Thermal Stressing
Operation of an infrared gas sensor at elevated temperatures for a fixed duration stabilizes the optical and electronic components before final calibration. The ndir gas bench burn in process accelerates the initial aging of the infrared source and the detector to ensure that any early failures occur in the factory. This step is mandatory for ensuring long term reliability in the field.
Optical Alignment
Stressing the mechanical assembly helps to settle the mirrors and filters into their permanent positions. During the ndir gas bench burn in, the expansion and contraction of the sensor housing can cause small shifts in the optical path. These shifts must be allowed to complete before the final accuracy of the sensor is measured.
Stability Verification
Continuous monitoring of the sensor output during the process allows the manufacturer to identify units that show erratic behavior. A sensor that does not reach a stable baseline after the ndir gas bench burn in is considered a high risk for future drift. This screening process removes the infant mortality population from the shipping lot.
Rejection Metric
Strict limits on the allowable drift during the final hours of the test determine which units are suitable for sale. Only the most stable benches proceed to the final calibration station.