is important to note that the oxygen sensor does not actually measure oxygen concentration, but rather the difference between the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gas and the amount of oxygen in the air.
Below are the specific types of oxygen sensing technology used today. Note that each one is best suited for one or more specific applications.
Electrochemical oxygen sensors are primarily used to measure oxygen levels in ambient air. They measure a chemical reaction within the sensor that creates an electrical output proportional to the oxygen level. Because electrochemical sensors produce a current, they can be self-powered, making them useful for measuring oxygen gas battery-operated underwater diving and hand-held personal safety devices. Examples include breathalyzers, respiratory sensors, and blood glucose sensors.
In terms of sensor advantages, electrochemical sensors are sought after due to their low power requirements, lower detection limits, and are often less directly affected by interfering gases. They also tend to be the least expensive kind of sensor.
A challenge for electrochemical oxygen sensors is that they depend on a chemical processes that is temperature dependent. The output of most electrochemical sensors will rely heavily on temperature compensation to provide reliable readings over a broad scope of ambient conditions.
Another challenge for electrochemical oxygen sensors is that over time the chemical reaction slows down and stops, typically between 1 and 3 years depending on the sensor design. Storing them in an oxygen-free environment will not add to the life span of the sensor. As the sensor ages it requires frequent recalibration and is not as accurate as other sensors.
However, because of their rugged design, low cost, and self-powering, electrochemical oxygen sensors are used in many devices, especially hand-held gas analyzers.
AlphaSense is one of the most popular manufacturers of electrochemical oxygen sensors. Their sensors are used in dozens of multi gas detectors and portable safety meters used worldwide.
Zirconia oxygen sensors use heat and chemistry to detect oxygen. Zirconia dioxide is coated with a thin layer of porous platinum to form a solid‐state electrochemical fuel cell. Carbon monoxide, if present in the test gas, is oxidized by the oxygen to form CO2 which triggers a proportional flow of current. The zirconia sensor does not directly sense O2, but rather the difference between the concentration of oxygen in the sample gas and in fresh air.
While zirconia oxygen sensors are most commonly used to control air-fuel ratios in cars and trucks, they are also important in industrial applications. For example, SST’s Zirconia Oxygen Measurement Sensor System uses this technology to measure the oxygen content in flue gases, combustion control systems, coal, oil, gas, biomass, and oxygen generation systems.
Another feature of this type of oxygen sensor is that the small, zirconium-based element does not require calibration. They also maintain their accuracy, even when exposed to humidity or other gases.
Because of a zirconia oxygen sensor's ability to work at high temperatures and pressures, the possible application make it useful in the automotive industry. Virtually every car or truck manufactured uses two zirconia oxygen sensors, also known as lambda sensors, to adjust the fuel-air ratio to maximize combustion efficiency.
The disadvantage of zirconia sensors is that oxygen measurement requires high temperatures. During use, a heater in the sensor raises the sample gas to above 300°F. The heater needs lots of power, so zirconia oxygen sensors are not used in battery operated or handheld devices. In addition, zirconia sensors are not useful where very high accuracy is required.
A variation on the zirconia oxygen sensor is the planar oxygen sensor. Like a traditional zirconia oxygen sensor, it is moisture resistant, rugged, and requires a built-in heater to operate. However, instead of zirconia it uses alumina, which is able to achieve the required temperature more quickly. As a result, a planar oxygen sensor can begin reading oxygen levels in less than 10 seconds instead of the normal 30 second warm up time of a traditional zirconia sensor. This advance makes it a better alternative to automotive lambda sensors for reducing NOX gases present during cold starts.
Optical oxygen sensors are based on the principle of fluorescence quenching by oxygen. They rely on the use of a light source, a light detector, and a luminescent material that reacts to light. In many fields, luminescence‐based oxygen sensors are replacing the Clark electrode.
The principle behind fluorescence quenching by molecular oxygen has long been understood. Some molecules or compounds, when exposed to light, will fluoresce (i.e. emit light energy). However, if oxygen molecules are present, the light energy is transferred to the oxygen molecule resulting in less fluorescence. By using a known light source the amount of light energy detected is inversely proportional to the number of oxygen molecules in the sample. Therefore, the less fluoresce detected, the more oxygen molecules must be present in the sample gas.
In some sensors, the fluorescence is detected twice at a known time interval. Instead of measuring the total fluorescence, the drop in luminescence (i.e. fluorescence quenching) over time is measured. This decay-based time method allows for a simpler sensor design.
An example of a sensor that measures ambient oxygen levels using fluorescence quenching by oxygen is the LuminOX LOX-02 sensor. While it has the same footprint as traditional electrochemical sensors, it does not absorb oxygen and it has the advantage of a much longer lifespan. This makes it useful for devices like room oxygen depletion safety alarms which monitor indoor air for a sudden drop in oxygen levels from stored compressed gases.
Common applications that involve optical sensors include medical facilities, lasers, imaging systems, and fibers. In regards to sensor advantages, many find optical sensors to hold greater sensitivity, wider dynamic range, distributed configuration and multiplex capabilities.
Another example is the TecPen Modified Atmosphere Packaging Handheld Oxygen Analyzer. The TecPen uses a thin coating of luminescent dye on the sensor and a micropump to pull the air sample past the fluorescing dye. The dye is excited at 507 µm and the resulting fluorescence event recorded at 650 µm. The duration of this fluorescence event – known as the lifetime – depends on the quantity of adsorbed oxygen in the sensor layer and can thus be used to determine the oxygen concentration.
Because it uses the faster optochemical sensing technology it is able to take a measurement in seconds. In addition, optical oxygen sensors can be very accurate with the ability to measuring oxygen in the parts per billion level. This makes optical oxygen sensors useful in processes like modified atmosphere packaging or weld purge monitoring that need to measure the absence of oxygen down to 3-4 parts per billion oxygen molecules.
The Clarke electrode is a type of electrochemical oxygen sensor. It measures oxygen levels in liquid using a cathode and an anode submerged in an electrolyte.
The Clark electrode was invented to measure oxygen levels in the blood during cardiac surgery. Today it is commonly used in portable blood glucose monitoring devices that require a drop of blood.
The sensor uses a thin layer of glucose oxidase (GOx) on an oxygen electrode. By measuring the amount of oxygen consumed by GOx during the enzymatic reaction with the glucose, the blood glucose level can be calculated and displayed.
Additional Clarke-type sensors are available which include measuring of ozone (O3), Hydrogen Peroxide (H202), Hydrogen (H), and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S).
While only accurate to tenths of a percent of oxygen, their low cost has made Clarke electrode oxygen sensors available as consumer products.
Infrared pulse oximeters, commonly called fingertip oximeters or finger pulse oximeters, are oxygen sensors that measure the amount of oxygen in the blood by light. They are most often used in low-cost fingertip or earlobe devices to measure oxygen saturation in the body for home medical use.
To work, infrared and red light are both pulsed through a thin layer of skin and measured by a photo diode. Because the wavelengths of the 2 light sources are different, the ratio of absorption of light through the skin is proportional to the amount of oxygenated hemoglobin in the arteries.
The advantages to purchasing infrared oxygen sensors are due to the fact that they are noninvasive, cost-effective, compact and easily can quickly detect low oxygen levels in the blood. Their downside is that some of the less expensive models are not approved as medical devices due to low accuracy and repeatability.
An electro-galvanic oxygen sensor is a fuel cell based on the oxidation of lead that produces an electrical output proportional to the oxygen level inside the sensor. It is similar to an electrochemical sensor in that it consumes itself over several months as it is exposed to oxygen.
Because electro galvanic sensors are relatively low-cost and dependable devices that can measure 0-100% oxygen levels, they are used as medical oxygen sensors in many hospital ventilators as well as SCUBA diving equipment. The downside of electro galvanic oxygen sensors like medical oxygen cells is that they typically have a lifespan measured in months. These sensors tend to be accurate within tenths of a percent of oxygen.
Ultrasonic oxygen sensors use sound speed to measure the amount of oxygen in a gas or liquid sample. In liquid, upstream and downstream sensors measure the velocity difference between high-frequency sound waves. The change in velocity is proportional to the amount of oxygen in the sample. In gases, the sound speed varies as the molecular composition of the gas varies. This makes ultrasonic oxygen sensors useful for anesthesia ventilators or oxygen generators where the output is a known concentration of oxygen gas. Typical applications that require ultrasonic oxygen sensing methods are hospitals, gas analysis, or applications involving oxygen concentrators or portable oxygen generators.
Tunable Diode Laser (TDL) oxygen sensors rely on spectral analysis. A laser beam at the wavelength of oxygen is directed through a gas sample to a photodetector. The amount of light absorbed by the oxygen molecules is proportional to the number of molecules in the sample.
The mechanism of the laser oxygen sensor was created to design analyzers for real-time measurement of gases such as H20, H2S, CO2, NH3, and C2H2 in gas streams. Many sensors have been used in various applications such as combustion systems, power plants, coal, and waste incinerators.
The benefits of laser oxygen sensor is their fast response time, accuracy within tenths of a percent oxygen, that they are inherently calibration-free and their long life. Their disadvantages are primarily their susceptibility to cross sensitivity from other gases.
Paramagnetic oxygen sensors rely on the fact that oxygen molecules are attracted to strong magnetic fields. In some designs, the sample gas is introduced into the sensor and passed through a magnetic field. The flow rate changes in proportion to the oxygen level in the gas. In a variation on this design, the oxygen in the magnetic field creates a physical force on glass spheres that are measured. While not a common sensing technology, it can be used in industrial process control applications where a zirconia oxygen sensor cannot.
Additional advantages of using a paramagnetic oxygen sensor are that the sensors are insensitive to mechanical shock, have high linearity, and are incredibly stable. There disadvantage is susceptibility to cross sensitivity from other gases.
