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ARTICLE
PID fire investigation kit
07 May 2018
Gas detection manufacturer Ion Science has launched a fire investigation kit featuring its handheld Tiger or TigerLT photoionisation detector (PID) for the reliable detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at sites of suspected arson-related incidents.
Easy to use with minimal training, Ion Science’s fire investigation kit includes essential accessories for the fast, accurate detection of VOCs, all contained within a rugged carry case. In addition to either a Tiger or TigerLT PID instrument, it comprises a one metre flexi-probe, AA Tiger battery pack, charging cradle, vehicle charge adaptor, exhaust barb, bump test pen, quick start guide and PTFE filters.
In suspected arson cases, it is part of the investigation to prove that there is no other cause of fire. The Ion Science fire investigation kit can be used to detect hydrocarbon compounds such as those found in petrol, alkanes and cycloalkanes. Fire investigators including the police, consultants and private investigators acting on behalf of insurance companies, will search for every type of fire accelerant such as grill lighters, lighter fuel, liquid glue and cleaning agents.
Both the Ion Science Tiger and TigerLT PIDs are perfect for arson investigation. The instruments have a rugged design, are ready to use within seconds, easy to operate with gloves and can be cleaned quickly with a wet cloth. Plus the filters are simple to change.
In the aftermath of a fire significant values can already be 1-20 parts per million (ppm). Depending on the period of time between the occurrence of the fire and the examination, potential VOC gases might have partially disappeared. As a result, values always vary and sometimes the measured values can reach 100 ppm or more.
The extinguishing foam used by fire teams contains proteins and other hydrocarbon compounds which can produce falsified results and make usable measurements difficult.
Fire investigators often take photographs whilst using the Ion Science Tiger or TigerLT and document several values at the same time. If high quantities of VOCs are detected, they will go on to take samples for analysis by an authorised laboratory.
A robust handheld PID, the popular Tiger accurately offers 0.1 ppm sensitivity and reliably detects gases down to ultra-low parts per billion (ppb) levels and up to 20,000 ppm. The Tiger is fully upgradeable in the field so lower cost instruments can be purchased with the option of adding functionality.
Ion Science’s TigerLT PID is a streamlined, low cost version of the Tiger with a detection range up to 5,000 ppm and push to log data log option.
Both models incorporate Ion Science’s market-leading PID technology with patented fence electrode system. The advanced three-electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field, as well as reduced drift issues and extended run time.
A compact, ergonomic design makes the Tiger VOC detectors extremely easy to use in the field. A large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas and an illuminated keypad comes on when light is low.
The Tiger models have the fastest response time on the market of just two seconds and can be connected directly to a PC via the USB for quick data download.
Both instruments are intrinsically safe (IS) allowing batteries to be replaced in potentially explosive environments. They meet ATEX, IECEx, North American and Canadian standards and are IP65 rated against water ingress.
Long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries give up to 24 hours usage and can be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes.
Other features include a protective, removable boot for harsh environments, loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support. The warranty for both the Tiger and TigerLT can be extended from two to five years when the instruments are registered on line.
In suspected arson cases, it is part of the investigation to prove that there is no other cause of fire. The Ion Science fire investigation kit can be used to detect hydrocarbon compounds such as those found in petrol, alkanes and cycloalkanes. Fire investigators including the police, consultants and private investigators acting on behalf of insurance companies, will search for every type of fire accelerant such as grill lighters, lighter fuel, liquid glue and cleaning agents.
Both the Ion Science Tiger and TigerLT PIDs are perfect for arson investigation. The instruments have a rugged design, are ready to use within seconds, easy to operate with gloves and can be cleaned quickly with a wet cloth. Plus the filters are simple to change.
In the aftermath of a fire significant values can already be 1-20 parts per million (ppm). Depending on the period of time between the occurrence of the fire and the examination, potential VOC gases might have partially disappeared. As a result, values always vary and sometimes the measured values can reach 100 ppm or more.
The extinguishing foam used by fire teams contains proteins and other hydrocarbon compounds which can produce falsified results and make usable measurements difficult.
Fire investigators often take photographs whilst using the Ion Science Tiger or TigerLT and document several values at the same time. If high quantities of VOCs are detected, they will go on to take samples for analysis by an authorised laboratory.
A robust handheld PID, the popular Tiger accurately offers 0.1 ppm sensitivity and reliably detects gases down to ultra-low parts per billion (ppb) levels and up to 20,000 ppm. The Tiger is fully upgradeable in the field so lower cost instruments can be purchased with the option of adding functionality.
Ion Science’s TigerLT PID is a streamlined, low cost version of the Tiger with a detection range up to 5,000 ppm and push to log data log option.
Both models incorporate Ion Science’s market-leading PID technology with patented fence electrode system. The advanced three-electrode format ensures increased resistance to humidity and contamination for ultimate reliability and accuracy in the field, as well as reduced drift issues and extended run time.
A compact, ergonomic design makes the Tiger VOC detectors extremely easy to use in the field. A large, clear back-lit display allows for easy viewing in any light condition. An integrated torch is designed for directing the instrument’s probe into dimly lit areas and an illuminated keypad comes on when light is low.
The Tiger models have the fastest response time on the market of just two seconds and can be connected directly to a PC via the USB for quick data download.
Both instruments are intrinsically safe (IS) allowing batteries to be replaced in potentially explosive environments. They meet ATEX, IECEx, North American and Canadian standards and are IP65 rated against water ingress.
Long life rechargeable Li-ion batteries give up to 24 hours usage and can be fully charged in 6.5 hours, while eight hours of use can be achieved from 1.5 hours of charging time. Low cost filters and lamps can be easily changed in minutes.
Other features include a protective, removable boot for harsh environments, loud 95 dB audible alarm and multiple language support. The warranty for both the Tiger and TigerLT can be extended from two to five years when the instruments are registered on line.
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