BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Multi-Gas Detector Series

BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Multi-Gas Detector Series

Model Selection

Protecting users from up to five potential atmospheric hazards, this gas detector features an integral concussion-proof boot and audible, visual, and vibrating alarms. Highly reliable, this detector features continuous monitoring and displaying and is completely water-resistant.

Protecting users from up to five potential atmospheric hazards, this gas detector features an integral concussion-proof boot and audible, visual, and vibrating alarms. Highly reliable, this detector features continuous monitoring and displaying and is completely water-resistant.


BW M5IR Offers

Using a non-dispersive infrared sensor to monitor carbon dioxide levels while simultaneously monitoring and displaying up to four additional atmospheric hazards including O2, LEL and a range of toxic gases. Compact and lightweight, this detector comes housed in a highly concussion-proof enclosure. Audible, visual and vibrator alarms activate in the event of a Low, High, TWA or STEL alarm condition. Two months of continuous data at five second intervals via 32 MB Flash MMC card (64 MB and 128 MB cards also available); when full, the wrap-around feature replaces oldest data with most recent data.

Supported Gases*

  • H2S - Hydrogen Sulfide
  • O3 - Ozone
  • CO - Carbon Monoxide
  • LEL Combustibles
  • O2 - Oxygen
  • NH3 - Ammonia
  • SO2 - Sulfur Dioxide
  • CO2 - Carbon Dioxide (through IR)

*Dependent on the configuration ordered.

Features

  • Smaller and over 50% lighter than competitive instruments
  • Water-resistant design in an integral concussion-proof enclosure
  • Continuous LCD shows simultaneous gas concentrations for five gases
  • 0 to 1000 ppm measurement of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
  • Integral motorized pump option for remote sampling
  • Two power options: AA alkaline or rechargeable hot-swappable battery pack
  • Provides 95 dB alarm tone and two bright wide-angled alarm bars
  • Equipped with internal vibrating alarm for high noise areas
  • Multi-language support in English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese
  • Three backlight options: standard- activates in low light (auto), in alarm (auto) and reactivates on-demand; alarm only- activates in alarm conditions and reactivates on-demand; stealth mode
  • Four alarm levels: instantaneous Low and High Alarm for all gases; TWA (time-weighted average) and STEL (short-term exposure limit) for VOCs and toxic gases
  • Simple automatic calibration procedure; compatible with BW MicroDock II automatic test and calibration station
  • Records TWA, STEL, and maximum exposures to gas and displays readings on command
  • User selectable field options include: PID correction factor, language selection, confidence beep, span level, set TWA/STEL calculation choice, set calibration due date, pass code protection, latching alarm, 'SAFE' display function, stealth mode, and selectable ppm resolution for some gases (e.g. SO2 0.1 ppm)
  • Full function self-test of: sensor, battery and circuit integrity; and audible/visual alarms

Applications

  • Confined space entry
  • Wineries and breweries
  • Agriculture
  • Marine fuel transport/shipping and shipyards
  • Oil well fracturing
  • Wastewater treatment
  • Food industry/cold storage
  • Industrial and chemical manufacturing
  • Landfills

BW GasAlertMicro 5 Infrared Multi-Gas Detector Series Specifications

Gas (Dependent on the configuration ordered) Measuring range Resolution TWA STEL LOW HIGH
CO2 0-100% LEL
0-5.0% v/v
1%
0.1%
N/A N/A N/A N/A
O2 0-30.0% 0.1 N/A N/A 19.5 22.5
H2S 0-100 ppm 1 10 15 10 15
LEL 0-100% LEL
0-5% v/v
1% N/A N/A 10% 20%
General Specifications
Size 5.7 x 2.9 x 1.5 in. / 14.5 x 7.4 x 3.8 cm
Weight 13.1 oz. / 370 g
Temperature -4 to +122°F / -20 to +50°C
14 to +104°F / -10 to +40°C (PID)
Alarms Visual, vibrating, audible (95 dB)
Low, High, STEL, TWA, OL (over limit)
Tests Sensor integrity, circuitry, battery and audible/visual alarms on activation, battery (continuous)
Pump Optional; Sample from up to 66 ft. / 20 m
Ratings EMI/RFI: Complies with EMC Directive 89/336/EEC IP 65/66
Click here for complete specifications on the BW M5IR

