Discussion of Pollutant/Corrosive Gases
The use of chemicals or process reactions results in the creation of various corrosive gases. Some are detectable through normal human sense and others are indentifiable only through technical tests. Virtually all corrosive gases under normal relative humidity will increase the rate of deterioration of expensive capital equipment in control rooms, computer installations and/or other sites, as well as inventory and other company assets. In some cases, losses are quick and dramatic. In others, the time horizon is longer and the effect more subtle. In all occurrences, down time, lost product and unnecessary capital and ongoing expenses arise.
To idntify if these conditions are occuring in your environment, two methods can be used. The first is to observe the replacement timing and cost for the capital equipment, ie. computers, transmitters, receivers, switchgears. If the equipment is seeing heightened service due to electrical failure and (by closer inspection) corrosion is occurring at contact points of electrical connectors you have a corrosion problem.
The second method is to analyze the air over an extended period of time using a corrosion coupon. A corrosion coupon consist of a silver and/or copper strip mounted on a plexiglas holder. These coupons can can be purchased. To determine if the atmosphere is corrosive, place the coupons in the areas of interest, continuing activites as normal. After an exposure period, typically 30 days, the coupons are returned to an independent laboratory for determination of type (s) and levels of pollutants present. The independent lab will analyze the coupons and inform you of the results.
The instrument society of America classifies environments as mild, modreate, harsh or severe depending on the levels identified on the coupons. Ideally your environment should be at a mild status. If the level of reactivity on the copper and/or silver coupons places the atmosphere in a severe, harsh, high, or moderate condition, a gas phase filter system is suggested. Hydrosil will be pleased to assist you in the identification of any pollutant gases that mey be present and help you select a cost effective filter system (if necessary) and/or indentify and provide the appropriate pollutant gas removal media.
Industires currently utilizing gas/liquid filter media or systems are as follows: