Table of Contents
Advertisement
Trace Oxygen Analyzer
Operational Theory
2.1 Introduction
The analyzer is composed of two subsystems:
1. Analysis unit with micro-fuel cell Sensor
2. Control unit with signal processing, display and controls
The analysis unit is designed to accept the sample gas and direct it
to the sensitive surface of the micro-fuel cell sensor. The micro-fuel cell
is an electrochemical galvanic device that translates the amount of
oxygen present in the sample into an electrical current.
The control unit processes the sensor output and translates it into
electrical concentration, range, and alarm outputs, and trace oxygen
meter readout. It contains a microcontroller that manages all signal
processing, input/output, and display functions for the analyzer.
2.2 Micro-fuel Cell Sensor
2.2.1 Principles of Operation
The oxygen sensor used in the Model 3190 is a micro-fuel cell
designed and manufactured by TAI. It is a sealed, disposable
electrochemical transducer.
The active components of the A-2C, B-2C, and Z-2C micro-fuel
cells are a cathode, an anode, and the 15% aqueous KOH electrolyte in
which they are immersed.
Note: Other possible cells used in this analyzer such as the A-series
cells may use a different electrolyte such as acetic acid.
The cell converts the energy from a chemical reaction into an
electrical potential that can produce a current in an external electrical
circuit. Its action is similar to that of a battery.
Teledyne Analytical Instruments
Operational Theory
7
Advertisement
Table of Contents