What's included with the BW M5IR

  • Batteries: three replaceable alkaline cells or one rechargeable battery pack with the GasAlertMicro 5 Battery Charger (also provided with the GasAlertMicro 5 PID and the GasAlertMicro 5 IR)
  • Sensors*
  • Calibration cap and hose
  • Single gas calibration cap
  • Screwdriver
  • Quick reference guide
  • Fleet Manager CD (if applicable)
  • Manual and training CD-ROM

*Gas dependent on the configuration ordered

How to Select the Right Gas Detection Solution

by Don Galman

There are many gas detection products on the market that might appear to be the same, but a closer inspection of specification, functionality and features reveals major differences in what products can do and the potential value they can offer. Similarly, individual applications are also unique in their respective designs, needs and processes undertaken.

Know your site risks

Before beginning to consider gas detection equipment, a risk assessment needs to be conducted. Any company employing staff has the obligation to conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards and these can include potential gas, vapor or Oxygen deficiency risks. If gas hazards are identified, gas detection is applicable as a risk reduction method.

Identifying the prime objective

Depending on the processes being undertaken and the gases being detected, remote or off-site alarm notification plus event data logging/reporting may also be required for Health and Safety management records. Another factor impacting on the need for enhanced reporting functions might be regulatory compliance or a condition of insurance.

Ask the right questions

Having identified the primary objective, the suitable equipment is selected by asking a number of key questions. These fall into three broad categories:

  • The gases to be detected and where they may come from
  • The location and environmental conditions where detection is to take place
  • The ease of use for operators and routine servicing personnel
Identify the gases to be detected and where they may come from

The gases to be detected should be identified by the risk assessment, however experienced gas detection equipment manufacturers and their approved distributors are often able to help in this process, based on their experience of similar applications. However, it is important to remember that it is the end-user’s responsibility to identify all potential hazards. It is also essential to identify the potential source of a gas release as this helps determine the number and location of detectors required for a fixed gas detection system.

Consider the environmental conditions

The performance, accuracy and reliability of any gas detection equipment will be affected by the environmental conditions it is subjected to. Temperature, humidity and pressure levels at the location all have a direct bearing on the type of equipment that should be selected. Additional factors such as potential variations resulting from a production process itself, diurnal/nocturnal fluctuations and seasonal changes may also affect the type of device which is suitable.

Understand product functionality

The next area of consideration relates to additional product functionality. Aspects like wiring configuration are important, especially when retro-fitting into an existing application. If the apparatus is being integrated into a separate safety system, certain communication protocols may also be required such as HART®, Lonworks or Modbus®. Consideration will also need to be given regarding the requirement for local displays on transmitter units and local configuration of the unit and gas displays may also be a useful addition.

Measure the ease of use for operators and routine servicing personnel

Routine maintenance is another important consideration. Some gases and vapors can be detected with a number of different sensing technologies, e.g. Hydrocarbon gases with catalytic beads or Non-dispersive Infrared NDIR. Catalytic beads do not provide fail-to-safety operation and therefore can require a high frequency of routine maintenance, however NDIR based solutions tend to have a higher initial purchase price, but may require less routine maintenance. In-house resource to undertake such routine maintenance needs to be identified and in the absence of such a resource, budgeting for third party maintenance is an important factor in selecting the right equipment.


Need Help Selecting the Right Solution?

If you have questions about any of our gas detection products or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Whether you need a hand finding a new product or need help with your current system, just ask our team of Factory Trained Experts.


GasAlert Micro5 series (M5) Expert Product Review:

The Good:

Provides protection from 1-5 different kinds of atmospheric hazards, making it useful in a wide array of applications. It is available either as a standard toxic gas unit, a PID model for detection of VOCs or as an IR model for CO2 detection. It has both alkaline and rechargeable battery pack options, which are field-changeable, providing ease of use. You can also switch from diffusion mode to the optional built-in pump right in the field.