Sources:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/bies.201500002
https://o2sensors.com.au/static/what-is-oxygen-sensor
https://www.newswire.com/different-types-of-o2-sensors/23890
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744989/
https://www.systechillinois.com/en/support/technologies/paramagnetic-cells
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electro-galvanic_oxygen_sensor
]]>Meet the warrior of welding — The CM-1652 is the newest addition to the welding gas analyzer line set to exceed industry expectations, says Josh Pringle, Executive Vice President of CO2Meter.
ORMOND BEACH, FLORIDA, January 16th 2024, -- CO2Meter Inc., a worldwide leader in gas detection, monitoring, and analysis released its new portable CO2 and Oxygen welding gas analyzer that verifies correct CO2 (0-50%) and Oxygen (0-25%) concentrations in welding gas mixes. This device is the newest model in the welding gas analyzer line designed to measure and analyze the composition of the gas blends used in the welding process. With advanced technology, dual gas monitoring, and preconfigured measurements, the CM-1652 will be able to address the needs of welders across a larger range of applications.
"Those who have been eagerly awaiting the release of the device, will be excited to see that customer input was extremely influential. By listening to our customers' needs and delivering upon them, this has continued to further solidify CO2Meter as a true leader in the space. Now, with the ability of dual sensor capabilities and advanced accuracy in the new gas analyzer I know we will continue to help welders achieve greater results in the field." states, CEO of CO2Meter, Travis Lenander.
CO2Meter has always played a pivotal role in welding applications in terms of quality technology and gas detection safety solutions for the industry. You can find CO2Meter technologies used in over 150,000 locations worldwide and relied on by some of the largest Fortune 500 companies around the globe. Currently customers in the field like Linde, Airgas, NASA, Lincoln Electric, and McDantim, all stand by CO2Meter gas detection solutions for their ability to accurately analyze gases, meet industry standards and protect employees.
"Being able to gain reputable feedback this last year on our CO2 welding gas analyzer has allowed us to further meet the needs of our customers and expand our product line to provide a quality dual-gas solution. As we know for a strong weld seam, the gases used must be correctly mixed. Up until now, random sampling was the only method that could be used to check gas blends. With the CM-1652 you can monitor the quality of your welding gas directly in the process and gain precise gas data at your fingertips. It’s also great to continue to hear feedback like, ‘this gives us peace of mind that we can guarantee the gas we provide' from so many of our partners in the field.", states, CO2Meter VP of Operations, Benjamin Santiago.
Overall, it is critical for both welders and gas distributors to verify their gas blends for quality assurance, consistency, gas contamination, and compliance. By gaining accurate verification of the gas blends, welders can now ensure that they are using the right amount and type of gases, prevent formation of defects, and identify problems that could have led to a welding problem. With the CM-1652, industry leaders can now achieve consistent and reliable results across all of their welding operations.
About CO2Meter
CO2Meter, is identified as a leading source for gas detection and analytical solutions. For over a decade, CO2Meter has continued to work diligently to utilize the latest, proven gas sensing technologies to solve the urgent needs of partners and customers across the industry. Business partnerships include various Fortune 500 companies and establishments across restaurant and hospitality, indoor agriculture, pharmaceutical, industrial, welding and safety markets. Our continued ever-evolving brand and technologies ensure we are the "go-to" source for gas sensing solutions, across the globe.
For more information on the CM-1652, please email us at Sales@COMeter.com.
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]]>CO2Meter, a leading manufacturer in gas detection solutions – announces the release of an industrial gas detector designed to monitor gases in industrial environments. The highly anticipated CM-900 industrial gas safety series will measure either oxygen or carbon dioxide, protecting employees working near and around hazardous gases in the field. With the environmentally adaptive industrial enclosure, it also creates advantages for both harsh and wash-down environments.
The CM-900 series is designed to measure low oxygen or high carbon dioxide to protect employees and staff should accidental leaks and releases occur. Delivering frequent and accurate measurements, the CM-900 series allows users to feel secure knowing audible and visual alarms will activate notifying of an unsafe condition. Recent articles such as this one have also become widespread and tell the solemn stories of incidents where asphyxiation or poisoning have occurred due to gas leaks - yet, unfortunately, could have been properly prevented.
“When it comes to protecting worksites and workers, this is a number one priority for any business," said Travis Lenander, CEO at CO2Meter. "With CO2Meter's market leading experience in the gas detection industry, we know we can give operators peace of mind in knowing that systems like the CM-900 series can withstand various industrial conditions all while protecting their staff in real-time."
CO2Meter continues to focus on educating customers about gas detection safety and provides cutting-edge solutions that address key challenges in the field. It is due to their industry expertise and relationships that have cemented CO2Meter as a true "go-to-source" for customers and partners. Their technologies encompass a wide range of product categories from fixed gas detectors, portable gas analyzers, and gas controllers that are installed and used widespread across the globe.
“When we looked at various industries and partners, we realized that industrial, cryogenics, food freezing, and many others had a device gap in the market where CO2Meter could apply our expertise and technology to provide true solutions. As we speak to gas distributors about the CM-900, we hear feedback like ‘this device has already paid for itself’ or ‘now we can finally give our fill plant employees the peace of mind they deserve without question." announced CO2Meter Executive Vice President, Joshua Pringle.
"Overall, we are all very excited to launch this device as we already have plans to add additional gas sensing and wireless capabilities into an enhanced model in 2024, proving that CO2Meter continues to listen to customers’ needs and can provide solutions across a broad scale of markets and industries.” states CO2Meter VP of Marketing, Morgan Morris.
When fast or informed decisions make the difference between life and safety, using a gas safety detector can provide the right accuracy and reliability. With CO2Meter's industrial gas detector series, you never have to trade off on the reliability of your gas detector, making the best decisions for your team, employees, and establishment - all with one glance of the device.
Often identified as the “leading source” for gas detection, monitoring, and analytical solutions, CO2Meter continues to focus on the development of solutions for customers. Since its incorporation in 2006, CO2Meter has worked diligently to utilize the latest, proven gas sensing technologies to solve the urgent needs of our partners.
By providing unique, high quality, gas detection monitoring solutions, CO2Meter strives each day and in each customer interaction to provide education about gas detection and monitoring, and to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of the public.
For more information, visit www.CO2Meter.com or email Sales@co2meter.com
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]]>A carbon dioxide data logger is a device designed to measure and record CO2 levels in a specific environment over time. These devices are commonly used in various applications, including indoor air quality monitoring, industrial processes, research, and even fire suppression studies. CO2 data loggers typically consist of sensors that can detect and measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air.
A carbon dioxide data logger works by utilizing a gas sensor to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the surrounding environment. By using a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) sensor at the devices core it can measure infrared light in a sample of air. This technology is often the most beneficial in measuring CO2 by detecting the presence of the gas based on the absorption of light at a specific wavelength. While there are many different types of CO2 sensors, the NDIR is the most common and precise when it comes to measurement in these devices.
For CO2 data loggers specifically, it operates more on automatic monitoring and recording of specific environmental conditions and parameters via the sensor component. From this measurement, the carbon dioxide logger then stores the resulting data in their internal memory. This data can be configured as either relatively simple single channel devices or more complex multi-channel versions.
While the sensor component and recording are essential in the device's operation, there are other basic steps involved in a CO2 data logger such as:
Sampling Air: The data logger continuously or periodically samples the air in its environment. The air sample is exposed to the CO2 sensor, allowing it to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide present.
Conversion to Concentration: The sensor converts the measured infrared light absorption into a concentration value, indicating the amount of CO2 in parts per million (ppm) or other units.
Data Logging: The CO2 concentration data is logged and stored in the device's memory. The data logger records this information over time, creating a log or dataset that can be retrieved and analyzed later.
Power Supply: CO2 data loggers are typically powered by batteries or external power sources. Some may also have low-power modes to extend battery life.
User Settings and Alerts: Many CO2 data loggers allow users to set thresholds for CO2 concentrations. If the measured levels exceed these predefined limits, the data logger can trigger alarms or alerts to notify users.
Data Retrieval: Users can retrieve the recorded data from the CO2 data logger for analysis. This can be done using various methods, such as connecting the logger to a computer via USB, using wireless communication, or through other data transfer mechanisms.
Calibration: Periodic calibration is essential to ensure the accuracy of the CO2 measurements. Calibration involves comparing the sensor's readings to known reference values and adjusting as needed.
The main functions of a CO2 data logger include:
Monitoring CO2 Levels: The primary purpose of a CO2 data logger is to continuously monitor and measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the surrounding air. This information is crucial for understanding air quality and ensuring that CO2 levels remain within acceptable limits.
Data Logging: CO2 data loggers record the measured CO2 levels over a specified period. This data logging capability allows users to analyze trends, identify patterns, and assess how CO2 concentrations change over time.
Alerts and Alarms: Some advanced CO2 data loggers are equipped with alert features. If CO2 levels exceed predetermined thresholds, the logger can trigger alarms to notify users of potential issues. This is particularly important in environments where elevated CO2 concentrations can pose health or safety risks.
Data Retrieval: Users can retrieve the recorded data from the logger for analysis. This is typically done through a USB connection, wireless communication, or other data transfer methods.
The use of a CO2 data logger provides several key benefits across various applications. These devices are also incredibly valuable tools for monitoring and managing concentrations for indoor air quality applications, ensuring compliance with inspectors, and providing core data for research on environmental conditions.
In addition, they also provide a cost-effective and efficient means to collect and analyze data related to carbon dioxide concentrations across a variety of environmental settings. In indoor air quality applications specifically, these data loggers can help to identify areas of poor ventilation, allowing the user to make necessary changes to keep fresh air flowing.
