Flammable gas detection sensors.

Crowcon Detection Instruments uses NevadaNano's Molecular Property Spectrometer™ (MPS™) sensors in their new Gasman flammable gas detection products. The new systems allow employees to rely on a single device to identify and alert them to the presence of 19 potentially dangerous gases in their work environment.

“NevadaNano is proud to provide the sensor technology for Crowcon’s ground-breaking Gasman personal monitors," said Ralph Whitten, President, and Member of Board of Directors, at NevadaNano. “Our MPS sensors deliver unprecedented accuracy in detecting multiple flammable gases simultaneously, creating a safer work environment and protecting employees’ health and safety.”

NevadaNano offers a variety of gas detection sensors for flammables, all of which deliver unprecedented reliability and accuracy. Unlike traditional sensors, a single MPS sensor accurately reports 0-100% LEL across 19 flammable gases, including hydrogen, with a single factory calibration and no field maintenance over their lifetime. This capability addresses the need for a flexible sensor platform suitable for complex industrial environments and offers life-saving accuracy in environments with blended combustible gases.

Integrated, real-time measurements and built-in compensation for temperature, pressure, and humidity ensures superb accuracy of the MPS flammable gas sensors. Gas concentration readings are accurate across the wide environmental range, including rapid environmental transients, delivering best-in-class false-positive accuracy. The company’s MPS sensors are inherently immune to drift, decay, or poisoning.

“Our reliable portable gas monitors now have the industry-leading sensor technology that your applications demand. Gasman flammable portable monitors with MPS sensors help reduce fleet maintenance, increase operational up-time, and lowers total cost of ownership,” said Ed Clapham, Portables Product Manager of Crowcon Detection Instruments. “More importantly, the innovative technology provides peace of mind by protecting workers in virtually any multi-gas environment.”

The Gasman with MPS is ATEX Zone 0 approved, allowing operators to enter areas where an explosive gas atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods without concern. In addition, the use of the MPS sensor quadruples the battery life as compared to legacy solutions, protecting workers for more extended periods. In addition, the Gasman with MPS is hydrogen (H2) ready. A single MPS sensor accurately detects hydrogen and common hydrocarbons without recalibration in a fail-safe, poison-resistant solution.

@Crowcon #nevadanano #PAuto 

Flammable gas detection.

Crowcon Detection Instruments has unveiled an important innovation in fixed gas detection with the launch of the world’s first fixed detector with a Molecular Property Spectrometer ™ (MPS™) sensor. The Nevada Nanotech MPS™ sensor has been added to its Xgard Bright fixed gas monitor, which is set to drive up standards in gas detection and safety, while driving down the cost of ownership.

Developed by of NevadaNano, the MPS™ sensors represent the new generation of flammable gas detectors. MPS™ can detect up to 15 flammable gases (further gas species being characterised) at once, quickly and to a very high degree of accuracy. 

Until recently, anyone who needed to monitor flammable gases had to select either a traditional flame sensor detector with a pellistor calibrated for a specific gas (and multiple pellistors in multi-species environments), or an improved capability sensor using infra-red (IR) which also requires a separate sensor to be calibrated for each gas. 

While these remain very helpful solutions, they are not always ideal. For example, both types of sensor require continual calibration and bump testing and pellistors may be damaged by contaminants (known as ‘sensor poisoning’) or harsh conditions. In some environments this means that sensors must be continually changed, which is costly in terms of both money and downtime.  Also, IR technology cannot detect hydrogen, and both IR and pellistor detectors sometimes incidentally detect other (i.e. non-calibrated) gases, giving inaccurate readings that may trigger false alarms.

In contrast, MPS sensors quickly detect multiple gases simultaneously with no need for in-field calibration. Because the Xgard Bright’s MPS™ sensor is precise, does not drift and does not require a correction factor, it swiftly, clearly and correctly informs the user how close the ambient gas levels are to the lower explosive limit (LEL). This is referred to as the ‘True LEL™’ reading.

