MSA PrimaX User manual

Operating Manual
PrimaX
Gas Transmitter / Software Version V1.18
Order No.: 10115083/05
MSAsafety.com

© MSA 2023, 2017. All rights reserved
For countries of Russian Federation, Republic of Kazakhstan and Republic of Belarus, the gas detector will
be delivered with a passport document that includes valid approval information. On the CD with manual
instruction attached to the gas detector the user will find the documents "Type Description" and "Test
Method" - appendixes to Pattern Approval Certificate of Measuring instrument, valid in the countries of use.
The Declaration of Conformity can be found under the following link: https://MSAsafety.com/DoC.
MSA is a registered trademark of MSA Technology, LLC in the US, Europe and other Countries. For all other
trademarks visit https://us.msasafety.com/Trademarks.
MSA Europe GmbH
Schlüsselstrasse 12
8645 Rapperswil-Jona
Switzerland
For your local MSA contacts, please go to our website www.MSAsafety.com

Contents
1 Safety Regulations 6
1.1 Correct Use 6
1.2 Liability Information 6
1.3 Safety and Precautionary Measures to be Adopted 6
1.4 MSA Permanent Instrument Warranty 8
2 Description 9
2.1 Identifying the Unit 9
2.2 Overview 9
3 Installation 12
3.1 Mechanical Installation 12
3.2 Electrical Installation 14
3.2.1 Electrical Connection - PrimaX P 15
3.2.2 Electrical Connection - PrimaX I 16
4 Operation 18
4.1 Startup 18
4.2 Menu Sequence 19
4.3 Calibration 20
4.4 Maintenance and Info 23
4.5 Password 26
4.6 Changeable Parameters 26
4.7 Optional HART Module and Relay 26
4.7.1 HART 26
4.7.2 Electrical installation 27
4.7.3 Relays 28
4.8 Relay Operation 29
4.8.1 Startup 29
4.8.2 Menu Sequence 29
5 Maintenance 32
5.1 Changing the Sensors 32
3 PrimaX GB

6 Technical Data 34
6.1 Specifications 34
6.2 Cable Lengths and Cross-sections 35
6.3 Performance Specifications 36
6.4 List of Detectable Gases 37
6.5 Sensor Response to Interferants 39
6.6 PrimaX P List of Combustible Gases and Vapours
detectable with Catalytic Sensor P/N 10112716 40
7 Approvals 43
7.1 Marking, Certificates and Approvals according to the
Directive 2014/34/EU (ATEX) and National Standards 43
7.2 Marking and Certificates according to IECEx 47
7.3 Special conditions for the safe use according to ATEX and
SIL applications 49
7.4 Safety Relevant Parameters [40°C] 51
7.4.1 Application with 4-20 mA Current Output 52
8 Accessories 53
8.1 Calibration Cap 53
8.2 Sensor Gard 53
8.3 Remote Calibration 54
8.3.1 Installation 54
8.3.2 Operation 55
8.4 Flow Through Adapter 56
8.5 Duct Mounting Kit 57
8.6 Pipe Mounting Kit 57
8.7 Sensor Tag 58
8.8 Sunshield 60
8.9 Universal HART Cable 61
9 Spare Parts 62
10 Appendix 64
10.1 Output States 64
GB PrimaX 4

10.2 Calibration Errors 65
10.3 Error Codes 65
10.4 Timeout 66
10.5 Mechanical Installation 66
10.6 Wiring Diagrams 70
5 PrimaX GB

