eastern kern air pollution control districtww3.arb.ca.gov/aaqm/qa/drupal/ebamplus sop.pdf · the...

EASTERN KERN AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

FOR

METONE EBAM PLUS FOR PM10 FEM MONITORING

August 2019

EKAPCD SOP MetOne EBAM PLUS PM10 Monitor

First Revision, August 2019

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 GENERAL INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 4

2.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 4

2.2 Principle of Operation................................................................................................................... 4

2.3 Personnel Qualifications ............................................................................................................... 5

2.4 Equipment and Supplies ............................................................................................................... 5

2.5 Safety Precautions ........................................................................................................................ 6

2.6 Interference/Limitations............................................................................................................... 7

3 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE .................................................................................................................. 8

3.1 General Information: .................................................................................................................... 8

3.2 Physical Inspection:....................................................................................................................... 8

3.3 Instrument Siting........................................................................................................................... 8

3.4 Electrical Connections................................................................................................................... 9

3.5 Serial/Ethernet Connections and Settings .................................................................................. 10

3.6 Operation Verification ................................................................................................................10

3.7 Acceptance Testing ..................................................................................................................... 11

4 CONFIGURATION.................................................................................................................................13

4.1 Instrument Configuration ...........................................................................................................13

4.2 AirVision Data System Configuration:.........................................................................................13

4.3 Data Management ...................................................................................................................... 14

5 CALIBRATION INFORMATION..............................................................................................................15

5.1 Calibration Introduction..............................................................................................................15

5.2 Calibration Overview................................................................................................................... 15

5.3 Calibration Apparatus ................................................................................................................. 16

6 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES................................................................................................................17

6.1 Calibration at Altitude.................................................................................................................17

6.2 Full Calibration With Adjustment ...............................................................................................18

6.3 Flows, Temperature, Pressure Verification and Leak Test..........................................................21

7 ROUTINE SERVICE CHECKS ..................................................................................................................23

7.1 General Information ...................................................................................................................23

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7.2 Daily (or Each Visit) Checks .........................................................................................................24

7.3 Twice/Month Checks ..................................................................................................................24

7.4 2 Month Checks ..........................................................................................................................24

7.5 Six Month Checks........................................................................................................................24

7.6 Annual Checks.............................................................................................................................24

7.7 As Needed...................................................................................................................................24

8 MAINTENANCE AND PROCEDURES.....................................................................................................25


9 TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................................................................26


10 QUALITY CONTROL/QUALITY ASSURANCE......................................................................................27

11 REFERENCES....................................................................................................................................28

12 APPENDIX A –FORMS ......................................................................................................................29

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2 GENERAL INFORMATION

2.1 INTRODUCTION

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) describes procedures used by the Eastern Kern Air Pollution Control District (EKAPCD) to operate the MetOne Beta Attenuation Monitor, EBAM PLUS for the measurement of PM10 in ambient air. This monitor will be referred to as “the instrument” unless otherwise required. This procedure is designed to supplement the instruction manual by describing hardware or operating procedures as implemented by the EKAPCD for monitoring of PM10 in the District’s ambient air monitoring network. It is not the intent of this SOP to duplicate or replace the instruction manual.

2.2 PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

The Met One Instruments, Inc model EBAM PLUS automatically measures and records airborne PM10 particulate concentration levels using the principle of beta ray attenuation. This method provides a simple determination of concentration in units of milligrams of particulate per cubic meter of air. A small 14C (Carbon 14) element emits a constant source of high-energy electrons known as beta rays. Beta rays are detected and counted by a sensitive scintillation detector. A vacuum pump pulls a measured amount of dust-laden air through the filter tape, which is positioned between the source and the detector thereby causing an attenuation of the beta ray signal. The degree of attenuation of the beta ray signal is used to determine the mass concentration of particulate matter on the filter tape and the volumetric concentration of particulate matter in ambient air.

The EBAM PLUS is designed as a simple, compact, and self-contained beta gauge, for applications where real-time measurements are required. In addition to the main housing, the monitor includes an external AC pump, a multi-parameter ambient sensor, and a mounting tripod.

The EBAM PLUS is capable of making hourly as well as shorter term “real time” averages. EKAPCD will only utilize the hourly average data. The EBAM PLUS will always make an hourly concentration measurement regardless of how the real-time average is set. This hourly measurement is stored to the data array each hour, and is a fixed data parameter which cannot be modified or removed from the array.

The example below provides an example of the timing of a measurement cycle with a COUNT TIME of 8 minutes.

1. Minute 00: At the beginning of an hour, the EBAM PLUS advances the filter tape (if the hour coincides with the programmed tape advance time period) forward one sample space to the next fresh, unused spot on the tape. This takes a few seconds and then

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the monitor begins counting beta particles through this clean spot for four minutes to obtain the first four minute average. 2. Minute 01: The EBAM PLUS begins counting beta particles through this clean spot for the second four minute average. This process continues every minute so that the EBAM PLUS will always be counting a rolling four minute average throughout the hour. 3. Minute 05: The first two four minute averages are now complete. The EBAM PLUS stores these two averages and turns the vacuum pump on, pulling particulate-laden air through the filter tape for 55 minutes at 16.7 liters per minute. 4. Minute 59: The EBAM PLUS completes the second to last four minute count average for the hour. 5. Minute 60: The EBAM PLUS completes the final four minute count average for the hour and turns off the pump. The EBAM PLUS uses the first two four minute averages and last two four minute averages to calculate the mass of the deposited particulate on the spot. It then uses the total volume of air sampled to calculate the concentration of the particulate in milligrams or micrograms per cubic meter of air and the calculated concentration value is stored in the data array. The EBAM PLUS advances a new fresh spot of tape to the beta measurement area and the measurement cycle starts again.