What is more, MPS™ sensors cannot be poisoned and require no calibration or bump testing throughout their lifespan, which generally exceeds five years. They are self-monitoring and will automatically alert the user to any malfunction. That spares users the cost of labour, peripherals and downtime, and means that workers no longer enter hazardous areas to check on the gas detectors

It also offers the possibility of huge savings for sectors that find pellistor sensors costly and prone to failure, but which have not, until now, had any realistic alternative.

@Crowcon #PAuto 

Portable gas detectors upgrade.

Crowcon Detection Instruments has launched new functionalities for its Gas-Pro portable detectors.

A new gas sensor for hydrogen cyanide (HCN) (0–30 ppm with resolution of 0.1 ppm) has been launched by Crowcon. This will be particularly useful for those working with electroplating, nitrile production and ship fumigation and in chemical plants and gold mining.

The addition of their TWA Resume function, which retains TWA logs even when the device is switched off (e.g. during breaks or meals) and thus ensures workers are never over-exposed to harmful gas.

In-field pellistor changes for methane, hydrogen, propane, ethane, acetylene (0–100% LEL, with resolution of 1% LEL). By allowing in-field pellistor changes, Gas-Pro detectors give users the flexibility to conveniently test for a range of flammable gases, without needing multiple sensors or detectors. What is more, they can continue to calibrate using existing methane canisters, saving time and money.

Ed Clapham, Product Manager for Crowcon, is pleased with the new features and notes their value to end users. ‘We’ve always been proud of the Gas-Pro range because it offers a genuine one-stop solution for a wide range of oxygen, flammable and toxic gas hazards,’ he explains. ‘But the new features make it even better. The TWA Resume function, for example, which was originally only found in our T4 model, makes a great contribution to workplace safety that simply isn’t found in many other detectors. And while hydrogen cyanide is not a well-known gas, it is exceptionally toxic, so the new sensor will be vital in many settings.’

@Crowcon #PAuto #Safety

New gas sensors.

New gas configurations for use with its fixed-head, addressable Xgard Bright gas detector, extending the versatility of the innovative one-stop solution detector for a wide range of gas hazards are being released by Crowcon.

The New Sensors:

• PID sensor 0–1000ppm for isobutylene in safe areas. • IR sensors for methane (0–100% LEL in hazardous areas) and propane (0–100% LEL in hazardous areas). • Electrochemical sensors for ammonia (0–50ppm and 0–100ppm in safe areas) and chlorine (0–5ppm and 0–10ppm in safe areas).

These sensors are in addition to the new Xgard Bright sensors added just a couple of months ago, and have potential for use in several new industrial sectors and applications. Crowcon staff believe that the latest batch of sensors will prove particularly useful in wastewater, education, medical, tunnelling, food and drink and chemical plants.

William Allum, Product Manager for Crowcon, puts it, ‘Crowon’s Xgard Bright is a one stop solution for the detection of flammable, toxic and oxygen gases. We are happy to announce this new phase of gas releases for the Xgard Bright, since these sensors are likely to be used in new applications and industries. Over time we will release even more sensors, allowing even more sectors to benefit from this flexible and practical detector.’

@Crowcon #PAuto

Gas detection controllers.

The modular design of Crowcon’s new GM series controllers delivers versatility since each controller is built to the user’s specification. This includes the choice of input and output types and channel quantity, as well as mounting type and power supply options. The controllers can also be upgraded by adding additional functionality at any time after the initial installation.

The controllers can be specified for traditional 4-20mA analogue communications if that is what the user already works with. However, they can also be supplied with digital addressable communications, which allows multiple fixed detectors to be linked together on a single communication loop. This drastically reduces the cabling and labour costs, as well as the time taken to complete the overall system installation. Users can also choose to mix the two to enjoy ultimate flexibility.

There are three models in the new range. The GM16 provides up to 16 channels, GM64 has 64-channel capacity and the GM128 offers up to 128 channels. The large number of channels enables users to complete applications through one controller, regardless of whether they need a small or large number of channels.

With the GM controller series targeting hazardous gas monitoring applications, the easy-to-use navigation and configuration features improve safety by minimising the time users need to spend in potentially hazardous locations.

