RKI Instruments AirLink T3A Operator's Manual
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RKI Instruments AirLink T3A Operator's Manual

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AirLink T3A
Operator's Manual
Part Number: 71-0536
Revision: P6
Released: 9/26/22
RKI Instruments, Inc.
www.rkiinstruments.com

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Summary of Contents for RKI Instruments AirLink T3A

  • Page 1 AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Part Number: 71-0536 Revision: P6 Released: 9/26/22 RKI Instruments, Inc. www.rkiinstruments.com...
  • Page 2 Frequency of calibration depends upon the type of use you have and the sensor types. For most applications, typical calibration frequencies are between 3 and 6 months but can be more often or less often based on your usage. 2 • AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 3 Product Warranty RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants gas alarm equipment sold by us to be free from defects in materials, workmanship, and performance for a period of one year from date of shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. Any parts found defective within that period will be repaired or replaced, at our option, free of charge.
  • Page 4 Danger Statements DANGER: The RKI Instruments Inc. AirLink T3A is an ambient air Hazardous gas sensor assembly and only monitors in the immediate vicinity of the sensor housing. A site survey is required in order to determine the best placement and quantity of sensor assemblies. Improper installation can lead to an undetectable gas leak which could result in personal injury or loss of life.

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Mounting the AirLink T3A........
  • Page 6 Appendix C: Modbus Register Map ........73 6 • AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 7: Overview

    When the magnetic switch is toggled, an on-screen indicator will appear on the display screen, signifying that a connection was made. The AirLink T3A display screen will always show the present concentration of gas being detected by the sensor assembly.

  • Page 8: Specifications

    Specifications Table 1 lists specifications for the AirLink T3A. Table 1: Specifications Target Gas Detection Increments Haz. Loc. Alarm Points Range (1 / 2 / 3 / 4)* Ammonia (NH 0-100 ppm 1 ppm Cl. 1 Div. 2 12 / 25 / 50 / 100 ppm...
  • Page 9 Sulfur Dioxide (SO 0-20 ppm 1 ppm 2 / 5 / 5 / 20 ppm Alarms 3 and 4 are only programmable at a controller and do not affect operation of the AirLink T3A. Sampling Method Diffusion Enclosure Ratings • Explosion/Flame-Proof •...
  • Page 10 Accessories • Magnet WARNING: When using the AirLink T3A, you must follow the instructions and warnings in this manual to assure proper and safe operation of the AirLink T3A and to minimize the risk of personal injury. Be sure to maintain and periodically calibrate the AirLink T3A as described in this manual.

  • Page 11: External Description

    Enclosure Magnetic tool explosion-proof plug Alarm 1 LED SUB button ADD button Mounting hole Enclosure lid locking screw Alarm 2 LED Display screen NOTE: The AirLink T3A’s conduit hubs are 3/4 NPT. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual External Description • 11...

  • Page 12: Internal Description

    RS-485 Modbus terminal block Sensor housing socket Fault terminal block Antenna fitting connector Power input/4-20 mA output Relay 1 terminal block (if relays installed) terminal block Radio module Relay 2 terminal block (if relays installed) 12 • Internal Description AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 13: Exploded Drawing

    (with flame arrestor for Class 1 Div. 1 assemblies; without flame arrestor for Class 1 Div. 2 assemblies) Antenna fitting Analog sensor board 900 MHz or 2.4 GHz antenna Sensor housing plug AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Exploded Drawing • 13...

  • Page 14: Remote-Mounted Kit

    Mounting the AirLink T3A 1. Consider the following when you select the mounting site. • Select a site where the AirLink T3A is not likely to be bumped or disturbed. Make sure there is sufficient room to perform start-up, maintenance, and calibration procedures.
  • Page 15 Ø 0.25 2.4 GHz Antenna 900 MHz Antenna Figure 4: AirLink T3A Dimensions 3. For a remote-mounted kit, install the detector junction box at the monitoring environment using techniques appropriate for the mounting area’s classification and for the local electrical code.
  • Page 16 4.64 9.95 2.70 Figure 5: Remote-Mounted Kit’s Detector Junction Box Dimensions 16 • Installation AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 17: Remote-Mounted Kit Wiring

    7. Connect the ferruled wires to the color-coded terminals in the detector junction box. 8. Secure the detector junction box’s enclosure lid back onto the enclosure. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Installation • 17...

