Industrial / Air Sampling Pumps
Operating Instructions for SKC Sidekick Air Sampling Pump
Comprehensive operating instructions for the SKC Sidekick Air Sampling Pump (models 224-50MH, 224-51MTX, 224-52MTX). This guide covers setup, battery charging, low flow sampling, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- The SKC Sidekick is an air sampling pump. To start, charge the battery fully, open the clear cover to access controls, and use the on/off switch. For low flow sampling, a CPC and adapter are required. p. 12, 14, 16
Key actions
- Charge the battery pack p. 14
- Adjust flow rate p. 15
- Replace particulate filter p. 10, 25
First start
- Charge the battery pack fully using an SKC approved charger. p. 14
- Open the clear anti-tamper cover to access the controls. p. 14
- Press the on/off switch to the ON position. p. 14
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Problems and fixes
Pump flow faults continuously
Check for obstructed tubing, excessive filter loading, or blocked particulate filter.
p. 20
Pump will not operate
Check for faulty battery pack by trying a known good battery pack.
p. 20Maintenance and reset
- To recover from a low battery or flow fault shutdown, press the on/off switch twice to switch the pump off and then on again. p. 15, 16
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Range | 750 - 3000 ml/min | Standard constant flow operation. | p. 6 |
| Battery | NiMH 2.0 Ah, 4.8 V | Rechargeable battery pack. | p. 6 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Diagram of the Sidekick Pump p. 12
- Getting Started p. 14
- Low Flow Sampling p. 18
- Troubleshooting p. 20
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick Guide
The SKC Sidekick is a portable air sampling pump designed for occupational health and safety applications. Before first use, ensure the battery pack is fully charged. The pump controls are located under a clear, stiff anti-tamper cover. To operate, use the on/off switch to start and stop the pump. For low flow sampling, specific adapters and a constant pressure controller (CPC) are required.
Intrinsic Safety
The Sidekick MTX pump range (224-51MTX, 224-52MTX) complies with EU ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (Zones 0, 1, & 2). Ensure the pump is not damaged, as cracks in the battery enclosure can invalidate safety. Do not charge the battery in hazardous areas.
Getting Started
Charging the Battery: Use only SKC approved chargers (Part Nos. 223-203A or 223-103A). Charge fully before first use (ideally overnight). The charger will switch to trickle charge after 16 hours.
Controls: Access controls by opening the clear snap-down cover. Use the on/off switch to start the pump. Use the flow adjust screw (with the supplied small bladed screwdriver) to set the flow rate. Do not force the screw.
Low Flow Sampling
To operate at flows between 5 and 500 ml/min, you must use a low flow adapter and a Constant Pressure Controller (CPC).
- Ensure the CPC and adapter are disconnected from the pump initially.
- Connect the pump to a calibrated flowmeter and set the pump flow to approximately 1.5 l/min.
- Turn off the pump, disconnect the flowmeter, and connect the CPC and low flow adapter.
- Set the final low flow rate using the throttle valve on the adapter.
Battery Care and Maintenance
Battery Maintenance: To maintain capacity, cycle the battery once a month by running the pump until low battery shutdown occurs, then fully charge it. For long-term storage, charge fully and store in a cool, dry place (0-30°C).
Filter Replacement: The particulate filter is located under the hose connector. Replace every 2-3 months or if it appears dirty (Part No. P40370).
Troubleshooting
If the pump fails to operate or flow faults occur:
- Battery won't charge: Check charger and battery pack connections.
- Pump won't operate: Check for a faulty battery pack.
- Flow faults: Check for obstructed tubing, excessive filter loading, or blocked particulate filter.
- Low battery shutdown: Fully charge the battery.
Technical Specifications
- Flow Range: 750 - 3000 ml/min (constant flow); 5 - 500 ml/min (with adapter).
- Battery: NiMH rechargeable, 2.0 Ah, 4.8 V.
- Operating Temperature: -20°C to +40°C.
- Enclosure Rating: IP20.
Practical help
Common problems
Pump flow faults continuously
Check for obstructed tubing, excessive filter loading, or a blocked particulate filter. Ensure only one filter is fitted.
Battery pack will not charge
Verify the charger is working with a different battery pack or test the battery pack with a known good charger.
Pump stops due to low battery
Ensure the battery was fully charged before the run. If the issue persists, the battery may be at the end of its life.
Before use
- Charge the battery pack fully before first use.
- Verify the intrinsic safety rating meets site requirements (for MTX models).
- Ensure the particulate filter is clean and correctly installed.
- Check that the tubing is not crimped or blocked.
- Access controls under the clear anti-tamper cover.
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Specs in practice
- ATEX Certification
- Certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (Zones 0, 1, 2).
Images and diagrams
- The pump controls are located under the clear snap-down cover (No. 13).
- The flow adjust screw (No. 3) is used to set the flow rate.
- The LCD screen (No. 1) on the 224-52MTX displays elapsed time and fault indicators.
Model compatibility
- Use only SKC approved chargers (223-203A or 223-103A).
- ATEX certification is invalidated if using the battery eliminator.
- Do not interchange components between UL and ATEX certified variants.
Manual page author
Michael Turner
Technical manual editor