Alphasense : Releases A-Series Photo Ionisation Detector (PID) Sensor

With a PID (Photo Ionisation Detector) the sample gas is exposed to deep ultraviolet light from a lamp. The emitted light ionizes targeted gases in the sample so they can be detected by the gas detector and reported as a concentration (ppb or ppm).
The Alphasense (UK) PID can be installed in portable and stationary gas monitors that accept either Alphasense Ltd CH-A3 or other manufactures compatible pellistor cells.
Thus providing complete PID capability in a package that has the same dimensional and electrical profile as Pellistors ( providing the electronics input circuit is designed to take the sensor’s output range). This opens up an incredible variety of environmental and safety applications in industrial, commercial and residential markets.
The Alphasense PID sensor is offered in two models. They are virtually insentive to humidity changes, providing unparalleled performance in a variety of application such as, PID – A1 has a linear dynamic range of 50-ppb to 6000-ppm (Isobutylene), PID-AH has a linear dynamic range of 5-ppb to 100-ppm (Isobutylene), The sensor include a detector with 10.6eV Lamp, Lamp driver, Amplifier Circuitry and removable and replaceable Electrode Stack & Particulate Filter.
Arthur W. Burnley, Sales and Marketing Director stated :”Alphasense commitment is always to provide the best product it can in the market for its customers. We constantly improve, develop and introduce new products and the recently released PID range is an excellent example of this. Our policy is to introduce ebest by design sensors, not eme too product. These PID sensors have already been fully tested and adopted by a number of OEM and are beginning to replace our competitor products. A major benefit is the much lower cost for replacement lamps and the ability to replace the electrode stack at a nominal cost. Alphasense maintains its commitment to customers by continuing to supply the highest quality sensors with on-time delivery every time allied to exemplary support.”

Source : Environmental Technology newspaper

The DGTec-ex New Gas Detector for Zone 0

The DGTec-ex from Detector Oy (Finland) is a new generation of digital gas detector for explosive atmospheres (zone 0, 1 and 2). The detector is fitted with an electro-chemical sensor. It is designed to monitor the presence of either oxygen, hydrogen or toxic gases in the process of food, drug and petrochemical industry – all parameters defined according to the customer’s specification!
Other environments with Ex-classifications in which this reliable measuring technology can be used are in i.e. hospital, laboratories, compressor rooms and water treatment plants. Due to the fact that the sensor element is target specific it will only react with the measured gas. This reduces radically the risk of false alarm. The biggest advantage with the digital measuring technology is achieved when the detector are connected to the innovative SCAN-series gas controllers.
Wireless monitoring and reporting
Wireless setting of the parameters as well as calibration of the new digital gas detector is done by using the IR Communicator (IRC). The data is stored in the IRC. If needed a report with data of i.e. the last calibration and settings of the equipment with serial numbers can be printed out for authority use.
Before the delivery the detector DGtec-ex is calibrated at the factory for the right measuring range according to the monitoring needs of the customer. Since the detector is ATEX-certified only personnel authorized by Detector Oy is entitled to calibrate and to service the detector.

Gas Detection Digital TA-2016MB-WM Wall Mount Controller

New and award Winning Gas Detection Digital Modbus RTU Wall Mount Controller, TA-2016MB-WM designed and manufactured by Mil-Ram Technology (USA) features a 16 channel system utilizing RS-485 Modbus RTU Multi-drop smarter Transmitter (Sensor) Network. Four relays (SPST), 10 Amp. are common to all channels. Select latching or non-latching function. Low, Mid, High, Fault relays. LED alarm indicators. Local buzzer.

Option : remote Relay Modules, Modbus enabled, can be installed at any point on RS-485 network. Up to 16 modules per network and up to 16 different zones. Conveniently install relays at point of use, which eliminates long wiring runs between relays and field installed alarms. Remote Analog Output Module provides discrete analog 4-20mA output (16 bit resolution) per channel. Remote Digital Output Module provides RS-485 ModBus RTU interface to Centralized System (e.g. PLC). Analog Input Module to connect standard 4 -20 mA Transmitters where traditional analog installation is preferred. Backlit 16 characters x 2 lines LCD display. Auto-scrolls to provide channel data and fault conditionals. Indicates alarm status. Simple non-intrusive setup using magnet. Auto – Configuration wizard provides rapid channel setup without special knowledge. Nema 4x weatherproof polycarbonate enclosure. Continuous Diagnostics Explosion – proof enclosure, 8-channel wall mount controller, external alarm stations and wireless are all options that are available.