While the use of carbon dioxide data loggers can vary across several core benefits, here are some of the most common seen from customers in the field:
Real-time Monitoring: CO2 data loggers provide real-time monitoring of carbon dioxide levels in the environment. This allows for immediate awareness of changes in CO2 concentrations, enabling prompt responses to potential issues.
Continuous Data Collection: CO2 data loggers continuously collect data over time, creating a comprehensive record of CO2 levels. This data can be analyzed to identify patterns, trends, and fluctuations, helping users make informed decisions and implement targeted interventions.
Early Detection of Issues: With alert and alarm features, CO2 data loggers can notify users when CO2 levels exceed predetermined thresholds. This early detection allows for timely intervention to address indoor air quality concerns, workplace safety issues, or compliance deviations.
Occupancy Monitoring: CO2 levels are often used as an indicator of occupancy in buildings. By monitoring CO2 concentrations, facility managers can gain insights into occupancy patterns and optimize ventilation systems, accordingly, leading to energy savings and improved comfort.
Energy Efficiency: CO2 data loggers contribute to energy efficiency by allowing for the optimization of ventilation systems. Rather than running ventilation systems continuously at a fixed rate, these systems can be adjusted based on actual occupancy and air quality data, resulting in energy savings.
Cost-Effective Monitoring: Compared to continuous manual monitoring or periodic air quality assessments, CO2 data loggers offer a cost-effective solution. They require minimal maintenance, operate autonomously, and provide ongoing data without the need for constant supervision.
Research and Analysis: CO2 data loggers are valuable tools for researchers and environmental scientists conducting studies related to climate change, ecological systems, and greenhouse gas emissions. The collected data aids in research and analysis to better understand environmental conditions.
Oxygen is an amazing gas. Not only is it a requirement for life, but it is the heart of many of the industrial, scientific and medical technologies used today.
Compressed oxygen in portable cylinders is used in a variety of industrial and medical applications. What each of these applications have in common is that the cylinders are designed to provide a safe and convenient way to transport and use the gas.
A convenient way to tell if a cylinder is filled with oxygen is that the cylinder markings will always be green and a label should be affixed notating the gas stored inside the cylinder.
Industrial Oxygen Cylinders are available in standard sizes rated by the capacity of compressed gas they hold. For industrial applications like welding the most common sizes are: T (approximately 300 cu ft.), K (200 cu ft.) and S (125 cu ft.).
These are the cylinders you most often see in garages, although several other sizes are available. While the thickness of the walls of these cylinders makes them safe containers, their weak points are the neck where the regulator attaches, and the metal fatigues from age.
Best practices for the handling and use of oxygen cylinders include:
For more information, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has specific best practices for the safe use of oxygen during gas welding and cutting.
Medical Oxygen Cylinders are smaller, more portable, and hold high-purity medical-grade oxygen for personal use. Like industrial cylinders, these also have a letter designation for size like D (14 cu ft. or E (25 cu ft.). While the same best practices for storage and safety for all oxygen cylinders apply to medical oxygen, the biggest concern is fire. For example, it is dangerous to use medical oxygen near open flame like a gas stove or when using a cigarette lighter.
Liquid oxygen (LOx) is the name for oxygen gas molecules compressed to a point where they enter a liquid state. During compression the liquid oxygen reaches temperatures of -297°F (-183°C) and becomes a cryogenic gas. Because of the high pressure and super-cold temperatures, liquid oxygen is dangerous to handle.
High Pressure – LOx tanks are designed to high standards and equipped with pressure-relief valves to control internal pressure. Under normal conditions these containers will periodically vent product. Best practices include storing LOx tanks in rooms with proper ventilation and not plugging or tampering with the pressure-relief valves.
Cold Temperature – Liquid oxygen will immediately freeze anything it comes in contact with. Like “freezer burn” contact will instantly destroy skin cells. Materials like plastics become brittle and can be shattered. Best practices include wearing protective eyewear and a face shield, thermal insulated gloves and loose-fitting clothing covering the entire body. Anything worn that comes in contact with LOx should be immediately removed.
Fire - Liquid oxygen has an expansion ratio of 860:1. This means that as it changes from a liquid to a gas it expands to 860 times its volume. This can raise the oxygen level in an enclosed area quickly, which also makes it a fire hazard. In a room with only a 2% increase in oxygen levels, even a small spark can result in an explosion. In areas where high levels of oxygen may be present, best practices include only handling it in a well-ventilated area, immediately removing any clothing splashed with liquid oxygen.
In addition, CO2Meter holds a valued partnership with the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) who recently published supplemental guidelines for the safe handling of cryogenic and refrigerated liquids. For more information click here.
All living things require oxygen. While too much oxygen can be tolerated for short periods of time, low oxygen levels can lead to death in minutes.
The effects of oxygen deprivation are well known. Within seconds after oxygen ceases to enter the lungs, hypoxemia (low oxygen in blood) and hypoxia (low oxygen in tissues) begins to occur.
The most immediate problem occurs in the brain. Within seconds hypoxemia results in confusion followed by unconsciousness. Irreversible damage to the brain begins in minutes.
Oxygen deprivation as the result of suffocation is a real issue, especially for children. According to a study published by the US National Library of Medicine, about half of the sample who were injured from suffocation were children, who also had higher mortality rates than the general population.
Best practices for reducing the chance for suffocation include removing doors from old refrigerators, removing access to items like toys or plastic bags, and careful supervision in the water or when bathing. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has also been linked to suffocation. This website from the National Institute of Health has several recommendations for reducing accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States provides guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and health of workers in various industries. OSHA has specific guidelines related to the presence of oxygen in the workplace, as insufficient or excess levels of oxygen can pose serious health and safety risks. Below are key OSHA guidelines related to oxygen:
General Industry Standards:
Minimum Safe Oxygen Level:
Monitoring and Measurement:
In medical, scientific or industrial areas where other gases besides oxygen are stored, a leak in the gas delivery system in an enclosed area can create a potential for suffocation. In these cases, best practices include warning signs, proper ventilation and the use of oxygen depletion or enrichment safety systems and alarms.
These devices are available to protect staff in enclosed areas near storage of nitrogen, argon, ammonia, chlorine, propane, nitrous oxide, helium, argon, and other inert gases. The device works by measuring the oxygen concentration in a confined space and providing alerts in the events that O2 levels in that space reach the pre-set alarm levels. If a sensor detects a low or high oxygen level, the oxygen sensor alerts via audible and visual alarm and can mitigate potential hazard from occurring.
For more information on choosing the right monitoring solution for your application or for additional resources, please email us at Sales@COMeter.com.
]]>When it comes to carbon dioxide and indoor agriculture, we know that CO2 is an essential component. In fact, CO2 is part of the process by which plants make their own food. It's during this photosynthesis where plants use carbon dioxide, along with water and nutrients to produce glucose and oxygen. Further, the glucose produced by the photosynthesis is used by the plant as an energy source for growth and development.
In addition to providing a source of carbon for photosynthesis, CO2 also plays a large role in regulating the opening and closing of a plants stomata. It's these tiny pores on the plant leaves that are used for gas exchange. When the concentration of CO2 in the air is low, plants will open their stomata wider to allow more CO2 to enter. And, conversely, when CO2 levels are high, plants will partially close their stomata to conserve water.
It's this carbon dioxide that is truly essential for the overall growth, development, and health of plant life.
When it comes to CO2 supplementation it can provide several benefits for plants, particularly in indoor growing environments where concentrations of carbon dioxide can at times be limited.
Below we have highlighted the main benefits of supplementing plants with CO2:
While these five benefits can provide greater capabilities for growers, it is important to also ensure that you are maintaining proper levels to avoid any potential negative effects on the environment and human health.
For the majority of crops, net photosynthesis increases as CO2 levels increase from 400 ppm (ambient air levels to 1,000ppm (parts-per-million). Most crops show that for any given level of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), increasing the CO2 level to between 1,000ppm - 1,300ppm will increase the photosynthesis by about 50% over ambient CO2 levels.
For some crops the economics may not warrant supplementing to 1,000ppm CO2 at low light levels. In terms of overall CO2 implementation, greenhouse-grown vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce show earlier maturity, larger fruit size, a reduction in cropping time and yields increasing at an average of 20 - 50% with supplemented CO2.
Flowers and ornamental plants however, also show faster growth, more extensive rooting, and greater plant heights shown in a study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
During particular times of the year and especially in indoor greenhouses that have reduced air exchange rates, the carbon dioxide levels can easily drop below 400 ppm which has a significant negative effect on the crop. Ventilation during the day can raise the CO2 levels closer to ambient but never back to ambient levels of 400 ppm. Further, the supplementation of carbon dioxide is seen as the only method to overcome this deficiency and increasing the level above 400 ppm is beneficial for most crops.
Overall, while we see the benefits of CO2 supplementation the exact levels to which the CO2 concentration should be raised depends on the crop, light intensity, temperature, ventilation, stage of the crop growth and the economics of the crop. For most crops the saturation point will be reached at about 1,000–1,300 ppm under ideal circumstances. However, every application and environment differs depending upon your overall set-up.
The quantity of carbon dioxide in the air can affect plant growth in an indoor grow environment or greenhouse. Because CO2 is a key component in photosynthesis, the the CO2 in the air can also have a significant impact on the plants growth and overall development.
While we know that in a typical atmosphere CO2 is around 400 ppm, the optimum concentration of CO2 for plant growth varies on environment but generally falls at 1000ppm-1200ppm.
However, when the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air is lower than the optimal range, plants may experience slower growth rates and reduced yields. Conversely, when the concentration of CO2 is higher than the optimal range, the benefits to plant growth may begin to plateau, and there may even be negative effects on plant development.
Careful monitoring and control of CO2 levels are almost mandatory to ensure a healthy plant growth and safe grow space environment.
