Metone E-BAM Beta Attenuation Particulate Matter Monitor
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | E-BAM |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Metone E-BAM Beta Attenuation Particulate Matter Monitor is a field-deployable, real-time ambient air quality instrument engineered for continuous, traceable measurement of atmospheric particulate mass concentration—specifically PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and TSP. It operates on the beta attenuation principle: airborne particles are collected onto a moving glass fiber tape; a calibrated 14C beta radiation source emits electrons through the filter medium, and the attenuation of beta particles—proportional to deposited mass—is detected by a scintillation detector. This physical measurement method enables direct, gravimetric-equivalent quantification without reliance on optical proxies or empirical correction factors. The E-BAM is fully compliant with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Reference Method equivalency criteria for PM2.5 (40 CFR Part 53, Appendix L) and meets EPA’s stringent Class III performance specifications for regulatory monitoring networks. Its design supports unattended operation across diverse environmental conditions—from urban rooftops and roadside stations to industrial perimeters and emergency response zones—without external sheltering.
Key Features
- Real-time, continuous mass concentration output updated every second, with minute-averaged data logged automatically
- Gravimetric-equivalent measurement traceable to NIST-traceable standards via EPA-certified beta attenuation methodology
- Multi-size fraction capability: interchangeable inlets for PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and TSP sampling, each meeting ISO 25243 and EPA-defined aerodynamic cut-points
- Ruggedized aluminum enclosure rated for permanent outdoor deployment at temperatures from –30 °C to +40 °C
- Integrated dual-diaphragm sampling pump with volumetric flow control (±3% accuracy), pressure and temperature compensation
- Self-diagnostic installation sequence with guided error correction and automatic system validation
- Flexible power architecture: 12 VDC @ 36 W nominal; compatible with AC/DC adapters, rechargeable battery packs, and solar panel inputs
- Field-installable within 15 minutes using standardized mounting hardware and tool-free inlet assembly
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The E-BAM collects particles directly from ambient air without thermal or chemical alteration, preserving semi-volatile species—including ammonium nitrate and low-volatility organic compounds—that may otherwise volatilize in heated filter-based systems. This enables representative measurement under varying humidity and temperature regimes. All sampling inlets conform to ISO 7708 for aerodynamic particle sizing and satisfy EPA’s requirements for wind-independent aspiration (e.g., PM10 inlet certified per EPA EQPM-0899-124). The instrument meets applicable sections of 40 CFR Part 53 for reference and equivalent methods, and its data acquisition architecture supports audit-ready logging required under EPA Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs). While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11-compliant, its MicroMet Plus software interface allows integration into validated GxP environments when deployed with appropriate procedural controls.
Software & Data Management
Data acquisition and remote management are enabled via Metone’s MicroMet Plus software suite—a Windows-based platform supporting configuration, diagnostics, historical retrieval, and tabular/exportable reporting (CSV, Excel, XML). The E-BAM embeds a high-capacity internal data logger capable of storing >200 days of hourly-averaged PM concentration data plus six auxiliary parameters (e.g., flow rate, temperature, pressure, beta count, tape position, diagnostic flags). Communication options include RS-232, USB, cellular modem, radio telemetry, and satellite uplink modules—all configurable via standard AT command sets. Digital outputs (RS-232/USB) and analog outputs (0–1 V / 0–5 V / 0–10 V, 12-bit resolution) support integration into SCADA, EPA AQS, or third-party environmental data management systems (EDMS). Alarm thresholds are programmable for flow failure, power loss, filter exhaustion, and detector fault conditions.
Applications
- Regulatory compliance monitoring for state and local air quality agencies operating under EPA SIP requirements
- Source apportionment studies requiring co-located, multi-fraction PM measurements
- Industrial fence-line monitoring where rapid deployment and long-term stability are critical
- Emergency response scenarios—including wildfire smoke, hazardous material releases, and post-disaster air quality assessment
- Research-grade exposure assessment in occupational health, epidemiology, and atmospheric science field campaigns
- Calibration verification and collocation studies with other PM monitors (e.g., TEOM, GRIMM, optical counters)
FAQ
What particle size fractions can the E-BAM measure?
The E-BAM supports selectable inlets for TSP, PM10, PM2.5, and PM1, each designed to meet internationally recognized aerodynamic separation criteria.
Is the E-BAM suitable for unattended operation in extreme climates?
Yes—the instrument is rated for continuous operation between –30 °C and +40 °C and features an IP65-rated enclosure with no requirement for climate-controlled shelters.
How is measurement traceability maintained?
Beta source activity (14C, <75 µCi) and detector response are factory-calibrated against NIST-traceable standards; routine field verification uses certified check filters per EPA guidance.
Does the E-BAM require periodic filter weighing or lab analysis?
No—unlike traditional gravimetric methods, the E-BAM performs real-time, in-situ mass determination via beta attenuation, eliminating manual filter handling and laboratory processing.
Can the E-BAM integrate into existing environmental monitoring networks?
Yes—through native RS-232/USB serial protocols, analog outputs, and optional telemetry modules, it interoperates with EPA AQS, EPA AirNow, and commercial EDMS platforms.