1 Safety Regulations
1.1 Correct Use
The PrimaX Gas Transmitters are fixed gas transmitters for measuring toxic or combustible gases and for
monitoring oxygen deficiency, excess or inerting. They are suitable for outdoor and indoor applications
without limitations, e.g. offshore industry, chemical and petrochemical industry, water and sewage industry.
The signal of the transmitter can be used in combination with MSA control units for further actions in safety or
non safety applications, e.g. MSA SUPREMA, Gasgard XL, 9010/9020.
The two versions of the gas transmitter are delivered either in a flameproof or in a intrinsically safe enclosure.
The electrical parts and interfaces have the same basic functionality.
It is imperative that this operating manual be read and observed when using the device. In particular, the
safety instructions, as well as the information for the use and operation of the device, must be carefully read
and observed. Furthermore, the national regulations applicable in the user's country must be taken into
account for a safe use.
WARNING!
This product is supporting life and health. Inappropriate use, maintenance or servicing may affect the
function of the device and thereby seriously compromise the user's life.
Before use, the product operability must be verified. The product must not be used if the function test is
unsuccessful, it is damaged, a competent servicing/ maintenance has not been made, genuine MSA spare
parts have not been used.
Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.
Alternative use, or use outside this specification will be considered as non-compliance. This also applies
especially to unauthorised alterations to the product and to commissioning work that has not been carried
out by MSA or authorised persons.
1.2 Liability Information
MSA accepts no liability in cases where the product has been used inappropriately or not as intended. The
selection and use of the product are the exclusive responsibility of the individual operator.
Product liability claims, warranties also as guarantees made by MSA with respect to the product are voided,
if it is not used, serviced or maintained in accordance with the instructions in this manual.
1.3 Safety and Precautionary Measures to be Adopted
WARNING!
The following safety instructions must be observed implicitly. Only in this way can the safety and health of the
individual operators, and the correct functioning of the device, be guaranteed.
• The device described in this manual must be installed, operated and maintained in strict accordance
with their labels, cautions, instructions, and within the limitations stated.
• Read the procedures described in EN 60079-29-2 for reference.
• The device is designed to detect gases or vapours in air.
• If a device with a combustible sensor is exposed to vibrations, calibration shall be done in sufficient
short intervals until it is verified that the device is not affected by the vibration stress.
• Do not mount the sensing head in direct sunlight as this could cause overheating of the sensor.
GB PrimaX 6
1 Safety Regulations

• The device must be installed with the sensor inlet pointing downwards to avoid clogging of the gas
inlet by particles or liquids.
• Electrochemical sensors are sealed units which contain a corrosive electrolyte. Should a sensor
develop leakage, it must be immediately removed from service and disposed of properly. Caution
must be exercised so that the electrolyte does not contact skin, clothing or circuitry otherwise
personal injury [burns] and/or equipment damage may result.
• The only absolute method to ensure proper overall operation of the device is to check it with a
known concentration of the gas for which it has been calibrated. Consequently, calibration checks
must be included as part of the routine inspection of the system.
• As with all devices of these types, high levels of, or long exposure to, certain compounds in the
tested atmosphere could contaminate the sensor. In atmospheres where the device may be
exposed to such materials, calibration must be performed frequently to ensure that the operation is
dependable and display indications are accurate.
• The device must not be painted. If painting is done in an area where a device is located, care must
be exercised to ensure that paint is not deposited on the sintered metal flashback arrestor in the gas
sensor inlet, if so equipped. Such paint deposits would interfere with the gas diffusion -process.
• To ensure proper function the device must be kept dry and free of any contaminants, e.g. dust
particles and water. Regular visual checks are recommended. Any contaminants must be removed
by blowing them off with clean, oil-free compressed air or with a dry brush. Ensure that the air
entrances are kept free from any coating, e.g. paint, grease or similar.
• Use only genuine MSA replacement parts when performing any maintenance procedures provided
in this manual. Failure to do so may seriously impair instrument performance. Repair or alteration of
the device, beyond the scope of these maintenance instructions or by anyone other than an autho-
rised MSA service personnel, could cause the product to fail to perform as designed.
• The device is designed for applications in hazardous areas under atmospheric conditions.
• For correct measurements, the combustible gas sensors require an oxygen concentration greater
than 10Vol%. Oxygen enriched atmospheres, greater then 21Vol%, can affect the measurement
and the electrical safety of the device.
• The response time of the device will be increased by significant dust deposits on the Sensor.
Checks for dust deposits must be done at regular intervals.
• Catalytic combustible gas sensors may produce low or zero response to combustible gas after
exposure to substances as Silicon, Silane, Silicate, Halide and compounds containing Fluorine,
Chlorine, Iodine or Bromine.
• Catalytic sensor: After exposure of gas above the measuring range, the sensor has to be
immediately calibrated / adjusted, independent of the calibration interval. In the case of an
adjustment the zero point and sensitivity of the sensor has to be rechecked again after 24 hours.
• In case of very high flammable concentrations >100%LEL the device is able to lock all outputs
[LOC]. This function shall be used for -standalone applications according to ATEX requirements.
• Catalytic sensor: If the PrimaX is operated in combination with a control unit and [LOC] is
deactivated on the PrimaX, the control unit has to ensure the latching after the measuring range was
exceeded.
• Catalytic sensor: Before a reset of an over range [LOC] indication is done it shall be verified that the
gas concentration is below full scale.
• Toxic gases: If the measuring range is exceeded, sensor life time can be reduced or the sensor
might need a recovery phase.
• Used sensors have to be disposed of in an environmentally compatible way.
• At signal underrange (see chapter 10.1 Output States) the 4 - 20 mA output is set to 3.8 mA (or 2.0
mA) and "LO" (alternately Measure Value if suppressing negative values in M-14 is set to "OFF")
shown on the display. To avoid a delayed alarm activation, a calibration should be done when the
output current is set to 3.8 mA and "LO" is shown on the display persistently.
• The lowest range which is suitable for the alarm thresholds should be selected for toxic gases.
7 PrimaX GB
1 Safety Regulations

