The sensor box of the PEMS and LEMS sometimes needs to be packaged for transport to new project locations or Aprovecho for service. If the sensor box is not hand carried to its final destination, proper packaging techniques must be used, ecause this is a delicate and integral part of the PEMS or LEMS. See below for some examples of damage occurring during transport due to improper packaging, and solutions on how to pack the sensor box correctly.

Improper Packaging Techniques and Damage:

Figure 1: Sensor Box with Missing Main Panel Screws

Notice the missing screws on the left side of the main sensor box panel in Figure 1. All screws need to be installed during transport, to ensure the components attached to the main panel do not receive excess damage in transit.

Figure 2: Magnehelic Gauge Detached during Transport

In Figure 2, note the damage to the Magnehelic gauge that occurred during transit. Without any packaging material (foam, bubble wrap, etc.), the Magnehelic or Magnesense gauges often detach and can be damaged during transit. This can be avoided by including more packaging material when shipping the sensor box.

Proper Preparation of Sensor Box for Travel:

Figure 3: All Four Main Panel Screws Installed

In Figure 3, note that all four main panel screws are installed. Additionally, if work has been done before transit, make sure all main panel components (sensor enclosures, DAQ, power supply box) are fully installed. This will ensure that the delicate components do not experience too much vibration or damage during shipping.

Figure 4: Foam installed on top of Main Panel

To ensure that the two pressure gauges (Magnehelic and Magnesense gauges) are not detached and damaged in transit, place packaging material in between the gauges on the lid and the main panel of the sensor box, as shown in Figure 4. You can use packing foam, bubble wrap, or other similar packaging material.

If you have the original foam pieces and box in which the Sensor Box was shipped to you, please use them for any future shipping needs. However, if you do not have the original packaging, you can package the sensor box with additional foam, bubble wrap, or other packaging material in a box big enough to accommodate this packaging material and the sensor box. See Figure 5 below for an example of proper packaging technique.

Figure 5: Sensor Box Packaged with Additional Foam
If you have any further questions about transporting your sensor box, please contact the emissions engineer at Aprovecho.