The Bad:

It is pricey, and the huge variety of sensor options, pump and battery options make choosing the right unit configuration a bit confusing for those not familiar with them. I recommend calling us at our toll free number (1.800.561.8187) for assistance in getting the right one.


The Bottom Line:

The GasAlertMicro 5 is highly configurable, which makes it suitable for the widest range of industries and applications. An example of some applications are Wastewater Plants, Pulp and Paper, Airlines, Landfills, Oil and Gas, Food and Beverage, Chemical Plants, Hazmat/Homeland Security and many more! It has many of the same user friendly features as the other units in the BW product line, so it is simple and easy to operate in the field and is a decently small size for its capabilities.


Full Review:

The extensive selection of sensors and user-settable field options in the GasAlertMicro 5 make it one of the most versatile units out there. The new pump design has a visible integrated filter window that allows the user to easily inspect the filter for dirt and debris. This also makes changing the pump filters quick and easy and still provides superior water resistance. AA alkaline batteries or the hot-swappable rechargeable battery pack options allow for fast, safe, and easy battery installation right in the field.

Regular maintenance is required on this model in the form of frequent Calibrations and battery replacement or charging. Bump Tests can also be performed on the unit depending on personal preference or when site safety regulations require it.

Built for rugged environments, the built-in concussion proof boot provides excellent protection against accidental bumps, scratches and damage; and it is water-proof, with an IP rating of 67 it can be submerged in water up to 1 m deep for 30 minutes. The real-time gas concentration is displayed continuously on the LCD so you will always know the current levels, even when the unit is not in alarm. The unit has a built in Datalogging feature, enabling you to retrieve a detailed and accurate history of conditions and unit maintenance if needed.

Calibrating the unit is required every 180 days by factory default but is quick and easy to perform; the procedure can be done in the field and only takes about 2 minutes to perform, and all you will require is a cylinder of calibration gas and a regulator. It is also compatible with the BW MicroDock II calibration and bump test station for those who wish to use a more hands-free, automated, calibration and bump test procedure.

Webinar: The Fundamentals of Portable Gas Detection with Honeywell


Flammable and toxic gas detection instruments are generally available in two different formats: portable (spot reading) detectors and fixed (permanently sited) monitors. Selecting which is most appropriate for a particular application depends on several factors. Including how often the area is accessed by personnel, site conditions, whether the hazard is permanent or transitory, how often testing is needed, and last but not least, the availability of finances.

We've teamed up with Honeywell for this short webinar on Portable Gas Detection, where we cover:
• Characteristics and hazards of a confined space
• The 2 main functions of portable gas detectors
• The various applications
• What to do during alarms situations
• Potential contaminants for the sensors
• Calibration versus bump-test... The difference
• Using an IntelliDoX docking station
• Maintenance, cleaning, and service
• Extreme weather conditions... What to do

Meet Shauna Park: Our Gas Detection Expert


Shauna Park is our in-house gas detection expert. Working closely with our entire team of technical experts, Shauna uses her 18+ years of gas detection experience to support customers just like you! Between her and our team of technical experts' knowledge, you can rest assured that all of your inquiries about our products will be answered via chat, email, or phone.

How to: Calibrate a BW Gas Detector


Calibration is pretty important: it re-establishes a base line for your sensors so the electrochemical and the LEL catalytic bead sensor need some kind of base line. That way it knows what a concentration of gas is. You want to make sure that you do your calibration fairly frequently, every 180 days is the manufacturer's default. learn more by watching this informative video.

How to: Bump Test a BW Gas Detector


A bump test is a physical verification that the sensors are responding to a set amount of gas and that your visual and audible alarms are going off as they should. You can hear and see them triggering and verify that everything is basically in operating order. Watch this video to see a live demonstration!

BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Sensors

Sensor Description Learn More
D4-RHM04 BW D4-RHM04 Replacement TwinTox sensor - carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) Learn More
PS-RH04S BW PS-RH04S Replacement hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sensor Learn More
PS-RM04H BW PS-RM04H Replacement carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, H2 resistant Learn More
PS-RS04 BW PS-RS04 Replacement sulfur dioxide (SO2) sensor Learn More
SR-M04-SC BW SR-M04-SC Replacement carbon monoxide sensor Learn More
SR-A04 BW SR-A04 Replacement ammonia (NH3) sensor - Note: 1 year warranty Learn More
SR-B04 BW SR-B04 Replacement carbon dioxide (CO2) IR sensor Learn More
SR-G04 BW SR-G04 Replacement ozone (O3) sensor - Note: 1 year warranty Learn More
SR-W04 BW SR-W04 Replacement combustible sensor with heavy duty silicone filter Learn More
SR-W04-UF BW SR-W04-UF Replacement combustible sensor without heavy duty silicone filter Learn More
SR-X2V BW SR-X2V Replacement oxygen (O2) sensor Learn More

Click on a category to view a selection of compatible accessories with the BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Multi-Gas Detector Series.

BW PS-RS04 Replacement Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5 PS-RS04
Replacement sulfur dioxide (SO2) sensor for the BW GasAlert Micro 5 and BW GasAlert Extreme. Installation only requires a screwdriver.




BW SR-W04-UF Replacement Combustible Sensor for GasAlertMicro 5, LEL SR-W04-UF
Replacement combustible (LEL) sensor without heavy duty silicone filter for the GasAlertMicro 5 series of BW gas detectors. Detectors are equipped on a standard basis with SR-W04 combustible sensors. This sensor includes a heavy duty silicone filter that make it ideal for use in environments that have known sources of silicone or vapors containing silicon. The SR-W04 silicone filter equipped sensor should not be used when monitoring diesel, kerosene, jet fuel or other heavy hydrocarbon vapors with flashpoint temperatures above 38°C (100°F).
Note: This sensor includes a 2 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-M04-SC Replacement Carbon Monoxide Sensor for GasAlertQuattro, CO SR-M04-SC
Replacement carbon monoxide (CO) sensors make gas detector maintenance easy. All you need is a small phillips screwdriver to install this replacement sensor in your BW GasAlert Quattro detector.




BW D4-RHM04 Replacement TwinTox Sensor, CO, H2S D4-RHM04
Replacement TwinTox sensor for the Micro 5 of BW gas detectors. The TwinTox sensor detects both carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and is what gives the Micro 5 it's fifth gas.




BW SR-X2V Replacement Oxygen Sensor for BW Multiple Gas Detectors, O2 AAY80-390R-BW
Replacement oxygen (O2) sensor for BW Gas Detectors.




BW SR-B04 Replacement Carbon Dioxide IR Sensor for GasAlertMicro 5 IR, CO2 SR-B04
Replacement carbon dioxide (CO2) IR sensor. This sensor is specifically for the BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR series of gas detectors.




BW PS-RH04S Replacement Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5 PS-RH04S
The H2S low methanol sensor is now the standard sensor in all portable instruments that use an H2S sensor. This does not apply to COSH sensors. The H2S low methanol sensors feature a reduced cross sensitivity to methanol. Environments with background levels of alcohols or organic vapors will not affect hydrogen sulfide readings.




BW SR-G04 Replacement Ozone Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5, O3 SR-G04
Replacement ozone (O3) sensor for the GasAlert Extreme series of BW gas detectors.
Note: This sensor includes a 1 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-W04 Replacement Combustible Sensor with Heavy Duty Silicone Filter for GasAlertMicro 5, LEL SR-W04
Replacement combustible (LEL) sensor for the GasAlertMicro 5 series of BW gas detectors. Detectors are equipped on a standard basis with SR-W04 combustible sensors. This sensor includes a heavy duty silicone filter that make it ideal for use in environments that have known sources of silicone or vapors containing silicon. The SR-W04 silicone filter equipped sensor should not be used when monitoring diesel, kerosene, jet fuel or other heavy hydrocarbon vapors with flashpoint temperatures above 38°C (100°F).
Note: This sensor includes a 2 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-A04 Replacement Ammonia Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5, NH3 SR-A04
Replacement ammonia (NH3) sensor for the BW GasAlert Micro 5 and BW GasAlert Extreme. Installation only requires a screwdriver.
Note: This sensor includes 1 year warranty from BW Technologies.