• To compensate for possible deviations during measurement of flammable gases a calibration factor
of 1.05 has to be applied when using the CalGard for remote calibration (see chapter 8.3 Remote
Calibration).
• Customers using the catalytic combustible gas sensors to detect hydrogen and hydrocarbons in an
environment that may contain polar solvents must:
○ Calibrate their sensors with the target gas. Do not use a surrogate gas for calibration.
○ After exposure to polar solvents, the sensor must be recalibrated using the target gas,
independent of the calibration interval, and a gas/function check must be performed 24
hours after calibration to verify sensor response and accuracy.
Failure to follow these warnings can result in serious personal injury or death.
1.4 MSA Permanent Instrument Warranty
Warranty
Seller warrants that this product will be free from mechanical defect or faulty workmanship for
• Gas Transmitter: eighteen [18] months from date of shipment or one [1] year from installation,
whichever occurs first;
• Oxygen, Toxic or Catalytic Combustible Sensor: eighteen [18] months from date of shipping or one
[1] year from installation, whichever occurs first.
This warranty is applicable provided the product is maintained and used in accordance with Seller's
instructions and/or recommendations. This warranty does not apply to expendable or consumable parts,
whose normal life expectancy is less than one [1] year.
The Seller shall be released from all obligations under this warranty in the event repairs or modifications are
made by persons other than its own or authorized service personnel or if the warranty claim results from
physical abuse or misuse of the product. No agent, employee or representative of the Seller has any
authority to bind the Seller to any affirmation, representation or warranty concerning the goods sold under
this contract. Seller makes no warranty concerning components or accessories not manufactured by the
Seller, but will pass onto the Purchaser all warranties of manufacturers of such components.
GB PrimaX 8
1 Safety Regulations

2 Description
2.1 Identifying the Unit
PrimaX P PrimaX I
flameproof version general purpose version, or
intrinsically safe version
Figure 1 PrimaX Gas Transmitter
PrimaX P
The PrimaX P is a gas transmitter with an aluminum enclosure. This is a flameproof version for the detection
of combustible or toxic gases or oxygen.
PrimaX I
The PrimaX I is a gas transmitter with a plastic enclosure. It is available as a general purpose version [not
intended for hazardous area] or intrinsically safe version. Both versions are designed for a detection of toxic
gases or oxygen.
2.2 Overview
The device is factory-calibrated and delivered ready for installation. Each device is configured and calibrated
for only one specific gas or vapor.
9 PrimaX GB
2 Description

The enclosures vary depending on the particular version. The electrical parts and interfaces have the same
basic functionality.
The device has:
• a quick and easy pluggable sensor,
• a four digit liquid crystal display [LCD],
• a key pad with a cover
• a detachable backplate for installation on a wall or on a pipe
The device operates with a 4–20mA output signal.
Figure 2 Exploded View (PrimaX P)
1 Terminal for power connection 6 Sensor
2 Keypad with cover 7 Red LED (PrimaX P only)
3 Connector for factory use 8 Yellow LED (PrimaX P only)
4 Display 9 Green LED (PrimaX P only)
5 Bayonet joint with interlock 10 Identification plate
GB PrimaX 10
2 Description

