What is an FID?
FIDs (Flame Ionization Detectors) are very similar to PIDs (PhotoIonization Detectors). FIDs detect VOCs. The main difference is that – as the name suggests – a flame is used to ionize the VOCs instead of a UV lamp. The flame is produced by mixture of hydrogen and air. The resulting flame burns at such a temperature as to pyrolyze most organic compounds, producing positively charged ions and electrons. Two electrodes are used to provide a potential difference. The positive electrode doubles as the nozzle head where the flame is produced. The other, negative electrode – the collector plate – is positioned above the flame. The ions thus are attracted to the collector plate and upon hitting the plate, induce a current. This current is amplified and displayed as a reading in parts per million. FIDs are ideal for detecting VOCs with high ionization potentials that are out of the typical range of PID lamps. The prime example is methane.
Prepare for Your Rental Order
Here are a few questions to help prepare for your next FID rental:
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Will you need to re-fill the hydrogen tank during the rental?
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Will you need to calibrate the FID during the rental?
