Ammonia gas detector

The ammonia detector detects the concentration of ammonia (NH3) in the air. These devices are used for personal protection in hazardous gas atmospheres. Poultry and swine farms use ammonia detectors to ensure indoor air quality is safe for livestock. Gaseous ammonia is also present in many industrial processes. Because NH3 gas leaks are so dangerous, continuous monitoring of ammonia gas is required to ensure worker safety.

What is an ammonia gas detector?

The ammonia detector is an instrument used to detect the concentration of ammonia in the air. These devices have a long-life battery, large screens that display NH3 concentrations, and a belt clip that attaches to clothing. In order to protect users, the ammonia gas detector also has LED, vibration and buzzer alarm functions.

Ammonia detector is also called NH3 monitor, ammonia sniffer, ammonia analyzer or ammonia tester. These names all refer to the same device, the ammonia gas detector.

What is Ammonia?

The chemical symbol for ammonia is NH3. It is a very useful but dangerous gas.When we come into contact with NH3, its corrosive properties can burn our skin, eyes and lungs. Inhaling ammonia is a major problem because it can irritate the throat, nose and lungs.

Despite its harmful effects, ammonia is useful in many manufacturing processes. NH3 is used as a refrigerant, as a fertilizer, and in the manufacture of plastics, dyes, and textiles.

Ammonia has been a challenge for poultry and swine (swine) farmers. For example, ammonia in poultry houses is produced directly by the chickens. Due to poor waste management, ammonia can build up to levels that are dangerous to both livestock and humans.

Is ammonia testing used on poultry farms?

Yes. Poultry farmers are one of the most common customers for ammonia detectors. These devices help keep ammonia levels low to maintain healthy livestock and provide maximum yield for the farm.

Measuring ammonia on farms and other indoor livestock facilities has additional benefits for farmers. NH3 detection is necessary to improve waste management, ensure proper ventilation and air flow, and control protein feed boluses.

What is Ammonia Detector Gas Calibration?

Ammonia detector calibration is the technical task of adjusting the detector to more accurate gas readings. Over time, sensors on a device can degrade or produce drifting readings. We recommend calibrating ammonia detectors every 6 to 12 months, which is a typical time period for gas detectors.

Gas calibration is a technical work that requires certain key equipment. These include calibration gas cylinders, gas regulators, tubing and calibration cap fittings. You will need to speak with the manufacturer to determine the recommended calibration gas concentrations and mixtures. For forensic detector ammonia monitors, we recommend using 50ppm ammonia for gas calibration. See ammonia calibration gas here.

Be aware and calibrate daily if:

Users use the device as an analysis tool where accuracy is critical.
The device is used in extreme environments (extreme temperature and humidity can cause sensor drift).
The user is executing an imminently dangerous application.
Bump test failed. In this case, you must calibrate to ensure that the sensors and monitors are functioning properly.
Ammonia detector alarms in fresh air. This could mean that the sensor has drifted past the alarm set point.
Calibration and bump testing are mandatory because injury or death could result if the equipment fails. Take it very seriously.