TSI P-Trak 8525 Ultrafine Particle Counter 0.02 to 1 micrometre

Finding sources of ultrafine particles, one reading per second

The TSI P-Trak 8525 is a handheld condensation particle counter (CPC). It draws air through a chamber where isopropyl alcohol vapour condenses on microscopic particles, growing them into droplets large enough to be detected optically. It counts particles from 0.02 to 1 micrometre at up to 500,000 particles per cubic centimetre and refreshes the reading once a second.

Survey mode is the everyday tool for tracing where ultrafine particles come from, for example leaks around filters, combustion sources or process emissions. The manual also covers 10-second averaged Sample points and timed Data Log runs. For related dust and IAQ meters see Portable Test & Measurement.

Operating modes and features

• Survey mode (live 1-second readings), Sample mode (10-second averaged point, annotated) and Data Log mode with Log Modes 1 to 3.
• Memory for 470 single points and up to 141 separate tests; up to 1,000 hours of data at 1-minute intervals.
• Daily zero check with the supplied HEPA zero filter; tilt protection that stops the pump after 4 seconds of tilt.
• RS232 output at 9600 baud 8-N-1 and TrakPro software; headphone jack for audible tracing.

Technical specification

Counting performance

Memory, power and consumables

Environment and size

What comes in the kit and what is consumed

The base kit lists the P-Trak counter, telescoping probe 801622, sample tube 801615, inlet screen assembly 801616, battery holder 801623, six AA cells, carrying case 801613, alcohol fill capsule 1083070, alcohol cartridge 801624, sixteen 30 mL alcohol bottles 2918011, spare wick kits, HEPA zero filters 801625, RJ45/DB9 computer cable 800563, USB to RS-232 converter 1102138, calibration certificate, manual and TrakPro software.

Plan for consumables: alcohol wicks with screens (8023, pack of 10) and more alcohol. The manual says alcohol from pharmacies is too impure, requires 99.5 % or better from TSI or an approved supplier, and excludes problems from unapproved alcohol from warranty.

Operation and care notes

Recharge the alcohol wick at least daily or before each use and run the Daily Zero Check at least once a day with the zero filter fitted; the zero check cannot be done with the telescoping probe attached. Keep the instrument level: tilt for more than 4 seconds raises a tilt error, blanks the display and stops the pump, and prolonged tilting can flood the optics and need factory cleaning.

Keep CO sensors in other TSI IAQ monitors away from the P-Trak because isopropyl vapour can affect them. Isopropyl alcohol is a hazardous material and the manual includes a safety data sheet in Appendix B. There are no user-serviceable parts around the laser.

Use in Gulf industrial and building settings

Ultrafine particle surveys are used in cleanrooms, around filter housings and ducts, near welding and combustion sources and in diesel exhaust areas. The specified operating range stops at 38 C, which is below many Gulf summer ambient temperatures, so use it in shaded or air-conditioned areas and avoid leaving it in a hot vehicle; check readings against the manual before field use at high ambient temperatures.

Options and spares

Optional accessories named in the manual are a 115 V AC adapter and a portable printer. Spares include alcohol wicks with screens (8023), the Tygon sample tube 801615, inlet screen assembly 801616 and alcohol bottles 2918011. TrakPro software provides download and analysis.

Selection and installation notes

Aerosol and particle instruments are selected from the particle size, the concentration range and the sampling method of the survey. Zero the instrument with the filter before each run, keep the inlet and the sampling line clean, use the correct flow and calibration factor for the aerosol and keep the instrument calibration and any service according to the maker schedule and your quality system. Record the location, the time and the activity with each result.

Information needed for a quotation

Send the full model code, the quantity, the delivery location in Oman or the GCC, the intended use and any accessories needed, so that the complete package can be quoted together.

Documents and supply information

The manufacturer data sheet is attached to this page and should be read together with the project specification and the site risk assessment before a purchase is confirmed. Ratings, standards and dimensions are quoted as printed on that sheet. Lead time, stock position and certificates available with the shipment are confirmed in the quotation, and we supply to Oman and the wider GCC region for industrial, utility and building services projects.

Frequently asked questions

What particle size does the P-Trak 8525 count? 0.02 to 1 micrometre, up to 500,000 particles/cm3.

What liquid does it use? 100 % reagent grade isopropyl alcohol, 99.5 % pure or better; about 1 mL per hour is consumed.

What is the maximum operating temperature? 100 F (38 C), per Appendix A of the manual.

Why does it stop when tilted? Alcohol can seep from the wick and flood the optics; after about 4 seconds of tilt it shows an error and stops the pump until levelled.

Is Seven Star LLC a TSI distributor? No. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier; send an RFQ from Muscat or anywhere in the Gulf for this model.

Documents and quotation

Official TSI manual (P/N 1980380 Rev P, May 2022) attached for reference. Seven Star LLC will confirm variant, accessories and consumables when you send an RFQ; no price shown.