Gas detector for offshore platform operations.

United Electric Controls, a leading producer of safety, alarm and shutdown technology, is demonstrating the latest version of its Vanguard WirelessHART gas detector, with new features of value for offshore platforms.

Magnetic mounting and adjustable pipe clamp options enable offshore operations teams to increase detection of toxic and combustible gases. High stability and high-resolution offerings improve reliability and accuracy of detection and the addition of carbon monoxide (CO) detection to existing wireless hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methane CH4 detection reduces cost of compliance with air pollution regulations.

"By eliminating the need to install and locate wiring, wireless technology reduces installation cost by as much as 90 percent and preserves valuable platform space. The new capabilities of the Vanguard WirelessHART detector make it even easier for platforms to benefit from wireless gas detection by giving them more flexibility to locate detectors on the platform, and the CO detection capability helps control one of the largest sources of offshore air pollution,” said Andrew Liptak, United Electric Controls Product Manager for Gas Detection.

The new Vanguard WirelessHART gas detector version also features its new FLEXmountTM installation, which augments Vanguard standard mounting with magnetic and universal options. The magnetic option enables installation on I-beams without drilling. The universal option uses adjustable clamps that enable installation on pipes from 3” to 12” in diameter, without a hot work permit.

Among the locations in which gas detection might be located on a platform are mud logging units, mud pit room, drilling derrick and mud gas separator, and well-test areas, or wellheads, where H2S is prevalent. Locating near gas flaring locations, venting storage tanks, dehydrators, and pig launchers can detect CH4 releases, and locating near burners can detect CO emissions.

Vanguard WirelessHART version 1.2 also includes the following new features:

• New WiHART communication accessories, which enable users to extend system range, get more out of their installed HART instruments by receiving WirelessHART data via 4-20 mA inputs, and further extend range with powered repeaters.
• A new touchscreen configurator, which streamlines onboarding of the gas monitor to a WirelessHART network.
• Upgraded diagnostic software, which detects and pre-warns of system faults, providing more visibility into sensor messages, more ways to code the status of the signals and fewer false alarms.

The Vanguard WirelessHART Gas Detector version 1.2 is available immediately, supporting interchangeable detection heads for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methane (CH4) as well as carbon monoxide (CO). Beta testing is now underway for ammonia (NH3) detection heads.