Sensors
Description PrimaX P PrimaX I
Detection of toxic gases X X
Detection of oxygen X X
Detection of combustible gases X
The device operates with a 4 – 20mA output signal.
As an optional feature additional modules are available for these configurations of PrimaX transmitter:
Modules PrimaX P PrimaX I
HART module X X
HART + Relays module X -
HART+ Relays module with galvanically isolated analogue
output X -
For more information on the HART module →chapter 4.7 Optional HART Module and Relay.
11 PrimaX GB
2 Description

3 Installation
The device should be installed where gas leaks are expected. The installation position depends on the gas
density, either in the upper area of the room under the ceiling for gases lighter than air or close to the ground
for gases heavier than air. Also consider how air movement may affect the ability of the device to detect gas.
The display on the front of the instrument must always be clearly visible, the view must not be obstructed.
Before beginning the installation, check that the delivered components are complete and
correct, referring to the shipping documents and the sticker on the shipment carton.
When preparing the assembly, make sure that the mounting arrangement is correct for the
particular device.
3.1 Mechanical Installation
Preparation
To install the device, first remove the backplate.
Undo Screws
1. Unscrew the device.
GB PrimaX 12
3 Installation

Remove Device
2. Remove the device from the backplate by
lifting up the lower edge as shown.
Wall or Pipe Mounting
For pipe mounting a pipe mounting kit is necessary (→chapter8.6 Pipe Mounting Kit).
Install the Backplate
1. Use the two keyhole slots for attaching the
mounting plate to the wall. Use 6mm diameter
screws and suitable plugs.
2. For a wall installation use the backplate as a
template for drilling the holes for the two fixing
screws, for a pipe installation use the pipe clip.
3. Attach the backplate to the wall or the pipe clip
with M6 x 20 screws.
a. The hitch should point away from the wall
or pipe.
b. The straight edge of the backplate should
be at the bottom.
Attach the Device to the Backplate
4. Attach the device to the top of the backplate.
5. Fold down the device, till it is closed to the
backplate.
13 PrimaX GB
3 Installation

Fasten Device
6. Screw the device to the backplate.
3.2 Electrical Installation
Instructions for Electrical Connection
WARNING!
The device must be installed only in compliance with the applicable -regulations, otherwise the safe
operation of the instrument is not -guaranteed.
Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.
• Shielded cable for measuring devices is recommended.
• Always observe maximum cable lengths and cross-sections (→ chapter6.2 Cable Lengths and
Cross-sections).
• Water or impurities can penetrate the instrument through the cable. In hazardous areas, it is
recommended to install the cable in a loop just before entry into the instrument or to slightly bend it
to prevent water from entering.
The power supply is defined as 24VDC. If the input supply voltage at the terminal of the
transmitter is less than 10V, the device will shut down. The 24V power supply shall fulfill the
requirements for a PELV/SELV of EN60950.
Operating the PrimaX I version in hazardous areas requires an -intrinsically safe power
supply.
GB PrimaX 14
3 Installation

3.2.1 Electrical Connection - PrimaX P
Terminal PrimaX P
1 2 3 4
Figure 3 Terminal PrimaX P
(3-wire sensor)
1 2 3 4
Figure 4 Terminal PrimaX P
(4-wire sensor)
1 Power supply (+), 24V DC 1 Power supply (+), 24V DC
2 0 V DC 2 0 V DC
3 4–20mA (Signal) 3 4–20mA (Signal)
4 empty 4 Isolated ground
PrimaX P
Power supply (+) 24V DC
0V DC (-)
4–20mA(Signal)
Isolated ground
Figure 5 3-wire/4-wire connection - PrimaX P
1. Unscrew the interlock between cover and bayonet joint of sensor.
2. Unscrew the aluminum lid of the enclosure.
3. Unplug the 4-way terminal block.
The block is located behind a plastic cover above the display.
15 PrimaX GB
3 Installation

4. Unscrew clamping nut at the cable gland.
5. Put clamping nut on the cable.
6. Insert cable for connection into the device.
7. Connect cable to terminal.
Use a shielded cable with 3 wires for the 3-wire sensor.
Use a shielded cable with 4 wires for the 4-wire sensor.
8. Tighten cable gland clamping nut, check that cable cannot move within the cable gland.
9. Replace enclosure lid and secure the interlock.
3.2.2 Electrical Connection - PrimaX I
Terminal PrimaX I
1 2
Figure 6 Terminal PrimaX I
1 Power supply (+), 24V DC
2 4–20mA (Signal)
PrimaX I
Figure 7 2-wire connection - PrimaX I
Power supply (+)
4–20mA(Signal)
1. Remove plastic cover.
It is bolted with 4 screws.
2. Remove the 2-way terminal block.
It is located behind a plastic cover above the display.
3. Unscrew clamping nut at the cable gland.
4. Put clamping nut on the cable
GB PrimaX 16
3 Installation

