Met One Instruments 831 Handheld PM2.5 Particulate Matter Analyzer
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 831 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The Met One Instruments 831 Handheld PM2.5 Particulate Matter Analyzer is a compact, field-deployable optical particle counter engineered for real-time, size-resolved mass concentration measurement of airborne particulate matter. Utilizing laser light scattering (90° forward-scatter geometry) with a 780 nm diode laser source, the instrument detects particles ≥0.5 µm aerodynamic diameter and classifies them into four standardized mass-based fractions—PM₁, PM₂.₅, PM₄, and PM₁₀—based on calibrated Mie scattering response and integrated gravimetric transfer functions. Designed for compliance-aligned environmental monitoring, occupational health assessments, and indoor air quality (IAQ) verification, the 831 operates at a constant volumetric flow rate of 2.83 L/min (0.1 CFM), ensuring traceable sampling per ISO 21501-4 and ASTM D6245 protocols. Its lightweight architecture (790 g) and ergonomic form factor enable rapid deployment in mobile surveys, building audits, construction site perimeter monitoring, and educational fieldwork—without reliance on external power or fixed infrastructure.
Key Features
- Four simultaneous mass concentration channels: PM₁, PM₂.₅, PM₄, and PM₁₀—calculated in real time from single-pulse scattering intensity distribution
- High-fidelity optical detection with 0.5 µm lower detection limit and ±10% accuracy against NIST-traceable polydisperse calibration aerosols (e.g., PSL, Arizona Test Dust)
- Integrated data logging capacity of up to 2,500 timestamped records with full metadata (date, time, channel concentrations, battery status, flow confirmation)
- USB Mini-B interface supporting both high-speed data export and in-field firmware updates via included Windows-compatible software
- Intuitive dual-button + rotary encoder interface with two-line, 16-character LCD display—designed for glove-compatible operation and minimal training overhead
- Lithium-ion battery delivering 8 hours continuous operation or 24 hours intermittent use; full recharge in ≤2.5 hours using supplied AC/DC adapter (100–240 VAC input, 8.4 VDC output)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 831 is validated for ambient, indoor, and workplace air matrices containing solid and liquid aerosols—including dust, soot, pollen, mold spores, and combustion byproducts—within temperature ranges of 0 °C to 50 °C and relative humidity ≤90% non-condensing. It meets or exceeds requirements of ISO 12103-1 (A2 test dust calibration), ISO 21501-4 (light scattering particle counters), ASTM D6245 (indoor air PM₂.₅ measurement), and JIS B 9921. CE marking confirms conformity with EU EMC Directive 2014/30/EU and RoHS 2011/65/EU. While not intrinsically safe, it is suitable for non-hazardous area use under IEC 60079-0 general requirements. Data integrity supports GLP-compliant workflows through audit-trail-capable software export and user-defined session tagging.
Software & Data Management
The bundled PC application enables configuration, real-time streaming visualization, batch export to CSV/Excel, and historical trend analysis. Logged datasets include GPS-optional metadata fields (when paired with external Bluetooth GNSS modules), automatic flow validation flags, and alarm thresholds per channel. All exported files retain native resolution (0.1 µg/m³) and comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles when used with enabled electronic signature and audit trail settings. Firmware versioning, calibration date tracking, and sensor health diagnostics are embedded within the device’s non-volatile memory and accessible via software interrogation.
Applications
- Regulatory ambient air quality screening in urban, rural, and industrial zones
- Indoor air quality assessments across schools, hospitals, offices, and residential buildings
- Construction and demolition site emissions monitoring for PM₂.₅/PM₁₀ compliance reporting
- Occupational exposure evaluation during sanding, grinding, insulation handling, and spray operations
- Educational demonstrations of aerosol dynamics, filtration efficiency testing, and ventilation effectiveness studies
- Baseline characterization prior to HVAC commissioning or remediation activities
FAQ
What particle size range does the 831 detect?
It optically resolves particles ≥0.5 µm and reports mass concentrations for four regulatory size fractions: PM₁, PM₂.₅, PM₄, and PM₁₀.
Is the instrument factory-calibrated, and can users perform field recalibration?
Yes—it ships with NIST-traceable calibration using Arizona Road Dust and PSL standards. Field zero checks are supported via optional zero filter kit (P/N 80846); full recalibration requires authorized service center support.
Does the 831 meet EPA equivalency requirements for regulatory PM₂.₅ monitoring?
No—it is designated as a screening-grade instrument per EPA’s “Federal Reference Method” (FRM) and “Federal Equivalent Method” (FEM) guidance; it is not certified as an FEM device but provides highly correlated data for trend analysis and source identification.
Can the device operate while charging?
Yes—the internal Li-ion battery may be removed, and the unit powered directly via the AC adapter during extended stationary use.
What is the recommended maintenance interval?
Optical chamber cleaning every 6 months (or after 500 hours of operation) using supplied lint-free swabs and isopropyl alcohol; annual flow verification with optional flow meter kit (P/N 80530) is advised.
