Leak-free Oxygen Sensor.

Design changes have been implimented by Alphasense to its O2-A2 and O2-A3 oxygen sensors which sees both models now being guaranteed 100% leak free. The new leak-free design delivers a step-change in high-temperature and humidity resistance, providing customers with a sensor solution which will not leak, even under the most arduous of applications.

The superior performance of the new sensor designs has been proven through an extensive program of accelerated life testing, during which the new sensor designs outlasted similar sensors from other manufacturers by up to 10 x when tested to destruction.

The benefits of these new zero-failure sensors extend beyond reduced sensor replacement costs but play a critical role in reducing instrument failure rates, a common side-effect of sensor leakage. Negating instrument failures due to leakage reduces instrument downtime, improves site efficiency and removes the need for scheduled replacement in order to tail off potential leakage. With extended life comes reduced environmental impact, lower maintenance costs and instruments which are more likely to be favoured by end users.

Uniquely, the patent pending Alphasense O2-A2 and O2-A3 are fully sealed to prevent leakage, unlike many ‘low-cost’ sensors which incorporate vents in order to manage rather than prevent spills.

The new models presents a superior offering under the same part number, preventing the need for certification, administrative or firmware changes.

@AlphaSenseInc @codacomms #PAuto

Nine sensor variants cover both common and exotic gases.

A new compact new sensor format for portable devices has been launched by Alphasense.

Will Parrett, Sales & Marketing Director EMEA at Alphasense said: “We are really excited to bring this format to market. We know customers like this compact form factor and with Alphasense now adopting it, customers can benefit from more choice, better service and higher-quality sensors. Those OEMs who are already using similar sensors have greater choice right away and those who are considering it have more options for sourcing. The size reduction H-series provides gives instrument manufacturers the opportunity to completely rethink their device designs and we look forward to seeing this platform develop over the coming years.”

Nine sensor variants cover both common and exotic gases

The smaller, thinner, and lighter H-Series sensor is compatible with 1-Series sensors from other manufacturers and is available for 9 target gases. The introduction of the H-series from Alphasense gives OEMs greater flexibility in instrument design and increased choice in sensor selection.

Nine sensor variants cover both common and exotic gases, taking the suitability of H-Series beyond just compliance devices. The dual CO/H2S sensor allows for the integration of a fifth sensor in a four-gas enclosure, while the H2cross-sensitivity CO sensor gives OEMs the option of incorporating hydrogen immunity as standard in compliance devices.

With its four-gas configuration, the H-series presents a 43% space saving vs the A-series/4-series, equivalent to 13cm3 of volume within the housing. Using surface mount spring contacts instead of pins creates flexibility, reduces the need for sockets on PCBs, saves space, and eliminates a common point of failure in traditional sensors.

Whilst the H-Series is a new physical format for Alphasense, the sensors are based upon the field-proven Alphasense D-Series, giving customers peace of mind and insulating them from the teething problems often associated with new formats.

@AlphaSenseInc @codacomms #PAuto

Meeting air quality demand.

Alphasense has increased its production capacity, automated elements of calibration and upgraded software for its Optical Particle Counter (OPC) products to meet rising industry demand.

Since the launch of the latest iterations of its OPC-N3 and OPC-R2 products in 2021, Alphasense has seen demand grow significantly as air quality moves up the global agenda.

Will Parrett, Sales & Marketing Director EMEA at Alphasense, said: “Alphasense’s range of OPCs has been developed hand in hand with aerosol scientists and engineered to deliver the accuracy expected from industrial-grade monitors in more workable size formats, and at a fraction of the price. Going forward, customers can expect the same high-quality standard of product but delivered much faster.”

Extensive growth in the use of Alphasense OPCs in an increasing number of instruments, plus the success of a number of field trials leading to further adoption has led to Alphasense investing heavily in the supply chain, training and infrastructure required to meet capacity and satisfy future demand.

In parallel, the company has enhanced its bespoke software capabilities to enable a higher volume of concurrent calibrations. As a result of these improvements, customers will soon be experiencing significantly reduced lead times as OPC stock builds.

Alphasense has refreshed its software offering as well, both improving the customer interface and giving users access to a range of features which were previously only available in-house. As the breadth of applications for particulate monitoring grows, this new feature will allow customers to configure devices to suit their specific applications more closely.

Unlike most low-cost particle sensors which measure particle count in a single size category and use that to estimate the volumes of others, Alphasense OPCs measure the full range from PM1 to PM10, giving end users reliable and repeatable data, not simply extrapolated values.

Both the wide-ranging OPC-N3 and the smaller footprint OPC-R2 provide digital outputs of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 (and optionally PM4.25) along with a histogram of particle count for each of up to 24 user-configured size categories. Alphasense’s proprietary flow correction technology ensures stable readings, even in high-dust environments; this is a key factor in several universities and research organisations independently verifying Alphasense OPCs as providing best-in-class performance.

@AlphaSenseInc @codacomms #PAuto 

Plant director for air quality products manufacturer.

Alphasense has appointed Doug Knifton as Plant Director to develop its manufacturing processes, introduce new products and help the business explore adjacent markets and applications.

Doug Knifton

The main focus of this role will be to further Alphasense’s manufacturing capability through streamlining processes and the implementation of innovative and effective systems. These improvements will result in increased output, reduced lead times and improved quality.