2.3 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS

Installation, operation, maintenance, repair or calibration of the instrument and all support equipment should only be performed by properly trained personnel. Personnel should meet all minimum requirements and qualifications commensurate with their position or title. Qualifications for the respective staff functions are typically first established through the successful completion of a probationary period with supervisorial oversight. Successive levels of responsibility are achieved via internal and external training classes, experience and a demonstrated display of abilities until a “journey level” is attained.

2.4 EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

Instrumentation, spare parts, and consumables such as filter tape, tubing, and other material used in air monitoring activities are stored in the EKAPCD laboratory/shop for use by monitoring staff.

Standard site installation requires analyzers, calibration systems, and data acquisition systems to be properly integrated to allow for automated calibrations and acquisition of data. Calibration systems are maintained and certified by the station operator.

Consumable supplies, required for regular scheduled maintenance are also stored at the respective sites as needed. Supplies are ordered by the Monitoring Supervisor or his designee with consideration for adequate lead times. Station operators are required to notify the Monitoring Supervisor as stock of consumables are depleted to the point where new purchases are required.

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Some of the specific items critical to the successful operation of the MetOne EBAM PLUS PM10 FEM samplers are listed below with the vendor where the items are typically purchased:

Item Description Vendor

Filter Tape Rolled quartz fiber filter MetOne, Inc. tape designed specifically for MetOne EBAM PLUS

Tubing Vacuum tubing to connect MetOne, Inc. pump to EBAM PLUS

Power and most Cables 3 prong AC cable and MetOne, Inc. most cables utilized with sampler are provided upon initial purchase.

Ethernet Cable CAT5e or better Ethernet Compuwave Cable

Calibration Standard Delta Cal or Alicat FP-25 Mesa Labs, Inc. flow, temperature, and Alicat Scientific pressure standard, certified as NIST traceable.

2.5 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Prior to cleaning the sampler or performing any maintenance on the instrument, place the MAIN power switch to the OFF position, and unplug the power cord. Avoid the use of chemical agents which might damage components. Always use a three-prong, grounded plug on this analyzer.

The Met One Instruments EBAM PLUS contains a small 14C (Carbon 14) beta radiation-emitting source. The activity of the source is 60 μCi ±15μCi (microcurries), which is below the “Exempt Concentration Limit” as defined in 10 CFR Section 30.70 – Schedule A. The owner of an EBAM PLUS is not required to obtain any license in the United States to own or operate the unit. The owner of an EBAM PLUS may elect to return the entire unit to Met One Instruments for recycling of the 14C source when the unit has reached the end of its service life, although the owner is under no obligation to do so. Under no circumstances should anyone but factory technicians attempt to remove or access the beta source. The beta source has a half-life of about 5730 years, and should never need to be replaced. Neither the 14C source nor the beta particle detector are serviceable in the field. Should these components require repair or replacement, the EBAM PLUS must be returned to the factory for service and recalibration.

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2.6 INTERFERENCE/LIMITATIONS

The Met One EBAM PLUS is a mass analyzer, and therefore any component that is suspended on the filter tape and attenuates beta rays will subsequently affect the average mass value for that hour. Moisture in the ambient air can affect both monitor performance and hourly average mass values.

All EBAM PLUS samplers utilized by EKAPCD are equipped with an inlet heater to minimize moisture interferences. The inlet heater is controlled using both %RH and temperature.

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3 INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

3.1 GENERAL INFORMATION: The instrument is designed and has received EPA equivalency as an instrument capable of operating in ambient conditions without any shelter or station. Published specifications of the EBAM PLUS list the operating temperature range as -25 to +50 Degrees Celsius. The standard EBAM PLUS tripod should be bolted to the floor and properly grounded. The EBAM PLUS pump requires a standard external 120 VAC outlet.

A 'good' station ground and an adequate surge protector are highly recommended with

all monitoring equipment, and are especially significant for proper operation of the

EBAM PLUS. A poor or absent EBAM PLUS ground and/or surge protection can cause

temporary or permanent damage to the EBAM PLUS monitor. Using a UPS will not

provide a chassis ground and most likely will not provide adequate surge protection.

3.2 PHYSICAL INSPECTION: The instrument is normally shipped with the following standard equipment:

1. Power cord 2. Instruction manual or CD 3. Inlet tube (short) 4. PM10 head 5. Sample pump and flow control box 6. Mounting Tripod 7. Assorted tools and cables necessary for typical set up

Upon receiving the instrument, confirm that the instrument is in good working order and inspect for damage. If any damage is observed, contact the Monitoring Manager or APCO. Prior to installation of the instrument, check the following:

1. Verify no apparent shipping damage. 2. Check that all connectors are fully inserted. 3. Check that all mechanical connections are tight. 4. Open front panel and remove the internal foam “doughnuts” and the Teflon sheet between the nozzle and vane assembly.

3.3 INSTRUMENT SITING

The instrument should be sited in accordance with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations Part58 Appendix E “Probe and Monitoring Path Siting Criteria for Ambient Air Quality Monitoring” and

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USEPA Designated Equivalent Method EQPM-0798-122 and EQPM-0308-170. Care must be taken to ensure the correct distance between all sample inlets at each monitoring station. As EKAPCD only utilizes low flow inlets/samplers, there must be at least 1 meter separation between all inlets.