Ask a question about BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Multi-Gas Detector Series

Customer Reviews for the BW M5IR

BW M5IR Offers

Using a non-dispersive infrared sensor to monitor carbon dioxide levels while simultaneously monitoring and displaying up to four additional atmospheric hazards including O2, LEL and a range of toxic gases. Compact and lightweight, this detector comes housed in a highly concussion-proof enclosure. Audible, visual and vibrator alarms activate in the event of a Low, High, TWA or STEL alarm condition. Two months of continuous data at five second intervals via 32 MB Flash MMC card (64 MB and 128 MB cards also available); when full, the wrap-around feature replaces oldest data with most recent data.

Supported Gases*

  • H2S - Hydrogen Sulfide
  • O3 - Ozone
  • CO - Carbon Monoxide
  • LEL Combustibles
  • O2 - Oxygen
  • NH3 - Ammonia
  • SO2 - Sulfur Dioxide
  • CO2 - Carbon Dioxide (through IR)

*Dependent on the configuration ordered.

Features

  • Smaller and over 50% lighter than competitive instruments
  • Water-resistant design in an integral concussion-proof enclosure
  • Continuous LCD shows simultaneous gas concentrations for five gases
  • 0 to 1000 ppm measurement of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
  • Integral motorized pump option for remote sampling
  • Two power options: AA alkaline or rechargeable hot-swappable battery pack
  • Provides 95 dB alarm tone and two bright wide-angled alarm bars
  • Equipped with internal vibrating alarm for high noise areas
  • Multi-language support in English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese
  • Three backlight options: standard- activates in low light (auto), in alarm (auto) and reactivates on-demand; alarm only- activates in alarm conditions and reactivates on-demand; stealth mode
  • Four alarm levels: instantaneous Low and High Alarm for all gases; TWA (time-weighted average) and STEL (short-term exposure limit) for VOCs and toxic gases
  • Simple automatic calibration procedure; compatible with BW MicroDock II automatic test and calibration station
  • Records TWA, STEL, and maximum exposures to gas and displays readings on command
  • User selectable field options include: PID correction factor, language selection, confidence beep, span level, set TWA/STEL calculation choice, set calibration due date, pass code protection, latching alarm, 'SAFE' display function, stealth mode, and selectable ppm resolution for some gases (e.g. SO2 0.1 ppm)
  • Full function self-test of: sensor, battery and circuit integrity; and audible/visual alarms

Applications

  • Confined space entry
  • Wineries and breweries
  • Agriculture
  • Marine fuel transport/shipping and shipyards
  • Oil well fracturing
  • Wastewater treatment
  • Food industry/cold storage
  • Industrial and chemical manufacturing
  • Landfills

BW GasAlertMicro 5 Infrared Multi-Gas Detector Series Specifications

Gas (Dependent on the configuration ordered) Measuring range Resolution TWA STEL LOW HIGH
CO2 0-100% LEL
0-5.0% v/v
1%
0.1%
N/A N/A N/A N/A
O2 0-30.0% 0.1 N/A N/A 19.5 22.5
H2S 0-100 ppm 1 10 15 10 15
LEL 0-100% LEL
0-5% v/v
1% N/A N/A 10% 20%
General Specifications
Size 5.7 x 2.9 x 1.5 in. / 14.5 x 7.4 x 3.8 cm
Weight 13.1 oz. / 370 g
Temperature -4 to +122°F / -20 to +50°C
14 to +104°F / -10 to +40°C (PID)
Alarms Visual, vibrating, audible (95 dB)
Low, High, STEL, TWA, OL (over limit)
Tests Sensor integrity, circuitry, battery and audible/visual alarms on activation, battery (continuous)
Pump Optional; Sample from up to 66 ft. / 20 m
Ratings EMI/RFI: Complies with EMC Directive 89/336/EEC IP 65/66
Click here for complete specifications on the BW M5IR