Use with any Mil-Ram Model TA-2100MB smarter Gas Detection Transmitter, Toxic/LEL/VPC/Oxygen, which detect hundreds of different gases and vapors.

source : Environmental technology newspaper

New Open Path Gas Detectors Eliminate False Alarm

Senscients (USA) new ELDS Series Open Path Gas Detectors (OPGD’s) feature truly false-alarm free flammable and toxic gas detection. ELDS gas detectors, scheduled to begin shipping in the first quarter of 2009, solve a problem common in the oil and gas industry: unreliable readings causing false alarms that cost millions of dollars in lost revenue annually. Safety systems triggered by the detection of potentially hazardous gases typically shut down processes and facilities to prevent catastrophe. But when a false alarm triggers the system, productivity is lost while the alarm origin is investigated, false alarm status is verified, and processes are slowly brought back on line.

Using Enhanced Laser Diode Spectroscopy (ELDS), Senscient ELDS detectors automatically ignore interference from any non-target gases and vapors such as organic surfactants, alcohols, diesel fumes and oil mist or atmospheric elements such as rain, fog, and snow that can cause spurious alarms for traditional NDIR or LDS-based open path gas detection systems. This makes Senscient ELDS detectors especially appealing in safety applications where greater 90% uptime performance is required in environmentally challenging installations.

Senscient ELDS OPGD detectors, using Harmonic Fingerprint technology and other advanced features, will initially be available for the detection of either Methane-only gas, or Simultaneous Methane and Hydrogen Sulfide gases in the same system with absolute selectivity. Instrument capabilities and configurations for additional critical hydrocarbon and toxic gases will be introduced later in 2009.

Senscient ELDS Series 1000 and 2000 detectors in a separate transmitter and receiver configuration are capable of establishing coverage from 5 to 40 meters, and up to 200 meters, depending upon the target gas and the required Minimum Reliably Detectable Quantities for the target gas of choice. A target gas reading from anywhere along its beam triggers either an isolated single or dual analog or digital communications signal to a remote safety PLC.

“Our ultra-sensitive and false alarm-free ELDS technology provides the operator with the absolute certainty of a gas leak as well as the earliest warning response of any other methane or hydrogen sulfide detection technology on the market today, providing precious time for remedial action to shut down plant processes and evacuate personnel only when necessary,” according to Jean Berthold, Senscient CSMO and VP.

Senscient ELDS Series 1000 and 2000 gas detectors are designed to meet or exceed the most current toxic and flammable gas detection global safety standards for offshore oil drilling platforms, FPSOs, onshore petrochemical facilities and oil refineries

source : Environmental technology newspaper

The TX5926 and TX5927 In-Line Vortex Gas Flow Sensors Introduced

Trolex (UK) has introduced an in-line version of its vortex gas flow sensor/transmitter. Designed for in line flow monitoring of air, gases and vapours in pipelines, the TX5926 and TX5927 models are made to the usual Trolex exacting standards. The two models provide the option of either a 1” or 2” nominal bore and applications for these gas flow sensors range from ventilation system, cooling systems, and plant protection through to high accuracy transfer metering, environmental control and monitoring as well as for process extraction plants. They are built for use in power plants, process plants, pharmaceutical production, biogas plants, landfill sites as well as cement manufacture and the mining industry – anywhere where gas flow detection in pipes is required.

The new in-line vortex gas flow sensors are certified intrinsically safe, Group I and Group II for use in potentially explosive atmospheres to EURONORM standards. The vortex flow velocity sensing system provides high accuracy, flow measurement free from drift and mechanical deterioration. As the stream of gas passes through the sensing zone, vortices are generated by a transverse strut or ‘Bluff Body’ positioned in the flow path. The vortex frequency is proportional to the flow velocity and this frequency is detected by an ultrasound beam accurately located downstream of the strut. This information is processed by a specially designed software program to provide user configurable information display and a conditioned linear output signal.

Both the TX5926 and TX5927 have programmable information display for zero, span, signal offset, volumetric calculations, engineering units, turn down, damping, display suppression, fault mode, contrast and signal clamp. There are no moving parts on the product and the self-cleaning vortex sensing head gives ultra long-term stability. The units also offer configurable signal turndown and response linearity in true engineering units as well as a volumetric flow calculation facility.

source : Environmental technology newspaper

The New G400-MP2 Pump Gas Detector

New Pump communicates with gas detector. The new G-400-MP2 Pump from GfG (germany) communicates with the gas detectors G450/G460. This interaction allows fault indication via the detector display. Low battery, blocked sampling line or interrupted power fault modes are shown on the display and activate different visual and audible warnings.