3.4 ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

There are a variety of analog and digital electrical connections on the bottom panel of the instrument that are described in Section 2.4 of the instrument manual. The instrument requires the use of an external temperature and barometric pressure sensor. This sensor is mounted on the instrument support tripod. The real-time primary data acquisition for this instrument is serial communications, therefore analog data connections are not utilized for this instrument. Over 6 months of back-up data records are stored in the instrument and can be manually retrieved as needed following the procedures outlined in the instrument manual Section 7.

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3.5 SERIAL/ETHERNET CONNECTIONS AND SETTINGS

The primary data acquisition method utilized for particulate concentration and instrument operational data is via serial connection utilizing the system menu system described in Section 7.4 of the instrument manual.

Because the EBAM PLUS only provides a serial connection, a device server such as a Lantronix UDS 1100. The device server is programmed to match the EBAM PLUS serial port configuration following the device server manual. The device server ethernet port is configured, following the manual with the following configuration details:

Static IP address 192.168.42.XXX

Gateway IP address 192.168.42.1

Subnet Mask 255.255.255.0

Port 10000

The instrument is polled for both concentration and operational data directly each hour via modem by the Districts central AirVision software.

Following making the above IP configurations on the instrument, and connecting the instrument to the station LAN, ensure that the AirVision is gathering data from the instrument. If not already configured, AirVision for the appropriate channels to gather concentration as well as all operational parameters following the AirVision manual’s procedures. Once AirVision is properly configured, confirm that all channels are correctly gathering data from the instrument.

3.6 OPERATION VERIFICATION

NOTE: Prior to operation of the instrument, operators must read the respective instruction manual to familiarize themselves with the operation of the instrument.

Prior to operating the EBAM PLUS, ensure that the proper connections have been made. In summary, at most EKAPCD monitoring locations this involves the following connections:

• Connect the electrical connections as outlined in Section 3.4 of this SOP • Connect the pump power to AC source. • Connect and configure LAN connections on the rear panel. • Load filter tape in the instrument following the procedure outlined in Section 2.8 of the instrument manual

After proper connections have been made, turn on the power switch.

At initial power on and boot up of the instrument, perform a self-test following the procedure outlined in Section 3.5.5 of the instrument manual.

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3.7 ACCEPTANCE TESTING

Prior to field deployment, all new instruments are tested in the EKAPCD laboratory/shop or field site to ensure proper operation prior to collecting data for record. Should time not allow for an acceptance testing period prior to gathering data for record, the acceptance tests described below will be performed upon deployment of the EBAM PLUS. If time allows prior to deployment, the instrument is set up in the EKAPCD laboratory/shop or field site following the same procedures outlined in this SOP for setting an instrument up in a monitoring station, with the sampler configured to sample room air through the BX-302 Zero Filter Kit. After the instrument has been set up, configured following the procedures in Section 4 of this SOP, and warmed up for a minimum on one hour, a full calibration is performed following the procedures described in Section 6 of this SOP. The instrument is maintained in the mock station set up for one week sampling particulate free air with the use of the BX-302 Zero Filter Kit. During this one week period, daily QC verifications (weekday only) are performed to track flow, temperature, and pressure drift as well as ensure the sampling system maintains a leak free condition for the testing period. At the end of the week long acceptance test period, the final 72 hours of hourly concentration data sampling through the BX-302 Zero Filter Kit is loaded into the MetOne Excel sheet for evaluation of the 72 hour background test. Using the 72 hour background test spreadsheet and the results of the daily verification tests the instrument is evaluated to ensure the following criteria are met.

Parameter Pass Criteria

Maximum sample flow deviation (@16.7l/m)

+/- 2%

Maximum sheath flow deviation (@3.0l/m)

+/- 2%

Maximum temperature deviation +/-1 DegC

Maximum pressure deviation +/- 5 mm Hg

Maximum leak test result 0.6 l/m

Standard Deviation of final 72 hours data sampling through BX-302 Zero Filter Kit

<0.0024 mg/m3

Table 1 – Acceptance Test Criteria

Note that the background test performed as part of the Acceptance Test, is not utilized in setting the background value, but is utilized to evaluate the noise level of the instrument. Another background test will be performed following deployment to the field that will again measure noise level, but also determine the correct setting for the background value of the instrument. If the results of the testing is within allowable criteria, the instrument can be deployed to the field for operation. The calibration/verification results, 72 hour background test, and records of operational parameters permanently stored in the Instrument Records section of the District’s

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Monitoring server folder. Should the testing results not meet one or more criteria, the instrument is not deployed to the field and either returned to the vendor or corrective action is taken by Monitoring staff, followed by a repeat of the week long acceptance testing procedure until all criteria are met. If time did not allow for an acceptance testing period and the instrument was deployed to the field and the instrument did not pass the acceptance testing criteria during initial deployment, all data gathered from the instrument will be invalidated and not submitted to AQS until the acceptance test criteria is met.

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4 CONFIGURATION

4.1 INSTRUMENT CONFIGURATION

Prior to initiating monitoring for record, the instrument configuration is properly configured prior to field use. Refer to Section 2 of the instrument manual for descriptions of all configuration settings. First, confirm that all settings required for EPA equivalency as specified below are correctly configured.

“Met One Instruments, Inc. EBAM PLUS Beta Attenuation Mass Monitor – PM10 FEM Configuration,” configured for 24 1hour average measurements of PM10 by beta attenuation, using a glass fiber filter tape roll (460130 or 460180), a sample flow rate of 16.67 liters/min, with the standard (BX-802) EPA PM10 inlet (meeting 40 CFR 50 Appendix L specifications) and equipped with 9250 ambient temperature sensor. Instrument must be operated in accordance with the EBAM PLUS Particulate Monitor operation manual, revision 1 or later. This designation applies to PM10 measurements only.

