Calibrating the Oxygen Sensor

The PGA 3510 uses an electrochemical oxygen sensor that should last approximately two years (depending on usage).  It measures oxygen to a resolution of 0.1%, so it is not suitable for calculating carbon in a furnace.  Its intended use is for troubleshooting problems such as air and/or water leaks.  The information from this sensor is not used in the calculation of percent carbon.

 

Calibration of the Oxygen sensor does not require a special calibration gas.  Ambient air contains 20.9% O2, and since that concentration is relatively stable, it can be used to perform a span calibration on the sensor.  There is no drift at the low range of the sensor so there is no Zero Calibration function for the Oxygen sensor.  There is only a Span Calibration.

 

To perform a Span calibration: Take the instrument to an office or outdoors where it will be in fresh air.  Press the Calibrate O2 button on the Sensor Calibration screen.  When the Oxygen Calibration screen is entered, the pump automatically turns on.  When the Actual value stabilizes, press the Start Calibration button.  This will make the Actual value match the Target value.