With over 29 years of experience in senior management roles within companies such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, Elekta and Powerlase, Doug brings a wealth of experience to the role. His knowledge spans innovations in technology-lead, capital equipment operations including semi-conductor, laser optics, medical devices and analytical instruments.

Commenting on his role, Doug Knifton said: “To meet the needs of our customers now and in the future, we’re focusing on product development, with an eye on how the markets are developing and how our sensors can help. We’ll be further strengthening partnerships with our customers and designing products to fit their applications.

“I’ll also be working closely with the whole Alphasense team internally by ensuring everyone is equipped to meet our customer needs through investment in facilities, processes and people. I’m determined to use the experience I have to drive us forward in existing and new markets.”

@AlphaSenseInc @codacomms #PAuto 

OEM manager for air quality.

Blake Hasty has been appointed OEM Sales Manager at Alphasense for USA/Canada & Americas to enhance customer partnerships and drive collaboration with its OEM customers.

Blake Hasty

Based in Texas, USA, Blake will focus on working in partnership with OEMs to fully understand their applications and develop next-generation solutions to meet these needs. This approach will assist Alphasense’s OEM customers to deliver instruments and systems with sensor technologies that meet the specific needs of end-user applications.

He joins Alphasense with extensive experience gained with large companies in the petrochemical, refining and industrial safety sectors, as both an end user and equipment provider. In working for companies such as Dräger, and taking a hands-on approach to customer relationships, Blake has developed a deep understanding of the current needs and future challenges of the industries in which he specialises.

Commenting on the role, Blake said: “Being in the industry for almost 15 years, in roles from operations through to engineering, means I have a great understanding of the customer journey from start to finish. This allows me to fully appreciate the challenges that our customers and industry as a whole face, and to work with the team at Alphasense to develop solutions to meet these challenges.”

Erik Børgesen, DVP Business Manager MOCON Europe added, “Blake is a highly skilled and knowledgeable sales manager, who will make a significant contribution to the Alphasense team. We pride ourselves on having a workforce which is focused on delivering industry-leading, next-generation technologies, and Blake will be a key driver in this for the US region.”

@AlphaSenseInc @codacomms #PAuto #OEM

Gas sensor manufacturer acquired by global instrument company.

Alphasense, the English gas sensor manufacturer, has been acquired by AMETEK the well known group specialising in electronic instruments and electromechanical devices.

Founded in 1996 and celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Alphasense will continue to operate from the company’s head office and manufacturing facility in Braintree, Essex (GB). Alphasense’s product range and day-to-day operations will remain unchanged, with Erik Boergesen from AMETEK MOCON joining the company in the coming weeks to oversee the transition period alongside Alphasense Interim CEO Peter Saxton*.

“This is a significant moment in the history of Alphasense,” said Peter Saxton. “AMETEK’s operational style and growth strategy will create new opportunities for us over the coming years to build customer relationships around the world and develop our product range across existing and new markets. On behalf of the Gotley family, I extend my sincere thanks to colleagues past and present for their contribution to Alphasense.”

AMETEK consists of two operating groups: Electronic Instruments and Electromechanical. The company employs people at numerous manufacturing, sales and service locations in the United States and in many other countries around the world.

Despite the new interest and opportunities generated by the acquisition, Erik Boergesen believes Alphasense’s existing strengths will still be the key to achieving future growth. “With the business recently turning 25 years old, we’re at a pivotal point where investment, insight and expertise from a company with AMETEK’s pedigree can help us push forward to reach new heights,” he said. “Having said that, we still remain fully focused on delivering excellent product performance and outstanding customer service in our pursuit of this future growth.”

* See "Twenty five years in sensors" (20/10/2021)

@AMETEKInc @_Enviro_News #AlphaSense #PAuto #Environment

Twenty five years in sensors.

Originally founded by Scientist and Entrepreneur Paul Gotley OBE in 1996, Alphasense started life in small premises in Great Dunmow, Essex, (GB). Paul’s daughter, Andrea Gotley, soon took over day-to-day business operations with her father overseeing proceedings in his role as Chairman. A series of astute joint ventures and key research links with British universities enabled Alphasense to develop new technologies and sensor products that opened the door to opportunities in air quality and gas safety markets.

Today, Alphasense operates from a purpose-built manufacturing facility in Great Notley. The company is profitable, with an annual turnover in excess of £20m, largely due to the operational efficiency and global business development established over the last decade or so. The Alphasense product range still includes the company’s bestselling gas safety Oxygen and PPM toxic sensors but is now complemented by a suite of PPB sensors allied with Optical Particle Counters and Photo Ionisation Detectors for air quality applications.

Research and Development is led by Technical Director, Ronan Baron, whose passion for environmental air quality monitoring fuels much of the product innovation and technical strategy at Alphasense. One such air quality innovation project recently led to the launch of two new VOC electrochemical sensors, strengthening the company’s growing air quality product range and offering a lower-maintenance air quality sensor option at an affordable price.

Commercially focused innovation is just one of the reasons customers choose to work with Alphasense. Sensor performance and reliability are key focuses for the Operations team, whose ‘LEAN manufacturing’ approach prioritises efficiency without compromising quality. The ‘LEAN’ methodology allows the team to manufacture and stock a comprehensive range of sensor products. Customer orders are dispatched quickly to a global customer base by an in-house fulfilment team.

