Continuous Analysis of Compessed Breathing Air with the  new ACG+ from AST

In 2014, Analox Sensor Technology launched its new portable compressed breathing air analyser, the ACG+, a hybrid unit that can be used as a fixed or portable unit.

Analox Sensor Technology (AST), the world-leader in gas analysis solutions, designed the ACG+ to meet the offshore industry’s needs. It provides complete versatility; as a fixed unit it delivers continual monitoring of a compressed air supply, or, as a portable unit, it gives accurate spot testing of multiple compressors across a number of sites.

The ACG+ is designed for continual monitoring of contaminants in compressed breathing air, providing real time readings of levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds and water vapour. 

This new monitor incorporates a number of new features, developed through research with clients, including offshore operators. These include the easy-connect purge feature which removes moisture and old gas in two minutes, ensuring analysis of a ‘clean’ sample.

All parts of the new ACG+ are ‘internal’ so are less susceptible to damage, and the incorporated lock out valve for dewpoint protects the sensor from atmospheric moisture. It operates at 5 to 10 bar inlet pressure. The portable monitor has an 8 to 12 hour battery life, and comes with a robust carry case.

Simon Lunt, Director of Sales and Marketing for AST, says: “Since its launch, there’s been a buzz about the ACG+. It’s the ideal response to the offshore industry’s requirements, combining versatility with the accuracy Analox Sensor Technology is known for around the world.”

The ACG+ uses highly-accurate sensor technology, providing an easy-to-use alternative to the established spot testing with colorimetric tube test kits. Its sensors are easy to change, when required, and maintenance requirements are low. This new analyser offers 90 days of data logging, with simple data retrieval via a USB connection. It has audible and visual alarms, and via a common relay, can be programmed to shut down a compressor, or activate a beacon if an alarm is triggered.

By alerting personnel when compressed breathing air is not of the highest quality, the employer is able to comply with breathing air standards such as BS EN12021, DEF STAN 68284 and BS8478. 

Simon concludes: “Employers have a duty of care to their staff. Where staff rely on compressed breathing air, this is the ideal, versatile monitor to ensure the integrity of breathing air, wherever the air is being sourced. The ACG+ provides both assurance and accountability for less than £2.30 per day.”

As well its value to the offshore industry, the new ACG+ is ideal for use in industrial and chemical applications such as confined-space welding, shot blasting, spray paint booths, chemical handling and any other industrial application where power-fed breathing air is used. It can also be used in non-breathing air applications such as subsea pipe drying where oil carry over is a concern.

Analox Sensor Technology is a world-leading developer and manufacturer of gas analysis products, supplying sectors including offshore, commercial and sport diving, military, medical and industrial.