Universal PCXR8 Sample Pump

Universal PCXR8 Sample Pump

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Part Number: 224-PCXR8

Universal PCXR8 Sample Pump Overview

Universal PCXR8 Pump only, with programmable start/stop, NiMH battery, and screwdriver set (charger not included)
Flow range: Constant flow 5 to 5000 ml/min

The Universal PCXR8 personal or area air sampling pump features a 5 to 5000 ml/min flow range, programmability, and up to 12-hour run time or extended intermittent sampling for particulates and gases/vapors. The pump is ideal for use with sorbent tubes, filter cassettes, size-selective samplers, sample bags, and impingers.
The Universal PCXR8 air sampling pump is UL Listed for intrinsic safety.

 

Performance Profile

 
Flow Range

1000 to 5000 ml/min (UL Listed model)
(5 to 500 ml/min requires the 224-26 Series adjustable tube holder)
Requires 1/4-inch ID tubing
Weight
 34 oz (964 gm)
Dimensions
 5.1 x 4.7 x 1.9 in (13 x 11.9 x 4.8 cm)
Compensation Range
 1000 to 2500 ml/min at 40 inches water back pressure
3000 ml/min at 35 inches water back pressure
4000 ml/min at 20 inches water back pressure
5000 ml/min at 10 inches water back pressure
Typical Back Pressure
 See Table 1 below.
Flow Control
 Holds constant flow to ± 5% of set-point
Run Time
 NiCad Battery: 8 hrs minimum at 4000 ml/min and 20 inches water back pressure; dependent on media used. See Table 3.
NiMH Battery: 12 hrs minimum at 4000 ml/min and 20 inches water back pressure; dependent on media used. See Table 2.
Battery Eliminator: Pump will provide extended runs.
Tubing Requires 1/4-inch ID tubing
Timer Display Range
 1 to 9999 minutes (6.8 days). Pump will shut off at 9999 minutes. To reset, restart the pump.
Flow Indicator
Built-in rotameter with 250-ml division; scale marked at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 L/min
Charging Time
(varies with battery capacity and level of discharge)
6 to 8.5 hrs with PowerFlex charger
Power Supply
 6-V plug-in NiMH battery pack, rechargeable, 3.5-Ah capacity or
6-V plug-in NiCad battery pack, rechargeable, 2.0-Ah capacity
A battery eliminator is available (see Ordering Information); use voids the UL Listing for intrinsic safety.
Intrinsic Safety

UL Listed for Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups A, B, C, D; Class II, Division 1 and 2, Groups E, F, G; and Class III, Temperature Code T3C
ATEX-approved model is available. Contact SKC.
Operating Temperature
32 to 104 F (0 to 40 C)
Storage Temperature
-4 to 113 F (-20 to 45 C)
Charging Temperature
50 to 113 F (10 to 45 C)
Operating Humidity
0 to 95% non-condensing
Flow Fault
If the pump is unable to compensate for longer than 15 seconds due to excessive back pressure, the pump enters flow fault. During flow fault, the pump stops, displays FLOW FAULT, pauses timing functions, and displays elapsed time or pump time. Auto-restart is attempted up to 5 times.
Low Battery Fault
Pumps stops, displays LO BATT, pauses timing functions, and displays elapsed time or pump time.
Battery Test
LCD indicator shows battery condition prior to sampling
Time Display
LCD displays up to 9999 minutes (6.8 days) at which point the display rolls over to 0. Displays include sampler run time in minutes for sampling period elapsed time, pump run time, or total elapsed time including delayed start
Delay On
Allows user to select minutes to delay start of test up to 9999 minutes (6.8 days)
Timed Shutdown
Allows user to select minutes of operation before automatic shutdown. Timed shutdown maximum is 9999 minutes (6.8 days)
Timing Accuracy
± 0.05% (± 45 sec/day)
Intermittent Sampling
Programmable to allow user to extend short-term samples over an extended period of time to meet time-weighted average (TWA) requirements with a reduced number of samples. Elapsed time maximum is 9999 minutes (6.8 days), at which time the sample pump shuts down.
Sampling Pause
(Hold)
 Allows user to temporarily halt sampling without loss of timing data. Restart does not require resetting time.
Multiple-tube Sampling
Built-in constant pressure regulator allows user to take up to four simultaneous samples with rates up to 500 ml/min each (total combined flow 1350 ml/min maximum) using the optional adjustable tube holder accessory
RFI/EMI Shielding
Complies with requirements of EN 55022, FCC Part 15 Class B, EN 50082-1
Frequency range of the radiated susceptibility test was 27 to 1000 MHz
CE marked
Additional Specifications
Built-in particulate trap
External see-through filter housing
Tamper-resistant control cover
Tamper-resistant compensation adjustments
Built-in accessory mount
Stainless steel belt clip
External exhaust port
All non-plastic parts made of corrosion-resistant materials
RFI and EMI-shielded case
Additional Features
One-year warranty
Ultra-quiet operation
Pulsation-free flow
Impact-resistant case

Protect sample pump from weather when in use outdoors.