What's included with the BW M5IR

  • Batteries: three replaceable alkaline cells or one rechargeable battery pack with the GasAlertMicro 5 Battery Charger (also provided with the GasAlertMicro 5 PID and the GasAlertMicro 5 IR)
  • Sensors*
  • Calibration cap and hose
  • Single gas calibration cap
  • Screwdriver
  • Quick reference guide
  • Fleet Manager CD (if applicable)
  • Manual and training CD-ROM

*Gas dependent on the configuration ordered

How to Select the Right Gas Detection Solution

by Don Galman

There are many gas detection products on the market that might appear to be the same, but a closer inspection of specification, functionality and features reveals major differences in what products can do and the potential value they can offer. Similarly, individual applications are also unique in their respective designs, needs and processes undertaken.

Know your site risks

Before beginning to consider gas detection equipment, a risk assessment needs to be conducted. Any company employing staff has the obligation to conduct risk assessments to identify potential hazards and these can include potential gas, vapor or Oxygen deficiency risks. If gas hazards are identified, gas detection is applicable as a risk reduction method.

Identifying the prime objective

Depending on the processes being undertaken and the gases being detected, remote or off-site alarm notification plus event data logging/reporting may also be required for Health and Safety management records. Another factor impacting on the need for enhanced reporting functions might be regulatory compliance or a condition of insurance.

Ask the right questions

Having identified the primary objective, the suitable equipment is selected by asking a number of key questions. These fall into three broad categories:

  • The gases to be detected and where they may come from
  • The location and environmental conditions where detection is to take place
  • The ease of use for operators and routine servicing personnel
Identify the gases to be detected and where they may come from

The gases to be detected should be identified by the risk assessment, however experienced gas detection equipment manufacturers and their approved distributors are often able to help in this process, based on their experience of similar applications. However, it is important to remember that it is the end-user’s responsibility to identify all potential hazards. It is also essential to identify the potential source of a gas release as this helps determine the number and location of detectors required for a fixed gas detection system.

Consider the environmental conditions

The performance, accuracy and reliability of any gas detection equipment will be affected by the environmental conditions it is subjected to. Temperature, humidity and pressure levels at the location all have a direct bearing on the type of equipment that should be selected. Additional factors such as potential variations resulting from a production process itself, diurnal/nocturnal fluctuations and seasonal changes may also affect the type of device which is suitable.

Understand product functionality

The next area of consideration relates to additional product functionality. Aspects like wiring configuration are important, especially when retro-fitting into an existing application. If the apparatus is being integrated into a separate safety system, certain communication protocols may also be required such as HART®, Lonworks or Modbus®. Consideration will also need to be given regarding the requirement for local displays on transmitter units and local configuration of the unit and gas displays may also be a useful addition.

Measure the ease of use for operators and routine servicing personnel

Routine maintenance is another important consideration. Some gases and vapors can be detected with a number of different sensing technologies, e.g. Hydrocarbon gases with catalytic beads or Non-dispersive Infrared NDIR. Catalytic beads do not provide fail-to-safety operation and therefore can require a high frequency of routine maintenance, however NDIR based solutions tend to have a higher initial purchase price, but may require less routine maintenance. In-house resource to undertake such routine maintenance needs to be identified and in the absence of such a resource, budgeting for third party maintenance is an important factor in selecting the right equipment.


Need Help Selecting the Right Solution?

If you have questions about any of our gas detection products or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Whether you need a hand finding a new product or need help with your current system, just ask our team of Factory Trained Experts.


GasAlert Micro5 series (M5) Expert Product Review:

The Good:

Provides protection from 1-5 different kinds of atmospheric hazards, making it useful in a wide array of applications. It is available either as a standard toxic gas unit, a PID model for detection of VOCs or as an IR model for CO2 detection. It has both alkaline and rechargeable battery pack options, which are field-changeable, providing ease of use. You can also switch from diffusion mode to the optional built-in pump right in the field.


The Bad:

It is pricey, and the huge variety of sensor options, pump and battery options make choosing the right unit configuration a bit confusing for those not familiar with them. I recommend calling us at our toll free number (1.800.561.8187) for assistance in getting the right one.