Furthermore, the ability to view data and configure the controller remotely improve safety even further. All data and functions can be accessed from the controller front panel or the information can be fed to a remote fixed computer screen or mobile device with internet capability.

Versatility extends to the various formats in which the GM series can display data, helping users to keep track of the information that’s most important for them. All live channels can be displayed simultaneously for a constant check on the system status, with different colours used to highlight alarms. Data can also be displayed in zones, with a separate channel assigned to each zone and up to eight zones displayed at once. In addition, data trends can be displayed for the most recent 24 hours or 30 minutes for a specific channel.

Users can change the display options with a simple scroll button at the controller or with a click via tabs on the remote view via internet browser.

#PAuto @Crowcon @ArmitageComm

Complete system visibility.

Crowcon has developed an HMI solution that creates complete system visibility. The solution can run alongside existing DCS/SCADA/PLC systems or mimic panels which are used to monitor wider system views, often incorporating other sensors including security, flow, smoke and fire.

Their product manager William Allum explains, “This solution enables our customers to view data from multiple panels from one central screen. Due to the system having the ability to store alarm and event logs, users can quickly understand the symptoms of a problem as they view the information and identify the exact location.

Vortex & Gasmaster HMI employs license activated software operated from a dedicated touchscreen panel. As the system is modular, users specify the required number of input converters to link the number of controllers in their system. It monitors up to six Vortex panels or racks, or up to 10 Gasmaster controllers operating on one system, so either Vortex or Gasmaster.”

The display shows gas levels from all detectors from the chosen panel simultaneously and enables the user to easily adjust or test a system. It is now possible to see the details of each controller within a system, including alarm indications, as well as the complete configuration and location of each gas detector.

Users can also see possible trends within the alerts. For example, an alarm in a specific location may be triggered on a regular basis. This is due to the development of a one-hour ‘trend visibility by gas’ function.

Crowcon HMI can be configured in various different setups:
• Connection locally
• Connection via network
• Connected directly via HMI enclosure

The Crowcon HMI can connect with the controller via RS-485 MODBUS or ethernet cable which are capable of long distance connectivity.

The large multi-lingual display shows gas levels from all detectors simultaneously and enables you to easily adjust and test the system. It operates stand-alone or can interface with any alarm device and control system using a selection of outputs. All the information you need about your gas and fire detectors is available, at a glance on Gasmaster’s compact, versatile and powerful gas detection control pane. Simple to operate with a comprehensive selection of input and output functions.

Vortex’s flexible control package can be customised to meet site requirements without the need for extensive cabling. The rack and panel comprise the essential input, output and controller modules which are mounted on a DIN rail. An optional display module is available in panel-mounting and 19" Rack formats. This configuration can be incorporated into a variety of specialist enclosures, such as 19" format or those with high ingress protection.

@Crowcon #PAuto #HMI

Flammable & toxic gas connection.

Crowcon has developed an addressable fixed-point gas detector with local display which offers both flammable and toxic gas detection and oxygen monitoring.

Crowcon’s Louise Early explains, “We originally developed the Xgard Bright specifically for China four years ago and due to its success, particularly in regard to its addressable functionality, we have now released Xgard Bright internationally.”

Lowering the cost of installation, the three-wire addressable implementation reduces cabling requirements. The large OLED display allows users to work with Xgard Bright during install, calibration and routine maintenance without the need to open the housing.

Xgard Bright offers analogue 4-20mA and RS-485 Modbus signals as standard, along with an alarm and fault relay and optional HART communications. It is suited to both small and large installations using point-to-point or multi-drop methodologies. Target applications include oxygen depletion in laboratories (educational, medical and research), toxic and flammable gas monitoring across the automotive, steel, chemical, food and beverage industries.

“We have already achieved significant success with Xgard Bright in China, across the waste water, gas distribution and construction industry and as a result, took the decision to extend our regional certifications, widening the suitability of this successful addressable gas detection solution”.

@Crowcon #PAuto #Safety

H2S Sensor.