Many individuals assume that plants are similar to humans or animals, however, they do have the same respiratory systems so are more unlikely to die from breathing in too much carbon dioxide. Since they use through stomata to intake CO2 they have a more controlled means of intake.
However, excessive levels of carbon dioxide can have negative effects on plant development, as well as on the overall environment. When carbon dioxide levels are too high, the efficiency of photosynthesis can be reduced, leading to a slower growth and reduced yield. The Canadian Agriculture Association states the average CO2 toxicity level for a plant is at 10,000ppm. At this rate photosynthesis would be very low due to the closing of the stomata and the level of CO2 is sufficient to cause a toxic effect on the plant and cause serve damage.
Additionally, excessive levels of carbon dioxide can also cause the stomata on the leaves to close, which can reduce the amount of water and nutrients the plants can absorb resulting in "water stress".
While excessive CO2 is fairly uncommon, it can occur which is why its important to be able to monitor and control your plants CO2 levels to gain the most productive plant yields, productivity, and environment you are looking for.
Measuring carbon dioxide (CO2) levels for plants is important, especially in controlled environments such as greenhouses, growth chambers, or indoor plant settings. There are various methods and instruments available for measuring CO2 concentrations. Here are some common techniques:
When measuring CO2 levels in a grow space, it's important to take into account factors such as room size, ventilation, air flow, and the number of plants being grown. While carbon dioxide levels can vary widely depending on these factors, it's important to monitor and adjust environmental conditions as needed to maintain optimal CO2 levels.
Below we highlight a few additional tips for supplementing CO2 in your space:
When it comes to cultivation and indoor growing, CO2 grow controllers can often be one of the best tools for maintaining optimal CO2 levels in the growing environment, which can help to increase plant growth, yield, and overall quality.
The RAD-0502 CO2 Controller is just one example of a CO2 grow controller that is commonly used in the field to provide a simple and affordable way to adjust and review your CO2 levels uniquely for your grow environment.
These devices can also help maintain optimal CO2 levels in the growing environment by automatically adjusting the amount of CO2 being released into the air so you can ensure that your plants never exhaust their supply of CO2 and grow at their maximum potential under optimized conditions.
Additionally, CO2 grow controllers can also be useful in controlling other aspects such as temperature, relative humidity, and lighting. By integrating CO2 controllers, growers can create a more precise and efficient grow space to maximize plant yields, quality, and productivity.
These devices can also be used not only in greenhouses, but also grow rooms, hydroponic shops, mushroom farms, or anywhere elevated CO2 levels are used to maximize plant growth.
Are you looking for more information in regards to agriculture CO2 solutions? Let our CO2Meter experts help educate you about devices for your application. Contact us today.
]]>Carbon dioxide is crucial for baking as it's generated when leavening agents like yeast or baking powder interact with moisture and heat, causing dough to rise and expand. This results in light, airy textures in baked goods like bread, cakes, and pastries. This trapped CO2 forms bubbles, creating the desired fluffy and tender crumb structure in baked products.
Non-bakers may not realize that besides ingredients like flour, sugar and eggs, another common ingredient is baking soda, baking powder, or in the case of bread, yeast. These "magic ingredients" work with the other ingredients to release carbon dioxide (CO2).
For example, when leavening agents such as baker's yeast or baking soda are added to bread dough, they release CO2 which forms bubbles to give the dough the perfect consistency and structure for it to rise. CO2 creates the light and fluffy texture in baked goods by filling the batter with pockets of gas as it bakes.
Carbon dioxide also happens to be one of the major gases responsible for leavening in baking. In cakes, it comes from the reaction of sodium bicarbonate under acidic conditions. That's why for thousands of years bread has been made with only flour, yeast and water (skip the yeast and you have unleavened bread).
What's more is that the added CO2 further results in the scrumptious bakery breads we gather today such as rye, brioche, sourdough and even that delicious holiday cornbread.
Bakeries use carbon dioxide all the time, especially in the final proofing stage before baking (resting to increase the volume of the bread). In a closed area with hundreds of loaves of bread, this can cause the CO2 levels to rise to potentially dangerous levels. This is why a large, artisan bread company in Minneapolis recently began using our CO2 Storage Safety Alarm to protect their employees from high levels of CO2 in enclosed bread rising rooms.
Fun Fact: One of a baker's goals is to increase the volume of the bread to make it more "airy" and tasty. A loaf of bread will nearly double in volume, which you can see by looking at the holes in bread caused by CO2 bubbles.
During the proofing process, when CO2 is produced it begins to apply pressure which makes the dough rise. If the bread is not allowed to expand enough it may rise in the oven. If it is allowed to expand for too long, it may be "over-proofed" and deflate the dough.
Aside from using CO2 in bread baking, another application which involves CO2 in bakeries is the cryogenic freezing of baked goods. In order to freeze a product for preservation, many industries in the baking fields use CO2 as a freezing agent.
According to Baking Business, "Bakeries freeze raw, par-baked and fully-baked foods to extend shelf life, retain moisture and flavor, and increase distribution capabilities."
Baking Soda and Baking Powder are both used to create CO2 in baked goods to make them rise. But they are not the same. Baking soda is pure sodium bicarbonate. It needs an acid in the mixture (like buttermilk) to produce CO2. Baking powder is sodium bicarbonate plus a powdered acid, so it used in baked goods where no other acids are in the mixture. Bottom line: pay attention to the recipe if you want your baked goods to turn out right! |
In addition to carbon dioxide, alcohol can play a significant role in making some breads rise. While most people think that carbon dioxide makes bread rise and alcohol changes the flavor, this is not entirely true.
When yeast breaks down glucose it transforms it into carbon dioxide and ethanol. Both byproducts are formed in equal parts. So for every glucose molecule, two molecules of carbon dioxide and two molecules of ethanol are formed. While at room temperature, the alcohol is liquid. When the bread hits the oven, the alcohol begins to evaporate, transforming into gas bubbles that contribute to the rise of the bread.
While carbon dioxide serves incredibly useful in baking, it is used across the entire food industry.
CO2 gas is obtained from a wide range of sources, but it is generally recovered from industrial off-gases with varying degrees of purity. Much of it is produced in synthesis gas plants such as ammonia or hydrogen production, in breweries through the fermentation process, or, to a lesser level, combustion of fossil fuels such as natural gas.
Overall, many of the main foods you come in contact with have already been introduced to CO2 during production, transportation and storage such as:
For the typical consumer, carbon dioxide used in food is completely safe. However, for industrial processes that use stored CO2, safety precautions must be used. The presence of carbon dioxide itself is not a problem, but it is the volume of the gas and its ability to displace oxygen that can rise to dangerous levels.
The fact that carbon dioxide is colorless and odorless makes it dangerous at high levels.
Since carbon dioxide is heavier than air, it also displaces oxygen. At high concentrations this will cause asphyxiation. In the event of a release, it’s easy to succumb to exposure, especially in a confined space like a tank or a cellar. Early symptoms of being exposed to high levels of carbon dioxide include dizziness, headaches, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
Because of these severe negative health effects, many accidents and fatalities do occur in the food and beverage industry from carbon dioxide releases.
Without proper detection methods in place, everyone at a facility could be at risk. This is fairly common when one person shows symptoms of high carbon dioxide exposure and nearby workers attempt to help, only to become victims as well.
Many bakeries, restaurants, and beverage industries working around CO2 use the Remote CO2 Storage Safety 3 Alarm to provide employees with the ability to visibly measure the CO2 levels and trigger an exhaust fan should CO2 levels increase to a harmful level.
A Bloomberg study stated, "The equivalent of half a kilogram of carbon dioxide goes into the atmosphere for every loaf of bread produced in the UK."
This is just one safety example of CO2 in regards to the baking industry and why use of a CO2 safety monitor to can provide safety solutions to those in and around this invisible gas.
Whether you are preserving baked goods with or looking to gain the perfect appearance and volume in bread making with CO2 - the gases are all commonly used and safety solutions are available.
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Carbon dioxide is a vital gas that surrounds us, invisible and scentless. It consists of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms.
CO2 typically exists as a gas, but it can transform into liquid under pressure or solidify into dry ice at frigid temperatures below -109°F (-78°C).
This ubiquitous gas plays a significant role on Earth. While the exchange between air and sea primarily governs global CO2 levels, human breath affects indoor concentrations more directly.
Carbon dioxide is a vital component for life on Earth, yet it is only 0.04% of our atmosphere. The gas plays a crucial role in plant respiration, fueling their growth and energy production through the utilization of sugars and oxygen.
As humans and animals inhale oxygen and exhale CO2, plants perform the opposite exchange: absorbing carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen. This intricate process forms the foundation of the carbon cycle that sustains all living beings and is the foundation for all life on earth.
When we breathe out, our exhaled air contains approximately 3.8% or 38,000 ppm (parts per million) of carbon dioxide. However, due to rapid mixing with the surrounding air, this high CO2 level is quickly reduced to harmless concentrations in normal situations.
Indoor CO2 levels typically range from fresh air at 400 ppm (0.04%) to 2,000 ppm. Outdoors, or fresh air is around 400 ppm; however, human activities such as power plants and transportation can elevate CO2 levels in densely populated areas by 5-15%, depending on various factors like time of day or season. In fact, the 100 largest cities in the world account for about 18% of global emissions.
Carbon dioxide, a versatile gas, has various applications across industries. It is transformed into a liquid and stored in high pressure tanks for transport. These CO2 tanks are then utilized in many ways.
One of the primary applications of carbon dioxide lies in its use as a refrigerant. Gaseous CO2, when compressed and cooled, transforms into a liquid state, exhibiting remarkable thermodynamic properties that make it an efficient refrigerant. This has led to its widespread adoption in cooling systems across industries, from preserving perishable goods in the food and beverage sector to maintaining precise temperatures in pharmaceutical storage.