The Alphasense Technical Support team is always on hand to assist with further product support, offering a consultative service when customers enquire about a new product idea or adaptation to an existing product. The company’s growth strategy revolves around three core pillars: science, sales, and manufacturing. The fusion of these three elements will remain a foundation that current Alphasense CEO, Peter Saxton, who Andrea Gotley brought in to oversee and implement her succession plan, believes is key to the company’s continued success.

A recent recruitment drive is further evidence of Saxton’s confidence in the long-term success of Alphasense. As well as bringing onboard new members of the Sales & Marketing team to help service and grow the company’s global sales territories, the Technical team has also invested in several new in-house scientists who each bring their own specialist knowledge and expertise to the table.

Alphasense is a business very much looking to the future but with an appreciation of its past. Twenty-five years after Paul Gotley started the company, his daughter Andrea has total confidence that her father’s dedication to high-quality sensor products and excellent customer service is in safe hands. With public awareness of air quality issues at an all-time high, Alphasense is well-placed to continue supporting its customers by designing and manufacturing high-performance gas and air quality sensors that improve living conditions for communities worldwide and, ultimately, save lives.

@_Enviro_News #AlphaSense #PAuto #Environment

London breathing!

The Breathe London pilot project ran over two years from October 2018; monitoring and characterising air quality across one of the world’s major cities. With over 100 AQMesh ‘pods’ located across the city, the Breathe London partners were, for the first time, able to provide hyperlocal detail on London’s air quality. At the end of the two year period, the entire network continued to operate for a further 5 months in a separate project funded by NERC/UKRI and managed by Prof. Rod Jones (University of Cambridge) and colleagues.

Small Sensors for AQMesh pods.

Each AQMesh pod contained small low-cost sensors, developed and manufactured by Alphasense. The company’s Arthur Burnley says: “One of the main objectives of the project was to evaluate the utility of small sensors, so we were delighted that they performed so well, and hope that this will provide other cities with the confidence to invest in their own networks.”

In addition to the pods, Breathe London also equipped Google Street View cars with reference-grade monitors, which together with the pods, complemented and expanded London’s existing regulatory monitoring network.

The air quality monitoring dilemma
Historically, air quality monitoring has relied upon expensive, highly accurate and reliable reference-grade air quality monitors that are often located in large air-conditioned, mains powered cabinets. As a result of their size and the requirement to be installed in urban areas, these systems sometimes require planning permission and can be difficult to locate in ideal locations.

In addition to their large capital cost, reference stations also incur large operational costs for maintenance and calibration work. Nevertheless, reference stations perform an essential role in providing accurate reliable data for comparison with air quality standards – especially for particulates and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). They also provide a reliable method for temporal and spatial air quality comparisons.

The air quality dilemma is therefore that reference stations are so costly that they have to be located sparsely. Consequently, they are unable to deliver granular local data, so operators have to rely on modelling. The Breathe London project was therefore established to help resolve this dilemma.

Data from the project have now been fully evaluated and one of the partners, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), has published a summary entitled: The Breathe London Blueprint: How cities can use hyperlocal air pollution monitoring to support their clean air goals.

Breathe London Objectives
1. Advance the use and development of innovative, lower-cost monitoring techniques to support cities around the world;
2. Enhance London’s existing regulatory network to better understand pollution and assess targeted solutions for cleaner air, like the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ); and
3. Make air pollution data publicly available and visualise it in new and innovative ways.

The Breathe London pilot met and surpassed these objectives. London Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “These findings, from our world-leading Breathe London sensor network, are a stark reminder that pollution hotspots exist across London and will refocus our efforts on improving air quality for all. As we face up to the current climate emergency, I hope the success of this scheme will act as a blueprint for cities around the world to battle their own toxic air emergencies.”

1. Innovative, lower-cost monitors
Any city considering the use of lower-cost sensors will be keen to learn whether they can provide reliable data and insights. The Breathe London Blueprint concludes: “Yes - you can use emerging monitoring technologies and techniques to identify and characterise air pollution.”

Breathe London data produced insights that were broadly comparable to findings from London’s extensive regulatory network, demonstrating that lower-cost sensor systems and mobile monitoring are valid options for generating useful data.

2. Solutions for cleaner air
Even towns or cities with limited access to reference-grade air quality monitors can assess pollution levels and find ways to improve air quality. For example, lower-cost sensor systems can help find air pollution ‘hotspots,’ or the places and times of day that need the most attention. These sensors can also provide flexible tools for assessing the effects of air quality intervention measures.

3. Making the invisible visible
Traditionally, air quality data is made available in a simplified format via Apps and websites; letting citizens know when their region is being affected by poor air quality. However, localised data is necessary if citizens are to be empowered to make decisions based on air quality data. For example, if people know which streets are the most polluted they can choose which method and route to travel, or where to exercise; they may even take this into account when choosing a school, or deciding where to live.

The Breathe London pilot project published a website providing a real-time map of air quality data from the streets in which the AQMesh pods were located. This localised data helped to engage with the public on air quality, so they would be more likely to support and understand the need for interventions such as the ULEZ.

