PID (Photoionization Detector) sensors, as the name suggests, use light to ionize gas molecules, producing a measurable electrical current that can be converted into a gas concentration reading. They are commonly used in gas detectors, environmental monitoring, and industrial safety applications.
PID sensors are capable of detecting a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are organic chemicals that easily vaporize at room temperature. These include fuels, solvents, paints, and many other chemicals. The sensitivity of the sensor depends on the energy of the ionizing light and the ionization potential of the gas. Some common VOCs that PID sensors can detect include benzene, toluene, xylene, formaldehyde, and hydrogen sulfide.
There are several reasons why PID sensors are preferred over other gas sensing technologies in certain applications. Firstly, they are highly sensitive and selective to VOCs, which are often the most dangerous and abundant gases present in industrial settings. Secondly, they can detect gases at low concentrations, making them useful for leak detection and other safety applications. Thirdly, they can be used in harsh environments, where other sensors may fail due to temperature, humidity, or other factors.
PID sensors are often compared to chemical sensors, which use a chemical reaction to produce a measurable response to a gas. However, there are several key differences between the two technologies. Firstly, PID sensors are non-specific, meaning they cannot identify a specific gas or chemical. They simply measure the concentration of any gas that ionizes in the detector. Chemical sensors, on the other hand, are selective and can be calibrated to respond to specific gases or chemical compounds. Secondly, PID sensors respond to gases that ionize at low energies, whereas chemical sensors require a specific chemical reaction to produce a response. Lastly, PID sensors are generally more expensive and require more maintenance than chemical sensors.
While they are more expensive than chemical sensors, they are often preferred in applications where their unique capabilities are necessary.Whether OCEANUS’s products are gas measurement device or fixed gas monitor, different gas sensors can be customized according to your needs.
