MicroTube Sulfur dioxide 0.05-5 ppm | Draeger

The MicroTube Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) 0.05-5 ppm by Draeger is a specialized gas detection tube used for measuring low concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) in air. These tubes are designed for quick, reliable, and accurate on-site measurements in a wide variety of applications, including industrial safety, environmental monitoring, and occupational health.

Detailed Product Description:

1. Measurement Range:

   • 0.05 to 5 ppm (parts per million) – The tube is capable of detecting sulfur dioxide in very low concentrations, making it ideal for environments where precise monitoring is critical, such as chemical plants, refineries, and industrial workplaces.

2. Type of Detection:

   • Draeger-Tube Technology: This product uses Draeger’s advanced colorimetric tube technology, where the chemical reaction between the sulfur dioxide and a reagent in the tube causes a visible color change. The length of the color stain indicates the concentration of sulfur dioxide in the air sample. The color intensity and the length of the reaction are directly correlated to the gas concentration, offering easy interpretation of results.

3. Accuracy and Precision:

   • High Sensitivity: These tubes provide precise readings even at low concentrations (as low as 0.05 ppm), ensuring that users can reliably detect sulfur dioxide in air samples.

   • Quick Response Time: The reaction occurs almost instantaneously after sampling, providing quick results, typically within 1–5 minutes.

4. Application Areas:

   • Industrial Safety: Commonly used in industries like petroleum, chemical manufacturing, power plants, and metal processing where SO₂ emissions are a concern.

   • Environmental Monitoring: These tubes are used to monitor sulfur dioxide levels in the air to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to protect the surrounding communities from toxic emissions.

   • Occupational Health and Safety: They are used to assess worker exposure to sulfur dioxide in various work environments, ensuring that concentrations do not exceed permissible limits (like OSHA or ACGIH thresholds).

5. Ease of Use:

   • Portability: The MicroTube is small and lightweight, making it convenient for personal monitoring or field testing. It does not require complex calibration or special training to operate.

   • No Need for Power Supply: These tubes do not require batteries or a power source to function, making them perfect for outdoor and remote-site testing.

6. Shelf Life & Storage:

   • Draeger’s gas detection tubes typically have a shelf life of 1 to 2 years (depending on the specific tube). They must be stored properly in a cool, dry place to maintain their accuracy and reliability.

7. Components of the Product:

   • Draeger Tubes: These come in a sealed glass tube filled with a specific reagent that reacts with sulfur dioxide. When air is drawn through the tube, the chemical reaction occurs and the resulting color change can be compared to a reference scale to determine the concentration.

   • Hand Pump (if applicable): A hand pump is often used in conjunction with these tubes to pull a precise volume of air through the tube, ensuring an accurate sample is taken.

8. Compliance:

   • These tubes are manufactured to meet or exceed various international standards for gas detection and are ideal for compliance with occupational safety and environmental regulations.

9. Advantages:

   • Highly Accurate: Offers precise concentration measurements within a narrow range (0.05–5 ppm).

   • Simple and Effective: No complicated equipment needed, simple visual interpretation of results.

   • Cost-Effective: Draeger tubes are generally more affordable compared to electronic gas detectors, offering a low-cost alternative for routine checks.

10. Limitations:

    • One-Time Use: Each tube is a single-use device. Once the reaction is complete and the color change is visible, the tube is not reusable.

    • Limited Range: While effective for low concentrations, the 0.05–5 ppm range may not be suitable for environments with higher concentrations of SO₂.

How it Works:

1. The user inserts the Draeger tube into a hand pump.

2. The user draws air through the tube by operating the pump, typically pulling a set volume of air.

3. As the air passes through the tube, sulfur dioxide reacts with the reagent inside, causing a visible color change.

4. The length of the color change is proportional to the concentration of sulfur dioxide in the air, which can be compared against a calibration scale printed on the tube.

Key Features:

• Range: 0.05 – 5 ppm of SO₂

• Type: Colorimetric detection tube

• Response Time: Immediate to a few minutes

• Precision: High sensitivity, accurate even at low levels

• Portability: Compact and easy to carry

• Single-use: Disposable after use