Photoionisation detection (PID) operates by exposing a gas sample to high-energy ultraviolet (UV) light. During a process known as photoionisation, the UV photons break down many volatile compounds, including most VOCs, into electrically charged particles known as ions. These ions are drawn towards oppositely charged electrodes within the sensor by an applied electric field. As they move between the electrodes, they generate a small electrical current. The strength of this current is directly proportional to the concentration of VOCs present in the sample.
PID Gas Detectors
Photoionisation Detection (PID) gas detectors are used across many different industries to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic gases.
The UV lamp is the key item in terms of a PID, and different lamp energies determine which gases can be detected. A 9.8 eV lamp is often used for more selective VOC detection. A 10.6 eV lamp is the most common choice because it detects a broad range of VOCs and toxic industrial chemicals. An 11.7 eV lamp can detect gases with higher ionisation potentials but typically has a shorter lifespan and more specialised applications.
Rockall Safety is one of the largest gas detection distributor in the UK, supplying leading PID instruments from manufacturers like Honeywell.
For more information, please call 02920 759 683 or complete the form here.
PID Gas Detectors
Photoionisation Detection (PID) gas detectors are used across many different industries to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic gases.
Photoionisation detection (PID) operates by exposing a gas sample to high-energy ultraviolet (UV) light. During a process known as photoionisation, the UV photons break down many volatile compounds, including most VOCs, into electrically charged particles known as ions. These ions are drawn towards oppositely charged electrodes within the sensor by an applied electric field. As they move between the electrodes, they generate a small electrical current. The strength of this current is directly proportional to the concentration of VOCs present in the sample.
The UV lamp is the key item in terms of a PID, and different lamp energies determine which gases can be detected. A 9.8 eV lamp is often used for more selective VOC detection. A 10.6 eV lamp is the most common choice because it detects a broad range of VOCs and toxic industrial chemicals. An 11.7 eV lamp can detect gases with higher ionisation potentials but typically has a shorter lifespan and more specialised applications.
Rockall Safety is one of the largest gas detection distributor in the UK, supplying leading PID instruments from manufacturers like Honeywell.
For more information, please call 02920 759 683 or complete the form here.
- BEST SELLER
SKU: 059-B116-000
Rae Systems MiniRAE 3000+ VOC Detector
- Gas Detection Class Multi Gas
- ATEX ATEX
- Gas Type VOCs
- Response Time 3 Seconds
- Battery Run Time 16 hours of operation (12 hours with alkaline battery)
- Data Logging 6 months at 1 minute intervals
- Brand Rae Systems
- Part Numbers 059-B116-000 - MiniRAE 3000+, Non Wireless, ATEX/IECEx, PID 10.6eV, Li-Ion Battery, Adapter, Monitor only, 059-B11E-500 - MiniRAE 3000+, ATEX/IECEx, PID 10.6 eV 1/2", Li-ion Battery, Adapter, BLE Data Transmission, Accessories Kit
View product SKU: 059-A110-XXX
Rae Systems MiniRAE Lite VOC Detector
- Gas Detection Class Portable
- ATEX ATEX
- Gas Type VOCs
- Response Time 3 Seconds
- Battery Run Time 12 hours of operation on alkaline battery adapter, (12 hours with lithium-ion battery pack)
- Data Logging 6 months at 1 minute intervals
- Brand Rae Systems
- Part Numbers 059-A110-000 - MiniRAE Lite+, PID 10.6 eV lamp 1/2″,Li-Ion, adapter,charger - NOT ATEX CERTIFIED!, 059-A110-000 - MiniRAE Lite+, PID 10.6 eV lamp 1/2″, Rechargeable Li-Ion,adapter,charger, accessories kit - NOT ATEX CERTIFIED!, 059-A12E-500 - MiniRAE Lite+, PID 10.6 eV Lamp 1/2",Li-ion,adapter,charger, accessories kit - BLE ATEX Certification
View productSKU: 059-C11X-XXX
Rae Systems ppbRAE 3000+ VOC Detector
- Gas Detection Class Portable
- ATEX ATEX
- Gas Type VOCs
- Response Time 3 Seconds
- Battery Run Time 16 hours of operation (12 hours with alkaline battery)
- Data Logging 6 months at 1 minute intervals
- Brand Rae Systems
- Part Numbers 059-C116-000 - ppbRAE 3000+, none-Wireless, ATEX/IECEx, PID 10.6 eV lamp 1/2″ for Total VOC mode only, battery, adapter, Li-Ion, 059-C11E-500 - ppbRAE 3000+, ATEX/IECEx, PID 10.6 eV lamp 1/2″ for Total VOC mode only, Li-ion, Adapter, BLE Data, Accessories Kit
View productSKU: 059-D316-XXX
Rae Systems UltraRAE 3000+ Benzene Detector
- Gas Detection Class Portable
- ATEX ATEX
- Gas Type Benzene - C6H6, VOCs
- Response Time VOC: 3 seconds, Benzene: 60 seconds
- Battery Run Time 16 hours
- Data Logging 6 months at 1 minute intervals
- Brand Rae Systems
- Part Numbers 059-D316-000 - UltraRAE 3000+, Non-Wireless, ATEX/IECEx, PID 9.8 eV lamp 1/2″ with 10 RAE-Sep™ Tubes for Benzene, Li-Ion, Adapter, 059-D31E-300 - UltraRAE 3000+, ATEX/IECEx, PID 9.8 eV lamp 1/2″ with 10 RAE-Sep™ Tubes for Benzene , BLE Data, Li-ion, Accessories Kit
View product
FAQs
What is a PID gas detector?
A PID (Photoionisation Detector) gas detector is a device used to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It uses ultraviolet (UV) light to ionise gas molecules and measure their concentration, providing fast and accurate VOC readings.
What gases can a PID detector detect?
PID detectors are primarily used to detect VOCs such as benzene, toluene, xylene, ethanol, acetone, and many industrial solvents.
How does a PID gas detector work?
A PID detector uses a UV lamp to emit high energy photons that ionise VOC molecules in the air. The detector measures the resulting electrical current, which is proportional to the concentration of VOCs present.
What is the difference between a PID detector and a standard multi gas detector?
A standard multi gas detector typically measures gases such as oxygen, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and flammable gases. A PID detector is specifically designed to measure VOCs at very low levels (ppm or even ppb).
What are VOCs and why are they dangerous?
VOCs are chemicals that easily evaporate into the air, including solvents, fuels, and industrial chemicals. VOCs are everywhere but not always harmful. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause headaches, respiratory issues and long-term health problems.
Where are PID gas detectors commonly used?
PID gas detectors are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, wastewater treatment, and confined space entry.
Can a PID detector detect benzene?
Yes, PID detectors can detect benzene and other aromatic hydrocarbons. However, benzene monitoring requires a 9.8 eV or 10.0 eV lamp.
How often should a PID gas detector be calibrated?
PID detectors should be bump tested before use. Calibration depends on where you are using the device and the environment it is in. For more information, please contact Rockall Safety.
What is the detection range of a PID gas detector?
PID detectors can measure VOC concentrations from very low levels (parts per billion) up to several thousand parts per million, depending on the model and UV lamp configuration. For example, the Honeywell MiniRAE 3000+ can detect from 0 to 999.9 ppm or 1,000 to 15,000 ppm.
How do I choose the right PID gas detector for VOC monitoring?
There are many PID gas detectors in the market. Look at the type of VOCs you are looking to detect, whether or not you need data logging, bluetooth connectivity and price. From there, you should be in a good position to make your decision. For more information, get in contact with Rockall Safety.