  • Page 18: Wiring Power And 4-20 Ma Output

    The AirLink T3A has several basic wiring configurations, dependent upon the desired usage and functionality intended by the end-user. All AirLink T3A units require +12 to +35 Volts of wired DC power to operate. Data communication from the device, through either the 4-20 output or the RS-485 Modbus connection, to an external location are optional.
  • Page 19 (earth) ground. 5. Route the cable or wires leading from the AirLink T3A through one of the conduit hubs at the controller housing. CAUTION: Do not route power and AirLink T3A wiring through the same controller conduit hub.

  • Page 20: Connecting Rs-485 Modbus

    Fault terminal 1. If necessary, unscrew the enclosure lid and pull the internal system out by the thumbscrews. CAUTION: Be sure power to the AirLink T3A is off before pulling out the internal system. 2. Feed the RS-485 cable through the 3/4 NPT power hub and into the enclosure.
  • Page 21 Figure 7: Modbus Wiring NOTE: If an RKI controller is not used, the AirLink T3A can be connected to a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for RS-485 Modbus data communications. For integration and setup, refer to the Modbus Register Map found in Appendix C of this manual.

  • Page 22: Connecting Relays/Alarms

    Connecting Relays/Alarms The AirLink T3A relays are commonly used to power and control external alarming devices, such as alarm lights (visual) and horns (audio). NOTE: Relays are protected by replaceable 4A fuses. Table 4: AirLink T3A Terminal Block Wire Gauges...

  • Page 23: Connecting The Fault Terminal

    Max: 16 AWG Fault terminal 1. If necessary, unscrew the enclosure lid and pull the internal system out by the thumbscrews. CAUTION: Be sure power to the AirLink T3A is off before pulling out the internal system. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 24 4. Locate the fault terminal block on the control board. 5. Connect the external fault device power (RED) wire to the + terminal. 6. Connect the external fault device ground (BLACK) wire to the - terminal. Figure 9: Fault Terminal Wiring 24 • Installation AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 25: Closing The Enclosure

    2. Using the thumbscrews, gently push to seat the internal system into the mounting posts. NOTE: The thumbscrews on the AirLink T3A function ONLY as thumb-holds for ease in removal of the internal system from the base of the enclosure. Do NOT attempt to loosen or tighten the thumbscrews when opening or closing the enclosure.

  • Page 26: Start Up

    Start Up This section describes procedures to start up the AirLink T3A and place the AirLink T3A into normal operation. 1. Complete the installation procedures described earlier in this manual. 2. Verify that the power wiring is correct and secure.
  • Page 27 Phosphine (PH Sulfur Dioxide (SO 8. The AirLink T3A is factory-calibrated before shipping from RKI. If a full calibration is desired at startup, see page 46. NOTE: The user interface will be slow to respond until the AirLink T3A establishes a connection with a controller.

  • Page 28: Operation

    Normal Operating Mode While in Normal Operating Mode, the AirLink T3A continuously samples the air and updates the measured concentration of the target gas on the display screen. The display, when in Normal Operating Mode, appears as shown below.

  • Page 29: Magnetic Buttons

    1 minute. Magnetic Buttons Use the provided magnet to actuate the AirLink T3A’s buttons without having to remove the junction box’s lid. Touch the magnet to the outer edge of the junction box lid near the button you want to actuate.

  • Page 30: Powering The Device

    Powering the Device When power is first applied to the AirLink T3A, the unit automatically powers on and begins the startup sequence. The directions below describe how to power off and power on the AirLink T3A once power has been applied.

  • Page 31: Accessing Menus

    The Product Settings and Configuration menu allows the end-user to tailor the device settings to meet their required specifications and/or site conditions. The AirLink T3A continues monitoring for gas while in the Product Settings and Configuration menu. The Product Settings and Configuration menu consists of the following screens: •...

  • Page 32: Entering The Product Settings And Configuration Menu

    The test can also be used to simulate emergency/safety drills onsite. NOTE: Triggering AirLink T3A relays will also simulate Alarm 1 and Alarm 2 relays at the controller. Controllers cannot distinguish between real and simulated data received.

