Detecting combustible gases
Many gases found in the industry are combustible and might even form an explosive mixture in air. The same applies to the oil exploration and production industry. Safe handling of combustible gases requires utmost care and best technology in order to avoid damage to assets or even danger to human life. Detection of combustible gases requires reliable instrumentation capable to work even in the roughest environment.
Important sensor parameters
When looking for a gas detection system, these parameters should be looked at
- High sensitivity from the ppm – range up to percent volume range (typically LEL = Lower – Explosion – Limit)
- Selectivity to combustible gases
- High stability against mechanical, electrical and chemical stress
- the longest possible service life
- a low energy consumption
- Simple and fast calibration at the longest possible intervals
- ease of use
- favourable pricing
Different measuring principles
The detectors of gas detectors use different principles such as catalytic, infrared or semiconductor. They all have specific advantages and disadvantages that determine their suitability for certain applications. These should be carefully looked at before deciding for a system.
The right combustible gas detector for each application
A professional measuring device detects flammable gases. You want to know which percentage of the lower explosion limit has already been reached. The absolute concentration is not the interesting parameter. You want to know whether the existing mixture is explosive or not. This is why the upper end of the measuring range is usually at 100 % LEL, but the alarm thresholds are already set to 10 or 20 %, so that there is enough time to take measures in order to prevent an explosion. In modern production plants safety instrumented systems such as gas detectors are integratied into the process control system. The smooth functioning of the alarm chain is very important. Reducing false alarms to an absolute minimum is also an important criterion.
Measuring flammable gases with Compur gas detectors
With the Statox 501, Infratox, Statox 503, MC IR, LC IR, ARE and HRC, Compur covers all areas in which the measurement of flammable gases is required. Which device is best suitable for which purpose should be clarified in a detailed consultation with the experts from the supplier, which has been developing and manufacturing products for similar applications for more than fifty years.
Dr. Josef von Stackelberg
Managing Director COMPUR MONITORS GmbH & Co. KG
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