Whatever the type of cells (catalytic, infrared, electrochemical, semiconductor or photoionization), gas calibration of detectors is essential to ensure reliable and accurate measurements over time. Recognized by our partner manufacturers from qualified technicians With a team of GTC Industrial, portable or fixed maintenance services of gas detectors and periodic checks We offer it on-site or at our care center near Paris.

To facilitate the process, please attach the return receipt, which can be downloaded here

Calibration of gas detectors

Regardless of sensor technology, a gas detector calibration It consists of setting the zero and adjusting the sensitivity (Span). This is a basic and repetitive process for both portable and fixed gas detectors.

Zero setting

“Zero setting” configures the sensor so that ambient air is used as a reference value, so it is imperative that this “reference” air is perfectly “pure” so as not to affect the measurements. In case of doubt, it will be necessary to opt for a standard gas cylinder “zero degree air” (synthetic air) rather than the zero setting outdoors.

This is even more important for CO2 detectors (carbon dioxide) because it occurs naturally in ambient air (about 400 ppm) and distorts measured CO2 values. The “zero” setting for this gas should be made with “zero degree air”.

Sensitivity adjustment (or calibration)

Sensitivity adjustment is made with a standard gas cylinder with a concentration of the gas to be measured between 20% and 80% of the measurement range, ensuring that the gas detector can trigger all alarm thresholds.

In some cases where standard gas cylinders are not available to calibrate the gas detector (not all gases are on sale), an interfering gas can be used, taking all necessary precautions (and relative uncertainties).

Calibration certificate

After each calibration in the workshop or in the field, a certificate must be produced which clearly states the references and specifications of the device, the measuring range of each sensor and the batch numbers and validity dates of the standard gas cylinders used. GTC Industrial provides a calibration certificate for all types of devices: multi-gas or single gas detectors, field gas monitors, fixed gas detectors, etc.

The calibration certificate must be dated and its validity period (date of the next calibration) must be stated.

crash test

To check that the device is working properly between calibrations or before entering a tight space, ” crash test " or " A functional test called “gas test” is highly recommended. This is a privilege of the CATEC system (Certificate for Working Capability in Confined Spaces in the Drinking Water and Sanitation Sector).

This verification of the gas detector is simply accomplished by applying a known concentration of gas to verify the performance of the sensor (response time to the gas) and the activation of the device's different alarm thresholds.

Calibration gases

For maintenance operations, periodic checks or calibration of gas detectors, we offer a wide range of standard or customized gas mixtures in lightweight disposable cylinders. The current offer covers the complete spectrum, from simple binary LEL mixtures (for explosive gases) to complex and multiple mixtures with very low concentration levels in laboratories.

Gas mixtures are often mixed by gravimetry applying ISO6142 principles. They guarantee precision, optimum stability and maximum shelf life.

⇒ See calibration gas cylinders

Management of calibrations

We offer all our customers – FREE – the management and monitoring of their gas detectors via the GTC Industrial app. After identification, you can access your personalized area where you can schedule alerts of device returns (or request on-site intervention), view or print your calibration certificates, manage your gas detector fleet: assign, sort, classify your devices and instantly check which gas detectors need to be calibrated…