PID Gas Detection Pros & Cons

Advantages of PID Gas Detection

  • Relatively low cost detection of a wide range of combustible VOCs, many of which are toxic

  • Sensitive to PPM levels – be aware of the lowest detectable limit capability

  • Accurate and linear over sensor detection range; but readings are relative to the gas used for calibration – typically isobutylene

  • Does not require presence of O2

  • UV Tube is self-cleaning due to the creation of Ozone by the detector

Limitations of PID Gas Detection

  • VOCs usually detected by means of broad range sensors

  • Broad range sensors provide overall reading for general class or group of chemically related contaminants

  • Unable to identify type of gas being detected

  • Sensor maintenance may be required