  • Pump Flow Rate : 5 to 5000 ml/min
  • PC Compatible : No
  • Programable : Yes
  • Intrinsic Safety : Yes
  • Battery Type (Power) : NiMH
  • Approx Run Time : 12

Table 1.
Typical Back Pressure of Sampling Media (inches water)
Compare the information in this back pressure table to pump compensation range to determine appropriate applications.

Filter/Pore Size (µm) Flow Rate (L/min)
1 1.5 2 2.5 3
25-mm MCE/0.8 6 9 12 15 18
25-mm MCE/0.45 14 22 28 35 40
37-mm MCE/0.8 2 3 4 5 6
37-mm PVC/5.0 1 1 2 2 2.5


Table 2.
Pump Run Time in Hours with NiMH Battery
Following are typical run times achieved when using a fully charged nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. Data is sorted by type of sample media. Results are obtained using a new fully charged battery. Pump performance may vary.

Mixed Cellulose (MCE) filter, 0.8-µm pore size

Flow Rate (L/min) Filter Diameter     
37 mm 25 mm
2 37 33
2.5 34 26
3 31 21
3.5 29 18
4 25 15
4.5 20 14


Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) filter, 5.0-µm pore size

Flow Rate (L/min) Filter Diameter     
37 mm 25 mm
2 47 41
2.5 38 33
3 35 30
3.5 26 27
4 22 25
4.5 21 23
NOTE: Increases in back pressure during sampling due to buildup of sample on the filter can decrease battery life.


Table 3.
Pump Run Time in Hours with NiCad Battery
Following are typical run times achieved when using a fully charged nickel cadmium (NiCad) battery pack. Data is sorted by type of sample media. All run times are listed in hours.

Mixed Cellulose (MCE) filter, 0.8-µm pore size

Flow Rate (L/min) Filter Diameter     
37 mm 25 mm
2 24.1 16.3
2.5 21.4 14.5
3 19.1 11
3.5 17.8 10.7
4 15.4 **
4.5 14.6 **
** 
 Filter back pressure exceeded pump capability during testing.


Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) filter, 5.0-µm pore size

Flow Rate (L/min) Filter Diameter     
37 mm 25 mm
2 31.6 21.7
2.5 27.7 24
3 27 18.6
3.5 22.8 16.4
4 19.4 16.2
4.5 19 14.6
NOTE: Increases in back pressure during sampling due to buildup of sample on the filter can decrease battery life.


Personal or Area Sampling

The result of extensive research and development, the PCXR8 is a constant flow air sampling pump suited for a broad range of applications. With an operating range of 1000 to 5000 ml/min (low flow applications of 5 to 500 ml/min require an optional adjustable tube holder), this battery-operated air sampling pump is ideal for industrial hygiene studies as well as environmental testing. Specifically designed for on-worker and fenceline applications, the PCXR8 air sampling pump is typically used with collecting devices such as:

  • Sorbent sample tubes and long-duration detector tubes for collecting most hazardous chemical gases and vapors from the air
  • Cyclones for collecting respirable dust
  • IOM samplers for collecting inhalable dust
  • Filters for collecting total dust, asbestos, or chemical hazards
  • Tedlar sample bags for collecting airborne chemical hazards
  • Impingers for collecting reactive chemicals into liquids


The PCXR8 on-board computer makes operation easy and permits unattended sampling for periods up to 7 days. In addition, the PCXR8 offers:

  • Multiple-tube sampling capability
  • Compensation with high back pressure
  • Quiet-running package
  • Wide range of flow rates
  • Energy efficiency
  • Programmable timing

The PCXR8 air sampling pump is so dependable, we guarantee its performance for a period of one year from date of purchase.

Back Pressure Compensation

The PCXR8 is factory-preset to compensate for back pressures to 40 inches water over the most commonly used flow ranges. As back pressure increases, the motor voltage automatically corrects to maintain a constant flow over the operating range. There is no sacrifice to air volume accuracy, even in dusty environments.

Multiple-tube Sampling Capability

The PCXR8 built-in constant pressure regulator allows users to take up to four simultaneous samples with rates up to 500 ml/min each using an optional adjustable tube holder (not included). Reduce time in the field and use fewer pumps with multiple-tube air sampling.

