Dust Sentry
The Dust Sentry is the ultimate solution for continuous real-time measurement of multiple particle mass fractions, including PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, and Total Suspended Particulate (TSP). Housed in a robust, weatherproof enclosure, the Dust Sentry is portable enough for one-person installations and features MCERTs and SCAQMD approvals. Designed to produce accurate, defensible data across a range of applications, from fenceline and perimeter monitoring to construction, remediation, roadside monitoring, and more.
Particulate Matter
PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, TSP
Environmental factors
Options to integrate environmental sensors as needed, including wind, noise, weather, and solar radiation
The Dust Sentry is used by a broad range of air quality professionals around the world, including industrial operators, environmental consultants, regulatory authorities, Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) managers, and researchers.
The Dust Sentry with PCX module provides continuous and simultaneous measurement of PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, TSP, and (optionally) particulate counts for 6 channels: 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 10 microns. Features South Coast AQMD Rule 1466 approval and MCerts certification for PM10, and PM2.5.
The Dust Sentry with nephelometer module and optional cyclone provides continuous measurement of PM1, PM2.5, PM10, or TSP. The Dust Sentry PM10 with SCC cyclone is South Coast AQMD Rule 1466 approved and MCerts certified for PM10.
Key technology of the Dust Sentry
IP65-rated enclosure
Equipped with solar shielding armor and a high-reflective powder coating, reducing the thermal impact on measurement and components and producing an operating range of -10°C to +45°C.
Plug and play operation
Expand monitoring capabilities at any time by integrating additional modules measuring wind, noise, humidity, and other environmental parameters.
PM measurement
The Dust Sentry with PCX uses scattered light to size and count particles, assigning them to one of six particle count channels based on diameter. Particle counts for each size fraction are converted into mass measurements using a proprietary algorithm, delivering simultaneous measurement with highly accurate results.
For single-channel configurations, the Dust Sentry can be fitted with a light scattering nephelometer and sharp cut cyclone to provide continuous real-time measurement of a specific particle size fraction.
Integrated heated inlet
Reduces humidity effects on particulate measurement, ensuring more accurate measurements.
Key benefits
Multi-channel measurement
Dust Sentry with PCX provides simultaneous multi-channel measurement of PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM10, TSP, and particulate counts for 6 channels.
Efficient remote monitoring
Reduce site visits and access real-time data from anywhere with two-way communication, integrated flow measurement and control, and automated SMS and email alerts.
Rugged design
Designed to be used in even the toughest conditions, with an operating range of -10°C to +45°C.
Who uses the Dust Sentry?
The Dust Sentry is an affordable, durable dust monitoring system used to monitor particulate levels, maintain regulatory compliance, and minimize the risk posed by fugitive dust emissions to nearby sensitive receptors, workers, and the surrounding community.
An accurate PM2.5 sensor is essential to any effective dust monitoring system, particularly where combustion equipment is present as part of on-site operations.
Common uses for the Dust Sentry where PM2.5 is of particular concern include:
- Urban air quality networks
- Industrial fenceline monitoring
- Roadside air monitoring
- Environmental impact assessments
- Research and air quality studies
Real-time monitoring of PM10 is a legal requirement on most construction, remediation, and industrial fenceline monitoring projects.
Additional uses for the Dust Sentry where PM10 monitoring is required include:
- Waste management and landfill sites
- Port and bulk handling terminals
- EIA and greenfield baseline studies
Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) includes airborne particles > 10µm (micrometers) in diameter but also covers the full range of particle sizes.
Optional accessories
FAQs
No. However, some of our distributors offer rental packages. If you’d like us to put you in touch with a local distributor who offers rental equipment, please contact us.
No. The Dust Sentry only measures dust and particulate matter.
However, the AQS Air Quality Station is configured to measure gases and particulate matter at the same time.
No. However, the enclosure is a lockable IP65 glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) cabinet with integrated aluminium solar shield armour.
What is the environmental operating range for the Dust Sentry?
The Dust Sentry has an operating range of -10 °C to +45 °C (14 °F to 113 °F), with a low range of -40°C with the addition of our winterization kit.
Is the data gathered in real time?
Yes, measurements are logged and reported in real time.
What maintenance does the Dust Sentry require?
The Dust Sentry requires relatively low service and maintenance. Average service checks and filter replacements are recommended every three months. Factory calibration of the optical module is recommended annually. The optical module is easily removed and can be shipped to Aeroqual by small parcel courier service. The turnaround is approximately four weeks. For large networks which are required to operate 24/7 all year round, we suggest maintaining one or more spare optical modules for exchange in instruments as service is required. Pumps are long-life high quality BLDC diaphragm type by KNF with a lifetime of 1-3 years. Pumps are easily replaced by the end user.
Here's what we recommend for maintenance of your Dust Sentry. View full details in the Dust Sentry User Guide.
Does the Dust Sentry have a datalogger?
Yes. It has 32GB Hard Drive (>5 years data storage).
What is the file type when you send out your data from the equipment?
File types can be CSV or FTP.
See the Aeroqual Cloud Infographic to see further details of how it works.
Is it compliant with U.S. EPA standards?
Aeroqual Dust Monitors are not U.S. EPA approved instruments but the Dust Sentry is a near-reference particle monitor for specific dust fractions.
Can the Dust Sentry be connected via ethernet, so we can remotely access it?
Yes. You have three options to connect to the device:
- Standard: WIFI
- Ethernet (LAN)
Optional: Cellular IP HSPA 4G modem.
Can you integrate a third-party weather station into the Dust Sentry?
Yes, a power and data interface for designated third-party sensors is included.
Here is a list of the environmental sensors that integrate with the Dust Sentry system:
- Gill WindSonic (ultrasonic wind sensor)
- Vaisala WXT536 (weather transmitter)
- Airmar 200WX (weather station)
- Cirrus MK427 Class 1 (noise sensor)
- Novalynx Pyranometer (solar radiation)
How do I install the Dust Sentry? What do I need to have for installation?
The instrument is packaged in a robust, lockable enclosure and is light enough for one-person site installations.
See the Dust Sentry User Guide for full details on how to install the unit.
Is the sensor calibrated when we receive it? How do I calibrate the sensor?
Yes, it is already factory calibrated. All Aeroqual PM engines need to be returned to the Met One Instruments factory in the U.S for service and calibration at the following recommended intervals:
Dust Sentry Particle Monitor: 24 Months
Aeroqual can arrange for this service. Contact support@aeroqual.com for further details.
Can it run through solar or battery?
Yes. To read more, see this technical note on How to remote/solar power the Dust Monitor.
Does it have self-diagnostic and self-correct functions?
No. However, it has alerts to notify you that there is an error that needs attention. Those alerts can be set by the end user.
Does the Dust Sentry have a weatherproof enclosure?
Yes, the enclosure is a lockable IP65 glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) cabinet with integrated aluminium solar shield armour.
What is the dimension and weight of a Dust Sentry?
483 H x 330 W x 187 D mm (19 H x 13 W x 7.4 D inches) includes solar shield armour and mounting brackets, and it weighs less than 13 kg (28.6 lbs).
Does the Dust Sentry have any certifications?
Yes. The Dust Sentry PM10 with SCC cyclone is South Coast AQMD Rule 1466 approved and MCerts certified for PM10.
What are the available outputs?
- 2 x Relay (optional)
- 4 x 4-20 mA (optional)
Product Support
For support on your AQS 1 instrument, click here to visit our support centre.
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