Why AQMesh?
The first AQMesh pods were developed around 10 years ago to resolve the air quality dilemma outlined above. The UK based company Environmental Instruments manufactures the pods and has invested heavily in trials and product development over that period. Critically, this has included operational evaluations in a wide variety of (international) environments. “Our partnership with Alphasense was important because, whilst we needed lower cost technologies, we also needed sensors that are reliable and provide repeatable output,” explains Environmental Instruments MD Amanda Billingsley. “With the benefit of this extensive development work, we are now able to offer monitors with levels of uncertainty approaching those of reference stations, which means that AQMesh pods are ideal for filling the gaps in sparsely located reference networks.”

AQMesh pods utilise cellular communications to transmit data to a server which delivers the data via a secure website. The pods can be mains or battery powered with a solar charger, and users are able to select from a range of air quality parameters.

The Breathe London pods contained sensors for measuring NO2, NO, CO2 and particulates, and ten of them also contained ozone (O3) sensors. By monitoring a broad range of parameters simultaneously, the Breathe London partners were able to conduct more effective source attribution. There are now thousands of AQMesh pods around the world, with customers either being provided with weekly data reports, or they are able to pay for on-demand access to live data for £150/year (ca €118).

Pilot project extension
At the end of the 2-year pilot, as part of the 5-month extension project managed by Prof. Jones, the sensors inside the Breathe London pods were replaced, and monitoring continued through the Britain’s COVID-19 lockdown and into the period when lockdown restrictions were withdrawn. “The extension project delivered an extremely useful set of data, that we are currently running through CERC’S models,” explains Prof. Jones. “Lockdown presented a unique set of circumstances and this monitoring will greatly inform our understanding of London’s air quality. This modelling will also provide source attribution which we hope will be used to inform future mitigation measures.”

One of the interesting aspects of the Breathe London Pilot was its ability to take measurements at one minute intervals; as opposed to 15 minute readings, which is the norm for reference monitors. Prof. Jones says: “By capturing data faster, we were able to implement advanced features such as remote calibration and source attribution. So we are excited to take the learnings from a low-cost network and apply them to a reference station network in a new project that is currently underway in Glasgow.”

The new project is also funded by NERC and titled: Quantification of Utility of Atmospheric Network Technologies (QUANT). Fifteen AQMesh monitors have been co-located with reference monitors in Glasgow; all of which (reference and AQMesh) will run at one minute measurement intervals. The high time-resolution and the opportunity to create dense networks of low-cost monitors offers a paradigm shift in the way that key pollutants are measured, how health impacts are evaluated and how potential solutions are assessed.

Summary
The Breathe London pilot demonstrated that the value of a network is greater than the sum of its components. This is because networks enable the tracking of pollution, and differentiation between local and external sources. In addition, Breathe London enabled the project partners to develop new methods for improved data quality with faster, easier, lower cost calibration.

The success of the project underlined the importance of low-cost sensors in providing the localised granularity of data that is necessary to help citizens better understand the impacts of air quality and to facilitate the implementation and evaluation of effective air quality mitigation measures.

@AlphaSenseInc @NERCscience @Breathe_London @_Enviro_News #Environment #AirQuality

Air quality & emissions sensors.

A virtual exhibition booth is being provided by Alphasense at this year’s Air Quality and Emissions show, AQE 2021. As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of compact sensors, Alphasense will be available to help instrument and integrated systems companies develop market-leading products with the highest levels of accuracy and reliability.

Commenting on the technical support available, Alphasense Director Arthur Burnley says: “Traditionally people visit our exhibition booths looking for information on issues such as sensor specifications, environmental requirements, potential interferences, algorithms, sensor longevity, and of course price. So we anticipate similar queries at AQE and we are looking forward to engaging with our ever-growing list of customers.”

The Alphasense virtual booth will feature some of the company’s latest innovations, offering visitors a glimpse into the future of environmental and occupational safety monitoring.

Pre-registered AQE delegates will be able to access the AQE Conference sessions free of charge, (several of which will address the advantages of compact sensors), but Arthur is urging delegates to pre-book virtual meetings with Alphasense to ensure that appropriate expertise can be provided.

@_Enviro_News #Alphasense #aqe #Environment 

Solving the air quality monitoring dilemma.

The British Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM) recently organised a webinar in which Bruno Beloff from the company South Coast Science examined the thorny issue of whether low-cost air quality monitors are able to offer data of sufficient accuracy and reliability to be comparable with reference grade monitors.

Bruno explained that his company was established in 2016 to offer a common digital front-end for electrochemical sensors, together with an open data management framework. Early field work was conducted in cooperation with academia, research organisations and the United Nations, and Bruno emphasised the importance of this field work in the development of monitors that are suitable for real-world applications.

Low-cost air quality monitors employ electrochemical sensors for gas measurements and optical particle counters for the measurement of particulate fractions. These sensors are provided by Alphasense, which in the case of the gas sensors, have demonstrated an ability to measure concentrations to within +/- 5 ppb. “The Alphasense sensors are ubiquitous in the market,” explains South Coast Science Commercial Director David Johnson. “Without reliable sensors, it would be impossible to develop effective algorithms, so it was important for us to partner with Alphasense from the outset.”