For all EBAM PLUS instruments in the EKAPCD network, the flow type and conc type is set to Actual. Because PM10 instruments need to report data under both actual and standard conditions in order to provide concentration data comparable to both the California PM10 standard (actual conditions) and the PM10 NAAQS (standard conditions). For PM10, the instrument reports concentration data to the data system as actual conditions and a second math channel is utilized that converts the reported PM10 concentrations from actual to standard conditions.

4.2 AIRVISION DATA SYSTEM CONFIGURATION: Data from the EBAM PLUS is automatically acquired directly by the District’s Agilaire AirVision central data acquisition system. The AirVision central system acquires instrument concentration and operational data (flow, temp, Bp, bad status, etc.) once each hour via satellite modem from the EBAM PLUS using the standard AirVision commands once each hour. Instructions on AirVision configuration are provided in the AirVision instrument manual. Following configuration, the site operator will monitor the instrument and data system to ensure the configuration has resulted in the correct acquisition of data.

For PM10 instruments, in addition to the primary concentration channel, configured to record concentrations under actual conditions, a second math calculations channel is configured. The second calculated concentration channel converts the concentration from actual conditions to standard conditions using the following equation:

Cstd = Camb * (Pstd / Pamb) * (Tamb / Tstd)

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Where: Cstd=Concentration converted to standard conditions (25 degC, 760 mm Hg) Camb=Concentration from instrument in actual conditions Pstd=760 mm Hg Pamb=actual barometric pressure mmHg Tamb=actual temp in Kelvin (=degC+273) Tstd=298 deg K

If barometric pressure is temporarily not available at each monitoring station, a standardized pressure based on site elevation is utilized for the Pamb value. Standardized pressure adjusted for site elevation is calculated by:

Pamb=760-[(Elevation in meters)*0.0897)]

4.3 DATA MANAGEMENT

Data acquisition, data calculations, and data storage/transmittal are described in the EKAPCD Data Review and Validation SOP.

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5 CALIBRATION INFORMATION

5.1 CALIBRATION INTRODUCTION

A calibration is a procedure for aligning or checking the output of an instrument to a known “true” standard. To ensure the quality of the data provided by the EBAM PLUS, in general the instrument must be calibrated in accordance with recommendations stated in this SOP.

Each EBAM PLUS is calibrated by the factory prior to shipment, by a process where the instrument is collocated with a manual filter sampler in an artificially generated particulate atmosphere. Data from this collocation is utilized to calculate the μsw and K-factor settings that are set by the factory and never should be changed other than the result of the factory calibration. The calibration of the mass measurements by beta attenuation is verified manually on each full calibration at least every six months with the utilization of a reference membrane with a known mass.

On site calibration of the flow (sample and sheath), temperature, pressure, and background values are necessary prior to monitoring for record. A multi-point sheath flow calibration is performed, with a single point sample flow, temperature, and pressure calibration. The background setting is determined from a 72 hour background test performed on site. While PM2.5 instruments have a regulatory requirement for the 72 hour background test to be performed, EKAPCD performs the 72 hour background test on PM10 instruments to improve overall accuracy.

5.2 CALIBRATION OVERVIEW

Calibrations for flow, temperature, and pressure must be performed utilizing flow, temperature, and pressure standards that have been certified as traceable to NIST standards within the past year.

A full calibration (sample and sheath flow, temperature, pressure) and 72 hour background check is performed prior to initiating monitoring. The full calibration will adjust the EBAM PLUS flow, temperature, and pressure readings to match the readings from the certified authoritative standard utilized in performing the calibration and can be considered an “as left” calibration. Additionally, a full calibration will include a manual check of the instruments mass determination using a membrane with a known mass. The manual mass check must be within +/-5%. A full calibration is performed every 6 months thereafter and whenever calibration verifications show an out of tolerance or approaching out of tolerance condition. The 72 hour background check is performed annually to adjust background settings and confirm the instrument noise level is within tolerance.

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A calibration verification is performed twice each month to verify the flows, temperature, and pressure calibration are within allowable tolerance and to confirm there are no significant leaks in the inlet apparatus. These verifications are all performed under “as found” conditions, without any adjustments or maintenance performed prior to the verification. The allowable tolerance for these verifications are listed in the table below:

Parameter Allowable Tolerance

Difference between EBAM PLUS Flow and Flow Standard (sample and sheath flows)

+/- 4%

Difference between Flow Standard and design flow (16.7 l/m)

+/- 5%

Difference between EBAM PLUS temperature and Temp. Standard

+/- 2 DegC

Difference between EBAM PLUS pressure and Pressure Standard

+/- 10 mm Hg

Leak Test Results <1.0 l/m

Table 2 – Instrument verification and leak criteria

5.3 CALIBRATION APPARATUS

Field flow, temperature, and pressure calibrations are performed utilizing either a BGI (Mesa Labs) DeltaCal or Alicat FP-25. All standards are certified as traceable to NIST standards annually. A valve assembly for performing leak checks is supplied by MetOne with each instrument. The MetOne BX-302 zero filter kit is utilized for performing the 72 hour background check.

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6 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES

To ensure the quality of the data collected within the EKAPCD’s air monitoring network, ALL instruments used in the network must receive a full flow, temperature, pressure calibration

• during initial field installation and every 6 months thereafter, • following physical relocation, • after a calibration verification with out of tolerance or approaching out of tolerance conditions. • after any major maintenance or repair that could potentially influence flow, pressure, or temperature calibration.

