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Basic Operation
Particulate Sampling
The MiniVol™ Portable Air Sampler can be configured to collect either PM2.5, PM10, or TSP samples - but only one type at a time.

The MiniVol's pump draws air at 5 liters/minute through a particle size separator (impactor) and then through a 47mm filter. The 10 micron or 2.5 micron particle separation is achieved by impaction, or a TSP sample can be collected by removing the impactor(s). Gas samples can be taken simultaneously with particulate matter samples.

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| Pump |
• | Double-diaphragm head
• | Rated for 10,000 hours continuous operation
• | Brushless DC motor
• | Maximum rate at 6.5 liters/minute

Physical

• | Cylindrical base of weatherproof PVC
• | 2-Point bracket mount
• | Bale handle for hoisting and carrying
• | Dimensions: 7" O.D. * 20" long
• | Weight: 18 lbs. with battery pack

Timer

• | Programmable 7-day timer with battery backup
• | Up to six sample periods per day

Pre-separator/Cassette Filter Holder Assembly
• | Non-directional inlet design
• | Easily removed for cleaning
• | Standard 47mm filter holder
• | Quick connect at sampler body and filter holder
• | Nominal 10 micron or 2.5 micron "cut-point" at 5 liters/minute sample rate

Electronics

• | Constant flow control circuits
• | AC or DC operation
• | Variable flow adjustment
• | Elapsed time totalizer
• | Low battery indicator and shut-off
• | Low flow rate indicator and shutoff

Battery Pack
• | Sealed lead-acid batteries
• | Deep cycle rated
• | 12 AH capacity (24 hour sample duration)
• | 1 amp built in charger adapter
• | Full recharge in less than 16 hours

Bag Modules
• | Leak-tested 6 liter Tedlar bags
• | 7" OD 18" PVC protective canisters
• | Quick disconnect to pump module

The particulate sample is caught on the filter, which must be weighed pre- and post-exposure with a microbalance accurate to one microgram. Sampling results are reported in micrograms/cubic meter. Airmetrics offers filter weighing services to complement use of the MiniVol™.

The MiniVol™ comes equipped with low flow and low battery shut-offs and operates from a rechargeable, lead-acid battery. The battery can power the sampler for 24 hours of continuous sampling before the battery pack must be exchanged for a freshly charged one.

The MiniVol™ also features a 7-day programmable timer, an elapsed time totalizer, and rugged PVC construction.

A new, corrected indicated flow rate must be established for each sampling project. This calibration ensures that the sampler has an ambient flow rate of 5 liters per minute and that there is consistent performance of the inertial size separator. The calibration accounts for the differing air temperatures and atmospheric pressures due to elevation and seasonal changes.

For a discussion of consumables (filters, petri slides, impactor grease, solvent) and siting accessories for the MiniVol™, visit our accessories/consumables page.

Gas Sampling
When used for gas sampling, the MiniVol™ pumps air into two six-liter Tedlar bags over a predetermined length of time. The bags are contained within collection canisters arranged on either side of the sampler, hanging from a common 24" bale bar.

The MiniVol™ uses an adjustable pulse circuit that allows the operator to set a sampling rate over a specific time period, up to 24 hours. One or both bags can be inflated during a sampling run, and particulate matter samples can be collected simultaneously.

To reduce the effective flow rate low enough to permit two 6-liter bags to fill in about 16 hours, the MiniVol™ is equipped with a tunable intervalometer circuit and a sequencing valve. The intervalometer is programmed to direct pulses of gas to the canisters and can be adjusted for frequency and duration, allowing for sample collection over minutes or hours.

Consumables needed for gas sampling are limited to the occasional replacement Tedlar bag. Additional consumables will be needed if also sampling for particulate matter simultaneously. For a thorough discussion of consumables, visit the Accessories/Consumables page.

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