MSA 498948 RP FLOW CONTROL REGULATOR FOR ALTAIR 4X AND 4XR 1.5L MIN

MSA 498948 RP Flow Control Regulator

Primary Function: To provide precise, stable, and adjustable sample gas flow to the MSA Altair 4X and Altair 4XR portable multigas detectors, ensuring optimal sensor performance and accurate readings

Key Features and Description:

1. Purpose-Built for Personal Gas Monitors: This is not a general-purpose regulator. It is specifically engineered to meet the pneumatic requirements of the Altair 4X/4XR series, which draw a sample via an internal pump. It ensures the flow rate is within the instrument’s specified operating range.

2. Regulated Output Pressure (RP): The “RP” in the part number signifies a Regulated Pressure outlet. It takes a high-pressure input from a gas cylinder (e.g., calibration gas, zero air) and reduces it to a safe, constant, lower outlet pressure. This protects the sensitive internal pump of the Altair from damage due to excessive pressure.

3. Precise Flow Control: The integrated needle valve allows the user to finely adjust the sample gas flow rate. The optimal flow for bump testing and calibration of the Altair 4X/4XR is typically 0.5 liters per minute (L/min). This regulator provides easy and repeatable adjustment to achieve this critical flow rate.

4. Critical for Calibration & Bump Testing: Accurate calibration and functional (“bump”) tests require a consistent, known flow of calibration gas. This regulator is an essential accessory for reliable gas detector maintenance, ensuring the gas is delivered at the correct pressure and flow for the sensors to respond properly.

5. Connection Specifications:

   • Inlet (CGA Connection): Typically a CGA 347 or other standard compressed gas cylinder fitting (specific nut and nipple must be ordered to match your calibration gas cylinder’s valve). The part number 498948 often refers to the regulator body itself.

   • Outlet (Instrument Connection): Designed to connect directly to the calibration cap or tubing adapter of the Altair 4X/4XR. It commonly uses a 1/8″ NPT or a barbed fitting for flexible tubing.

6. Flow Meter (Gauge): Many variants include a visual flow meter (a glass or plastic tube with a ball or float). This allows the user to visually set and verify the exact flow rate (e.g., 0.5 L/min) during calibration procedures.

7. Safety and Durability: Constructed from materials (such as brass or stainless steel) compatible with common calibration gases. Designed for repeated use in industrial, laboratory, and field environments

Why It’s Essential for the Altair 4X/4XR 1.5L MIN:

• Sensor Integrity: Delivers gas at a controlled rate, preventing damage to the electrochemical, catalytic bead (LEL), or infrared sensors from pressure spikes or incorrect flow.

• Calibration Accuracy: A stable, correct flow is mandatory for applying the exact gas concentration to the sensors. Incorrect flow is a leading cause of failed or inaccurate calibrations.

• Compliance: Following the manufacturer’s recommended calibration procedure—which specifies the correct flow rate—is often required for compliance with occupational safety standards (OSHA, MSHA, etc.) and quality assurance programs.

• Instrument Longevity: Protects the internal sampling pump of the Altair detector from strain or damage caused by unregulated cylinder pressure.