ALL instruments used in the network must receive a 72 hour background check

• during initial field installation and every annually thereafter, • following physical relocation, • after any major maintenance or repair that could potentially influence background settings and/or instrument noise.

An “as found” verification is performed bi-weekly to confirm that the flows, temperature, and pressure calibrations are within allowable tolerance.

Instrument calibrations at all stations within the EKAPCD network shall be performed in a consistent manner, so that all network monitoring stations are calibrated in a similar fashion. Instruments must be calibrated in accordance with the appropriate SOP and/or appropriate instruction manual.

Results of the twice per month verifications are documented on the QC Check document. Results of the 6 month full calibrations are documented on the EBAM PLUS Calibration worksheet. Results of the 72 hour background check are documented on a 72 hour Background workbook. Any other calibration details for calibrations and background check are recorded in the station log.

6.1 CALIBRATION AT ALTITUDE

Calibrating the instrument at altitude requires no special adjustments because it compensates for changes in temperature and pressure. The flow calibrations are all performed under actual conditions, so no adjustments for altitude are required.

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6.2 FULL CALIBRATION WITH ADJUSTMENT

A full calibration is performed at set up, every 6 months, and whenever a verification shows an out of tolerance or approaching out of tolerance condition. In the full calibration, a leak check is performed first to confirm a leak free inlet assembly prior to any calibration adjustments. Next the temperature is calibrated, setting the EBAM PLUS temperature reading to the authoritative standard’s reading, followed by the setting of the EBAM PLUS pressure to the standard’s reading. The EBAM PLUS sheath flow sensor is calibrated/adjusted based on the flow standard at three flow points (3.5 l/m, 3.0 l/m, 2.5 l/m). The step by step procedures are listed below:

1. Ready a Delta Cal or Alicat FP-25 and confirm the certification is valid (within the past year).

2. Ready an EBAM PLUS Calibration Form. 3. Enter the site, date, operator, EBAM PLUS S/N, and the time the calibration will

begin on the calibration form. 4. Enter the Delta Cal/Alicat FP-25 serial number and certification date on the form. 5. Remove the PM10 head from the inlet tube. Install a BX-305 leak test valve, BX-

302 zero filter, or equivalent valve for leak checking FRM samplers onto the inlet tube. Turn the valve to the OFF position to prevent any air from entering the inlet tube.

6. Remove the internal flow system cover to expose the various flow filters and sheath air prefilter inlet.

7. Select the Test menu, then Leak Check on the EBAM PLUS. 8. Verify the vane is in the up position. If it is not, press the VANE control button to

raise it. The E-BAM PLUS is ready to begin the leak test. 9. Cover the sheath air pre-filter inlet fitting with your finger 10.Press grey pump control button in the lower left corner to turn on the pump begin

drawing a vacuum on the sampling system. Monitor the flow rate on the E-BAM PLUS display. It will initially rise and then, as the sampling system is evacuated, it will drop.

11. If the nozzle is not already in the down position (look at EBAM PLUS display to see nozzle position), lower the nozzle using the “move nozzle” key.

12.When the sample flowrate display reaches the lowest value, record this value in the “Leak test as Found” field on the form. This value must be 1.0 or less to pass the leak check and should be <0.5 for a fully leak free inlet.

13.Slowly open the valve on the inlet and remove your finger from the sheath air

prefilter inlet, followed by pressing the “Pump Off” button on the EBAM PLUS

display.

14. If the value in step 10 above was 1.0 or less enter N/A in the “Leak test Final” field and proceed to step 18 below.

15. If the flow rate does not fall below 1.0 lpm, a leak is present. Make sure the EBAM PLUS nozzle and vane are completely clean of debris. Cleaning procedures are detailed in Section 6.5.1 of the instrument manual. Also, make sure that the inlet tube is properly seated in the receiver, and that the leak test filter is correctly installed on the inlet tube.

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16.Repeat steps 5-14 to perform another leak check, record the final leak check value in the “Leak check Final” field on the form.

17.If the second leak check is >1.0, contact the Monitoring Manager/APCO to take further corrective action to fix the leak.

18.Allow the calibration standard (Alicat or Delta Cal) to equilibrate to ambient temperatures.

19.Enter the Test > Ambient Temperature screen 20.Record the EBAM PLUS ambient temperature reading and the calibration

standard’s ambient temperature reading on the calibration form. It is best if the calibration standard external temperature probe is located inside the same shield as the EBAM PLUS temperature sensor.

21. If the difference between the standard and the sampler’s temperature reading is less than +/-0.5 deg C, proceed to step 22. If the difference is >+/-0.5 deg C, press the green bordered value box and the numerical entry keypad will be displayed. Enter the calibration standard’s temperature value in the Standard field, and press OK to return to the Ambient Temperature screen. Press the grey CALIBRATE button to adjust the EBAM Plus temperature reading. Record the new EBAM PLUS and calibration standard temperature reading on the calibration form under final.

22.Return to the TEST menu and go to the Ambient Pressure screen. 23.Record the EBAM PLUS pressure reading and the calibration standard’s

pressure reading on the calibration form. 24. If the difference between the standard and the sampler’s pressure reading is less

than +/-10 mm Hg, proceed to step 25. If the difference is >+/-10 mm Hg, press

the green bordered value box and the numerical entry keypad will be displayed.

