This guide describes what gas monitors and detectors are, how gas monitors and gas detectors work, the types of detecting and monitoring solutions, and why gas monitoring and detecting systems are important.
What is a gas monitor/gas detector?
A gas detector/monitor uses different technologies to measure and indicate the concentration of a specific gas or gas in the air. Fixed Gas detectors are typically two or four wired devices. There are some that can be solar-powered or battery-operated so they can operate even in the event of a power outage. Gas detectors/monitors are used to prevent exposure to toxic or dangerous gases or fire. Fixed gas detection instruments are manufactured as stationary units that can be used independently or linked to create a comprehensive protection system. If the device detects a determined amount of a specific gas, a series of audible and/or visual alarms will notify personnel of the danger.
How does a gas monitor work?
Gas monitors work through technologies designed to detect combustible or toxic gases. Some gas monitors only have one sensor, but many newer gas detectors have the capabilities to include both types of sensors. Toxic gases are measured through electrochemical sensors or metal oxide semiconductors. Combustible gases are measured through catalytic or infrared sensors. The proper function of the sensors depends upon maintenance, inspection, and calibration.
Types of Gas Monitors/Detectors
Let’s take a look at a few of the most common types of gas monitors/detectors.
Advanced Gas Monitor
Innovating technologies are changing the future of gas detection. The ULTIMA® X5000 Gas Monitor is designed for oxygen, toxic, and combustible gases. MSA XCell® gas sensors with TruCal® technology offer calibration cycles for up to 18 months (local calibration respected). The gas transmitter’s advanced, multi-lingual OLED display is easy to read and the unique touch-screen interface makes it simple to navigate.
Mobile Gas Detector
When your process shuts down during a power outage, natural disaster, or turnaround there is still the potential for dangerous gas to be present. Protect employees with TechStar’s mobile gas detection solution that can be easily placed at a moment’s notice. The mobile systems utilize the advanced technology of the MSA Ultima X5000 Gas Monitor and are solar-powered, easy to store when not in use, and fully customizable to meet your needs.
Infrared Gas Monitor
Infrared gas monitoring systems are beneficial because they are cost-efficient, capable of remote monitoring, and designed to detect minute traces of a number of gases. The stable, durable Chemgard Photoacoustic Infrared Gas Monitor is highly customizable, able to be mounted in a convenient location if the area to be monitored is inaccessible, and expandable to monitor up to 8 locations. An easy-to-read display shows gas concentrations and 3 levels of alarms.
Gas Detector for Extreme Environments
Environments with extremely cold or hot temperatures require detectors specifically designed for these conditions. The S500 is the ultimate gas detector for extreme environments needing to detect oxygen, toxic and combustible gases. It utilizes XCell® gas sensors with TruCal® technology to extend calibration cycles up to 18 months. Dual sensing capability doubles the sensing power.
Gas Monitor System
Many environments require a connected monitoring system. The Ultima X Series Gas Monitors with X3 Technology bring the power of multi-sensing, signal boost, and ModBus output to the Ultima X line of gas monitors. The patented sensor disconnect-underpower feature allows all sensors to be replaced in hazardous areas without area declassification.
Why Gas Monitors are Important
Industrial settings often have the potential for the release of harmful gases. Dangerous gases can be flammable, combustible, or toxic. If these gases enter the airspace and are not detected and contained, they can pose a risk to the health and life of anyone in the area. Most industrial situations require gas detectors to keep workers and processes safe. However, there is no one-size-fits-all gas detection or gas monitoring system. Some environments require frequent monitoring, sometimes one gas needs to be monitored, and other times many gases need to be monitored.
MSA Safety is a global leader in the development, manufacture, and supply of safety products that protect people and facility infrastructures. The MSA gas monitor and an MSA gas detector solutions are the best because they utilize the latest technology and are backed by over 100 years of experience keeping people safe.
TechStar is your manufacturing representative for instrumentation, automation, and analytical products, service, and training, including MSA gas detectors and monitors. To acquire the optimal, high-quality gas detector/monitor for your application, visit TechStar today.