Alphasense sensors are highly repeatable in the laboratory, but the outputs from electrochemical sensors are affected by a number of environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, and in some cases interfering gases. Working in different locations around the world, South Coast Science therefore employed machine learning techniques to improve and speed up the process of algorithm development. As a consequence, the company was able to develop monitors that were able to apply these refined algorithms in real-time and within the monitors themselves; delivering data with extremely low levels of interference or noise.

There are no formally recognised performance standards for low-cost air quality monitors, so it is incumbent on instrument developers to conduct trials in a variety of different environments to validate the claims made on websites and in brochures. South Coast Science has therefore conducted over three years of co-location studies with reference air quality monitoring stations provided by Ricardo. This work has demonstrated a high degree of correlation with data from the reference stations (see graph). In addition, there is an MCERTS performance standard for indicative ambient particulate monitors, and Bruno is hopefully that Praxis will be the first low-cost monitor to achieve the required level of performance without the need for a heated sample inlet (to remove moisture).

South Coast Science launched the ‘Praxis’ air quality monitor in 2017, and Bruno explained that the open data management framework provided by these monitors means that users, if they wish, can use both raw and corrected data in order to evaluate the algorithms.

The Praxis/Urban offers sensing for gases (CO, H2S, NO, NO2, O3, SO2, CO2, VOCs) and particulates (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10). The device supports multiple analysis techniques including any sampling rate and real-time data access. Consistent device function is possible within a broad range of climatic conditions. This includes continuous operation for up to two hours in the event of external power loss, as well as a 24 month Warranty.

One of Bruno’s first presentation slides showed a small Praxis device fitted to the top of a large reference air quality monitoring station. This image, Bruno explained, clearly demonstrated the main advantages of low-cost monitors, because it showed how easy it is to install them almost anywhere. This flexibility means that low-cost monitors can be installed at pollution hot-spots, alongside developments or where remediation measures need to be assessed.

Summarising Bruno says: “Our development work has achieved remarkable results in that we have managed to create monitors which provide data that correlates very well with reference monitors, but at a fraction of the cost. Nevertheless, we do not believe that low-cost monitors should replace reference monitors; we believe that they should supplement them, by enabling the creation of monitoring networks that measure air quality in the locations that matter the most.”

 @_Enviro_News @IAQM_UK #Alphasense #SouthCoastScience #Environment 

Celebrating clean air!

Clean Air Day (17th June) was marked by hundreds of events across Great Britain. For example, Fife Council and sustainability consultancy, Ricardo, have provided three Scottish classes with education packs that enable children to conduct air quality monitoring in order to better understand the issue. Each pack contains a nitrogen dioxide monitoring device that has been developed by Alphasense.

EDT with Bracket

Alphasense’s electronic diffusion tube (EDT) was designed to enable a rapid rollout of air quality monitoring in the places that matter most. So, the EDT is an ideal tool to support the theme for this year’s Clean Air Day: protecting children's health from air pollution.

Ricardo is responsible for auditing the air quality monitoring of councils, on behalf of the Scottish Government, but Senior Consultant Susannah Telfer says: “This work extends to assistance with the provision of educational programmes and resources such as those provided by Fife Council and the Air Quality in Scotland website.”

In addition to the Alphasense EDT, each pack also contains a handheld tablet for communication with the EDT via Bluetooth, as well as a personal air quality monitor, a clipboard, some high vis vests, and a range of Ricardo items that have been assembled for educational purposes, such as bicycle bells and luminous bands. The pack is therefore designed to enable students to conduct lichen or traffic surveys for example, so that, in combination with the monitoring, they will better understand the factors affecting air quality. The EDT’s have therefore been installed to monitor in locations close to the schools’ drop off and collection points.

Explaining the importance of the EDT’s development, Alphasense’s CTO John Saffell says: “Diffusion tubes have been a popular low-cost air quality monitoring tool for decades, but they have a number of important limitations. They can be conveniently located almost anywhere, but they only provide an average reading over several weeks, and results are delayed until after laboratory analysis can be undertaken.

“The EDT resolves these issues whilst retaining the advantages of flexibility, convenience and low cost. This is because the EDT contains an advanced electrochemical sensor that logs readings and transmits data to a tablet or mobile phone running the EDT App. Nitrogen dioxide is the most popular parameter for air quality studies, but many of our other electrochemical cells can also be deployed in an EDT.”

Susannah Telfer says: “The EDTs have been set to log one minute averages and will collect continuous air quality data for up to three weeks. This will enable us to provide the schools with air quality graphs that will hopefully demonstrate the effects of vehicle movements.

“With the benefit of this project, the pupils will gain a better understanding of the causes and effects of pollution, so that they can choose to cycle and walk more and lobby their parents to use vehicles less often. We also hope that this will inspire the children and help to create the next generation of scientists.”

@RicardoMedia @FifeCouncil @_Enviro_News #Alphasense #Environment #Scotland

Gas sensor manufacture strengthens sales team.

Alphasense has announced the appointment of three new senior sales positions. Andy Dickinson (left) joins as Regional Sales Director (Rest of World), Will Parrett (right) joins as European Sales Manager, and Nate Thompson (centre) will be North American Sales Manager. 

Welcoming all three to the company, Sales & Marketing Director Arthur Burnley says: “Since its formation in 1996, Alphasense has grown rapidly as a result of heavy and consistent investment in research & innovation, sensor quality and customer service. We now command a 40% share of our core markets, and this success has been built on the development of strong partnerships with our instrument manufacturer customers.