Enter the calibration standard’s pressure value in the Standard field, and press

OK to return to the Pressure screen. Press the grey CALIBRATE button to

adjust the EBAM Plus pressure reading. Record the new EBAM PLUS and

calibration standard pressure reading on the calibration form under final.

25.Return to the TEST menu and go to the Flow Calibration screen. 26.Connect the flow standard to the sheath inlet connector using appropriate fittings

and tubing. Then press the grey CONTINUE button to advance to the Sheath Air calibration screen. The pump should start and adjust flow to 3.0 lpm.

27.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 2.5 (target flow rate-low flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen.

28.Wait for the sheath flow to stabilize, then record the EBAM PLUS sheath flow reading and the flow standards reading on the calibration form. If the difference between the standard and the sampler is <+/-2%, proceed to step 29. If the difference is >+/-2%, Press the green bordered Standard field and the numerical entry keypad will be displayed. Enter the calibration standard’s flow value and press OK to return to the Flow Calibration screen.

29.Press the grey SET button. This will temporarily set the low flow point without changing the flow calibration of the monitor. This button should be pressed even if no changes are made.

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30.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 3.5 (target flow rate-high flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen.



33.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 3.0 (target flow rate-medium flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen.



36.Press the grey CALIBRATE key. This will permanently set the instrument’s flow calculation.

37.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 2.5 (target flow rate-low flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen. Once the flows stabilize, record the flow standard and EBAM PLUS flow readings as final readings on the calibration form. (not needed if there was not an adjustment/calibration of sheath flows)

38.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 3.0 (target flow rate-medium

flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen.

Once the flows stabilize, record the flow standard and EBAM PLUS flow readings

as final readings on the calibration form. (not needed if there was not an

adjustment/calibration of sheath flows)

39.Press the green bordered Set Point field and select 3.5 (target flow rate-high

flow) and then press the grey OK button to return to the Flow Calibration screen.

Once the flows stabilize, record the flow standard and EBAM PLUS flow readings

as final readings on the calibration form. (not needed if there was not an

adjustment/calibration of sheath flows)

40.Press the grey CONTINUE key to proceed to the sample air flow calibration

41.Remove the flow standard from the sheath air inlet, install the flow standard on

the EBAM PLUS sample inlet.

42.Allow the flows to stabilize, sample flow is 16.7 l/m. Record the flow standard

and EBAM PLUS flow readings on the calibration form. If the difference between

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the EBAM PLUS and the flow standard are <+/-2% proceed to step 43. If the

difference was >+/-2%, enter the flow standards flow reading in the standard field

on the display and press calibrate.

43.Press the CONTINUE key to continue on to the flow review screen. The final

screen shows the current measured values for the sample (INLET) and sheath

air flows. Record the flow standard and EBAM PLUS flow readings on the

calibration form under final if an adjustment was made.

44.Remove the flow standard from the EBAM PLUS inlet and re-install the PM10

head.

45.Select the Mass Audit screen, located in the Test menu.

46. Insert the zero foil above the filter tape between the nozzle and vane, with the

label facing up. Note that the membrane is keyed and can only be inserted one

way. Take care to minimize tape movement. When the zero foil is detected, the

vane will automatically raise up to the foil and the four-minute measurement will

commence.

47.After four minutes, the vane will be lowered and the screen will instruct you to

remove the zero foil. Remove the zero foil, taking care to minimize tape

movement.

48.The display will instruct you to insert the span foil. Insert the span foil above the

filter tape, with the label facing up. Note that this membrane is also keyed and

can only be inserted one way. Take care to minimize tape movement. When the

span foil is detected, the vane will automatically raise up to the foil and the four-

minute measurement will commence.

49.After four minutes the display will change to list the results of the audit. The measured mass will be listed on the top, the programmed span value will be in the middle, and the error between the two will be listed on the bottom. Record the % difference on the calibration form under “AS IS”. If the error is greater than +/- 5%, the audit has failed. See section 6.5 of the EBAM PLUS for cleaning instructions.

50. If the AS IS Mass test failed, after cleaning, repeat steps 45-49 to perform a final mass test. Record the percent difference under FINAL. If the FINAL is above 5%, contact the Monitoring Manager/APCO for further instructions.

51.Press the X button in the upper right corner to exit the audit. The vane will be lowered and you will be instructed to remove the span foil. Remove the foil and the display will automatically return to the Test menu.

52.Return the EBAM PLUS to normal sampling mode. 53.Note the time the calibration ended and the sampler was put on-line on the

calibration form. 54.Note in the site log that a full calibration was performed on this instrument.

6.3 FLOWS, TEMPERATURE, PRESSURE VERIFICATION AND LEAK TEST

1) Ready the QC Checksheet and Delta Cal/Alicat FP-25 Standard.

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2) Enter the date, time begin on the QC checksheet 3) Enter the calibration standard (Delta Cal or Alicat) serial number and certification

date. 4) Locate the calibration standard’s external temperature probe inside the EBAM

PLUS temperature probe shield. 5) For the following steps refer to Table 2 for verification criteria. 6) Enter the Test > Ambient Temperature screen 7) Record the EBAM PLUS ambient temperature reading and the calibration

standard’s ambient temperature reading on the QC checksheet. 8) Enter the Test > Pressure screen 9) Record the EBAM PLUS pressure reading and the calibration standard’s

pressure reading on the calibration form. 10)Remove the sheath flow system cover. 11)Using appropriate fittings and tubing, connect the flow standard to the sheath air

inlet. 12)Enter the Test > Flow Calibration screen. 13)After both the sample and sheath flow go to zero, press continue 14)Record the flow standard and EBAM PLUS sheath flow reading (currently set to

3.0 setting) on the QC checksheet. 15)Remove the flow standard tubing from the sheath inlet, configure the flow

standard to install on the EBAM PLUS sample inlet tube. 16)Remove the sampler’s PM10 inlet and install the flow standard on the EBAM

PLUS inlet tube. 17)Press the continue key. 18)After the flows stabilize, record the calibration standard and EBAM PLUS sample

flow readings on the QC checksheet. 19)Install a BX-305 leak test valve, BX-302 zero filter, or equivalent valve for leak

checking FRM samplers onto the inlet tube. Turn the valve to the OFF position to

prevent any air from entering the inlet tube.

