Features

BGI Incorporated produces the PQ200 Ambient PM2.5 Federal Reference Method (FRM) and FRM "Portable Audit" Sampling Systems. The PQ200 is designed to meet exacting criteria for collecting 24-hour samples of ambient "Fine Particulate," according to the U.S. National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), published July 18, 1997.

PM2.5 (particles less than 2.5 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter) is collected on 47 mm PTFE membrane media at a volumetric sample rate of 16.67 Lpm after being size discriminated through two U.S. EPA designed inertial separators. Ambient temperature and barometric pressure measurements are made at actual sample conditions. A microprocessor and sophisticated volumetric flow control system are integrated to maintain precise sampling parameters while sampling data are continuously logged into the processor memory. Five minute actual ambient temperature and pressure conditions with volumetric sample flow rate, filter temperature, and pressure are recorded. Measured values and identification of flags indicating any anomalies are recovered by the operator by downloading a sample summary to a laptop computer or a BGI Datatrans Data Communicator.

Datatrans The BGI Datatrans Data Communicator eliminates the need to carry a notebook computer to a field site, also eliminating the need for the field technician to be computer literate. With a mere press of a button, the Datatrans will collect up to 20 PQ100 and/or PQ200 runs from a sampler network. The progress of the download is apparent from the light-emitting diodes. The field technician knows when the download begins, sees a flashing yellow light while the download occurs, and knows when the download is finished. Data capture is therefore completely assured. Upon return to base, data may be loaded into whatever computer is running the PQ100 or PQ200 software.

Additional features:

Solar Panel The BGI Solar Panel accessory for the PQ200 will extend its operational time range from 24 hours to an indefinite period, depending upon the amount of ambient sunlight available in the region of use. As a practical matter the panel with the reconnected ballast battery will provide a minimum of 10-14 days of operation with only minimum ambient light. When interval sampling on three or six day cycles is contemplated operations far from a source of power are achievable.

Test Cassette

EPA mandates two types of leak tests for all designated, PM2.5 samplers. The first test is readily accomplished with the shutoff adaptor furnished with each designated instrument. The second test, for internal bypass leakage requires an impermeable membrane to be placed in the cassette. The official version is published in the Federal Register: 40 CFR Part 50, 18 July 97 Appendix L 7.4.6.2 (a)(2).

Because the membranes are easily misplaced BGI provides a standard cassette complete with 0.005 in thick TFE Membrane, a standard filter and labeled transport tin. (Part Number CF-2). Available for separate purchase are our new impermeable membranes, produced from very thin, pliable pure gum rubber; available in packets of six (Part Number RD006) or premounted in a standard FRM cassette with 5 replacement membranes (Part Number KT006).

Dust Excluder BGI was the first FRM manufacturer to recognize the need to minimize the amount of air flowing through the filter holder compartment of an FRM sampler. To minimize deposition on the external surfaces of a cassette, we have developed an accessory dust excluder to completely protect the cassette. This accessory has been approved by the U.S. EPA. Instructions for installation appear in the PQ200 instruction manual (versions 1.6 and later).

Cassette Transport Carrier Since the inception of the PM2.5 there has been a discerned need for a top quality cassette transport carrier. BGI has met that need with the Model F-21/4. The body of the carrier is manufactured from nickel-plated aluminum. The cassette is centered in a recess but has a generous clearance annulus for ease of removal. The cassette is rigidly held in an all-metal container. There are no problems with material flaking, nor insecure covers. Sturdily manufactured to a high standard for a lifetime of reliable service. Helpful Hint: One of the best and least expensive ways to transport cassette carriers to the field is in small "soft" lunch boxes.

Speciation Sampling

Some speciation sampling procedures require 2 filters in series. This procedure can now be accomplished in the PQ200 with the Dual Cassette (P/N 8141). This BGI development incorporates two complete FRM type filter holders in one unit. The original spacing is strictly maintained. Each support screen bears a unique serial number. Additionally on July 2 1999 EPA approved the use of this dual cassette for FRM sampling provided that the first filter used is a FRM filter.

Because of the additional height of the cassette is must be utilized with a shortened lower impactor housing (P/N 2054). This component is readily replaced without the use of tools.

Following on the success of our high quality cassette transport carrier (P/N F-21/4), a taller version has been produced for the dual cassette (P/N 8142).

Cassette Opener This simple device is utilized for the opening of the FRM cassettes. The cassette, manufactured to EPA design specifications, is a very tight press fit. The "sliding ramp" design permits the cassette to be gently opened. (Part Number CO-1)

PQ200 Specifications

Size and Weight

EPA Design-Specified Hardware

EPA Performance-Specified and PQ200 Feature Hardware