Crowcon has developed a high-temperature hydrogen sulphide (H2S) sensor to work alongside its XgardIQ fixed point detector and transmitter to support the oil and gas industry in the Middle East.

Ala Ayoub, Regional General Manager at Crowcon, explains, “The Middle East oil and gas industry contends with high levels of H2S in their gas production operation. More recently, oil production is experiencing increased risks from H2S gas, as they extract more, heavier oils. Employees working in these extreme conditions need reliable, effective equipment to help minimise risk.”

Detection of H2S and protection of workers is a high-profile safety issue at well heads, and further down the pipeline (unless the gas or oil has been ‘sweetened’). Hydrogen sulphide is a highly toxic gas which is lethal at 1,000 parts per million (or 0.1%). Traditional H2S sensors do not survive well in the hot, dry environments, increasing the risk of an accident.

The company has developed a sensor capable of operating at 70°C, improving on electrochemical technology to produce a sensor to retain moisture levels, so preventing evaporation of the electrolyte, even in the harsh Middle Eastern climate.

Crowcon's new HT H2S sensor works with the XgardIQ. The optional remote sensor housing means the sensor can be installed for optimal leak detection, while the transmitter's display screen and push-button controls are located for easy and safe to access, up to 15m away.

The technology reduces expensive maintenance downtime. A combination of high-temperatures and low humidity can cause the electrolyte to dry out in the traditional sensor design, impairing performance so they must to be frequently replaced. This incurs excessive costs in replacement sensors and in the time and manpower. The new sensor avoids this occurrence.

@Crowcon #PAuto #Oil #Safety

Remote sensor assembly improves safety.

In response to an industry-wide drive towards improved worker safety and reducing maintenance downtime, Crowcon has developed a remote sensor assembly to work alongside its XgardIQ fixed point detector and transmitter.

The remote sensor assembly allows the gas sensor to be located where gas leaks are most likely to happen, possibly including air ducts, tanks and storage locations. Meanwhile, the XgardIQ transmitter, with its display screen and push-button controls, is located where it is easy and safe to access, up to 15m away.

“Employees are put at increased risk when conducting routine maintenance in difficult-to-access locations”, explains Fiona Macrae, Marketing Manager. “We wanted to develop a solution which helps minimise this risk and, at the same time, reduces expensive maintenance downtime.”

The new XgardIQ remote sensor assembly allows sensors to be located in the best location to monitor for gas leaks while the detector/transmitter is located where it is safe and easy to access This technology will appeal to health and safety professionals, engineers and support facilities managers operating within the oil and gas, chemical, petro-chemical, utility and power industries

XgardIQ is suitable for use in many areas across a site. XgardIQ is compatible with sensor modules for a variety of gases, including flammable, toxic and oxygen. XgardIQ auto-configures to the appropriate gas type, range, unit and alarm level, the details of which are stored in the smart sensor module. This removes the need to train operatives to use different detectors. Along with its simple functionality, including push button controls, warning and screen messages and easily navigable menu, XgardIQ helps minimise a site’s training needs.

XgardIQ already provides significant safety benefits over conventional gas detectors. Sensor re-calibration on conventional fixed-point gas detectors usually requires physical disassembly of the transmitter. XgardIQ sensor modules can be simply and quickly “hot-swapped” without a hot-work permit, either for replacement with a new pre-calibrated replacement module, or for temporary removal to a safe area for calibration. Avoiding the need for a hot-work permit, can also prevent hours or even days of delay to the work.

The novel features of XgardIQ also simplify commissioning, as it can be installed without a sensor module, protected from the elements using a sealed ‘dummy’ module. Pre-calibrated sensor modules can then be supplied immediately prior to commissioning, often months after the initial installation date. The XgardIQ transmitter will automatically configure to the correct gas-type, scale and alarm levels when a sensor module is inserted. This not only protects the sensor module from being damaged, but also ensures that users get the longest possible service life from consumable sensor types, such as galvanic or electrochemical sensors.

 #Safety @Crowcon #PAuto  @NapierPR

Good healthy brewing in New Zealand.

