You can perform an air sample yourself using X-Zam Labs simple to use testing kit. The process is as easy as filling a Scuba or SCBA cylinder and takes about 10 minutes to perform and fill in the paperwork. The sample is then shipped back to X-Zam labs in Miami Lakes, Florida which is backed by ISO-17025 accreditation. Return shipping is not included in the purchase price due to widely varying customer locations. You can use any standard shipping method to return the kit without any special requirements. Only a low-pressure sample (less than 40 psi) is captured in the cylinder even though you may be feeding the cylinder with high pressure air (e.g. 2500 psi). After the sample is analyzed at the lab you will be emailed a certificate detailing the sample specifications as compared the sampling standard noting if it has passed or failed.
Step 1: Choose the air testing standard that is right for you.
If you’re not sure what you should use please send us an email and we can direct you to the best standard for your application. Listed below are some examples.
CGA Grade E (G-7.1, 2018) This standard is used for most Scuba Diving operations in the US.
OCA (IANTD/IAND) This standard is used for Oxygen Compatible Air where the user would be partial pressure blending air with high purity oxygen to create Nitrox or Trimix gas.
NFPA 1989 (2019) (Grade D) This is the most current standard used for Fire Fighting SCBA use.
NFPA 1989 (2019) (Grade E) This is the most current standard used for Fire Fighting SCBA + Scuba use.
Step 2: Order the test kit on the website and a sampling kit will be shipped out.
You can order either a single use test kit or also choose a sampling program of Semi Annual or Quarterly. If ordering one of the programs the kits will be shipped out automatically at the given intervals.
Step 3: Make note of the details of the air compressor you are testing.
After ordering the test kit we will contact you to obtain the compressor information ( Make, Model, Serial # ). We will also verify what company or personal name you would like printed on the certificate. This information is presubmitted to the air lab so once your sample is received back at the lab it moves through the process quickly.
Step 4: Once the kit is received you will perform the air sample.
The kit includes step by step instructions inside the box and there is also an online video below that will show you the sampling process. The process involves allowing air to flow through the sample cylinder for 3 minutes. After you connect the cylinder and turn on the air flow, you should hear air releasing from the vent valve on the side of the cylinder. Although you are feeding the sample cylinder with high pressure air ( 2500 psi is recommended ) the inlet orifice and vent valve allow only a low-pressure air sample inside the cylinder. After 3 minutes you will disconnect the sample cylinder and a low-pressure sample ( 40 psi or less ) is trapped inside. Due to the low pressure there are no restrictions on shipping the sample kit back by any carrier. ( USPS, UPS, FedEx ) After the sample is completed you will fill out the information form that will be included with the kit. Alternatively you can scan the QR code on the bottom of the cylinder and fill out the info online. When asked for the Agent Name use the name Filter Techs.
Step 5: Mail the kit back and wait for your certificate.
We recommend sending the kit back by a method that will provide a tracking number. Once the kit is received back at the lab it will process through in 2 – 3 days and you will be emailed a certificate showing the parameters of your sample listed against the chosen standard. If the sample fails for any reason you will be provided with one additional sample kit at no extra charge to resample the compressor after you have made adjustments or repairs as needed.
Tips for filling out the form.
You can scan the QR code on the bottom of the sample cylinder to fill out the information form online.
Question #4 asks for the type of filter system. If you have a replaceable filter with drying air media inside then you will mark “Desiccant”. This is the most common filter system on high pressure (2000 psi – 6000 psi) air compressors. If you have a low-pressure (120 psi) compressor system that has a refrigerated air dryer then mark “Refrigerated”. If your system has neither (such as surface supply diving unit) then mark “None”.
