COMPLIANCE INFO_2013-2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

►r`1 PEI/RP1 200 -17 8.3 Sensor Functionality Testing. 8.3.1 General. Sensor functionality tests are used to confine the operation of the liquid detect- ing sensors that are located in the interstitial spaces of UST systems. Sensors that detect the presence of liquid are placed at the lowest point of the contain- ment so that any release that drains down will be detected. Discriminating sensors can identify the presence of liquid product or water. Non -discrimi- nating sensors can only determine the presence of liquid—product or water—but cannot discriminate between the two. Sensors are connected to the leak - monitoring console, which provides a warning if liquid is detected. Sensor and console features may vary among manufacturers. There are a number of types of sensors in use in the field, including float switches, optical sensors, pressure/vacuum monitoring devices and electrical resistance sensors. The most common sensor type in use is a float switch. Consequently, the test pro- cedure in this section is for the float switch type. For other types of sensors, consult the manufac- turer's test procedures. The information presented here should not supersede sensor manufacturers' testing procedures and requirements. 8.3.2 Purpose. The purpose of the test is to determine if a sensor can detect the presence of liquid and is properly positioned. It can be used for either discriminating or non -discriminating sen- sors. 8.3.3 Description of Test. The liquid detecting sensor is removed from the tank or piping intersti- FIGURE 8.3. The sensor needs to be properly posi- tioned to detect the presence of liquid in sumps. 26_ v tial space, an alarm condition is triggered and the appropriate response is observed. 8.3.4 Test Equipment. Test equipment shall include: • a test container to immerse the sensor; • water; • product (if appropriate). 8.3.5 Preparation. Review the sensor manu- facturer's literature for testing guidelines. Use the manufacturer's guidelines if they differ from the procedures in this section. NOTE: Some sensors are programmed to have positive shutdown when the sensor goes into alarm mode. For these systems, ensure that the dispensing system shuts down when the sensor alarms. Verify that the console has no active or recurring history of leak sensor warnings or alarms. In the event of any such warning or alarms, notify the appropriate person before continuing with the test. Verify on the console that the sensor alarm circuit is operational. If the console is equipped with a printer, print out the system status, sensor configuration and any alarm histories from the console. Save the printout for facility records. Carefully remove the sensor from the containment area. This may produce an alarm on the console indicating that the sensor is no longer properly positioned. Inspect the sensor for damage. Refer to the manufacturer's literature for information about how to identify damage to the sensor housing and the cable. If it is damaged, notify the appropriate person. 8.3.6 Test Procedure. 1. Fill the test container with the appropriate liquid. 2. Place the sensor into the liquid in the operating position. The alarm should be triggered. 3. Verify the alarm condition and make sure the sensor label is correctly identified on the