  • Page 33: Network Id

    • There are 78 networks available with the GEN II 2.4 GHz radio. The controller and AirLink T3A must have the same Network ID in order to communicate. 1. If necessary, enter the Product Settings and Configuration menu by pressing and holding the MENU button for 6 seconds.

  • Page 34: Zero/Calibration Timer Information

    1. If necessary, enter the Product Settings and Configuration menu by pressing and holding the MENU button for 6 seconds. 2. Press and release the MENU button until the Unit Information screen appears. 34 • Product Settings and Configuration AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 35: Background Setting

    5. For O sensor assemblies: a. Use the MENU button to scroll to the BackgroundH screen. b. Press the ADD or SUB button until the BackgroundH is set the desired level. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Product Settings and Configuration • 35...

  • Page 36: Latching And Auto Resetting Relay Settings

    MUST be below the alarm set-point before the alarm can be deactivated. The alarms will NOT activate, even in the presence of gas, until you have exited the menu mode for approximately 1 minute. 36 • Product Settings and Configuration AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 37: Relay Fail-Safe Setting

    CANNOT be used. The factory default settings on the AirLink T3A for Relay 1 and Relay 2 fail-safe are No (Off). AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Product Settings and Configuration • 37...
  • Page 38 If the fault terminal cannot be used, RKI Instruments recommends one of the following configurations: Recommended Configurations for Relay Fail-Safe Setting Table 7: Power Source Relay Wiring Fail-Safe Outcome External Power Supply Normally-Closed (NC) Yes (On) Normal Operation: Open Alarm Activation: Closed...

  • Page 39: Fault Terminal Fail-Safe Setting

    Auto Calibration: Sets the reading, after a predetermined amount of time, during calibration to the value entered during the auto calibration setup process. 1. If necessary, enter the Product Settings and Configuration menu by pressing and holding the MENU button for 6 seconds. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Product Settings and Configuration • 39...

  • Page 40: Modbus Address Setting

    Modbus address field. The AirLink T3A uses the original Modbus RTU over the RS-485 link. RS-485 Modbus has 255 addresses, ranging from 1 to 255. Eight of the addresses are used for internal system settings, leaving addresses 1 to 247 available for your device.

  • Page 41: Modbus Baud Setting

    The AirLink T3A’s default Modbus baud setting is 9600 bps. The RS-485 Modbus communication parameters used in the AirLink T3A are 8 data bits, no parity bit, and 1 stop bit (8-N-1) these parameters are fixed and cannot be changed. Some devices come with different Modbus baud rates.

  • Page 42: 4-20 Ma Offset Settings

    4-20 mA offset will need to be recalibrated. The factory default settings on the AirLink T3A for the 4-20 mA offset are 4.00 mA for the zero offset and 20.00 mA for the full-scale offset.

  • Page 43: Display Screen Contrast Setting

    The factory default setting on the AirLink T3A for the display screen contrast is 29, approximately 45% of the contrast scale. The contrast setting ranges from 1 to 64.

  • Page 44: Return To Factory Default Settings

    Return to Factory Default Settings Returning the AirLink T3A to its factory default settings will reset all customization of the device, including the zero and calibration settings of the sensor element. A factory default does not change the gas type.

  • Page 45: Reset Zero & Calibration Values

    6. Use the MENU button to scroll through the rest of the Product Settings and Configuration menu and return to Normal Operating Mode. NOTE: If the AirLink T3A is reset to the factory default settings, ALL configuration steps MUST be repeated and the device MUST then be zeroed and calibrated for proper operation of the device.

  • Page 46: Operation Settings And Calibration

    6. Press and release the MENU button to return to Normal Operating Mode. NOTE: If the AirLink T3A’s stored Zero and Calibration values are reset, the device MUST be zeroed and calibrated for proper and safe operation of the device.

  • Page 47: Zeroing The Sensor (20.9% For O2)

    2. Press the ADD button to begin the zero process and advance to the clean air confirmation screen. 3. If the sensor is in clean air, press the ADD button to select “Yes” and continue to Step 5. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Operation Settings and Calibration • 47...