20)Select the Test menu, then Leak Check on the EBAM PLUS.

21)Verify the vane is in the up position. If it is not, press the VANE control button to

raise it. The E-BAM PLUS is ready to begin the leak test.

22)Cover the sheath air pre-filter inlet fitting with your finger

23)Press grey pump control button in the lower left corner to turn on the pump begin

drawing a vacuum on the sampling system. Monitor the flow rate on the E-BAM

PLUS display. It will initially rise and then, as the sampling system is evacuated,

it will drop.

24)When the sample flowrate display reaches the lowest value, record this value in

the “Leak Check” field on the form. This value must be 1.0 or less to pass the leak check and should be <0.5 for a fully leak free inlet.

25)Review the results of the verification performed, if any fields exceed allowable

criteria, perform a full calibration as outlined in Section 6.2.

26)Place the EBAM PLUS in the normal operate mode, with PM10 head installed

and sheath flow cover re-installed.

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27)Note the verification was performed in the site log.

7 ROUTINE SERVICE CHECKS

7.1 GENERAL INFORMATION

The following routine service checks are to be performed in accordance with the maintenance schedule (Table 3). Most of these regularly performed tasks are documented on the EKAPCD Maintenance Check Sheet (see Appendix A). Perform the routine service checks at least at the prescribed intervals. Some site operators may need to perform these checks more frequently. Detailed routine maintenance procedures can be found in Chapter 6 of the instruction manual.

Task Daily* Twice/ Month

2 Months

6 Month Annual As Needed

Check power and warning messages

X

Review operational and concentration data

X

Verification of temp, pressure, and flow

X

Leak Test X

Clean Inlet X

Change Filter Tape X

Inspect/Clean Nozzle/Nozzle Area

X

Download back up data from EBAM PLUS

X

Perform full Calibration X

Perform 72 hour Background test

X

Clean Nozzle Interior X

Replace/rebuild pump X

Replace/rebuild nozzle assembly

X

Table3: Maintenance Schedule * Daily indicates that for each working day the site technician should perform these checks remotely or locally when the station is visited.

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7.2 DAILY (OR EACH VISIT) CHECKS

Daily (or each site visit) review instrument operational and concentration data, for any indication of analyzer malfunction. Check the instruments for any error/fault messages.

7.3 TWICE/MONTH CHECKS

Perform verification and leak check as outlined in Section 6.3 of this SOP. Clean PM10 inlet/head.

7.4 2 MONTH CHECKS

Change the filter Tape.

7.5 SIX MONTH CHECKS

Perform full calibration following the Section 6.2 in this SOP. Clean nozzle interior following Section 6.5.2 of the EBAM PLUS manual.

7.6 ANNUAL CHECKS

Perform 72 hour background check following procedure in Section 6.4 of the instrument manual. Load data into 72 hour Background Check workbook for background check statistical calculations and evaluation.

7.7 AS NEEDED

Inspect and clean nozzle/nozzle area, document on Monthly Maintenance Check Sheet. Replace or rebuild the sample pump when flow fluctuates or unable to maintain stable 16.7 l/m flow. Rebuild the nozzle assembly when the nozzle sticks or nozzle errors are reported by EBAM PLUS data string. Download back-up data from EBAM PLUS using comet software as needed to maintain a back-up data source.

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8 MAINTENANCE AND PROCEDURES


The instrument is designed to operate unattended for long periods of time. Other than the routine service checks outlined in section 7.0 of this SOP, the instrument needs very little maintenance. However, preventative maintenance requirements may vary from instrument to instrument, thus operators should refer to the instrument instruction manual to become familiar with maintenance requirements.

If station operators cannot repair an instrument using procedures stated in the instruction manual, contact the Monitoring Manager/APCO.

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9 TROUBLESHOOTING


The EBAM PLUS instruments have been designed to rapidly detect possible problems and allow for their quick evaluation and repair. During operation, the instrument continuously performs self-test diagnostics and provides bad status indictors in the data string.

Should instrument malfunctions occur and troubleshooting is required to determine the problem, operators should refer to Section 6 of the instrument manual.

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10 QUALITY CONTROL/QUALITY ASSURANCE

Quality control checks are performed as outlined in Section 6.0 of this SOP as well as the Eastern Kern APCD Particulate Pollutant Quality Assurance Project Plan. The results of these checks are used in validating data from EBAM PLUS particulate samplers. The procedures for handling data associated with out of tolerance quality control checks are outlined in detail in Section 6 of the EKAPCD Data Review and Validation SOP.

In general, whenever data is bracketed in time by one or more calibration/verification checks outside of allowable tolerances (sample flowrate +/-4%), that data must be invalidated and corrective action to bring the sampler back into tolerance must be taken.

In addition to calibration/verification checks being used to validate data from EBAM PLUS particulate samplers, the operational parameters and visual checks (punching of tape) of the sampler are reviewed to ensure that these variables are within operational tolerance for all valid data.

