Calibration gas is used as a comparative reference when calibrating gas detectors and gas monitoring equipment to ensure that the sensors can provide accurate readings. A calibration gas cylinder consists of a known concentration of one of more gases, depending on the equipment that is being calibrated.
Calibration gas is primarily used for:
- Calibration: Calibration gas serves as a reference to adjust the sensitivity of gas detection instruments to ensure the instrument can accurately measure gas concentrations.
- Bump Testing: This process involves exposing the detector to a known concentration of calibration gas to verify that it responds appropriately and alarms when hazardous gases are present.
Depending upon your requirements, different types and mixtures of calibration gases are available. For guidance on how often your equipment requires calibration and specific requirements, please refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions, or reach out to your local Air-Met Scientific team.
Yes, calibration gas does expire, and using gas that has exceeded its shelf life can lead to inaccurate readings and unsafe situations. It’s essential to use high-quality calibration gas from a reputable supplier such as Industrial Scientific, to regularly check expiration dates and monitor the usage of calibration gas cylinders.
The shelf life of calibration gas cylinders typically ranges from 3 to 36 months, depending on various factors such as gas types and mixtures, cylinder material, and storage conditions. Calibration gas cylinders should be stored in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight. Avoid exposing the cylinders to extreme temperatures or corrosive environments, as these conditions can degrade the gas mixture and reduce its shelf life.
In addition to proper storage, it’s crucial to record the expiration dates of gas cylinders and track their usage to ensure the safety and optimal performance of your gas detection equipment. Managing calibration gas expiration dates can be a significant task, and if not handled properly, it may result in downtime while waiting for new deliveries. Services like Industrial Scientific's iNet Exchange can streamline this process by monitoring expiration dates, tracking calibration gas usage, and automatically sending alerts for replacements as your cylinders approach expiration or run low. This minimises potential downtime and ensures you always have the calibration gas you need. Learn more about iNet Exchange and how it can enhance your calibration gas management.
Traceable calibration gases are specialised gases which are used for calibrating analytical instruments. Their concentrations are certified to be accurate based on recognised national or international measurement standards. In Australia, the National Measurement Institute (NMI) establishes these standards, ensuring that the composition of traceable calibration gases can be verified and remains consistent with established references.
All gases used for calibrating analytical instruments should be traceable to maintain the integrity of measurement equipment and support compliance with regulatory requirements. At Air-Met Scientific, we provide calibration gases which have been manufactured to the highest quality standards. Accurate calibration of gas detection equipment is essential to ensure the reliability of readings and enable effective monitoring of potentially hazardous gases.
Calibration gas cylinders cannot be disposed of in general waste. They must be recycled or disposed of through the correct recycling method according to specific regulations. Always check with local regulations and guidelines for proper disposal methods to ensure safety and compliance. For further information on how to dispose of calibration gas cylinders purchased through Air-Met Scientific, please contact your local team.
It is important to store calibration gas cylinders correctly to maintain their integrity and ensure safety. Calibration gas cylinders should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid exposing gas cylinders to drastic temperature fluctuations and corrosive environments, as these factors can compromise the gas mixture and shorten the shelf life. Most gas calibration cylinders should be kept upright and secured to prevent accidental damage.
For specific storage requirements based on gas composition, refer to the corresponding safety data sheet (SDS) and guidance from your local safety authority. In Australia, AS 4332-2004 outlines the Australian Standard for the storage and handling of gases in cylinders. When transporting gas cylinders in vehicles, ensure they are stored securely and in accordance with local storage regulations. By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure the reliability, longevity and safety of your calibration gas cylinders.
Calibration gas cylinders can be used for both calibration and bump testing, but these two processes serve different purposes and are often confused.
- Bump test: This is a quick check which is often performed daily to see if the device functions correctly and will alarm when there is a presence of a hazardous gas.
- Calibration check: This is a more thorough process which ensures the sensor in the device is operating correctly and can provide accurate readings.
Regularly performing both bump tests and calibrations is essential for the longevity and reliability of your gas detection equipment. For further information on maintaining your personal gas detector, please refer to the manufacturers guidelines and manuals.
Calibration gas cylinders is often used as an umbrella term encompassing both calibration gas and span gas, each serving a different purpose in gas detection:
- Calibration Gas: This contains a specific amount of one particular gas and is used to calibrate instruments designed to detect that single gas.
- Span Gas: This consists of known concentrations of a mixture of specific gases. Span gas is used to calibrate gas detectors that monitor multiple gases simultaneously.
Yes, Air-Met Scientific provides a wide range of both standard calibration gases and custom gas blends for all gas detection equipment.
We stock various sizes and concentrations of standard calibration gases, including the common 4 gas mix, which typically consists of Oxygen (O2), an LEL (such as Propane (C₃H₈) or Methane (CH4)), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S).
In addition to standard mixes, we also supply specific calibration gases, such as Chlorine and Ammonia which are often used in chemical treatment facilities. Our most popular cylinder sizes include 34L, 58L, 116L and 650L, but we offer a diverse selection of both individual gases and gas mixtures in multiple sizes.
If you require a custom blend tailored to your specific gas detection equipment and needs, our team is here to help. Contact your local Air-Met Scientific representative to learn more about our extensive range of calibration gas cylinders.