Additionally, carbon dioxide finds extensive use in the food and beverage industry beyond refrigeration. It serves as a key component in carbonated beverages, contributing to their effervescence and distinctive taste. Its inert nature makes it an ideal medium for preserving food by preventing oxidation and microbial growth, extending the shelf life of packaged goods.
The oil and gas sector also heavily relies on CO2, employing it in a process known as enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Injecting CO2 into oil wells facilitates the extraction of hard-to-reach crude oil, boosting production rates while also sequestering the gas underground, thereby aiding in carbon capture and storage initiatives.
Furthermore, carbon dioxide plays a pivotal role in the welding industry. In processes like shielded arc welding, it acts as a shielding gas to prevent atmospheric contamination during the welding of metals. Its inert properties help create a stable environment, ensuring high-quality welds with minimal defects.
Another significant application lies in the realm of fire extinguishing systems. CO2's properties, including its density and inertness, make it an effective fire suppressant in industrial settings. When discharged, it displaces oxygen, suffocating the fire by suppressing the crucial element for combustion.
The production of chemicals also leverages carbon dioxide in various ways. It serves as a raw material in the synthesis of numerous organic compounds, including urea, methanol, and salicylic acid. These compounds have extensive applications across pharmaceuticals, plastics, and agricultural industries, among others.
Moreover, CO2 plays a pivotal role in pH regulation and buffering in diverse industrial processes. Its ability to form carbonic acid when dissolved in water facilitates precise control of acidity or alkalinity, essential in sectors like wastewater treatment, pulp and paper manufacturing, and textile production.
Industries harness several methodologies tailored to generate CO2, both intentionally and as a byproduct of specific manufacturing processes, catering to many applications across many commercial sectors.
One of the primary methods involves the extraction of CO2 from natural reservoirs during the extraction of natural gas. Natural gas often contains significant concentrations of CO2, and its removal is essential for the purity and quality of the gas. Extraction processes separate CO2 from natural gas through specialized techniques, resulting in purified carbon dioxide suitable for industrial utilization after rigorous purification and compression.
CO2 is also a byproduct from various chemical and industrial processes. Industries involved in the production of chemicals like ammonia, ethanol, and hydrogen yield CO2 as an inherent byproduct. For example, in ammonia production, one of the largest industrial sources of CO2 emissions, the Haber-Bosch process involves the synthesis of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen, resulting in CO2 as a byproduct. Similarly, ethanol fermentation in breweries and distilleries generates CO2, which can be captured and repurposed for industrial applications after purification.
The combustion of fossil fuels in industrial operations, including power plants and refineries, also constitutes a significant source of CO2 production. When hydrocarbons combust with oxygen, CO2 is released as a byproduct along with other emissions. These industries can capture and extract CO2 from their processes to prevent its release into the atmosphere using carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies to minimize environmental impact while repurposing the captured CO2 for industrial use.
The food and beverage industry actively generates CO2 for various applications. Fermentation processes involved in brewing beer, fermenting wine, and manufacturing carbonated beverages produce CO2 as a natural byproduct. This CO2 is collected, purified, and compressed for use in carbonation, preserving perishable foods, and enhancing certain food processing methods.
Carbon dioxide production for industrial purposes also involves intentionally engineered processes. Dedicated CO2 production plants utilize various techniques, including the combustion of natural gas or other hydrocarbons, to generate CO2 as the primary output. These facilities ensure strict control over production, allowing for the scalability and consistent supply required by industrial applications.
Once CO2 is generated and purified, it is compressed from a gas into a liquid at 5.1 atmospheres pressure (5.2 bar; 75 psi), and kept at a temperature below 31.1 °C (88.0 °F) (the critical point) and above −56.6 °C (−69.9 °F) to maintain its liquid state.
Learn more about the chemical properties of carbon dioxide.
Absolutely not! Carbon dioxide, often referred to as CO2, is far from being just any pollutant. In fact, it plays an indispensable role in sustaining life on our planet.
However, here's the fascinating part: while carbon dioxide may not be classified as an indoor air pollutant per se, its levels can serve as a crucial indicator of something much more concerning - the presence of dust, pollen, mold, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and even airborne micro-organisms like germs and viruses that have a detrimental impact on our air quality.
The higher the concentration of CO2 in a room or space, the less fresh and clean the air becomes. When CO2 levels start to rise significantly indoors, things can take a turn for the worse. People begin experiencing constant fatigue; headaches become their unwelcome companions; and there's even this unsettling feeling of sickness creeping up on them. Carbon dioxide itself isn't directly responsible for these issues until its levels reach around 2,000ppm (parts per million).
The next time someone questions whether CO2 truly matters as a pollutant or not, keep this in mind: although it may not be solely accountable for all our indoor troubles, it certainly serves as an alarming signpost pointing towards potential hidden dangers lurking within our precious air! Remember that maintaining optimal indoor air quality is vital for your well-being. By monitoring carbon dioxide levels alongside other pollutants using indoor CO2 monitors like these – which provide accurate real-time data – you can proactively ensure healthier living spaces free from harmful contaminants.
So appreciate carbon dioxide for what it truly represents - an essential component of Earth's atmosphere that contributes to maintaining temperature zones suitable for life.
Learn more about indoor air quality here.
Organizations and authorities all over the world have established recommendations for the maximum permitted concentration of carbon dioxide and/or permitted minimum air flow in occupied buildings:
400-420 ppm - Common outdoor concentration in fresh air worldwide.
400–800 ppm - Risk for over-ventilation indoors when occupied (too much fresh air = energy wasted)
800 ppm - Target CO2 levels by commercial HVAC companies. It is also a maximum permitted concentration for offices in California. It corresponds to an airflow (a need of fresh air) of about 10 liters/second per person.
1.000 ppm - The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommended maximum carbon dioxide concentration in a closed room. It is also a recommended as the maximum comfort level in many other countries, i.e. Sweden and Japan. It corresponds to an airflow (a need of fresh air) of approximately 7 liters/second per person.
2,000 ppm - According to many investigations this level of CO2 produces a significant increase in drowsiness, tiredness, headache and a common discomfort. Try reducing your CO2 levels indoors by opening windows, analyzing your air quality and checking your indoor ventilation.
5,000 ppm - Maximum concentration during an 8-hour working-day according to OSHA, ASHRAE and many EU countries.
50,000 ppm (5%) - The level at which CO2 is hazardous to human and animal life.
Carbon dioxide gas plays a vital role in our atmosphere. It is one of the most abundant greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change. However, when it comes to human health, carbon dioxide can have both minimal toxicity by inhalation and more significant effects as an asphyxiant.
As experts in this field, we want to emphasize that while carbon dioxide is minimally toxic when inhaled at normal atmospheric concentrations, it can become harmful in high concentrations within enclosed spaces. This is because CO2 acts as an asphyxiant, which means it reduces or displaces the normal oxygen levels in breathing air.
It's important to note that the primary health effects caused by carbon dioxide are due to its behavior as an asphyxiant rather than its direct toxicity. In other words, inhaling small amounts of CO2 won't cause immediate harm; however, if you find yourself in an enclosed space with elevated levels of carbon dioxide for a prolonged period of time, it can lead to oxygen deprivation and potentially dangerous consequences.
To better understand how carbon dioxide affects us on a physiological level, let's dive into some science. When we breathe in air containing CO2 from sources such as combustion processes (like burning coal) or even our own exhalations (as we naturally release CO2), our bodies work efficiently to remove excess carbon dioxide through respiration. The respiratory system helps maintain the balance between oxygen intake and carbon dioxide elimination. However, if there is too much CO2 present or inadequate ventilation occurs within a confined area like a closed room or vehicle without proper airflow exchange with fresh outdoor air – then problems may arise.
Signs such as dizziness, shortness of breath, confusion or disorientation could indicate increased levels of carbon dioxide affecting your body's ability to receive enough oxygen.
For more information on this topic, you can refer to reputable sources such as Wikipedia, Britannica, NASA, or even scientific journals like PubChem or NCBI. Understanding how carbon dioxide works and its impact on human health is an important part of learning about climate change and the overall well-being of our planet.
CO2 must not be confused with carbon monoxide (CO), a very toxic gas that is a by-product from poor combustion (cars or fireplaces, for example). Carbon monoxide is dangerous at very low concentrations (25 to 50 ppm).
Learn more about the difference between carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide here.
Monitoring carbon dioxide levels in your home is essential to ensure indoor air quality and to prevent potential health issues related to high CO2 concentrations.
These are just a few solutions to monitoring carbon dioxide in your home:
Carbon Dioxide Monitor: Purchase a standalone carbon dioxide monitor that can analyze and detect high CO2 levels in indoor air environments. These devices are readily available online or at home improvement stores. They typically display real-time CO2 levels and may have additional features like temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure readings.
Smart Home Devices: Some smart home systems offer environmental monitoring as part of their features. You can find smart sensors that measure carbon dioxide levels and connect to your smartphone or home automation hub. This allows you to receive alerts and track the data over time.
Home Energy Management Systems: Advanced energy management and demand controlled ventilation systems include CO2 sensors to optimize ventilation and energy efficiency. These systems can help you regulate CO2 levels while also improving the overall energy consumption of your home.
Smart Thermostats: Some modern smart thermostats also include environmental sensors, including CO2 monitoring. They can adjust heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) settings based on the indoor air quality.
DIY Solutions: For a more hands-on approach, you can build a DIY carbon dioxide monitor using an Arduino or Raspberry Pi board and a CO2 sensor. However, this approach requires some technical knowledge.
A simple test is to take your CO2 monitor outdoors for several hours. It should read approximately 400 ppm. Note that because different CO2 sensors have different accuracy ratings, low-cost CO2 monitors will read a bit higher or lower than 400ppm.
