VPM-2018 Handheld Explosive and Narcotics Trace Detector
The VPM-2018 uses Ion Mobility Spectrometry to identify trace explosives and narcotics from a wipe sample, down to 200 picograms for both TNT and cocaine. Explosives and drugs are detected on the same machine, including mixed samples, and the library covers TNT, PETN, C4, Semtex and TATP alongside cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl, with new samples addable as required.

Key benefits
- Explosives and drugs on one machine, including mixed detection
- Detection limit of 200 pg for TNT and 200 pg for cocaine
- Selectable analysis time from 2 to 32 seconds
- One-touch startup with automatic readiness
- Over 5 hours continuous operation and over 10 hours standby
Problems it solves
- Separate machines for explosives and narcotics double the cost and the queue
- Visual and canine screening cannot confirm a specific substance
- Long warm-up times delay the start of a shift
- Detection records are lost without sufficient storage and networking
Who it is for
- Checkpoint teams screening for both explosives and narcotics
- Customs and border units needing an auditable trace result
- Operations requiring networked detectors reporting centrally
Application scenarios
- Airports, train stations and customs checkpoints
- Border control and customs enforcement
- Law enforcement and defence operations
- Fire departments and military deployments
Technical features
- Ion Mobility Spectrometry detection principle
- Solid particulate or liquid wipe sampling
- Intelligent algorithms for rapid alarm
- Audio, visual and concealed alarm formats
- Ethernet, USB and wireless data transmission
Specifications
| Detection Principle | Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) |
|---|---|
| Sample Collection | Solid particulate or liquid wipe sampling |
| Explosives Detected | TNT, HMX, Tetryl, Nitroglycerin, Ammonium Nitrate, Black Powder, DNT, PETN, Octogen, Picric Acid, GNA, C4, Semtex, TATP, Nitromethane, Comp B and others |
| Drugs Detected | Cocaine, heroin, THC, methamphetamine, ketamine, morphine, pethidine, MDMA, ephedrine, methadone, fentanyl, oxazepam and others |
| Sensitivity | nanogram to picogram range; TNT 200 pg, cocaine 200 pg |
| Preheating Time | 10 minutes or less |
| Analysis Time | 2 to 32 seconds, selectable |
| Alarm Format | Audio, visual and concealed |
| Display | 4.3-inch colour LCD touchscreen, Chinese and English |
| Data Storage | not less than 300,000 detection records |
| Communication | Ethernet, USB and wireless |
| Input Voltage | AC 110 V / 220 V, DC 24 V at 50/60 Hz |
| Battery | 18 V lithium, over 5 hours continuous, over 10 hours standby |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 55°C |
Figures are those published by the factory for this model. Where a value is shown as TBC it is not published, and we will confirm it with the factory before you order rather than estimate it.
Customisation options
- New explosive and drug samples can be added to the library as required
- User-selectable analysis time
- Concealed alarm mode where a visible alert is not wanted
Compared with other models in the range
The handheld hazardous liquid detector identifies a bulk liquid through its container. The VPM-2018 works on trace residue from a wipe, which is how it catches someone who handled explosives or drugs even when nothing is being carried at that moment.
Use guide
- Allow up to 10 minutes preheating before the first sample of a shift
- Take a wipe sample of surfaces, hands or packaging
- Select the analysis time between 2 and 32 seconds for the throughput you need
- Use concealed alarm mode where an overt alert would compromise the check
- Export records over Ethernet, USB or wireless for the case file
Product images


Where this product is used
Part of Explosive and Narcotics Trace Detectors · typically specified for:
VPM-2018 Handheld Explosive and Narcotics Trace Detector FAQ
Does it detect explosives and drugs on the same machine
Yes, including mixed detection, with new samples addable to the library.
How sensitive is it
Nanogram to picogram range, with a stated detection limit of 200 pg for TNT and 200 pg for cocaine.
How long does an analysis take
2 to 32 seconds, selectable by the user.
How long can it run on battery
Over 5 hours continuous and over 10 hours standby on an 18 V lithium battery.
How many records does it store
Not less than 300,000 detection records, exportable over Ethernet, USB or wireless.
Can the alarm be silent
Yes, concealed alarms can be selected alongside audio and visual.
Can you supply consumables and wipes
Yes. Ask us on WhatsApp for the consumables list and re-order intervals for your usage.
Quotation for the VPM-2018 Handheld Explosive and Narcotics Trace Detector
Send your destination port and quantity. We will come back with price, lead time and what documentation the factory can supply for your market.