5. Insert cable for connection into the device.
6. Connect cable to terminal.
a. Use a 2-wire shielded cable.
7. Tighten cable gland clamping nut, check that cable cannot move within the cable gland.
8. Replace plastic cover, tighten the screws and secure the interlock.
17 PrimaX GB
3 Installation

4 Operation
The device is factory-calibrated and delivered ready for installation. Each device is
configured and calibrated for only one specific gas or vapor.
Figure 8 Display overview
1 Measuring value/Menu//Text dimensions 5 Calibration
2 Units 6 Alive signal [flashing]
3 LOC, alarm indication [optional] 7 Maintenance
4 Signal for an active communication
4.1 Startup
During startup a self-test is performed and the output signal is set to the service current [default 3.0mA]. The
following information is displayed:
Display Test
The display shows all segments.
Note: The PrimaX P also shows all LEDs and afterwards the yellow LED is flashing during the
startup procedure.
Software Version
The display shows the firmware version.
GB PrimaX 18
4 Operation

Sensor
The display shows the configured type of sensor operating with each individual detector, e.g.: COMB
[combustible], CO, H2S.
Range
The display shows the measuring range predefined for the gas detector, e.g.: 100% LEL.
Countdown
The countdown for sensor stability is displayed.
Normal Operation
After countdown, the gas concentration [ppm, Vol%, % LEL, % UEG, mg/m3] is displayed. The heart
symbol flashes to indicate alive status.
4.2 Menu Sequence
Figure 9 Keypad - operating buttons
1 ESC button 3 ENTER button
2 UP button 4 DOWN button
To navigate in the menu sequence, 4 buttons are available.
In general:
1. Press ENTER to get access to a menu sequence.
2. Press UP or DOWN until the desired menu is displayed.
3. Press ENTER to get access to a menu.
4. Press ESC to cancel the process.
19 PrimaX GB
4 Operation

The following table lists the menu items. Detailed descriptions can be found in the chapters 4.3 Calibration,
4.4 Maintenance and Info and 4.5 Password.
Menu item Text Password?
M-01 Calibration Yes
M-02 ZERO Calibration Yes
M-03 Show Test Gas Concentration No
M-04 Setup Calibration Yes
M-05 Sensor Exchange Yes
M-06 LCD and LED Test No
M-07 Loop Test Yes
M-08 Device Info No
M-09 Sensor Info No
M-10 Changing the Range Yes
M-14 Deadband (Zero window) Yes
M-00 Reset Alarm Yes
4.3 Calibration
WARNING!
The test gases used for calibration are possibly posing a health risk. Proper ventilation or extraction has to be
ensured.
Failure to follow this warning can result in serious personal injury or death.
General
The calibration must be done at regular intervals in accordance with applicable national and regional
regulations.
The device is calibrated at the factory. Nevertheless, it is recommended to re-calibrate the device after
installation. The frequency of calibration depends on the duration of use and the chemical exposure of the
sensor. New sensors must be -calibrated frequently until it is clear from the calibration data that they have
stabilised. Suitable regulators and pipes for calibration must be used.
In case of high dust or water pollution is expected then the calibration intervals should be shortened.
Exposure to polar solvents may reduce the catalytic combustible gas sensors response to hydrogen and
hydrocarbons resulting in erroneously low readings for hydrogen and hydrocarbons. Calibration of the
sensors with a surrogate gas will not detect the reduction in response. Customers using the catalytic
combustible gas sensors to detect hydrogen and hydrocarbons in an environment that may contain polar
solvents must:
• Calibrate their sensors with the target gas. Do not use a surrogate gas for calibration.
• After exposure to polar solvents, the sensor must be recalibrated using the target gas, independent
of the calibration interval, and a gas/function check shall be performed 24 hours after calibration to
verify sensor response and accuracy.
GB PrimaX 20
4 Operation