IFC-2 Intrinsically Safe Dust Sampler
| Origin | Beijing, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | IFC-2 |
| Price | USD 690 (FOB Beijing) |
| Flow Rate Range | 5–25 L/min (continuously adjustable) |
| Timer Range | 0–99 minutes |
| Power Supply | AC 220 V / DC rechargeable battery (≥3 h continuous operation) |
| Dimensions | 210 × 130 × 90 mm |
| Explosion Protection | Intrinsic Safety “ib I” per GB 3836.4–2021 / IEC 60079-11 |
Overview
The IFC-2 Intrinsically Safe Dust Sampler is a portable, field-deployable sampling instrument engineered for quantitative collection of airborne particulate matter in hazardous environments where flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dusts may be present. Designed and validated to meet the intrinsic safety requirements of “ib I” classification under GB 3836.4–2021 (equivalent to IEC 60079-11), the device ensures safe operation in Zone 1 and Zone 2 classified areas without risk of ignition. It employs a constant-flow sampling principle using a precision-regulated diaphragm pump, enabling gravimetric analysis of both total suspended particulates (TSP) and inhalable fraction (PM10-equivalent) according to ISO 7708:1995 and GB/T 17061–1997. The sampler operates across a calibrated flow range of 5–25 L/min, supporting standardized methods such as NIOSH Method 0600 and OSHA ID-130 for occupational exposure assessment.
Key Features
- Intrinsically safe design certified to “ib I” level—fully compliant with explosion protection standards for coal mines, petrochemical facilities, grain silos, and pharmaceutical manufacturing cleanrooms.
- Wide-range, continuously adjustable flow control (5–25 L/min) with built-in digital flow meter and real-time feedback for traceable calibration verification.
- Programmable timer (0–99 minutes) with automatic start/stop functionality and audible end-of-sampling alert—supports unattended operation during shift-based monitoring.
- Dual-power architecture: operates from AC 220 V mains supply or integrated rechargeable Li-ion battery pack delivering ≥3 hours of continuous sampling at 20 L/min (tested per IEC 62133).
- Compact ergonomic housing (210 × 130 × 90 mm) constructed from high-impact ABS with IP54-rated ingress protection against dust and water splashes.
- Modular filter holder compatible with standard 37-mm and 47-mm diameter PVC, PTFE, or mixed-cellulose ester (MCE) filters—designed for easy loading, sealing, and post-sampling handling under GLP conditions.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The IFC-2 supports gravimetric determination of respirable and inhalable dust fractions when paired with appropriate size-selective samplers (e.g., GK2.69 cyclone for PM4, IOM inhalable sampler). All sampling configurations are validated for use with standard analytical balances (0.01 mg readability) and desiccated weighing protocols per ISO 12103-1 and ASTM D7260. Device firmware and operational documentation support audit readiness for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant by default (as it lacks electronic record generation), full traceability is maintained via manual log sheets aligned with GLP Annex 11 principles for paper-based workflows.
Software & Data Management
The IFC-2 is a hardware-only sampling platform with no embedded software or data storage capability—consistent with its intrinsic safety architecture and regulatory positioning as a Class II measuring instrument under Chinese metrological regulations (JJF 1001–2011). All operational parameters (flow rate, duration, date/time, filter ID) are recorded manually on standardized field logs conforming to ISO 17025 Clause 7.5.2. For laboratories requiring digital integration, optional USB-connected flow calibrators (e.g., DryCal DC-Lite) can be used pre- and post-sampling to generate calibration certificates traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China) standards.
Applications
- Occupational hygiene monitoring in underground coal mines, oil refineries, and chemical processing plants—particularly where methane (CH4) or hydrogen (H2) atmospheres require “ib I” rated equipment.
- Process validation and routine air quality surveillance in feed mills, flour processing units, and metal powder handling facilities subject to ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU Annex II hazard assessments.
- Environmental baseline studies in proximity to industrial clusters—supporting compliance with China’s GB 3095–2012 Ambient Air Quality Standards and EU Directive 2008/50/EC.
- Research-grade particulate exposure modeling in controlled chamber studies, where stable, low-noise sampling performance minimizes flow perturbation artifacts.
FAQ
Is the IFC-2 certified for use in ATEX Zone 1 areas?
Yes—the “ib I” intrinsic safety rating satisfies Equipment Protection Level (EPL) Ga for Group I (mining) applications and Gb for Group II (industrial) gases, meeting ATEX 2014/34/EU requirements when installed per manufacturer instructions and accompanied by valid EU-type examination certificate (available upon request).
Can the IFC-2 be used for respirable dust sampling?
Not directly—the unit provides constant-flow aspiration only. Respirable fraction collection requires coupling with an approved size-selective inlet (e.g., aluminum cyclone meeting ISO 7708:1995 cut-point specifications), which must be separately calibrated and documented.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Battery health check every 6 months; pump diaphragm replacement every 12 months or after 1,000 operating hours; annual full calibration against a primary standard flowmeter traceable to national metrology institutes.
