Operational Theory; Introduction; Micro-Fuel Cell Sensors; Principles Of Operation - Teledyne 3010PA Operating Instructions Manual

Percent oxygen analyzer

Table of Contents

Oxygen Analyzers

2.1

The Analysis Unit is composed of two subsystems: the Micro-Fuel Cell

sensor and the sample system.

The Micro-Fuel Cell is an electrochemical galvanic device that trans-

lates the amount of oxygen present in the sample into an electrical current.

The sample system is designed to accept the sample and calibration gasses,

select between them (in response to Control Unit signals), and transport the

gas through the analyzer—without contaminating or altering its composition

before it reaches the sensor.

The electronic signal processing, display, and control systems are

housed in the remote Control Unit, covered in Part I if this manual.

2.2

The oxygen sensors used in the Model 3010 series are Micro-Fuel Cells

designed and manufactured by Analytical Instruments. They are sealed

plastic disposable electrochemical transducers.

The active components of a Micro-Fuel Cell are the cathode, the anode,

and aqueous KOH electrolyte in which they are immersed. The cell converts

the energy from a chemical reaction into an electrical current in an external

electrical circuit. Its action is similar to that of a battery.

There is, however, an important difference in the operation of a battery

as compared to the Micro-Fuel Cell: In the battery, all reactants are stored

within the cell, whereas in the Micro-Fuel Cell, one of the reactants (oxygen)

comes from outside the device as a constituent of the sample gas being

Operational Theory

Micro-Fuel Cell Sensor

Part II: Analysis Units

Part II: 2-1

Table of Contents

Table of Contents