Another test is to simply blow on your CO2 monitor. because human breath is approximately 3.8% CO2, you should see the monitor display immediately spike to a higher CO2 level when you blow.
Also, remember to place the CO2 monitor in a central location where you spend most of your time around 4-6 feet above the floor and away from drafts or direct heat sources. Regularly check and calibrate the device according to the manufacturer's instructions for accurate readings.
Monitoring carbon dioxide levels in your home can help you identify when additional ventilation or air purification is necessary to maintain a healthy indoor environment. If you notice consistently high CO2 levels, it's essential to identify the source of the excess CO2 and take appropriate measures to mitigate it.
]]>Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in homes, classrooms, and office buildings can be hazardous to occupants. The challenge for many is that they are not clear on what is considered a high CO2 level, how to measure it and how to mitigate it.
Organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration - OSHA, and the Center for Disease Control - CDC are all working to provide an adequate amount of data surrounding the importance of monitoring CO2 levels indoors and the potential long-term effects of exposure on individuals exposed to higher than normal amounts of CO2.
Many individuals are surprised when it comes to the importance of carbon dioxide monitoring and recognizing the direct impact high CO2 concentrations have on their overall well-being, productivity, and cognitive skills.
Have you ever been in a meeting after lunch, and felt groggy or unfocused? Feeling like you will barely make it through the remainder of the day, making your way into the breakroom for another coffee or energy drink? This might have more to do with the CO2 levels and less to do with the after effects of a full stomach.
A study published by Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory notes that, “People produce and exhale carbon dioxide (CO2) as a consequence of their normal metabolic processes; thus, the concentrations of CO2 inside occupied buildings are higher than the concentrations of CO2 in the outdoor air.” The ill feelings, tiredness, lack of focus, and even nausea can be attributed to higher CO2 levels as our bodies go through its natural processes. Indoors, this can lead to sick building syndrome.
In fact, higher CO2 levels indoors may also bring on many of the same symptoms defined in sick building syndrome. On the contrary, monitoring CO2 indoors has been stated to dramatically reduce these specific illnesses.
Overall, by monitoring CO2 levels one can protect occupant health, promote productivity, manage costs, comply with regulations, and maintain a positive reputation. By creating healthier and more comfortable indoor environments, the prevalence and impact of sick building syndrome can also be minimized, benefiting both individuals and organizations.
The acceptable CO2 levels in buildings depend on various factors, including the specific purpose of the building and the local regulations or guidelines in place. However, there are general recommendations and standards that are commonly followed to ensure indoor air quality.
The most widely accepted guideline for CO2 levels in buildings is based on ventilation rates. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends maintaining indoor CO2 levels below 1,000 parts per million (ppm) as a guideline for acceptable indoor air quality in buildings.
Here are the CO2 concentration levels commonly used as guidelines:
Good Indoor Air Quality: Normal outdoor air is around 400 ppm. Guidelines state that CO2 levels below 800 ppm are often considered as a marker for good indoor air quality. Maintaining CO2 levels below this threshold ensures better ventilation and a higher level of comfort for occupants.
Acceptable Levels: The average indoor environment tends to hold CO2 levels around 400 ppm - 1,000 ppm. These levels ensure adequate ventilation and a reasonably fresh indoor air quality.
Ventilation Standards: Some countries or organizations have specific regulations or standards for CO2 levels in buildings. For example, the LEED certification system for green buildings recommends a maximum CO2 level of 700 ppm above outdoor levels as part of their Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) criteria.
It's important to note that CO2 levels alone do not determine overall indoor air quality. Other pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and chemical contaminants, should also be considered. Additionally, specific environments like medical facilities, laboratories, or industrial settings may have more stringent requirements based on their unique needs.
To maintain acceptable CO2 levels in buildings, proper ventilation systems and practices are crucial. Regular maintenance and monitoring of HVAC systems, ensuring an adequate fresh air supply, and considering the number of occupants and their activities can help manage CO2 levels effectively.
Click the links below to see each organization's safe carbon dioxide levels and exposure limits:
The word “safe” can be used to mean either “best” or “potentially harmful.” What’s important to note is that CO2 is natural. Except in levels above 3-5% it is not a dangerous gas.
CO2 levels indoors should be as close to 400 ppm (outdoor CO2 concentration) as possible, and no more than 1000 ppm above outdoor air. If the threshold is exceeded, additional fresh air should be added to renew the air.
Not that while this was the most recent mention of CO2 levels in the 1999 ASHRAE Standard 62, it has since been removed in the 2004 version. A more accurate understanding of the ASHRAE position on CO2 is available here (pdf). They state that the fresh air flow per person should be anywhere from 5-60 cubic feet per person per minute depending on the use of the area.
However, as a rule of thumb, a maximum CO2 level between 1,000 ppm and 1,100 ppm indoors is a good goal for any home, office or classroom.
Technically, anything above the “safe” CO2 levels indoors indicates a problem with fresh air flow, not high CO2 levels per se. However, numerous studies over the years have found a direct correlation between high CO2 levels indoors (as the result of lack of fresh air) and high levels of mold, dust, bacteria and viruses in the air. In addition, high levels of CO2 correlate with increased drowsiness and lower cognitive ability.
The problem with a mechanical definition of air flow indoors is that it doesn’t help occupants who are attempting to monitor indoor air quality in their home, office or classroom. Instead, CO2 monitors are an inexpensive alternative that provides a snapshot of air quality that can be used to determine if further mitigation is needed.
Again, as a rule of thumb, CO2 levels above 1,200 ppm indoors indicate potential air flow issues, while CO2 levels above 2,000 ppm have been shown to increase occupant complaints of room “stuffiness” as well as statistically higher levels of negative respiratory effects.
It’s important to know how to discern whether your building has poor indoor air quality. This can be done by using CO2 monitors to take readings of your home.
For instance, devices like CO2 indoor air quality monitors work great for maintaining peace of mind and having a device to indicate when ventilation is required or the need to open a window is vital.
Additionally, If you notice you become tired frequently, nauseated, or suffer from constant headaches or bodily discomfort – you should check the CO2 levels.
Experts recommend that you change air filters in your central air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump every month they are in use. The air filter’s job is not only to keep the air clean from contaminants, but it also keeps dust and debris out of your heating, ventilation, air conditioning system as well as your duct-work.
Dirty air ducts can be a breeding ground for mold spores in the air. It is far more cost-effective to change your filters regularly than to pay for duct cleaning too.
Replacing air filters is easy - remembering to do it is difficult. Here’s a tip: purchase several air filters at a time, and stack them next to your furnace or HVAC equipment. Next, set an alarm on your smartphone calendar to remind you on the first day of every month to change or clean your filters. Don't have a smart phone? Write the date you've changed the filter on the edge of the filter so you'll know the last time you changed it.
Another common question is, which air filter should I use? According to the experts, the higher the minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, the better. MERV ratings signify an air filter’s effectiveness at decreasing airborne particles and contaminants which will improve the indoor air quality in your home.
Learn more about MERV ratings here.
Your home’s relative humidity should be high enough to prevent coughing and nosebleeds, but low enough that you don’t create moisture problems like mold growth.
Indoor relative humidity levels need to take into account the temperature change between summer and winter. In colder climates, wintertime humidity levels should be 30-40% to prevent condensation on windows and other surfaces. In the summer, humidity can be higher, up to 50-60%.
Learn more about the impact of proper humidity levels in your home.
If you do not have a humidifier or dehumidifier connected to your home’s furnace, you should invest in a humidifier to use in the winter and dehumidifier to use in the summer.
So many indoor air quality problems can be solved by using a bit of common sense.
For people with allergies or asthma, indoor air quality is critical to their overall health and comfort. Here are some additional recommendations from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
You visit the dentist for regular cleanings, you see your primary care doctor for checkups, and you change your car’s oil regularly too. It is all called preventative maintenance. Your HVAC system needs regular maintenance too. It’s the technician’s job to make sure that your system is operating effectively and that it is burning fuel at 100% efficiency so that no carbon monoxide is leaking into your home.
In addition, a clean heating system will save you money on fuel and prolong your furnace’s life too.
An indoor air quality monitor that measures CO2 levels can be used as an "early warning system" for poor indoor air quality.
A CO2 Monitor like the Aranet4 Pro Indoor Air Quality Monitor can be placed in an office, on a school desk, nightstand, or in a central area of the home. What makes it so helpful is the ability to see your air quality in "real-time".
Are CO2 levels too high? This means your HVAC system isn’t working properly, and your air is filled with airborne chemicals, pollutants, and microorganisms that spread colds or can inflame allergies.
Simply put, ask your HVAC contractor to have your system "bring in more fresh air."
Too little CO2 means you have too much fresh air and are wasting heating or cooling energy. A quick and simple way to make
sure you’re enjoying the best air quality available is by using an indoor air quality monitor.
Understanding the importance of carbon dioxide levels and poor indoor air quality is the first step to improving an individuals' overall well being and performance in any home, office, or classroom setting.
To provide further perspective, the staff at CO2Meter frequently receives e-mails from customers who have implemented CO2 monitors into their indoor space and are surprised by the reading their new CO2 meter has indicated.
They've found that high CO2 levels indoors can have a direct impact on their quality of life. Here are some examples we would like to share:
V. Jakimov writes, “The moment I powered the Aranet4 PRO a high CO2 level alarm sounded. My CO2 was around 2,800 ppm. I was a bit surprised at first but then realized that my small office gets filled quite fast with breath exhaust carbon dioxide (CO2).”
In a paper published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, researchers found that people working in buildings with below-average indoor air pollution and carbon dioxide showed better cognitive functioning than workers in offices with typical VOC and CO2 levels.
