Science and development go hand-in-hand, and with both constantly evolving, industries need to adapt as well. Many industries require specific and customised calibration gases to carry out their regular activities. While many companies dealing with calibration gas cylinder production are careful, how does one set the better manufacturer apart from the rest? How are custom calibration gases purchased, and why are they needed? Read on to understand the basics of ordering and purchasing these pivotal products.

Why are Calibration Gases used?

Calibration gases are analytical gases that help in recording the presence or amount of another substance. A lot of industries require accurate results, and gases tend to be more reactive and sensitive. By mixing up the composition of the calibration gas, they can indicate a certain alarm point. Some of its uses include gas detecting, lung function tests, and breath alcohol tests. Their composition affects the results of any studies, and in real-life cases, these results are crucial.

How are Calibration Gases ordered?

Most manufacturers usually have a detailed account of their client’s needs. As analytical gases, these calibration gases need to be very specific. Initially, there is determining of the gas’ intended purpose. For every calibration purpose, there is usually at least one pre-determined gas mixture that the industry uses. The manufacturer provides a client with options, and the client can order from these pre-determined purpose-specific gases.

On the other hand, some companies have unique calibration gases, and with the required information, the manufacturer can craft the calibration gas specifically for them.

Choosing the Right Calibration Gas

There are a variety of calibration gases available for different sensor types or configurations.

Single Gas Detectors

A single gas, which could be flammable or toxic, should calibrate a single gas detector. Typically, iso-butane and methane calibration gases can calibrate single gas detectors. These detectors use single pure gases to restore the detector’s accuracy.

Multi-Gas Detectors

These detectors mainly utilise special gases calibrated specially for their use. These gases may be lab-oriented or for industrial use and are typically mixtures of four gases blended in exact concentrations.

Quality

Manufacturers take additional care in blending these gases as their composition, efficiency, and quality can affect the lives of many. In applications such as gas detection, the target elements are toxic, and these systems monitor their leaks. Should the system fail, the lives of many and the loss of property lie at stake.

For the best results, ensure that the company manufactures gravimetrically and possesses all necessary certifications that can verify the purity of the gases. Additionally, always remember to check the expiry date on every calibration gas cylinder.

Size and Storage

Calibration gases are crucial, and one should have a similarly exact idea about how much they need and use. These gases are available in many sizes – cylinders, ampules, and cryogenic cylinders. Some manufacturers also include safe delivery systems designed for specific purposes, such as permeation tubes to store the gas.

Cylinders usually contain large amounts of liquified gas (typically used in industrial fields). They have a double wall with a vacuum in between, making it a super-safe storage option.

Ampules or glass bottles have a smaller storage capacity for research and development.

On the other hand, a permeation tube contains pure molecules which escape steadily through the permeated tube.

These storage options are for specific applications, and choosing one that suits one’s needs best is essential in determining the efficiency of a calibration gas!