“The addition of three highly talented people to our international sales team is the result of an ambitious growth strategy that will be underpinned by the development of new partnerships and by an expansion of the sensor range that we supply to our existing customers.”

With a Master’s degree in Instrumentation and Analytical Science, and a Bachelor’s degree in Science and the Environment, Andy Dickinson has 35 years’ of experience in the development and sales of gas sensors. 

Nate Thompson has a Bachelor of Science, Marketing degree and joins Alphasense with 14 years’ of experience selling safety and gas detection solutions across North America. Most recently, this included 10 years with Industrial Scientific.

After gaining a degree in Marine Technology, Will Parrett has spent 18 years in technical sales and marketing roles, and joins from Honeywell Analytics where he was recently recognised as the top software sales performer in Europe.

The three positions commence in February/March 2021 and Arthur Burnley says: “I warmly congratulate the appointees and look forward to working with them. All three have strong scientific backgrounds, much of it in gas detection, which is a clear demonstration of Alphasense’s commitment to high levels of technical support.”

@_Enviro_News #Alphasense #PAuto #Environment 

Leading in gas leak investigation.

In the Unites States, around 65% of gas utility first responders carry a SENSIT instrument for gas leak investigation work. So, with such a dominant position in the market, SENSIT Technologies is under constant pressure to keep ahead of the competition, and in the following article Arthur Burnley, a Director with Alphasense Ltd, examines the ways in which it has managed to do so.

Scott Kleppe

For over 40 years, SENSIT Technologies has developed and manufactured hazardous gas detection equipment for applications such as gas leak surveys, underground gas location, pipeline purging, personal safety and confined spaces. The company was founded by the parents of the current CEO Scott Kleppe, and has built a global reputation for its combustible gas leak detectors. “To maintain and build on our market position, we have to continually innovate; by finding new ways to meet the needs of our customers,” Scott explains. “However, as we seek to expand our product range and market activity, it is important for us to retain and build on the strengths that made us the market leader.”

The core technology in many of the SENSIT products is an advanced low power semiconductor sensor to measure combustible gases in the LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) range, and a thermal conductivity style sensor to measure combustible gases in the percent volume range.

Developing a broader spectrum of measurement parameters
The expansion of the SENSIT product range has been driven by the requirements of new applications and by customers wishing to monitor other gases in addition to Natural Gas, Propane and Butane. Oxygen, for example is a useful parameter to monitor, particularly in confined spaces, where a lack of oxygen can prove fatal.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is also an important gas; produced when fuel is burned in low levels of oxygen. After CO is breathed in, it enters the bloodstream and mixes with haemoglobin to form carboxyhaemoglobin. This reduces the ability of blood to carry oxygen, which causes the body's cells and tissue to fail. Consequently, there is a requirement to measure CO levels in many applications, and around 20 years ago SENSIT manufactured its own sensor for this purpose. “At that time, a number of different sensor manufacturers were knocking at our door, seeking to become the supplier of our CO sensors,” explains Scott Kleppe. “Our CO sensor requirement was significantly smaller than the numbers being manufactured by the main manufacturers, so it made sense to exploit their experience and economies of scale.”

Among the prospective suppliers was a representative from Alphasense in Britain, and following extensive trials the incorporation of Alphasense electrochemical sensors into several of the SENSIT products was agreed. Scott says: “Accuracy, stability, repeatability and price were of course major issues in the assessment, but we also took other factors into consideration such as the quality and speed of technical support.”

Shared values create long relationships
With the partnership between SENSIT and Alphasense now stretching back over 20 years, Scott says: “Shared values and goals are the underlying reasons for the relationship’s longevity. For example, both companies strive to deliver outstanding levels of service for our customers. At SENSIT, we constantly remind ourselves that we have two ears and just one mouth, so when a customer calls for help, we listen, and we go the extra mile to ensure that they get what they need.

“We are fortunate to have a team of almost 120 people that really care about our customers because they appreciate the importance of the life saving work that they do. As a result, most of our staff have been with us for a very long time.

“Over the years, we have learned from experience that Alphasense shares the same working philosophy because they have consistently responded quickly and effectively to our requests. They also constantly seek to innovate, which feeds into our development work so that we now include a much wider range of sensor options in our product range.

“The instruments that leave our factory have the SENSIT name upon them, which means that our reputation travels with them and our brand therefore depends on every part of every instrument. Consequently, we need a supply chain that delivers components and sensors that are consistently reliable; delivered on-time, every time.

“After working with Alphasense for over 20 years, we have become accustomed to high levels of quality. We know for example, that every sensor has been individually tested, which saves time and cost, protects our brand and builds trust into the relationship.”

Helping critical workers
As a provider of equipment to critical workers, SENSIT had to ensure normal manufacturing output at its facilities near Chicago during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The factory had to be quickly adapted to accommodate social distancing,” Scott explains, “we also moved the factory to a shift pattern, with the facility being completely sanitized between shifts. Staff now work longer shifts, but with a week on, followed by a week off.

“Some staff have been able to work from home, which meant less time lost travelling, with benefits to the work/home balance and the environment, so it will be interesting to see if we can retain those advantages once the ‘new normal’ emerges.”

