Automated Open-path Fence-line Air Monitoring Systems

Air Monitoring, Methods, and Technology
Oral Presentation

Prepared by D. Gamiles1, B. Olive2
1 - Argos Scientific, Inc., 3620 SE Sunrise Drive, Camas, Washington, 98607, United States
2 - University of North Alabama, DEPT OF CHEMISTY & IND HYGENE 1660 Tune Ave, FLORENCE, AL, 35630, United States


Contact Information: [email protected]; 503-421-0228


ABSTRACT

In recent years, government agencies are utilizing open-path monitoring for regulatory applications. As with any type of regulatory application, the focus on data quality must be emphasized, well documented, and appropriately applied to ensure stakeholders’ confidence in the data produced by the system. This paper presents methods and strategies for optimizing the performance of fence-line air monitoring systems to meet the same data quality parameters associated with more traditional Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS) standards. A case study showing data output from an Argos open-path UV DOAS air monitoring system that is currently operating in manner that meets these standards. In addition, practices associated with operating and maintaining fence-line air monitoring equipment and increasing operational efficiency will be presented and discussed. Specifically, the need to maximize overall operational efficiency by automating Quality Assurance / Quality Control checks, remotely diagnosing equipment’s operational parameters, and the need to perform real-time corrective actions are critical elements in maintaining the level of data quality needed to ensure regulatory standards.