  • Page 48: Calibrating The Sensor (Manual Cal)

    Unscrew and remove the rain guard from the assembly. b. Install the calibration cup to the AirLink T3A’s sensor housing. c. Screw the regulator into the zero air calibration cylinder (100% N cylinder if zeroing a sensor).
  • Page 49 1 minute before proceeding. If you are calibrating with HCl calibration gas, connect the tubing to the regulator, turn the regulator on, and allow gas to flow for 10 minutes before proceeding. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Operation Settings and Calibration • 49...
  • Page 50 If you are accessing Manual Cal from Normal Operating Mode, press MENU twice. 3. Unscrew and remove the rain guard from the assembly. 4. Install the calibration cup to the AirLink T3A’s sensor housing. 5. Use the sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup.

  • Page 51: Calibrating The Sensor (Auto Cal)

    Surrogate Calibration Detected Gas Factor Arsine (AsH Phospine (PH Chlorine Dioxide (ClO Chlorine (Cl Formaldehyde (CH Carbon Monoxide (CO) Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) Chlorine (Cl Ozone (O Chlorine (Cl Nitrogen Dioxide (NO AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Operation Settings and Calibration • 51...
  • Page 52 5. Use the ADD and SUB buttons to adjust the concentration match the concentration shown on the calibration cylinder. For detectors using a surrogate gas, adjust the reading to match the surrogate gas concentration multiplied by the factor listed in Table 10 on page 51. 52 • Operation Settings and Calibration AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...
  • Page 53 7. Unscrew and remove the rain guard from the assembly. 8. Install the calibration cup to the AirLink T3A’s sensor housing. 9. Use the sample tubing to connect the regulator to the calibration cup. 10. For toxic gas cylinders, like Cl , it is important to vent the regulator while installing it onto the cylinder.

  • Page 54: Sensor Alarm Settings

    14. Press the MENU button to scroll to the Alarm Settings screen. Sensor Alarm Settings The AirLink T3A has two alarm settings: Alarm 1 and Alarm 2. Regardless of whether the device includes the optional two dry-contact relays, the system alarm settings are available on the device.
  • Page 55 Operation Settings menu for 1 minute. For auto resetting alarms, the alarms will NOT deactivate until the gas level reading at the sensor has fallen 10% below the alarm set-point. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Operation Settings and Calibration • 55...

  • Page 56: Sensor Radio Address

    Sensor Radio Address The AirLink T3A radio address is adjustable from 1 to 255, each sensor assembly on the network needs a unique radio address in order to avoid a fault at the controller. The default radio address is 1. From normal operating mode, press and release MENU until the sensor radio address screen appears.

  • Page 57: Maintenance

    The AirLink T3A may be adversely affected by the exposure to certain airborne substances. Loss of sensitivity or corrosion may be gradual, if such materials are present in sufficient concentrations.

  • Page 58: Replacing The Desiccant

    System faults will activate the fault terminal on the device. Replacing the Desiccant Each AirLink T3A comes with a desiccant bag installed in the junction box. The contents are blue when it is dry. As the desiccant absorbs moisture, it turns amber. Periodically check the desiccant and replace it if it has turned amber.
  • Page 59 5. Install the new sensor element board. Ensure that the pins on the new sensor element board align with the sockets on the sensor housing board. 6. Secure the new sensor element board with the screws removed in Step 4. AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Maintenance • 59...

  • Page 60: Replacing Non-Catalytic Type Sensors

    7. Screw the sensor housing cap back onto the sensor housing base, ensuring that the sensor housing cap is only tightened hand tight. 8. Press the ADD button to turn the AirLink T3A on. 9. Allow the detector to warmup for 10 minutes.
  • Page 61 6. Screw the sensor housing cap back onto the sensor housing base, ensuring that the sensor housing cap is only tightened hand tight. 7. Press the ADD button to turn the AirLink T3A on. 8. Allow the detector to warmup for the appropriate amount of time as shown below, depending on the sensor type.
  • Page 62 Hydrogen Sulfide (H Nitric Oxide (NO) 12 hours Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2 hours Oxygen (O Ozone (O Phosphine (PH Sulfur Dioxide (SO 9. Zero and calibrate the detector as described on page 46. 62 • Maintenance AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 63: Replacing The Fuse

