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The hydrogen plume from a leak generally spreads in a roughly conical shape that is easily disturbed by
environmental conditions. Certain conditions such as pressure, temperature, and leak size may act together to
change the shape of the hydrogen plume from a cone to a laser-like beam. This makes finding a leak more difficult.
If the sensor element is near (and above) the leak, the concentration will likely be higher but the leak may be difficult
to locate. As hydrogen dissipates the concentration decreases. Generally, greater distances will increase the chance
of intercepting the leak stream, but if the sensor is too far away, the response may be too weak to detect.
When drafts or air currents are present, hydrogen will tend to be dispersed. Testing for hydrogen leaks downwind of
the leak area may increase the chance of detecting the leak.
If hydrogen is rising in an enclosed building the hot air near the ceiling may slow the hydrogen's rise. Thus, sensing
hydrogen near ceiling areas with high temperatures present may not be as effective as at a lower level.
Low temperatures can also affect the behavior of hydrogen. Hydrogen stored in a liquid state is at an extremely low
temperature. The density of any escaping hydrogen will be higher than normal and may initially move downward. As
the hydrogen warms, it will begin to rise upward. When checking for a leak in areas where liquid hydrogen is stored,
check both above and below the area of concern.
7
BUMP TEST
A bump test is recommended every three months. The purpose of a bump test is to verify that the sensor is active,
detecting hydrogen and verifying that the sensor is within the pre-set factory tolerance for accuracy.
To perform a bump test perform the following:
In a hydrogen free environment, power on the instrument. Once the instrument has gone through its standard warm-
up, use the calibration cup that accompanies the HY-ALERTA™ Model 500, and apply 2% hydrogen to the probe
sensor. Let the 2% hydrogen flow for 3-5 minutes. After 3-5 minutes the LED bar graph should have three LED's lit.
If the three LED's are not lit, the instrument should go through a factory calibration at H2scan.
8
BATTERY CHARGING
Ensure the unit is powered OFF.
Disconnect the coiled cord from the controller.
Connect the battery charger to the controller.
Using the appropriate A/C plug adapter for the region of use, plug the battery charger into the A/C supply.
The battery charger indicator light will illuminate according to charge status as follows:
NOTE: Complete charging may take up to 4 hours for a fully discharged battery.
9
CLEANING
If the unit becomes soiled, clean the unit with a lint-free cloth. Use special care when cleaning the handheld probe
assembly. Small debris or other material may collect over the sensor tip. Clean the tip with a gentle wiping with a
clean, damp, lint-free cloth or paper. Do not use chemicals or soap.
10 TROUBLESHOOTING
90000002 R13
HY-ALERTA
Off
No Battery
Flashing Green
Fast charging
Steady Green
Fully charged
Steady Amber
Standby
Flashing Red
Error
TM
500 HANDHELD HYDROGEN LEAK
DETECTOR OPERATING MANUAL
Page 11 of 14
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