How to Maintain a Nox Analyzer

A Nox analyzer the levels of nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide gasses (NO and NO2) in the exhaust from combustion processes, and is commonly used in automotive testing facilities, service centers, and inspection stations to help ensure vehicles comply with emissions regulations imposed by governmental agencies. Implementing a Nox gas detection system reduces engine waste, optimizes performance, and helps to keep the air clean.

The most common way to measure NOx is by using chemiluminescence technology. The chemistry works on the principle of Nitric Oxide and Ozone (O3) reacting to create energy that luminesces, which can then be measured by photomultiplier tubes. This allows for highly sensitive measurements in the low range, and is the industry standard method to this day.

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Other technologies can also be used for measuring NOx, though they tend to be less sensitive. For example, Doppler and photometric technology are based on the principle that a molecule of NO or NO2 absorbs UV light in a specific wavelength range, which then produces a current proportional to its concentration in the sample. The resulting current can then be measured by an instrument, and the results are displayed on a screen.

The best way to maintain a Nox analyzer is to perform regular maintenance on the system. This includes cleaning the system every three months, and ensuring that there is no dirt or dust in the filter holder. It is also a good idea to record the analyzer readings in a daily log, which can be useful for identifying trends in the data.