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CO2 refrigeration

CO2 (R744) is a natural, low cost refrigerant and has far less global warming potential than HFCs. For these reasons, it has become more widely used in the refrigeration industry within the past few years. Carbon dioxide must be monitored in places where potential leaks could occur. High CO2 levels are a potential health risk for workers.

 
GMT220 Series Carbon Dioxide Transmitters

GMT220 Series Carbon Dioxide Transmitters

Designed for harsh and humid environments. Provides several alternatives for measurement range from ppm to percentage level. The housing is IP65 (NEMA 4) compliant.

Effects of carbon dioxide on people

CO2 Concentrations

Effects

10,000 ppm (1%)

Breathing rate increases slightly

30,000 ppm (3%)

Breathing increases to twice normal rate, and a person would experience impaired hearing, headache, and increased blood pressure.

50,000 ppm (5%)

Breathing increases to approximately four times normal rate, symptoms of intoxication become evident and slight choking may be felt.

75,000 ppm (7.5%)

A sharp odor is noticeable. At this level a person would experience very labored breathing, headache, visual impairment, and ringing in the ears. Judgment may be impaired, followed within minutes by loss of consciousness.

>100,000 ppm (10%)

Unconsciousness occurs rapidly above 10% level. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations could eventually result in death from asphyxiation.

OSHA permissible exposure limits

5,000 ppm (0.5%),

8 hour period: Time Weighted Average (TWA)

30,000 ppm (3%)

< 15 minutes: Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL)

50,000 ppm (5%)

>5 minutes: Imminent Danger to Life and Health (IDLH)

Guidelines only, refer to published documents.

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This page was printed from www.vaisala.com on May 12, 2008
URL: http://www.vaisala.com/instruments/applications/food/co2refrigeration