Many do not fully appreciate that CO2 is toxic. This is possibly because it occurs naturally in the atmosphere, albeit at very low concentrations – around 400 parts per million (ppm). It is used or produced in the brewing and pub industry both during production and in the bar or restaurant, and we even produce it when we breathe out. We breathe CO2 out because it is toxic, of course, and great care is needed when working in environments where it may be present at elevated levels.

“Products which are specifically designed to detect hazardous gases are widely used within the oil and gas, marine and steel industries, and a similar picture is developing in the brewery industry,” says Crowcon’s Melina Ho. “So, when Manukau-based DB Breweries approached us to provide a gas detection solution, we were delighted to support.”

Melina explains: “Brewery industry employees who enter drinks storage areas without adequate gas monitoring equipment are potentially entering a life-threatening environment,”

Crowcon was initially asked to provide a quotation by the company’s health and safety advisors, a trend which is increasing within the food & beverage industry as the industry is currently upgrading its gas detection policies. This, along with the New Zealand Government’s initiative to reduce workplace accidents in the manufacturing sector, is driving demand for a gas detection solution with food and beverage as it proactively addresses the potentially catastrophic outcomes of workers becoming exposed to dangerous levels of CO2 gases.

If workers are equipped with personal monitors before they enter a risk zone, gas levels can be monitored. In DB Breweries case, Crowcon’s single-gas Gasman CO2 IR was selected largely due to its infrared sensors. Infrared sensors tend to have a faster response time and longer active life than other CO2 sensor technologies, as well as performing better at the lower temperatures that can be encountered in cellars. As part of the gas detection solution, service and calibration of instruments is provided.

CO2 is heavier than air. It is a hazard throughout the manufacturing process, right through to packaging and bottling, and even to the bars and eating establishments where the drinks are served. If CO2 escapes, it will tend to sink to the floor, where it can form deadly, invisible pockets. It collects in cellars and at the bottom of containers and confined spaces, such as tanks and silos.

DB Breweries spokesperson, Hamish Clentworth, explains: “One of the key factors in selecting Crowcon was the flexibility of its device. The ability to select the alarm function to best suit the working conditions whilst ensuring safety, is paramount, as it ensured minimal disruption when our sales teams visited bars, restaurants or retail outlets. Furthermore, the response time when increased CO2 levels are present was impressive, which meant our employees are alerted of the possibility high levels of CO2 in good time.

“Crowcon is one of the most popular choices across New Zealand and Australia, specifically within our industry and this proven track record was a deciding factor in our selection. Ultimately, our company has a duty to protect our employees from exposure to hazardous CO2 gases. Early detection can be the difference between life and death.”

Even when gas detectors are deployed; maintaining protection for every employee can be a challenge as CO2 can be present in several areas; gas detection devices must be an integral part of an employee’s daily routine.

Crowcon concludes, “We understand DB Breweries has made it company policy that employees use personal CO2 detectors at all times and we are hopeful this vital safety practice will be adopted more widely across the entire brewing and wine industry in the future.”

@Crowcon #PAuto #FoodDrink

Expert advice at show!

Visitors to Ashtead Technology’s stand (R45) at Sustainability Live will be able to speak with experts from leading instrumentation manufacturers, Crowcon and RAE Systems, at this month’s event.

Ashtead’s own team of environmental monitoring instrumentation experts will be joined by Crowcon on Tuesday (20th) and by RAE Systems the following day (21st) on Stand R45 at Sustainability Live 2010, held at Birmingham NEC (GB).

Popular rental instrumentation from Crowcon includes the Crowcon LaserMethane Mini Gas Leak Detector while the MiniRAE 3000 from RAE Systems is the most advanced handheld volatile organic compound (VOC) detector on the market.

Alan Hasson, Ashtead Technology General Manager, said: “We are delighted that specialists from Crowcon and RAE will be available to provide advice and information about their products. The event will also provide an opportunity for us to explain the benefits of our 'Perpetual Rental Plan' (PRP) for long term instrument hire and how the 'Rent-To-Own' (RTO) scheme combines the benefits of renting with instrument ownership.”