The Bottom Line:

The GasAlertMicro 5 is highly configurable, which makes it suitable for the widest range of industries and applications. An example of some applications are Wastewater Plants, Pulp and Paper, Airlines, Landfills, Oil and Gas, Food and Beverage, Chemical Plants, Hazmat/Homeland Security and many more! It has many of the same user friendly features as the other units in the BW product line, so it is simple and easy to operate in the field and is a decently small size for its capabilities.


Full Review:

The extensive selection of sensors and user-settable field options in the GasAlertMicro 5 make it one of the most versatile units out there. The new pump design has a visible integrated filter window that allows the user to easily inspect the filter for dirt and debris. This also makes changing the pump filters quick and easy and still provides superior water resistance. AA alkaline batteries or the hot-swappable rechargeable battery pack options allow for fast, safe, and easy battery installation right in the field.

Regular maintenance is required on this model in the form of frequent Calibrations and battery replacement or charging. Bump Tests can also be performed on the unit depending on personal preference or when site safety regulations require it.

Built for rugged environments, the built-in concussion proof boot provides excellent protection against accidental bumps, scratches and damage; and it is water-proof, with an IP rating of 67 it can be submerged in water up to 1 m deep for 30 minutes. The real-time gas concentration is displayed continuously on the LCD so you will always know the current levels, even when the unit is not in alarm. The unit has a built in Datalogging feature, enabling you to retrieve a detailed and accurate history of conditions and unit maintenance if needed.

Calibrating the unit is required every 180 days by factory default but is quick and easy to perform; the procedure can be done in the field and only takes about 2 minutes to perform, and all you will require is a cylinder of calibration gas and a regulator. It is also compatible with the BW MicroDock II calibration and bump test station for those who wish to use a more hands-free, automated, calibration and bump test procedure.

Webinar: The Fundamentals of Portable Gas Detection with Honeywell


Flammable and toxic gas detection instruments are generally available in two different formats: portable (spot reading) detectors and fixed (permanently sited) monitors. Selecting which is most appropriate for a particular application depends on several factors. Including how often the area is accessed by personnel, site conditions, whether the hazard is permanent or transitory, how often testing is needed, and last but not least, the availability of finances.

We've teamed up with Honeywell for this short webinar on Portable Gas Detection, where we cover:
• Characteristics and hazards of a confined space
• The 2 main functions of portable gas detectors
• The various applications
• What to do during alarms situations
• Potential contaminants for the sensors
• Calibration versus bump-test... The difference
• Using an IntelliDoX docking station
• Maintenance, cleaning, and service
• Extreme weather conditions... What to do

Meet Shauna Park: Our Gas Detection Expert


Shauna Park is our in-house gas detection expert. Working closely with our entire team of technical experts, Shauna uses her 18+ years of gas detection experience to support customers just like you! Between her and our team of technical experts' knowledge, you can rest assured that all of your inquiries about our products will be answered via chat, email, or phone.

How to: Calibrate a BW Gas Detector


Calibration is pretty important: it re-establishes a base line for your sensors so the electrochemical and the LEL catalytic bead sensor need some kind of base line. That way it knows what a concentration of gas is. You want to make sure that you do your calibration fairly frequently, every 180 days is the manufacturer's default. learn more by watching this informative video.

How to: Bump Test a BW Gas Detector


A bump test is a physical verification that the sensors are responding to a set amount of gas and that your visual and audible alarms are going off as they should. You can hear and see them triggering and verify that everything is basically in operating order. Watch this video to see a live demonstration!

BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Sensors

Sensor Description Learn More
D4-RHM04 BW D4-RHM04 Replacement TwinTox sensor - carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) Learn More
PS-RH04S BW PS-RH04S Replacement hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sensor Learn More
PS-RM04H BW PS-RM04H Replacement carbon monoxide (CO) sensor, H2 resistant Learn More
PS-RS04 BW PS-RS04 Replacement sulfur dioxide (SO2) sensor Learn More
SR-M04-SC BW SR-M04-SC Replacement carbon monoxide sensor Learn More
SR-A04 BW SR-A04 Replacement ammonia (NH3) sensor - Note: 1 year warranty Learn More
SR-B04 BW SR-B04 Replacement carbon dioxide (CO2) IR sensor Learn More
SR-G04 BW SR-G04 Replacement ozone (O3) sensor - Note: 1 year warranty Learn More
SR-W04 BW SR-W04 Replacement combustible sensor with heavy duty silicone filter Learn More
SR-W04-UF BW SR-W04-UF Replacement combustible sensor without heavy duty silicone filter Learn More
SR-X2V BW SR-X2V Replacement oxygen (O2) sensor Learn More

Click on a category to view a selection of compatible accessories with the BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR Multi-Gas Detector Series.

BW PS-RS04 Replacement Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5 PS-RS04
Replacement sulfur dioxide (SO2) sensor for the BW GasAlert Micro 5 and BW GasAlert Extreme. Installation only requires a screwdriver.




BW SR-W04-UF Replacement Combustible Sensor for GasAlertMicro 5, LEL SR-W04-UF
Replacement combustible (LEL) sensor without heavy duty silicone filter for the GasAlertMicro 5 series of BW gas detectors. Detectors are equipped on a standard basis with SR-W04 combustible sensors. This sensor includes a heavy duty silicone filter that make it ideal for use in environments that have known sources of silicone or vapors containing silicon. The SR-W04 silicone filter equipped sensor should not be used when monitoring diesel, kerosene, jet fuel or other heavy hydrocarbon vapors with flashpoint temperatures above 38°C (100°F).
Note: This sensor includes a 2 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-M04-SC Replacement Carbon Monoxide Sensor for GasAlertQuattro, CO SR-M04-SC
Replacement carbon monoxide (CO) sensors make gas detector maintenance easy. All you need is a small phillips screwdriver to install this replacement sensor in your BW GasAlert Quattro detector.




BW D4-RHM04 Replacement TwinTox Sensor, CO, H2S D4-RHM04
Replacement TwinTox sensor for the Micro 5 of BW gas detectors. The TwinTox sensor detects both carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and is what gives the Micro 5 it's fifth gas.




BW SR-X2V Replacement Oxygen Sensor for BW Multiple Gas Detectors, O2 AAY80-390R-BW
Replacement oxygen (O2) sensor for BW Gas Detectors.




BW SR-B04 Replacement Carbon Dioxide IR Sensor for GasAlertMicro 5 IR, CO2 SR-B04
Replacement carbon dioxide (CO2) IR sensor. This sensor is specifically for the BW GasAlertMicro 5 IR series of gas detectors.




BW PS-RH04S Replacement Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5 PS-RH04S
The H2S low methanol sensor is now the standard sensor in all portable instruments that use an H2S sensor. This does not apply to COSH sensors. The H2S low methanol sensors feature a reduced cross sensitivity to methanol. Environments with background levels of alcohols or organic vapors will not affect hydrogen sulfide readings.




BW SR-G04 Replacement Ozone Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5, O3 SR-G04
Replacement ozone (O3) sensor for the GasAlert Extreme series of BW gas detectors.
Note: This sensor includes a 1 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-W04 Replacement Combustible Sensor with Heavy Duty Silicone Filter for GasAlertMicro 5, LEL SR-W04
Replacement combustible (LEL) sensor for the GasAlertMicro 5 series of BW gas detectors. Detectors are equipped on a standard basis with SR-W04 combustible sensors. This sensor includes a heavy duty silicone filter that make it ideal for use in environments that have known sources of silicone or vapors containing silicon. The SR-W04 silicone filter equipped sensor should not be used when monitoring diesel, kerosene, jet fuel or other heavy hydrocarbon vapors with flashpoint temperatures above 38°C (100°F).
Note: This sensor includes a 2 year warranty from BW Technologies.




BW SR-A04 Replacement Ammonia Sensor for GasAlert Extreme & GasAlertMicro 5, NH3 SR-A04
Replacement ammonia (NH3) sensor for the BW GasAlert Micro 5 and BW GasAlert Extreme. Installation only requires a screwdriver.
Note: This sensor includes 1 year warranty from BW Technologies.




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