Compact dynamic oxygen sensor elevates performance over prolonged period

In order to meet the demands of modern oxygen-monitoring applications, SST Sensing has developed the Zirconia Series of miniature sensors. Supplied in space-saving 12mm diameter metal cans, the 5-pin devices possess an array of attributes to maximize their effectiveness at measuring oxygen levels in virtually any environment. Each Zirconia sensor has a response time of as little as 4 seconds and covers an oxygen range from 0.1% to 100%. They can operate in oxygen pressures from 2mbar to 3bar with superior accuracy and linearity. Among the key target application areas for these devices are - combustion control in industrial boilers, ensuring the quality of perishable goods during transportation, controlling industrial composting processes and in both oxygen generating and inerting systems in aircraft. The company’s sophisticated zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) based sensors are able to keep generating exact, reliable data across an extensive operational lifespan, even in the most challenging of environments. They have the ruggedness needed to cope with high temperatures (up to 400C), humidity conditions and oxygen pressures. Furthermore, they are not susceptible to depletion over time, thereby reducing the repair and replacement costs involved. While conventional zirconia oxygen sensors on the market rely on sensing cells that utilize either an oxygen ion pump or the Nernst Effect, the sensors produced by SST are 'unique' in incorporating both mechanisms in tandem. This has major operational benefits, not only in terms of enabling improved performance but also providing the diagnostics needed to allow any effect on system performance to be promptly identified and addressed. Furthermore, combining these mechanisms means that the need to include a sealed reference gas or temperature stabilisation can be dispensed with. The resultant oxygen sensing system thus takes up considerably less space and its application versatility is improved. In addition, it makes recalibration very simple to carry out, says the company.