Description
The MicroTube Petroleum Hydrocarbons 10-3000 ppm is a test tube-based chemical detection system by Draeger, designed for the precise measurement of petroleum hydrocarbons in air or water samples. This product is used primarily in environmental monitoring and safety applications where the concentration of hydrocarbons needs to be quickly and accurately quantified.
Product Features and Specifications:
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Detection Range:
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The MicroTube specifically detects petroleum hydrocarbons in the range of 10 ppm to 3000 ppm (parts per million), making it suitable for a wide range of concentrations typically found in industrial, environmental, or emergency response situations.
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Application Areas:
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It is ideal for use in environments such as oil refineries, gas stations, wastewater treatment plants, and sites with potential fuel leaks.
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Used for monitoring air quality (for example, to detect leaks or spills of petroleum products) and for measuring contamination levels in water samples.
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Principle of Operation:
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The MicroTube operates based on colorimetric detection. The test tube contains a chemical reagent that reacts with petroleum hydrocarbons. When the sample comes into contact with the reagent, the solution changes color. The intensity of the color change corresponds to the concentration of hydrocarbons present.
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The color change is then compared against a color scale provided with the kit to determine the precise concentration.
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Ease of Use:
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It’s designed for field use, providing rapid and reliable results without the need for complex instruments.
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The test tubes are portable, and the process involves simple handling: take a sample, mix it with the reagent, and then observe the color change. No sophisticated lab equipment is necessary, which makes it perfect for on-site environmental assessments.
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Accuracy:
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The colorimetric method used in the Draeger MicroTube offers accurate readings within the specified range of 10 ppm to 3000 ppm, making it highly reliable for petroleum hydrocarbon monitoring.
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Packaging:
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The MicroTube kits are generally sold with multiple tubes, each capable of analyzing a single sample. The kits are usually packaged with necessary instructions, a color chart, and any additional components (e.g., sample vials or mixing tools).
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Environmental & Safety Considerations:
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The reagents used in the test tubes are typically formulated to minimize environmental impact and are safe for handling under standard use conditions.
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The tests are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, in conditions ranging from laboratories to field settings.
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Example Applications:
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Industrial Safety: Regular monitoring of air quality in facilities where petroleum-based products are used or stored to ensure that the workplace remains safe and within regulatory limits.
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Environmental Monitoring: Checking water bodies, such as rivers or groundwater, for contamination due to oil spills or leaks.
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Emergency Response: First responders can quickly assess the level of petroleum contamination in the environment after an oil spill or industrial accident.
Key Benefits:
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Portable and lightweight for use in the field.
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Fast results, typically within minutes.
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Cost-effective compared to traditional lab-based analysis.
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No complex training required to use the kit, making it accessible for a wide range of personnel.