Looking forward
Scott believes that the recent pandemic will inevitably make citizens more conscious of risks such as airborne hazards, and this will further drive the market for safety products; particularly personal monitors. At the same time, SENSIT’s partnership with Alphasense will help to meet other market needs such as a broader range of parameters and lower cost sensors with less interference and a longer interval between maintenance.

Instruments are also likely to become smaller and even easier to use, with wireless communications and improved functions for transparency and traceability.

#Safety #gasleaksensors #SENSIT #Alphasense  #Environment  @_Enviro_News  

Factors affecting the choice of VOC sensor.

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) perform many vital roles as fuels, solvents, cleaners, feedstock, sterilants etc. However, they can be harmful to health and the environment, so it is often necessary to monitor their concentration. By definition, organic compounds contain the element carbon, and exhibit similar chemical properties, which is advantageous from a monitoring perspective.

These properties unfortunately vary widely between the many thousands of different VOCs, so in the following article Arthur Burnley, Sales and Marketing Director of sensor manufacturer Alphasense, explains the factors affecting the choice of sensor – for both end-users and manufacturers of monitoring instruments. Arthur also discusses the key questions that must be addressed, but first it is important to be aware of the technologies currently available.

--> VOC Measurement Technologies What is the main application?
This is the most important consideration because it impacts the choice of technology. For example, the ability to measure a specific VOC may be required, and this would rule out many of the technologies if other interfering VOCs are likely to be present. Similarly, whilst the cost might be attractive, the potential presence of certain inorganic gases may mean that Metal Oxide sensors are unsuitable. However, in applications such as process monitoring the identity of other gases may be known so the response of a specific type of sensor may be solely attributable to the VOC of interest.

Regulatory monitoring of VOCs in applications such as industrial stack emissions and ambient air quality necessitate certain technologies such as GC/MS and FTIR. However, these technologies are less well suited to applications such as leak detection, surveys, workplace safety, personal safety, Hazmat etc due to cost, power requirements and portability. The most popular technologies for these applications are electrochemical, metal oxide and PID, and by offering all three technologies, Alphasense is able to recommend the most appropriate technology for these applications, taking into account a wide variety of factors such as:

• Range
• Speed of response
• Specificity
• Accuracy
• Interferences
• Maintenance requirements
• Longevity
• Cost

Electrochemical VOC sensors
With resolution from 10 to 50 ppb, electrochemical cells are low cost, low power, compact sensors. Electrochemical sensors need to be optimised for the target VOC because each VOC requires a different ideal bias voltage for best sensitivity. Also, electrochemical cells respond in about 25 seconds, in comparison with 1-2 seconds for PIDs. Nevertheless, electrochemical sensors are suitable for some applications, where cost is important and performance characteristics are known. For example, Alphasense has developed an electrochemical Ethylene Oxide sensor for applications including fumigation of certain agricultural products and sterilisation of medical equipment.

Metal Oxide (MOS) VOC sensors
Metal oxide sensors are compact and low cost but require more power than electrochemical sensors. Humidity sensitivity and baseline drift are all characteristics of traditional n-type MOS sensors, but Alphasense p-type metal oxide gas sensors have more stable baselines and very low humidity sensitivity. MOS are not as sensitive at low concentrations, compared with PIDs. MOS sensors also respond to high concentrations of some inorganic gases such as NO, NO2 and CO. MOS may be a more suitable technology than PID in applications requiring the measurement of halogenated VOCs such as CFCs.

PhotoIonisation (PID) VOC sensors
PIDs respond to most VOCs except for small hydrocarbons such as methane, and for some halogenated compounds. Each VOC has a characteristic ionisation potential and the peak photon energy generated in a detector depends on the PID lamp used. For example, a Xenon lamp = 9.6 eV, a Krypton lamp = 10.6 eV and an Argon lamp = 11.7 eV. Hence, the use of an argon lamp provides the largest detection range of VOCs, whereas a Xenon lamp can increase selectivity.

Clearly, the choice of lamp is dictated by the likely VOCs to be measured, lamp lifetime considerations, and the sensitivity and level of selectivity required.
The Xenon lamp (9.6 eV) is suitable for many aromatics and unsaturated VOCs containing at least 6 carbon atoms (C6+). For example, this lamp is commonly used for the selective detection of compounds such as BTEX (Benzene, Toluene Ethyl Benzene and Xylenes).
The Krypton lamp (10.6 eV) detects most non-halogenated C2, most C3 and C4+ VOCs. Among Alphasense customers, the Krypton lamp is most popular because of its high sensitivity and longest lifetime: these lamps can operate for up to 10,000 hours. A filtered Krypton lamp, operating at 10.0eV is the best choice for BTEX due to its higher intensity than the 9.6eV lamp.

The Argon lamp (11.7eV) can measure halogenated VOCs, but has a much shorter lifetime.

Users of PID instruments should be aware of the variety of response between different VOCs. Manufacturers of PID sensors provide a comprehensive list of response factors. These figures represent the response of a lamp to a specific VOC relative to its response to a calibration gas – generally isobutylene. So, if the response of a PID to a particular VOC is eight times smaller than it is for the same concentration of isobutylene, then the response factor would be 8. Similarly, if the response factor for a particular VOC is 0.5, the PID response is twice that for isobutylene at the same concentration. Many instrument manufacturers build in response factors to enable the quantification of a specific gas when measured in isolation.

Summary
This article highlights that different sensor technologies are better suited to some applications and careful consideration should be given before making a choice, through discussions with manufacturers such as Alphasense.

In addition to the technical considerations outlined above, it is also vitally important to choose the right supplier. For end-users, the effectiveness of their work relies on the accuracy and reliability of their monitoring equipment, and for instrument manufacturers, their brand reputation is built on the quality and reliability of their equipment. It is therefore important to seek suppliers with proven levels of quality and reliability.

For sensor manufacturers, quality management procedures should extend beyond the requirements of ISO 9001. All sensors should undergo a test and validation procedure ensuring complete stabilisation prior to characterisation. Test data should be stored for each and every sensor, including sensitivity, time of response and recovery, and zero off-set. This is important because some manufacturers simply record the average test data for a batch, or record test data for a sample from a batch. This increases levels of uncertainty and prevents traceability.

The choice of VOC sensor therefore starts with a discussion about the potential application and suitable technology, and ends with the delivery of an appropriate sensor with traceable test and validation data.

 #Alphasense #PAuto #Environment @_Enviro_News 

Extremely small particle sensor for fine particles.

At just over 7cm wide and 2cm high, the new OPC-R1 sensor from Alphasense is extremely small in comparison with previous technologies. However, with outputs for PM1, PM2.5, PM10 and histograms for up to 16 ‘bins’ the sensor provides considerable particulate monitoring capability.

“The small size and weight of this sensor, coupled with a low power requirement, make it ideal for use in portable instruments,” Alphasense Director, Arthur Burnley told Read-out.

The OPC-R1 is an optical particulate sensor using laser technology to measure particles from 0.4 to 12.4 µm in diameter, based on a spherical equivalent size of 1.5 µm radius. The sensor is supplied with PC software and a specification sheet providing performance data demonstrating good correlation with a TSI DustTrak.

Typical power consumption during the measurement mode is just 95 mA and >5 mA with the laser on and the fan off. In addition to its compact size, the OPC-R1 weighs less than 30g and has an operating range of 0 to 95% (non-condensing) and -10 to +50 Deg C.

“In May 2018, the World Health Organisation published a report estimating that around 7 million people die every year from exposure to the fine particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and cardiovascular system, causing diseases including stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases and respiratory infections, including pneumonia,” warns Arthur Burnley. “Consequently, there is a large and growing demand for monitoring technology to enable organisations and citizens to check the safety of locations and identify pollution hot-spots.

“We believe that the prospects for the new OPC-R1 sensor are extremely bright because instrument manufacturers are seeking to employ advanced, cost-effective technology to meet this rapidly growing demand.”

#Alphasense #PAuto #Environment @_Enviro_News 

Optical particle counter.

Alphasense has launched a new version of its optical particle counter. The new OPC-N3 retains all of the advantages of its predecessor (OPC-N2) with the added benefit of automatic range switching covering PM10, PM2.5 and PM1. With an expanded measuring range (0.38 to 40 µm), the OPC-N3 is able to measure the particulate fractions of most interest; from the finest of particles up to larger particles such as pollen.

 “This is an extremely important development for manufacturers of air quality monitoring instrumentation,” says Alphasense Director, Arthur Burnley.

“A few years ago, the public was generally unaware of the threat posed by air pollution. However, the many thousands of premature deaths that occur every year in almost every country, have finally caused a high level of media coverage and political interest, and this has led to demands for air quality improvement measures, which in turn have created a need for accurate particulate sensors.

“This bodes well for our customers as the demand rises for small, accurate, reliable, cost-effective particulate sensors.”

The OPC-N3 measures particulates with minimal maintenance using a patented design, providing both particulate matter readings and real-time particle size histograms. As such, the sensor competes in performance with existing analytical units, but at a fraction of the cost.

#Apphasense #PAuto @_Enviro_News 

VOC sensors.

Alphasense has launched a new sensor for the measurement of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). The new p-type Metal Oxide sensor is a broadband total VOC detector with a range of 0 to 100 ppm (isobutylene) and 10-50 ppb detection limit, depending on the VOC.

“This new class of metal oxide sensor will complement our existing range, which also includes PIDs, offering a lower cost alternative that is unaffected by humidity and has low drift,” comments Alphasense Director Arthur Burnley.

The new VOC sensor will be of particular interest to manufacturers and developers of instruments and monitoring systems for applications such as process monitoring, occupational safety, leak detection and environmental monitoring. Typical VOCs measured by the sensor include solvents, sterilants and petrochemicals.

Explaining the reasons for offering a variety of VOC monitoring technologies, Arthur says: “There are many factors affecting the choice of VOC sensor. These include: target gases, measurement range, sensitivity, power requirement, over gas limit, environmental conditions, response factors, possible interferences and of course, budget. Consequently, there is no one sensor that meets all needs, so we have developed different technologies and different variants for each technology, so that customers can choose the sensor that best meets their requirements.

“However, there is one sensor requirement that is common to all customers, and that is reliability; which is why Alphasense invests heavily in product development and a rigorous automated test and validation system. As a consequence, we are able to boast the lowest warranty returns in the industry.”

 #Alphasense #PAuto