IR Combustible Gas Detector Protects Against Explosive Hydrocarbon Gases

Dec. 29, 2008
General Monitors unveils the IR400 Combustible Gas Detector

With its point infrared combustible gas sensing element, the IR400 Combustible Gas Detector from General Monitors delivers reliable protection against explosive hydrocarbon gases with a low-power design that installs in minutes, features heated optics to eliminate condensation and includes a dirty optics indicator for fail-safe operation.

The Model IR400 Infrared (IR) Point Gas Detector continuously monitors combustible gases in the lower explosive limit (LEL) range and provides a 4 to 20 mA analog signal proportional to the 0 to 100% LEL concentration. The detector also monitors other conditions such as supply voltage and optical path integrity. The IR400 is designed to assist with operational efficiency and system problem-detection capability. The detector uses only 4.8 W of power and, with its advanced diagnostics, helps to prevent unplanned plant shutdowns. Additionally, the detector requires no routine calibration, a feature that reduces demand for field technician time. 

The IR400’s gas detection principle of operation is based on measuring the absorption of infrared radiation passing through a volume of gas using a dual beam, single detector method. The IR detector measures the intensity of two specific wavelengths, one at an absorption wavelength and another outside of the absorption wavelength. The gas concentration is determined by comparing these two intensities.

Configurations with analog output, Modbus and HART are available. Through the two-way digital communication protocols, users have access to device configuration, warning and alarm, fault and maintenance records. They can also monitor gas concentration, check status and perform real time diagnostics. The IR400 is suitable for a range of hazardous industry processes and plant applications: LNG/LPG processing and storage, electric power generation plants, oil/gas production platforms, petrochemical refining, pipeline compressor stations, aerospace facilities and wastewater treatment. The IR400 comes with the following industry approvals: FM, CSA, ATEX, CE Marking and IECEx. It is also certified as SIL 2 capable.