Gas samples can be taken from distances of up to 100 m with considerable low – pressure performance – the safe solution for confined space measurement. The G400-MP2 is the only attachable pump available which may remain fixed to the detector. When the pump is turned on, the diffusion inlets are covered and the measurement results are not affected by air flows.

An additional filter system in the sampling line protects pump and sensors from dust and moisture. When the pump is turned off, the gas detector can be operated as usual. The diffusion inlets now allow all gases to enter the sensor chamber.

The G400-MP2 is operated on its own power supply, independently from the gas detector, i.e. the pump does not affect the operational time of the G450/G460. The pump power supply allows at least 10 hours of continuous operation.

In addition, the performance test approval of the G460 and G450 includes methane, propane, hexane and n-nonane, so the user is protected against the whole range combustible gases that may be encountered. This means better protection, and improved safety. Together with a huge range of sensors, accessories and options, the G460 and G450 provide a comprehensive solution for all gas detection applications.

source : Environmental technology newspaper

Electrochemical, Solid State Electrochemical and Thermocatalytic Gas sensors

Oxygen sensors usually work according to the amperometric method, in which an electrolysis flow is measured which is proportional to the oxygen concentration or the partial pressure. These sensors frequently have the disadvantage that the electrolyte material used is changed by the electrochemical reaction taking place. The sensor therefore has a limited working life, which is usually about one year.

The new electrochemical oxygen sensors from MST Intertrade (Germany) do not suffer from this disadvantage. They use a new type of electrolyte material, whose electrochemical reaction does not result in the passivation of the electrode. The working life quoted by the manufacturer is therefore at least 10 years (20.8% O2 at 20 ‘C). The sensitivity is reduced within three years by less than 15%, and after 10 years by a maximum of 30%. The sensors are available in two versions, with measuring ranges from 0% to 30% O2 or 0% to 100% O2. They can be sued in a very wide working temperature range -35’C to +50’C. The sensors show no cross-sensitivity with most gases. At a temperature of 20’C for example, 10% CO, 30% CO2 and 30% H2 do not interfere with the measurement. The company also offers micro-sensors, which are used particularly in the area of work safety for portable gas measuring devices.

These sensors are used for example in the mining industry, in order to warn miners of too low oxygen concentrations or dangerous methane concentrations. With a working life of at least three years, these sensors are also extremely durable.

Alphasense 'A Series' NDIR Sensor - Second to None

Alphasense's contemporary designed miniature CO2 infrared sensors are self contained, plig in sensors with integrated optics contained within standard sized miniature (20.0 mm) gas sensor housing. There are no moving parts within the sensors. An internal temperature sensor is included to enable the temperature to be monitored at the detectors, there by providing the best means of compensating for temperature effects, including ideal gas law corrections. In order to derive a signal from the Alphasense infrared sensors. the lamp should be pulsed at a constant frequency and duty cycle and power should be applied to the on-chip FET transistors. The signal can then be extracted from the on-chip FET transistor sources and the internal sensor temperature can also be monitored continuously.
Arthur W. Burnley - Sales and Marketing Director stated : " Alphasense has a broad and rapidly growing range of customers. They are demanding different techniques and sensing capabilities of the highest quality to further their own growth and developments. The introduction of these NDIR sensors is part of a much wider release schedule from alphansense that also included a unique PID sensor, developments utilising the latest Nano-technology and exotic toxics in a variety of formats especially our unique PID sensor, developments utilising the latest Nano-technology and exotic toxics in a variety of formats, especially our unique and highly succesful D-Series of truly miniature sensors. " Alphasense maintains its commitment to customers by continuing to supply the highest quality sensors with on-time delivery every time allied to exemplary support.

NDIR Technology Sensor for CO2 or HC Detection

IRNET is the base of the new family of infrared sensors developed by N.E.T. (Italy). Using a patented optical cavity combined with latest NDIR Technology the result is a high performing, robust sensor for hydrocarbon and Carbon dioxide monitoring with an estimated lifetime of over 5 years. The wide operating temperature (-40'C to 50'C) and low power consumption makes it suitable for fixed gas detection instrument. It is designed to fit most instrument makers in the standard 20 mm and 32 mm diameter sizes.
IRNET is a available in two version : the "dummy" 7 pins version, IRNET-7, that provides a "raw" signal (active-reference) and an internal temperature signal or the "intelligent" version, IRNET-P, with incorporated signal linearization and temperature compensation, suited for manufactures without any specialist knowledge in IR technology. The IRNET-P sensor contains all the necessary optics and Both IRNET-7 and IRNET-P are available for hydrocarbon detection, including methane, in % LEL and % volume and for CO2 with detection level in ppm, low % volume and high % vol.

