The Rogers DiClad 870 and 880 are halogen leak detectors that have become the go-to instruments for leak testing across a wide range of industries. Known for their sensitivity, reliability and ease of use, these rugged radiometers deliver repeatable, accurate results for measuring low levels of halogens.

Overview of the DiClad 870/880

The DiClad 870 and 880 were introduced by Rogers Corporation in the early 2000s as an upgrade to the popular DiClad 860. The 870 and 880 models have the same core features and differ only in their measurement ranges:

• DiClad 870 – Measures halogen concentrations from 0.1 ppm to 100 ppm
• DiClad 880 – Measures halogen concentrations from 1 ppm to 1000 ppm

Both instruments utilize a proportional counter tube and a diffusion sampling system to detect halogen gases like F-22 refrigerant, SF6, and halocarbon-based leak detectors.

Key Features and Benefits

• Sensitive and accurate – Can detect leaks down to 0.1 ppm to ensure tight standards are met
• Fast response – Reading stabilize in seconds to minimize test time
• Simple operation – Clear LED display and just two buttons make testing easy
• Rugged and reliable – Durable design for heavy industrial use with minimal downtime
• Flexible – Can be used for sniff testing and continuous area monitoring
• Affordable – Provides value for performance

With these capabilities, the DiClad quickly became the go-to leak detector for electrical utilities, industrial refrigeration, automotive manufacturing, and other fields.

Technical Specifications

The DiClad 870 and 880 share the same core design with some variation in their measurement parameters:

Specification	DiClad 870	DiClad 880
Detection Method	Halogen Specific Ionization	Halogen Specific Ionization
Gases Detected	R-22, R-134a, Halocarbon refrigerants, SF6, Leak detector solutions, Other halogens	R-22, R-134a, Halocarbon refrigerants, SF6, Leak detector solutions, Other halogens
Measurement Range	0.1 ppm to 100 ppm	1 ppm to 1000 ppm
Resolution	0.1 ppm	1 ppm
Accuracy	±10% of reading >1 ppm ±0.2 ppm <1 ppm	±10% of reading >10 ppm ±1 ppm <10 ppm
Response Time	<10 seconds to 90%	<10 seconds to 90%
Display	3.5 digit LED	3.5 digit LED
Alarms	Visual LEDs	Visual LEDs
Sampling	Internal diffusion	Internal diffusion
Battery Type	9V Alkaline	9V Alkaline
Battery Life	16 hours	16 hours
Operating Temp	32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)	32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C)
Dimensions	7.5” x 3.2” x 1.6” (19 x 8 x 4 cm)	7.5” x 3.2” x 1.6” (19 x 8 x 4 cm)
Weight	12 oz (340 g)	12 oz (340 g)

Calibration

The DiClad 870/880 detectors come factory calibrated and do not require any calibration by the user. Their design provides stable, drift-free operation over time. However, Rogers does recommend periodically checking calibration by exposing the unit to a known concentration of test gas.

If readings are off by more than the accuracy specification, the unit can be returned to Rogers for recalibration and servicing. This helps ensure ongoing reliable and accurate leak detection.

Applications and Industries Served

With their versatile capabilities, DiClad 870 and 880 finds use across many industrial fields that rely on tight leak detection and measurement standards.

Refrigeration

The DiClad is commonly used to check refrigeration systems in:

• Industrial processing plants
• Cold storage warehouses
• Supermarkets
• Convenience stores
• HVAC systems

It can detect leaks down to 0.1 ppm, meeting the tight leak standards for these systems using refrigerants like R-22 and R134a. Both sniff testing and continuous area monitoring are conducted.

Automotive Manufacturing

Automotive plants use SF6 and refrigerant gases in various production processes. The DiClad 870/880 easily identifies any leaks from hoses, piping, storage tanks, etc. in the plant. Its fast response is ideal for quickly checking components on production lines.

Electrical Utilities

SF6 gas is used extensively in circuit breakers, switchgear and transformers found in substations and power plants. A popular application for the DiClad is sniff-testing this equipment for any SF6 leaks during maintenance. Its high sensitivity meets the stringent leak detection requirements for SF6 insulated equipment.

Industrial Gas Producers/Resellers

Companies that produce or resell refrigerant and SF6 gas rely on the DiClad to check piping systems and gas cylinders for leaks before shipment or use. It helps ensure product quality standards are maintained.

Research Labs

R&D facilities find the DiClad useful for monitoring any leakage from fume hoods, vacuum systems, process equipment, and other research tools that may use halogen gases. Easy operation makes it a versatile lab instrument.

Other Applications

• Landfill gas monitoring
• Marine vessel testing
• Hazmat emergency response
• Firefighter training
• Leak detection training

Buying Considerations

Those looking to purchase the DiClad 870 or 880 should consider a few key factors:

Required Sensitivity

The 870 model detects down to 0.1 ppm while the 880 detects down to 1 ppm. So for ultra-sensitive leak detection, the 870 would be required. For most refrigerant gas applications, the 880 range is sufficient.

Single Gas vs. Multi-Gas Detection

The DiClad detectors can only measure halogens. If you require a multi-gas instrument that can detect and measure a wider range of gases beyond just halogen leaks, a 4, 5 or 6 gas detector would be a better option.

Purchase Cost vs. Rental Options

For some users that only periodically need leak detection, renting the DiClad for short term use can be more cost-effective than purchasing. However, for regular daily use, buying the unit is recommended for the best ROI.

Accessories

Rogers offers various accessories like sampling hoses, carrying cases, calibration kits and batteries that can enhance the capabilities and convenience of the DiClad. Determine if any accessories suit your specific needs.

FAQs

What is the warranty period for the DiClad?

The DiClad 870 and 880 come with a 2 year warranty on parts and labor. The detectors are built for years of use if properly maintained.

What gases can the DiClad units detect?

They are specifically designed to detect halogen gases like refrigerants (R134a, R22, etc.), SF6 gas, halocarbon-based leak detector solutions, and other halogen compounds. They cannot detect other gases like O2, CO, NOx, etc.

How long do the batteries last in the DiClad?

The device uses one standard 9V alkaline battery. Battery life is around 16 hours of continuous operation. Having spare batteries on hand is recommended for longer testing days.

Can the DiClad units be intrinsically safe for hazardous locations?

No, the standard DiClad 870/880 are not intrinsically safe for use in explosive gas environments. Rogers does offer an IS version called the DiClad 880-IS for hazardious locations.

Does the DiClad require much maintenance?

Very little maintenance is needed other than periodic calibration checks. The detectors have no user serviceable parts. If issues arise, they need to be sent to Rogers for repair and servicing to maintain performance and the warranty.

Conclusion

With their combination of sensitive leak detection, rugged construction and easy operation, the DiClad 870 and 880 deliver proven performance for critical halogen leak testing across industrial, commercial and research applications. These rugged radiometers live up to their reputation as workhorse detectors that can handle daily use in tough environments. Their capabilities and reputation make them a trusted choice among leading leak detection experts worldwide.