A bump test is a quick test of your gas detectors to ensure they function as intended. The bump test checks that the sensors and alarms are working correctly by exposing the detector briefly to a known gas concentration.
Types of bump test
There are two types of bump tests: manual bump tests and automated bump tests.
Manual bump test
This bump test is performed manually, meaning that it is performed without a docking station.
The advantage of this method is that it does not require extra equipment, which is useful if you have a few instruments.
Automated bump test
This is when you are using a docking station to bump test your gas detector; this method makes it very easy to test your gas detectors.
The disadvantage of this method is that you need to buy a docking station or bump test station, which can add extra cost to your company.
It is probably not worth it if you have few detectors, but it can become a wise investment if you have many gas detectors.
What accessories do I need to perform a bump test?
To perform a bump test in one of your gas monitor requires the following equipment:
A gas detector to bump test
Although it sounds obvious, you need a gas detector to bump test. This can be a portable or fixed gas detector.
Calibration cap or adaptor
This cap or adaptor ensures the gas is trapped and directed to your gas detector’s sensors.
Tubing
The main function of the tubing is to capture and funnel the gas toward the air monitor.
Calibration gas
This is the calibration gas you need to bump-test your sensors. It must be the same as your gas sensors, and its concentration should be above the lowest alarm.
Optional Docking station
You need a docking station for an automatic bump test, but this is optional since the bump test can be done manually.
If one exists for your monitors, a docking and calibration station could help keep your equipment in one place and make calibration and bump testing more convenient.
A demand flow regulator is also needed for a docking and calibration station.
How to bump test a gas detector?
Step 1: Turn on the monitor.
Step 2: Connect the regulator to the gas cylinder.
Step 3: Connect the tubing or calibration hose.
Step 4: Connect the calibration cap to the instrument. If it is a pumped instrument, it will have a quick connector, which you need to attach to the hose.
Step 4: Open the valve or knob in the regulator.
What Is an Acceptable Bump Test Result?
A bump test is a functional test to ensure the gas sensors work as they should. The recommendation is that the gas concentration used in the bump test should be enough to trigger at least the lowest alarm level.
This will ensure that you test whether the sensors are functional and also test the audible and visible alarms.
The reading on the screen will not always perfectly mirror the specs on the bottle of target gas, but as long as the variation is within 10%, we can consider the monitor to function within the acceptable range.
If the sensors do not read the gas to the required range or the alarms are not activated, consider the bump check failed.
Why will a gas detector fail a bump test?
A bump test could fail for several reasons, and it’s not always because the unit is defective or broken. Here are some reasons why the gas detector might fail the bump test.
Extreme shock
If a gas detector falls from a significant height or onto a hard surface, the sensor cannot operate correctly and fails the bump test.
Extreme temperature changes and weather conditions
Gas detectors are designed to work under certain conditions, always indicated in the unit or the detector’s datasheet.
Exposing a gas detector to hot or cold temperatures can affect the sensor’s sensitivity.
Excessive exposure to dust
Sometimes, we use gas detectors in dirty environments, which can cause physical blocks in the detectors.
These blocks can cause the sensor to become less sensitive to gas in the surrounding atmosphere.
What do if a gas detector fails a bump test?
If your gas detector fails calibration, do the following.
Verify whether the calibration gas has expired.
Most calibration gas cylinders will have a sticker that says use by or expiration date; make sure that the date has not passed and that the bump test gas has not expired.
Check if you are using the right regulator.
There are two types of bump tests: manual and automated bump tests. In manual calibration, we use a constant flow regulator that has a knob we use to open and close the gas during the bump test.
If you are using a docking station, the demand flow regulator is used; this will make the regulator open or close in an automated way using the vacuum generated by the docking station.
Mixing these two types of regulators can cause your bump test to fail; if you are not sure which regulator to use, please call the detector manufacturer. They should be able to guide you.
Try the manual bump test if you use a docking station.
If you are using a docking station to bump-test your gas detector and it fails, try to do it manually; if it passes, troubleshoot the docking station.
Swap the sensors
If you have tried all the above and the sensor still fails, swap the sensors. If you have another working sensor, try swapping it with the one you are bump testing.
If the bump test passes, it is a sensor issue. If it still fails, it is time to troubleshoot the detector itself.
The Importance of Bump Testing
Safety Assurance
A bump check provides your instrument with safety insurance. It is essential to trust that a gas detector will alert you to the presence of a harmful agent. A bump test is a quick check that gives this assurance.
Detection Reliability
Sensors can lose sensitivity due to regular exposure to specific chemicals or physical damage. Regular bump testing identifies sensors with reduced sensitivity.
The law requires it.
Many safety regulations and standards, both international and domestic, require regular bump testing of gas detectors. Compliance ensures safety and avoids potential legal and financial penalties.
FAQ: Bump Test In Gas Detection
When to bump test a gas monitor?
We recommend doing a bump test before each use for intermittently used detectors and portable monitoring devices, which are often powered off and on and used in changing environments.
A full calibration must be performed if the bump test results are not within the acceptable range.
Why is bump testing important?
Bump testing involves quickly testing your portable gas detectors to ensure they function as intended.
The bump test checks that the sensors and alarms are working correctly by exposing the detector briefly to a known gas concentration.
What is the difference between a bump test and a calibration?
A bump test verifies the sensor and alarm functionality by briefly exposing the sensors to a known gas concentration, ensuring they respond correctly.
On the other hand, calibration adjusts the sensors to measure gas concentrations accurately, compensating for sensor degradation over time.
How do you do a bump test?
A bump test is a simple process where you expose sensors in a gas detector to an expected gas concentration greater than the alarm set points. If everything works as expected, the gas detector will go into alarm.
Key takeaways: bump test for gas detectors.
The bump test checks that the sensors and alarms are working correctly by exposing the detector briefly to a known gas concentration.
Accessories you need to perform a bump test
- A gas detector to bump test
- Calibration cap or adaptor
- Tubing
- Calibration gas
- Optional Docking station
The Importance of Bump Testing
- Safety Assurance
- Detection Reliability
- The law requires it.