Stephen L. writes, “My friends and I have been surprised at how quickly CO2 builds up in a room full of people. In a basement home theater setup I installed, with six people in a 20’x 20’x 8’ room watching a 2 hour movie, the CO2 concentration went from 400ppm to 2,000ppm by the end of the movie.”
Ken. C., a science teacher writes, “In one classroom of 30 students after lunch reached CO2 levels of 4,825ppm with the door closed...We noticed a rise in asthma sufferers needing their inhalers later in the day when CO2 levels were the highest, typically after lunch.
We also found a direct correlation to nausea, and headache complaints when levels were over 2,000ppm.
Yawning started about 2,500ppm and progressed to some students just laying their heads down around 3,500ppm."
According to the EPA, indoor air quality (IAQ) directly impacts student academic performance and health. For example, the Chester School District in Connecticut saw the number of asthma-related health office visits decrease dramatically – from 463 to 256 – in a single year after improving the air quality in their schools. The Hartford school district saw asthma-related incidents decline from 11,334 to 8,929 in one school year.
David R. writes, “Our studies found carbon dioxide levels rise to over 3,000ppm from 400ppm (outdoor air) in 30 minutes in an enclosed automobile with a single passenger.”
In fact, studies show that drowsiness accounts for between 10% and 30% of all automobile accidents and high CO2 levels are known to cause drowsiness. As a result, high-end auto manufacturers now put CO2 sensors in in their car cabins to automatically add fresh air when needed.
A study by the military in South Korea attempted to determine the effect of CO2 levels in sleeping barracks on soldiers shooting accuracy. Two platoons of recruits were put in separate barracks: one with the windows and vents open the other with them closed. After a full night sleep, both platoons participated in shooting accuracy tests.
The military was surprised to discover that the soldiers who slept in well-ventilated barracks had statistically improved shooting accuracy. In fact, they were so surprised that they switched the platoons the second night, repeated the tests, and found that the platoon in the well-ventilated barracks performance improved, while the other platoon’s performance suffered.
There are several methods available to monitor CO2 levels indoors. Here are a few commonly used options:
Portable/Desktop CO2 Monitors: Portable or Desktop CO2 monitors are devices are devices that can be carried around different areas of a building to measure CO2 levels in real-time. These monitors typically display the CO2 concentration in parts per million (ppm) and may have additional features such as data logging capabilities. Portable monitors are convenient for spot-checking CO2 levels in various locations within a building.
Fixed CO2 Monitors: Fixed CO2 monitors are permanently installed in specific areas of a building, such as offices, classrooms, or HVAC ducts. These sensors continuously monitor CO2 levels and provide ongoing data. Fixed sensors are often connected to a building's automation or control system, enabling real-time monitoring and integration with HVAC systems for ventilation control.
Building Management Systems (BMS): Many modern buildings have sophisticated Building Management Systems that can monitor various environmental parameters, including CO2 levels. BMS software can integrate data from multiple sensors throughout the building, allowing facility managers to monitor CO2 levels in different zones and make informed decisions about ventilation and air quality management.
Internet of Things (IoT) Devices: IoT devices are becoming increasingly popular for monitoring indoor air quality, including CO2 levels. These devices are often compact, wireless, and easy to install. They can communicate data to a central system or cloud platform, providing real-time insights and remote monitoring capabilities.
Smart Thermostats: Some smart thermostats on the market include built-in CO2 sensors. These thermostats can monitor CO2 levels along with temperature and humidity, providing information about indoor air quality. They often have user-friendly interfaces or mobile apps, allowing occupants to access and monitor CO2 levels in their immediate surroundings.
It's important to select monitoring methods and devices based on the specific needs and requirements of the building. Factors such as budget, building size, occupancy patterns, and automation capabilities should be considered when choosing the appropriate CO2 monitoring solution. Additionally, regular calibration and maintenance of the monitoring devices are essential to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.
For more information on indoor air quality solutions, contact us today
Resources:
https://www.airthings.com/business/resources/carbon-dioxide-buildings
https://indoor.lbl.gov/publications/co2-monitoring-demand-controlled
https://www.osti.gov/servlets/purl/902450
https://www.usgbc.org/credits/new-construction/v21/eqc1
https://www.neefusa.org/health/asthma/health-impacts-indoor-air-quality
https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2014-08/documents/sick_building_factsheet.pdf
https://www.co2meter.com/collections/indoor-air-quality
https://www.co2meter.com/blogs/news/indoor-air-quality-standards-schools
]]>Gas detectors have been around since the 1800s and became a concern after the effects of harmful gases on human health was discovered. Before modern-day gas sensors, early detection relied on less precise technologies. Through the 18th and early 19th centuries, gas detectors would be used to detect the presence of gases like methane in underground coal mines. (see history of "canary in the coal mines").
Today, the cost and performance of gas sensor technology has drastically improved, allowing the ability for more accurate, robust, and precise detection. Now, you can find gas detectors incorporated into a much wider range of systems and applications such as demand-control ventilation, engine emissions, indoor air quality, beverage and hospitality, indoor agriculture, and more.
If you need to monitor several gases at the same time for work, you need a 4-gas monitor. These handheld tools can measure one or more gas concentration in real time and are commonly used to protect workers in enclosed spaces.
A 4-gas monitor is a gas detector that is intended to detect multiple gas concentrations at the same time. It is used most commonly as a personal gas device in industries such as pharmaceutical, indoor agriculture, fire suppression testing, sanitation, and industrial processes. Multi gas detectors typically also use sensors to detect the presence of gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), oxygen (O2), and combustible gases such as methane (CH4).
One example, is the Multi-Gas Sampling Data Logger. This device provides analysis for inert gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), methane (CH4) carbon monoxide (CO) and more. Like many other multi gas detectors, this device is capable of detecting four or more gases simultaneously. The detectors are also designed to provide indication should levels not meet the specific application thresholds. See here for gas detection system requirements and alarm level setpoints.
This device also uses a lithium ion rechargeable battery with long battery life, an LCD display screen to show gas levels in real-time, graphed data, data logging, and audible alarm if one of the gas levels is dangerous.
Other terms that are used to describe a multi gas monitor include 4 gas meter, 4-gas detector, multi-gas monitor, multi-gas detector, or 4-gas sniffer.
While many customers find both 4 gas monitors and portable gas detectors, critical across applications, 4 gas monitors work differently and are more robust to gain constant monitoring across several gases within one device. These devices are commonly found beneficial in areas such as oil and gas, pharmaceutical, fire suppression, and chemical manufacturing. Some models of multi gas detectors can also hold data logging capabilities, which can be even more helpful when tracking gas levels over time or for regulatory purposes.
4 gas or “multi gas” monitors are basically a hand-held computer with single task: read the gas sensor data and make it available either on screen or saved to a log file. The secondary task is to sound an alarm if one of the gas levels are too high. Because of these limited requirements, they have a smaller screen and far fewer buttons than a PC keyboard which makes them easier to use in the field.
Open a multi gas monitor and you'll find:
The challenge when designing a 4 gas monitor is that everything must be designed as small as possible to make them portable, and the low-power sensors must be selected to improve battery life. For these reasons multi gas monitors tend to be more expensive than their desktop counterparts which can use older or more power-hungry components.
What makes a portable, multi gas monitor a useful solution is that it combines all these features and benefits in a hand-held design.
Pros:
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Cons:
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Aside from monitoring critical elements like temperature or humidity, most multi gas detectors are designed to detect gases such as:
Other gases that 4 gas monitors can include but are not as common are: acetone, industrial solvents, alcohol, lacquer, thinners, benzene, butane, naphtha, ethylene oxide, natural gas, gasoline, propane, halon, refrigerants, hydrogen sulfide, and toluene.
Basically, if there is a sensor that can detect a gas, there is a 4 gas detector available in the market that includes it. Plus, what makes a portable, 4 gas detector a useful solution is that it combines all of these features and benefits in a hand-held design.
Depending on your application, the primary benefit of using a gas detector is essential when discussing safety. For example, one detector can be used to prevent risks linked to low oxygen atmosphere, safeguard against CO2 exposure, monitor LEL (lower explosion limits) or combustible gases, and remove threats from potentially lethal environments.
The gas sensor at the core of any gas detector is what helps prevent the high risk of gas exposure and affects any casualties within and outside the premises. These gas sensors help detect the concentrations of the gases present in the atmosphere to avoid hazards from occurring, human exposure, and mitigate any fatalities.
Calibration is one of the most necessary services for any multi gas detector or application. Though you should always utilize the gas detector manufacturer for this service, you can carry on this task yourself with the correct instructions. Further, you should be doing calibration of your device annually to ensure optimal performance and increase your gas detector life span.
A typical calibration involves adjusting the device to ensure that it is providing accurate readings for the gases being detected. The exact calibration procedure will depend upon the specific make and model of the detector, but here are a few general tips:
Consult the user manual: The first step is to consult the user manual for your specific multi-gas detector. The manual will provide specific instructions on how to calibrate the device, as well as any tools or equipment needed.
Select calibration gas: Calibration gas is used to test the accuracy of the detector's sensors. Choose the appropriate calibration gas based on the gases being detected by the device.
Prepare the calibration gas: The calibration gas must be prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve attaching a regulator to the calibration gas cylinder and connecting it to the detector using tubing.
Turn on the detector: Turn on the multi-gas detector and let it warm up for the recommended amount of time.
Initiate calibration mode: Most multi-gas detectors have a calibration mode that can be accessed through the device's menu or buttons. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for entering calibration mode.
Expose the sensors to calibration gas: Once in calibration mode, expose the sensors to the calibration gas. The gas concentration should be within the range specified in the user manual.
Adjust the device: The detector should display a reading that matches the known concentration of the calibration gas. If the reading is not accurate, adjust the device according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Complete the calibration: Once the readings are accurate, complete the calibration according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve pressing a button or navigating through menus to exit calibration mode.