MX4 iQuad Portable Gas Detector from One to Four Gases

Industrial Scientific (USA) introduces the MX4 iQuad. Able to detect from one to four gases, the MX4 is the latest addition to the company's line of iNet-ready gas detectors. iNet offers an alternative to buying and maintaining gas detectors. It is a software-based service that increases safety by providing visibility into gas detectors. Instead, they subscribe to iNet and receive Gas Detection as a service.
Using the MX4 with iNet is a better way to do gas detection. Subscribers avoid the common problems of owning gas detectors. At the same time, users are protected by the MX4's reliable and user friendly features. The MX4 is small, rugged and simple to use. A rubber overmold covers its polycarbonate housing to protect the MX4 from high-impact bumps and drops. The housing has also been third-party and certified IP66 and IP67. This ingress protection rating indicates that the MX4 is dust-tight and resistant to both water jets and submersion. The MX4 uses a combination of three alarms. Ultra bright LED's, a 95 dB audible alarm and a powerful vibrating alarm all warn users of hazardous gas levels.

Low-Cost OEM Gas Sensors Features Improved Communications

Edinburgh Instruments (UK) has a well-deserved reputation in the arena of infra-red gas sensing technology, with a track record spanning over 20 years. The company is continuing to build on this reputation with the introduction of it's next-generation OEM sensor, named the Gascard NG.
Utilising established and proven technology from the existing Gascard range of instruments, the Gascard NG not only addresses existing customer requirements, being backward-compatible with the current Gascard model, but it also provides for future extendibility and functionality through improved communication and configuration options. The main highlights of the Gascard NG are : Backward-compatibility with the current generation of Gascard detectors ; Automatic temperature and pressure correction via on-board sensors ; On-board RS232 commnication ; TCP/IP communications protocol option ; Field-replaceable IR source ; Windows - compatible data logging software ; Enhanced configuration options for future extendibility to incorporate additional gas detection technologies. Initially released in CO2 ppm & low per cent volume configurations, the range has now been extended to include all the different measurement range for CO2 as well as the other target gases covered by the current Gascard model, such as CO and CH4.

The MICRO IV Flexible Single Gas Detector

The MICRO IV from GfG (Germany) is the optimum solution for personal protection from toxic gases and vapours. It is very small and light and a crocodile clip secures it safely on a belt or pocket. The housing is extremely shock and scratch resistant. Of course the MICRO IV is approved for use in explosion endangered areas. The plug in sensors are pre-calibrated and can be replaced easily. The MICRO IV recognises the new sensor type, measuring gas, detection range, calibration curve as well as alarm threshold values. Only one minute after sensor replacement the MICRO IV is ready for operation.
The MICRO IV provide 3 programmable alarm thresholds for toxic gases. The warning occurs when the programmed values are exceeded. For toxic gases the MICRO IV provides additional alarms for exceeded STEL or TWA values. The audible alarm (95 dB(A)) of the MICRO IV is noticeable even in noisy environments. The three alarm levels can be distinguished by different frequencies. Two extremely bright flashing LEDs indicate gas alarm. The alarm levels are distinguished by different flashing frequencies. The data logger saves up to 200 events. Alarm thresholds A1, A2, A3 as well as STEL and TWA are stored together with time and gas concentration. Data is stored continuously, old data is overwritten.
The MICRO IV provides an infrared interface for data transfer via PC, the data interface, for quick device configuration or via dockingstation, which allows execution of the daily bump test as well as calibration / adjustment automatically is a very short time. For monitoring gases in manholes, sewer, rooms and containers before entering, a motorised pump can be attached easily. The high performance pump takes samples over long distances and is activated by a single button. The pump has its own, autonomous power supply and does not affect the run time of the MICRO IV. The MICRO IV detects a wide range of toxic gases, hydrogen and oxygen by means of electrochemical sensors.

