Diesel Smoke Opacity Meter

No. OTC 3405

And if they fail, it could mean fines, mandatory repair expenditures, a "fix it or park it" mandate-or all three!

Compliance with new SAE J1667 diesel exhaust emission standards doesn't have to be a costly headache. OTC has the solution, including compliance with the stringent New Jersey testing standards!

It's an environmental issue that isn't going to go away, and it can affect the bottom line of your operation.

A growing number of state regulator agencies are enforcing diesel exhaust emission regulations. Visible black smoke from buses and diesel trucks isn't being tolerated. Certain states have already adopted mandatory inspection and maintenance programs for diesels, and others are sure to follow their lead.

It doesn't end there. Some states have laws that allow citations to be issued for obviously excessive emissions. And, it's inevitable that the increasing national focus on environmental concerns will result in a significant expansion of mandatory inspection and compliance programs.

How can these new laws affect fleet operations?

Let's cite just one example. In Colorado, a stringent roadside smoke enforcement program is underway. The fine for repeat violators can approach $1,500 and the Highway Patrol can pull your vehicle out of service!

How will the full-flow Smoke Opacity Meter help your fleet cope with these new challenges?

The new, user-friendly instrument performs the tests presently required by state regulatory agencies for measuring diesel smoke opacity. And, as a microprocessor-based, software-driven unit, it can be updated, should state measuring requirements change.

Compliance with the law is just one issue. Obviously, excessive black smoke indicates a fuel-rich condition. The Smoke Opacity meter can verify that engine tuning has been properly performed, ensuring fuel-efficient operation.

Test capability:

This new full-function tester will accurately measure smoke samples and display results from the following test procedures:

A "snap idle", no-load test like those at roadside checking stations. The tester's solid-state mini computer displays up to five peak readings. The average peak score is automatically calculated and displayed.
A real time, steady flow test, under actual operating conditions, can be performed in our shop on a dynamometer. This test takes 10 readings over a 20-second time period and displays the five highest readings. An average of these readings is also displayed.
A variable flow, under-load test, which continually measures smoke opacity on a dynamometer. This test can also be run using the vehicle's brakes to create a load.

Operation is easy:

Using the telescopic pole (3 to 8 ft.) provided, attach the Smoke Opacity Meter's sensor assembly to the exhaust pipe. An adjustable magnetic holding device centers the test sensor on the exhaust pipe.
Start the vehicle's engine. Purge the exhaust pipe of smoke, and press the meter's "on" button. If performing a snap idle test, rev the engine from idle to full governed speed, hold for approximately three seconds, and release. Press "Go to Next Peak" and repeat the test three times. The meter will automatically average the peak score. That's it!

Compare product features:

Our Smoke Opacity meter features a microprocessor-based, software-driven design. Obsolescence is obsolete, since the unit can be updated with software only. Solid state electronics and rugged design ensure shockproof, accurate opacity readings.
"Help" messages appear automatically at every testing step, advising what to do next. Time spent referring to a manual is minimized.
"Peak" average is automatically displayed when three readings fall within 3% to 5% range.
Large 80-character LCD display with readings to nearest 0.1%. Readings at or ± .5% accuracy. Drift less than 0.5% per hour.
Rugged metal military-style housing and connectors ensure a waterproof connection for critical signals from sensor assembly.
Specially designed sensor head assembly ensures clean lenses for an extended period of time. When lens cleaning is required, a reading other that "0" will be displayed on the meter. Ready access to the lens cleaning is provided by sliding windows.
Powered by a rechargeable battery-pack. Low drain: 200-hour rating.
Meter has adjustable shoulder strap, simplifying one-man testing. Heavy-duty, meter-to-sensor cable is 20 feet in length.
Output port for optional printer. In certain states, a retained, hard copy record of test results for each vehicle in a fleet is mandatory. Such information is generally admissible in court when a violation is being contested.

Smoke opacity meter sets. Includes meter assembly, sensor head assembly, telescoping pole and magnetic exhaust pipe mounting adapter, 20-ft. cable assembly, shoulder strap, and operator's manual and storage case with compartment for components. Wt., 22 lbs., 2 oz.