Making Powerful Senses
Gas Detectors for VOC Monitoring
What are VOCs?
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and are found in many industrial environments. VOCs are often the byproduct or chemical reaction of production processes. They are often found in solvents, paints, gasoline, oil, and disinfectants. Some common VOCs include benzene (C₆H₆), toluene (C₇H₈), acetone (C₃H₆O), methanol (CH₄O), xylene (C₈H₁₀), styrene (C₈H₈), and hexane (C₆H₁₄).
Why are VOCs Dangerous?
VOCs can pose a risk to human health and quickly become a hazard in the workplace. Exposure to VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If someone experiences long-term exposure to these chemicals, it can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. There are also studies linking specific VOCs to cancer.
What is a VOC Gas Detector?
Photo-ionization Detectors (PIDs) are the most common gas detectors for VOC monitoring. The detectors use ultraviolet light to ionize gas molecules in the air. The PID can then measure the concentration of a specific VOC.
Advanced Gas Detectors for VOC Monitoring: The NEO Series
The mPower NEO Series PID Detectors are high-performance gas detectors for VOC monitoring. The NEO detectors can detect trace amounts of VOCs, getting accurate readings at levels even as low as parts-per-billion (ppb). These gas detectors are handheld, portable devices that are easy to use, so your team will always be quickly alerted to VOC exposure. There are five NEO models available, including a benzene-specific PID detector (NEO BENZ).
NEO Series Benefits
- Wide Detection Range: The NEO detectors offer a wide detection range, allowing for accurate readings from trace levels to high concentrations. The NEO can detect from 1 ppb to 15,000 parts per million (ppm).
- Rugged Design: These detectors were designed for the toughest working environments. They are impact-resistant and water-resistant (IP66/67 rated), making them ideal for industrial applications.
- Long Battery Life: With a 24-hour battery life on a single charge, the NEO detectors will continue to monitor VOC levels without interruption. This means better peace of mind and more efficient monitoring.
- Man Down Alarm: This feature is designed to protect and alert workers in the field, even if they become incapacitated. If the NEO device detects inactivity, it will alert nearby team members. This is a valuable feature for keeping workers safe, especially in confined spaces or isolated operations.
Industries that Need Gas Detectors for VOC Monitoring
- Oil & Gas: VOCs are often present during drilling and storage operations. The NEO detectors can be used to monitor VOCs around wellheads, storage tanks, and refinery operations.
- Fire & Hazmat: During emergency situations, such as industrial fires, chemical spills, or vehicle accidents, VOCs can be released. First responders and hazmat teams need portable PIDs to accurately monitor the VOC levels.
- Environment Monitoring: The NEO detectors are often used for environmental monitoring to measure air quality and contamination and ensure compliance with EPA regulations.
- Chemical Manufacturing: When manufacturing items such as paints, adhesives, and plastics, VOCs are often used. Without accurate VOC detection, these workplaces can quickly become dangerous.
- Pharmaceuticals: Labs often use solvents that contain VOCs. The NEO detectors can ensure these areas are safe for employees.
Gas detectors for VOC monitoring keep workplaces safe. mPower’s portable NEO PIDs offer reliable, accurate VOC detection that is applicable to many industries.