Powerful Pneumatic System

With its broad flow range, the powerful PCXR8 does the work of both a high flow and low flow pump in a single unit. Its state-of-the-art pneumatic system delivers a constant flow, resulting in accurate air volumes without the need for frequent sampler adjustments. This system includes four components:

  • Pulsation dampener for smooth airflow
  • Built-in rotameter to monitor pump flow
  • Pressure regulator for low flow air sampling
  • Filter assembly to prevent clogging of the pump



A High Standard of Safety

Intrinsically safe, the PCXR8 air sampling pump is UL Listed for explosive gas and dust atmospheres of Class I, Division 1 and 2, Groups A, B, C, D; Class II, Division 1 and 2, Groups E, F, G; and Class III, Temperature Code T3C. ATEX-approved models are available; contact SKC.

RFI and EMI Shielding

SKC case material and unique circuitry are designed to provide shielding from radio frequency in the range of 27 to 1000 MHz. This shielding prevents fluctuations in the flow caused by electrical effects on the pump control circuitry.

Automatic Fault Shutdown

To ensure the integrity of results, the air sampling pump is programmed to shut itself off in the event of:

  • Excessive back pressure
  • Low battery voltage

The pump will automatically enter the Hold mode, and the appropriate indicator (LoBatt or Flow Fault) will light. The LCD will show the elapsed sampling time recorded at the point of shutdown.

Programmable Timing System

Our easy-to-operate, on-board computer gives unsurpassed sampling flexibility and frees the user to do other jobs. The user can program a delayed start time for the test (e.g., during the night shift), an automatic shutdown time, or both. Accuracy is ± 0.05% (± 45 sec/day). The current elapsed sampling time reading appears continuously on the large LCD during a sample run. By pressing the appropriate key, the user can instead display:

  • Total elapsed time (including time delay)
  • Pump run time
  • Program parameters



The PCXR8 Air Sampling Pump Has
Intermittent Sampling Capability
An Added Bonus at No Extra Cost!

With its computer-controlled timer, the PCXR8 air sampling pump makes intermittent sampling a reality. Users can now extend the sampling time of chemicals with analytical methods that dictate low air volumes. By sampling intermittently over the desired period, air volume requirements are maintained and a true TWA is achieved. Users take fewer samples and save analytical costs.

To accomplish this, the user simply enters a sampling time which is greater than the pump run time. The computer then controls the on/off cycling of the pump so that the sample is taken intermittently over the desired sampling period. TWA tests ranging from 8 hours to 7 days in duration are possible, depending on the type of sample being collected.

The 224-PCXR8 offers unique "Short Interval On/Off" air sampling that gives average concentrations over extended periods: overnight, 24 hours, weekends, and up to one week—all at the press of a key.

Example: At 4 p.m. on Friday a week long Benzene TWA sample is desired, extending from noon Sunday until 8 a.m. the following Sunday. Set delayed start to 44 hours, pump period to 8 hours, and sample period for 6 days, 20 hours. The computer turns the pump on at noon Sunday with a 1-minute on, 19.5-minute off cycle and shuts down 6 days and 20 hours later.

Result: A true TWA sample for the entire week


Computer Controlled PCXR8 Air Sampling Pump
Meets the Challenge

Indoor Air Quality

Challenge: An employee complains about a chemical smell that makes him sick, but the smell never occurs while the investigator is present.

Solution: Program the pump period to 480 minutes (8 hours) and the sample period for several days. This will allow unattended intermittent sampling and an opportunity to capture the chemical hazard of interest.

Shiftwork

Challenge: There is a need to monitor employees working the midnight shift, but health and safety professionals are not available at this time.

Solution: Before leaving the plant at 4 p.m., set the pump for a 480-minute (8-hour) delay start and a 480-minutes (8-hour) sample period. Leave the pump and appropriate instructions with the shift supervisor. The pump will turn on at midnight and shutdown at 8 a.m. All sampling times will be retained on the LCD.

Fenceline Monitoring

Challenge: The state air control board has requested 24-hour fenceline monitoring in response to neighborhood concerns.

Solution: Program the pump for a sample period of 1440 minutes (24 hours) with a pump period of 480 minutes (8 hours). The pump will intermittently sample a total of 8 hours over the 24-hour period. (1 minute on, 2 minutes off).

Sample Breakthrough

Challenge: A chemical being sampled has a very short sampling time of 1 hour before breakthrough occurs. Taking several samples is costly and time consuming.

Solution: Program the pump for a sample period of 480 minutes (8 hours) with a pump period of 60 minutes (1 hour). The pump will spread the 60 minutes of run time over the 8 hour workday ensuring a true TWA without the expense of multiple sample tube analysis.

A Variety of Ordering Options

The PCXR8 and its accessories can be purchased together in single and five-pack pump kits or separately for a more customized setup. Accessories include chargers (single or five station), adjustable tube holders, filter cassette holders, impinger holders, and a protective nylon carrying pouch with shoulder strap and belt. Note: Kits do not contain all the accessories listed here. Contact SKC for complete ordering information.

All SKC Universal Air Sampling Pumps are available with European approvals. Contact the SKC International Sales Department at 724-941-9701 or e-mail at skcorder@skcinc.com for ordering information.