    DO NOT use any metal objects or tools to remove the fuses. 1. Disconnect or turn off power to the AirLink T3A. 2. Unscrew the enclosure lid and set it aside. 3. Grab the thumbscrews and gently lift the internal system out of the enclosure. It can rest on the edge of the enclosure.
  • Page 64 9. Using the thumbscrews, gently push to seat the internal system into the mounting posts. NOTE: The thumbscrews on the AirLink T3A function ONLY as thumb-holds for ease in removal of the internal system from the base of the enclosure. Do NOT attempt to loosen or tighten the thumbscrews when opening or closing the enclosure.

  • Page 65: Parts List

    Parts List Table 12 lists replacement parts and accessories for the AirLink T3A. Table 12: Parts List Part Number Description 09-0300RK Desiccant bag 43-4163 Fuse, 4A 47-5110-5-XX Cable with connector for remote-mounted sensor kit (specify length in 1-foot incre- ment when ordering; maximum lengths listed on page 8), 5-pin...
  • Page 66 ), 5,000 ppm full scale 66-0068 Sensor, arsine (AsH ), 1.00 ppm full scale 71-0536 AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual (this document) 81-0002RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 50% LEL hydrogen in air, 34 liter steel 81-0002RK-03 Calibration cylinder, 50% LEL hydrogen in air, 103 liter...
  • Page 67 34 liter aluminum 81-0194RK-02 Calibration cylinder, 10 ppm HCl in nitrogen, 58 liter 81-0196RK-02 Calibration cylinder, 10 ppm HCN in nitrogen, 58 liter 81-0196RK-04 Calibration cylinder, 10 ppm HCN in nitrogen, 34 liter aluminum AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Parts List • 67...
  • Page 68 Calibration cylinder, 100 ppm NH in N , 58 liter 81-9029RK-04 Calibration cylinder, 100 ppm NH in N , 34 liter aluminum 81-9062RK-04 Calibration cylinder, 5 ppm EtO in air, 34 liter aluminum 82-0101RK Magnetic wand 68 • Parts List AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 69: Appendix A: 4-20 Ma Signal

    4 mA representing the lowest end of the range and 20 mA the highest. The relationship between the current loop and the gas value is linear. In addition, the AirLink T3A uses values below 4 mA to indicate special status conditions, as shown below:...
  • Page 70 Catalytic Bead (CB2) Combustible Gas 0-100% LEL Actual ranges may vary with our product. For inquiries beyond the information and instructions provided, contact the sales representative of this product for assistance. 70 • Appendix A: 4-20 mA Signal AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 71: Appendix B: Modbus Communications

    Daisy chains may be used for power, analog signals, digital data, or a combination thereof. For the purposes of the AirLink T3A, the term daisy chain refers to multiple devices connected in a series to form a single long line of devices, connected via the wiring patterns embedded within each device.
  • Page 72 Long* 1,000 Feet to 18 to 20 Shielded, in areas of 4,000 Feet Gauge high noise (*) Terminating resistor may be required for the last device in the daisy-chain. 72 • Appendix B: Modbus Communications AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual...

  • Page 73: Appendix C: Modbus Register Map

    • UINT: Unsigned integer • R/W: Read/Write capable data • INT: Integer • R: Read-only data • BFLD: Bit Field • FLOAT: Floating point number • (*): Limited by precision AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Modbus Register Map • 73...
  • Page 74 AirLink T3A Modbus Register MAP Enumeration Keys Register Address 4: Gas Type Response Gas Type H2S – Hydrogen Sulfide SO2 – Sulfur Dioxide O2 – Oxygen CO – Carbon Monoxide CL2 – Chlorine CO2 – Carbon Dioxide LEL – Combustible Gas VOC –...
  • Page 75 0 – Auto Reset 1 - Latch Relay 1: Latch/Auto Reset 0 – Auto Reset 1 – Latch Register Address 19/25: Calibration Type Response Calibration Type Manual Calibration Auto Calibration AirLink T3A Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Modbus Register Map • 75...

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