The AeroTrak®+ Remote Active Air Sampler, Model 7010, is a device designed for monitoring airborne biocontamination in critical environments. It functions as a sieve impactor that draws a specified volume of air through perforations in a cap and around a series of nutrient media. Viable particles with sufficient mass contained in the drawn-in air fall out of the air stream and impact on the surface of the media. This process is then incubated for a specified time under appropriate conditions to allow for the growth of viable colonies.
The sampler consists of two primary parts: a sample head and a control box. The sample head includes a perforated cap and holds a standard-size 90 mm agar plate. The control box contains the electronic components and a critical orifice. When connected to an appropriate vacuum source, the critical orifice controls the flow at 1.0 cfm (28.3 L/min).
Technical Specifications:
- Valve Warranty: Five Years
- Instrument Warranty: Two Years
- Calibration Frequency: One Year
- Flow Rate: 28.3 L/min (1.0 CFM) with ±5% accuracy
- Sampling Method: Sieve Impaction
- Sampling: Continuous or intermittent
- Vacuum Source: External vacuum > 15 in. (38.1 cm) of Hg
- Control Box Enclosure: Stainless Steel
- Sample Head (Base, Cap, and Tri Clamp): 316L SS
- Recommended Tubing (Between Sample Head and Control Box): 1/2 in ID x 5/8 in OD, 20-meter maximum length
- Agar Plate Recommended Dimensions: 90-mm Agar Plate, Deep Fill (27 ml)
- Standards: CE, ISO 14698
- Operating Environment: Indoor Use Only, Temperature: 50° to 104°F (10° to 40°C), Relative Humidity: 20% to 98% noncondensing, Altitude: <10,000 ft (3,050 m), Pollution Degree: 1
- Communication: Ethernet (TCP/IP) Modbus RTU
- Status Indicator: Power, Flow, Sample and Ethernet
- Data Storage: 256,000 Sample Records
- Dimensions (H x W x D):
- Sample Head: 4.5 in. (dia), Height: 3.4 in. (h) (7.3 cm x 8.7 cm)
- Control Box: 5.9 in. x 4.5 in. x 2.6 in. (14.2 cm x 11.4 cm x 6.7 cm)
- Weight:
- Sample Head: 1.3 lb. (0.59 kg)
- Control Box: 2.3 lb. (1.05 kg)
- Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) compliant with IEEE 802.3af(at) or 12-24 VDC @ 30W. Relay Load: 2.5 A at 125 VAC, 2 A at 30 VDC. Overvoltage Category: II.
- Storage Range: 14° to 122°F (-10° to 50°C) / Up to 98% noncondensing
Usage Features:
The AeroTrak®+ Remote Active Air Sampler is controlled by TSI Incorporated’s Facility Monitoring System Software, with communication via integrated Ethernet (TCP/IP) and serial Modbus RTU.
- Indicator LEDs: The device features three LEDs on the front panel: Status (Green, Blinking Red, Red), Flow (Yellow—solid, Yellow—flashing, Off), and Sample (Blue—solid, Blue—off). These indicators provide visual feedback on the sampler's operational status, including power, flow, and sampling activity, as well as error conditions.
- Electrical Connections: The sampler supports multiple communications and connectivity options. It can be powered by a 12-24 VDC power connection or Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE). It includes an Ethernet connector for network communication and a USB-C connector for communication with a Windows® operating system computer running the Configuration Utility.
- Installation: The installation process involves determining the installation location, mounting the control box, supplying power, connecting the air sampler to a computer, and vacuum tubing installation. The remote active air sampler head should be located close to a critical work area or a convenient location close to the point of sampling.
- Mounting: An optional mounting bracket (TSI P/N 700008-1) allows the control box to be easily mounted and removed on a surface. The bracket is provided with two 0.169-inch (4.30 mm) diameter holes for #6 or M4 screws.
- Power Supply: The air sampler is designed to work primarily with Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE) and can also be powered by the optional TSI Model PSU-ARWP power supply or with a user-supplied 12-24 volt supply.
- Vacuum Tubing Installation: The sampler uses a critical or sonic orifice to maintain a steady flow of air and particles into the sample head. It requires a vacuum source from a central vacuum system or an external vacuum pump capable of delivering at least 15 inches of mercury (0.5 bar) at the outlet of the air sampler. The vacuum should be confirmed using an external vacuum gauge.
- Connecting the Sample Head to the Control Box: The control box comes standard with a barbed fitting on the inlet. Tubing connects the sample head to the control box. An optional sanitary fitting can be used for the inlet.
- Communications and Configurations: The air sampler can be set up as one of many sensors in a network. The FMS Software can be configured to communicate with the particle counter through Modbus® TCP over Ethernet. The IP address of the air sampler can be configured using the Configuration Utility.
- Loading and Unloading Plates: To load a plate, remove the sample cap from the base by turning it approximately 1/2 inch (12 mm) to the right and lifting. Place a plate of media on the base and remove the lid. Reinstall the sample cap or replace with a new sample cap that has been cleaned/sanitized/sterilized. To unload, remove the sample cap, invert and incubate the plate, then enumerate the number of colony forming units (CFU). Feller corrections can be applied to determine the most probable number (MPN) of viable particles.
Maintenance Features:
Regular maintenance is crucial to assure performance and reduce the risk of contamination.
- Cleaning and Disinfection: The sample head, base, and cap, as well as the exterior of the control box, can be cleaned and disinfected using common cleanroom cleaning agents and disinfectants. Ensure the holes of the sample cap are not blocked. Any residues should be removed, especially if using an oxidative disinfectant to avoid pitting of the stainless steel surfaces.
- Sanitization and Sterilization: The sample head, base, and cap can be sanitized in place through exposure to vaporized hydrogen peroxide or UV light, or sterilized in a steam or ethylene oxide sterilizer.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as the instrument not powering up, flow errors, or sample LED being off, along with possible causes and corrective actions, including contacting customer service.
- Service: TSI provides technical support and service for the AeroTrak®+ Remote Active Air Sampler. Users can contact TSI for assistance with setup, operation, or if the instrument requires repair. A "Service Request" form is available on the TSI website.