Quality Assurance checks, such as bi-annual performance audits are also utilized to assist in the validation of particulate data. Whenever a performance audit shows an out of tolerance condition, the issue is immediately investigated by the site operator and documented in the site log. Should this investigation show the sampler in an out of tolerance condition, data is invalidated for the out of tolerance period.

If a problem or issue is encountered where the cause of the problem, solution to the problem, and/or the data implications are unclear, the CARB Corrective Action Notification (CAN) process is implemented. The CAN process allows for a more thorough review of the problem, ensuring that the problem, potential solutions, and impacts to data are thoroughly reviewed and considered. See References for a link to the CARB CAN SOP for further details.

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11 REFERENCES

Primary Quality Assurance Organization (PQAO) website http://www.arb.ca.gov/aaqm/qa/qa.htm

EKAPCD Data Review and Validation SOP, First Revision

MetOne EBAM PLUS Instruction Manual, version C CARB Corrective Action Notification SOP

https://www.arb.ca.gov/aaqm/qa/pqao/can/can_sop.pdf

EKAPCD Particulate Pollutants QAPP

EKAPCD EBAM PLUS QC Check Sheet-Attached as Appendix A

EKAPCD EBAM PLUS Full Calibration Document -Attached as Appendix A

EKAPCD EBAM PLUS Monthly Maintenance Check Sheet-Attached as Appendix A

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https://www.arb.ca.gov/aaqm/qa/pqao/can/can_sop.pdf

http://www.arb.ca.gov/aaqm/qa/qa.htm



12 APPENDIX A –FORMS

EKAPCD EBAM PLUS Full Calibration Form EKAPCD EBAM PLUS QC Check Sheet EKAPCD EBAM PLUS Maintenance Check Sheet

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EKAPCD

EBAM PLUS Full Calibration Data Retrieval Form

Site Name Canebrake Technician jsc

Date 7/16/2019 EBAM PLUS S/N Y18264

PM10 or PM2.5 PM10

Leak Check Flow (<1.0 lpm) Calibration Standard S/N 193396

As Found lpm 0.5 Cal. Standard Cert. Date 43474

Final lpm 0 Time Begin 18:33

Time End 19:00

Atmospheric Temp. (+/- 2.0 deg. C) Barometric Pressure (+/- 10mm Hg)

EEBAM PLUS+ As Found 27.6 EEBAM PLUS+ As Found 679

Temp. Standard 27.6 Pressure Standard 679

Difference (Deg. C) 0 Difference (mm Hg) 0

Did you adjust? NO Did you adjust? NO

EEBAM PLUS+ Final 0 EEBAM PLUS+ Final 0

Temp. Standard Final 0 Pressure Standard Final 0

Difference (Deg. C) 0 Difference (mm Hg) 0

Flow Calibration (As Is +/- 4%, Final +/-2%)

Sheath 2.5 l/m-EEBAM PLUS+ 2.5 Sheath 3.5 l/m-EEBAM PLUS+ 3.5

Sheath 2.5 l/m-Flow Standard 2.53 Sheath 3.5 l/m-Flow Standard 3.6

Difference (%) -1.2% Difference (%) -2.8%

Did you adjust? NO Did you adjust? YES

EEBAM PLUS+ Final 0 EEBAM PLUS+ Final 3.5

Flow Standard Final 0 Flow Standard Final 3.5

Final Difference (%) #DIV/0! Final Difference (%) 0.0%

Sheath 3.0 l/m-EEBAM PLUS+ 3 Sample flow 16.7 l/m-EEBAM PLUS+

16.6

Sheath 3.0 l/m-Flow Standard 3 Sample flow 16.7 l/m-Flow Standard

16.7

Difference (%) 0.0% Difference (%) -0.6%

Did you adjust? NO Did you adjust? NO

EEBAM PLUS+ Final 0 EEBAM PLUS+ Final 0

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Flow Standard Final 0 Flow Standard Final 0

Final Difference (%) #DIV/0! Final Difference (%) #DIV/0!

AS IS Foil Test Result% -0.6 FINAL Foil Test Result% 0

AS IS FINAL

FULL CALIBRATION PASS/FAIL? PASS PASS

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EKAPCD

Canebrake Monitoring Station

Particulate Sampler QC Flow Check-RETRIEVE AND DELETE FORM

Date: 8/8/2019 Standard Used Sampler

Time Begin: 13:00 S/N 202539 EEBAM PLUS+

Time End: 13:20 Make/Model Alicat Y18264

Operator: npd Cert. Date 4/23/2019 PM10

Sampler Standard Difference Control Limits

Sample Flow Rate (16.7 l/m) 16.7 16.81 -0.7% +/- 4% from True

Sheath Flow Rate (3.0 l/m) 3 3.02 -0.7% +/- 4% of True

Ambient Temperature 34.1 33.93 0.17 +/-2 Deg C

Ambient Pressure 681 680.6 0.4 +/-10 mmHg

Leak Check 0.4 <1.0 l/m

Pass/Fail PASS

RECORD IS LISTED AS VALID

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EKAPCD

Canebrake EBAM PLUS PM10 MAINTENANCE RECORD ENTRY DATE OF MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE PERFORMED BY npd

PERFORMED? SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE Last Performed Due

Clean Internal of Nozzle 07/14/19 01/12/20

Replace Filter Tape 07/14/19 01/12/20

Replace Pump Muffler 07/14/19 07/13/20

PERFORMED? AS NEEDED MAINTENANCE Last Performed

Rebuild Vacuum Pump 07/14/19

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