Confirm accuracy: After calibration is complete, confirm that the device is providing accurate readings by exposing it to fresh air and verifying that it shows a zero reading for all gases.
At CO2Meter, we offer a number of educational resources and guides to make calibrating your device easier and increase your detectors longevity in the field.
It is always recommended that anyone working near hazardous gases consult the OSHA guidelines for calibration requirements and procedures.
Because indoor air quality environments need to monitor for CO, CO2, and O2 - the combination found in the CM-505: Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide and Oxygen Handheld Detector is ideal. Because of features like the large LCD display, audible alarms, data logging capabilities, and multi-gas functionality, the GasLab Plus® serves as "go-to" gas detection solution for many customers. Especially so, during the pandemic in providing individuals with proper monitoring to ensure air filtration and create a healthier living space.
Overall, indoor enclosed spaces such as homes, offices, classrooms, and gymnasiums are always looking to provide energy efficiency and reduce wear and tear on HVAC systems. The added benefit of installing a CO2 monitor specifically can improve cognitive abilities, promote energy efficiency, and reduce airborne illnesses. One fixed gas detector commonly sought after is the CO2, Temp, and RH Indoor Air Quality Monitor.
See our Carbon Dioxide (CO2) classification guide for indoor air recommended levels.
For many indoor growers, farmers, and cultivators using gas detection in their field is critical to further maximize plant yields and increase crop productivity. Carbon Dioxide is the key to furthering crop yields and our Dual Indoor CO2 Grow Controller is often the preferred gas detector solution for those looking into further optimizing their grow space.
Just as control is an added benefit to indoor growers, gas safety is just as important and this application also utilizes gas safety detectors in order to detect higher than normal CO2 concentrations and warn growers of potential dangers. Equipped with both a main sensor unit and a remote display, a fixed gas safety detector is typically installed in the grow space where the inert gas source point is located.
When it comes to poultry and livestock applications, both Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Ammonia (NH3) are considered key pollutants. For farmers, being able to gain analysis of higher concentrations in animal barns can provide understanding of the health of animals and the workers. In turn, providing knowledge to better ventilate the space, increase healthier environment for staff, and promote productivity in the livestock.
In order to better gauge NH3 and CO2 concentrations in indoor environmental conditions such as poultry farms, the (CM-507) Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Ammonia (NH3) Gas Detector is used.
With the use of many inert gases in incubation and life science environments, technicians require complete analysis of carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2) specifically in research processes. Because oxygen is used as an essential component for cell growth combined with carbon dioxide for embryo development, measuring both of these inert gases is critical for controlling pH.
By using our multi gas sampling data logger researchers are able to maintain the specific environments that are needed for cultures at about 20% O2 and 5-7% CO2. With the explosion of incubation use, especially in fighting diseases like Covid-19, gas detection and analysis will only continue to be an important tool to further advancements.
This application includes individuals or businesses looking to inject gas into a confined space to drive out or euthanize pests, rodents, bed bugs, roaches, or even prairie dogs. By driving in large volumes of high concentration CO2 the pests are driven from the space - or they die. The CM-1000 Multi Gas Sampling Data Logger is utilized to determine the precise high levels of CO2 as well as the depletion of oxygen in the space to maximize the process.
Over the years, CO2Meter has worked alongside many companies and scenarios where pest abatement or control is vital - such as on commercial aircraft. With the temporary "mothballing" of commercial aviation fleets due to Covid-19 many fleet maintenance teams are ramping up efforts to service aircraft including pest abatement. Not only can inert gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) be a more cost effective means of euthanasia, the gas can also provide an efficient means of abatement without damaging any of the flight controls during the process.
For those in fire suppression applications, using a gas detector or multi-gas detector includes the critical component necessary in this field - which is a micropump. This pump is able to simultaneously measure multiple gas concentrations through a single sampling port. To further accommodate customers in need of testing their CO2 fire suppression systems CO2Meter uniquely designs the CM-1000 to NFPA 12 standards which requires testing at low, medium, and high points within the space at specific rates.
The 100% Carbon Dioxide Sampling Data Logger is the only device manufactured that meet these requirements. In addition, the suppression system must reach and hold specific CO2 concentrations over a given period of time making the 100% model of the multi gas monitor series, a necessity in this environment.
Customers wanting to monitor oxygen depletion in the environment may also add a 0-25% oxygen sensor to measure and log this additional data.
The typical lifespan of any gas detector depends on the type of sensor technology that is used at its core.
For reference, most electrochemical sensors usually last between 2-3 years, non-dispersive infrared sensors lasts between 5-15 years, and a more exotic gas sensor may last only 12-18 months.
We typically advise our customers to ensure they are purchasing a gas detector with high quality sensing technology and are getting the device annually serviced/calibrated to ensure consistent and long-lasting performance and operation.
Here is a helpful chart below that shows each gas sensor and the typical life expectancy:
Electrochemical | 2-3 years |
Non-dispersive Infrared | 5-15 years |
Opto chemical | 2-7 years |
Catalytic Bead | 4-5 years |
UV Flux | 2-5 years |
Metal Oxide | >10 years |
The calibration frequency for a 4 gas monitor, or any gas monitor, depends on several factors including manufacturer recommendations, regulatory requirements, usage conditions, and the specific gas sensors involved.
It is essential to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and manuals for the specific gas monitor model you are using, as they will provide the most accurate and reliable information.
In general, most manufacturers recommend calibrating gas monitors on a regular basis, typically every year. However, certain situations may require more frequent calibration. Here are some factors that may influence the calibration frequency:
Manufacturer Recommendations: Follow the calibration schedule recommended by the manufacturer of your specific 4 gas monitor. The manufacturer's guidelines take into account the sensor technology, performance characteristics, and expected drift over time.
Regulatory Requirements: Depending on the industry or the specific application, there may be regulations or standards in place that dictate the calibration frequency for gas monitors. Compliance with these regulations is important for safety and legal reasons..
Usage Conditions: The calibration frequency may vary based on the conditions in which the gas monitor is used. For example, if the monitor is exposed to harsh or extreme environments, high levels of contaminants, or potential sensor poisoning agents, more frequent calibration may be needed.
Sensor Stability and Drift: Gas sensors can experience drift over time, leading them to stray from their initial calibration. Regular calibration helps to correct any inaccuracies and maintain the accuracy of the gas monitor's readings. Some sensors may require more frequent calibration due to their stability characteristics.
Previous Calibration Results: The results of previous calibrations can provide valuable insights into the stability and performance of the gas monitor. If there have been significant deviations or discrepancies in previous calibrations, it may be necessary to increase the calibration frequency to ensure accurate readings.
Remember to follow proper calibration procedures as specified by the manufacturer, which typically involve using calibration gases of known concentrations or following specific steps to send the device back to the manufacturer for calibration adjustment.
It is always recommended to consult the manufacturer's guidelines and seek advice from qualified professionals to determine the appropriate calibration frequency for your specific 4 gas monitor based on the factors mentioned above.
Provided standards exist, all alarm settings are based on the following OSHA PEL, TWA, and STEL settings.
GAS | LOW | HIGH | TWA | STEL | |||
Oxygen (O2) | 19.5% vol | 23.5% vol | N/A | N/A | |||
Carbon Monoxide (CO) | 35 ppma, b |
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Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 0.5% vol | 1.0% vol | 0.5% vol | 3.0% vol | |||
Ammonia (NH3) | 25 ppm | 50 ppm | 25 ppm | 35 ppm | |||
Methane (CH4) | 1.0% vol | 1.5% vol | N/A | N/A | |||
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) | 10 ppm | 20 ppm | 10 ppm | 15 ppm | |||
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) | 2.0 ppm | 4.0 ppm | 2.0 ppm | 5.0 ppm | |||
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) | 3.0 ppm | 6.0 ppm | 3.0 ppm | 5.0 ppm | |||
Nitric Oxide (NO) | 25 ppm | 50 ppm | 25 ppm | 25 ppm |
While various fire codes, government agencies and industry-led associations recommend specific gas exposure safety limits. Below are some examples for each gas as indicated by the proper regulatory standard or association.
Agency |
Recommendation / Requirement |
Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) |
Air is considered oxygen-deficient below 19.5% |
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) |
Air is considered oxygen-deficient below 19.5% |
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
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<18% is minimum partial pressure without need for respiratory protection at normal atmospheric pressure
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Agency |
Recommendation / Requirement |
World Health Organization (WHO) |
9 ppm average over 8 hours |
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) |
9 ppm average over 8 hours |
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) |
9 ppm average over 8 hours |
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) |
35 ppm average over 10 hours 200 ppm ceiling value |
Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) |
50 ppm average over 8 hours |
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) |
25 ppm average over 8 hours |
Combustibles, Explosives (EX) %LEL (Methane)
Recommendation / Requirement |
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National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
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1,000 ppm 8 hour TWA [methane] 50,000 ppm (5%vol) IDHL Immediately Dangerous To Life or Health [methane] = 100%LEL |
Factory default alarms for LEL are set 20% for low. At Forensics Detectors, alarms are set at 50% for high. |
When selecting the right gas detector you should always make sure you are aware of the gases that are commonly used/produced/stored in your industry or environment.
One common gas detector that CO2Meter often refers customers to is the CM-500 GasLab Plus® lineup of portable gas detectors. These gas detectors are easy to use and offers six user-friendly buttons making operation of the device trouble-free. In addition, this device offers different combinations of (CO2, CO, NH3, O2, and PM) making it diverse across multiple applications and industries.
For more information on gas detection and to better assist you in choosing the right gas detector, one of our gas detection experts would be happy to walk through some common questions to better select the right device that fits your individual needs and environmental requirements.
Feel free to speak to an expert at Sales@CO2Meter.com or (877) 678 - 4259
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