The 4CF+ Carbon Monoxide Sensor and The 4HS+ Hydrogen Sulfide Sensor

City Technology (UK) has released the new generation of two of its most popular gas sensors, the 4CF+ carbon monoxide sensor and the 4HS+ hydrogen sulfide sensor. The existing 4CF and 4HS sensors are widely used by the leading global manufactures of single and multi-gas detection instruments for life safety applications. The latest designs build on the feed back gained from the tens of millions of devices in the field to offer significantly reduced calibration times, improved reliability, reduced sensitivity variation between devices and complete backwards mechanical compatibility with previous generations.
A number of design improvements and highly automated volume manufacturing and test techniques have contributed to the new sensors enhanced performance. All pins are gold plated, lowering contact resistance with the socket and improving reliability in use, particularly in situations where the instrument is likely to be subjected to shock or vibration. The ultrasonic welding of the internal current collector wires has been improved to give a higher quality, more uniform weld, improving reliability and reducing early failures. At various stages during the manufacturing process, 24 different parameters are tested, each stage of the assembly process is optically monitored and automated part placement reduces variations between devices, ensuring error free assembly.
A 100% leak test on the electrode sealing is an integral part of the manufacturing process, resulting in a significant increase in field reliability by eliminating one of the more common failures models found in sensors manufactures by others. More than ten million units have been shipped to date; the overall return rate from the field is an exceptionally low 0.006%, mainly because of the pre-emptive testing carried out at every stage of manufacturing. The latest generation promises even better reliability.

The EC410 Oxygen Sensor

The latest addition to e2v's (UK) broad range of gas sensors. The EC410 is a RoHS complaint oxygen sensor that contains no lead, has a greatly increased life span and is significantly lower mass compared to other similar product. The EC410 Oxygen Sensor is the only RoHS compliant oxygen sensor available on the market today. It has a longer life expectancy than comparable lead based sensors, it is extremely light-weight with very low power consumption at a standard 4 series size. e2v also offers the option to personalise and brand.

The BM25 Tranportable Multi Gas Area Monitor

Industrial Scientific Corporation (USA) have announced that is has launched the BM25 Multiguard transportable multi-gas area monitor. Capable of monitoring from one to five gases through diffusion or sample draw, the BM25 Multiguard packs the benefits of a fixed-system area monitor into an easily transpotable, yet rugged instrument. Designed for team protection or area surveillance, the unit is most suitable for perimeter monitoring, rig overhauls and mobile or short-term work in areas where fixed detection systems are not suitable.
There are 17 interchangeable "smart" sensor options available for the BM25, making the system easily adaptable to a variety of applications and industries. When the BM25 detects a hazardouz level of oxygen, toxic or combustible gas, the top-mounted beacon sends a flashing, bright signal in all directions while emitting a powerful, 103 dB siren alarm. Capable of monitoring up to five gases simultaneously, the BM25 can be used as a stand-alone monitor or wired so that alarm signals transfer from one unit to another. This setup can create a safety perimeter around a detected atmospheric hazard, or transmit a manually initiated emergency signal over a wide area.
The BM25 comes standard with a NiMH battery pack offering 100 hours of continuous run time. Long-term area monitoring is possible in hazardous locations with an intrinsically safe trickle charge power supply. Also standard are STEL and TWA readings and nearly four months of data logging capacity for a five gas configuration.

BM25 Multiguard Tranportable Multi Gas Area Monitor

Industrial Scientific Corporation (USA) have announced that is launched the BM25 Multiguard transportable multi-gas area monitor. Capable of monitoring from one to five gases through diffusion or sample draw, the BM25 Multiguard packs the benefits of a fixed-system area monitor into an easily transportable, yet rugged instrument. Designed for team protection or area surveillance, the unit is most suitable for perimeter monitoring, rig overhauls, and mobile or short-term work in areas where fixed detection systems are not suitable.
There are 17 interchangeable "smart" sensor available for the BM25, making the system easily adaptable to a variety of applications and industries. When the BM25 detects a hazardous level of oxygen, toxic or combustible gas, the top-mounted beacon sends a flashing, bright signal in all directions while emitting a powerful, 103 dB siren alarm. Capable of monitoring up to five gases simultaneously, the BM25 can be used as a stand alone monitor or wired so that alarm signals transfer from one unit to another. This setup can create a safety perimeter around a detected atmospheric hazard, or transmit a manually initiated emergency signal over a wide area.
The BM25 comes standard with a NiMH battery pack offering 100 hours of continuous run time. Long-term area monitoring is possible in hazardous locations with an intrinsically safe trickle charge power supply. Also standard are STEL and TWA readings and nearly four months of datalogging capacity for a five gas configuration