Gas Detection

Responding to a demand for short-term monitoring, Signal Group has established a fleet of gas measurement instruments that are available for hire.

“Some of our customers only need the equipment for a specific project or for a short-term investigation,” explains MD James Clements. “In these circumstances it would not be sensible to purchase the equipment, because it may not be required at the end of the project, and the capital cost may be preclusive. We have therefore established a small range of our more popular instruments, which are now available for rent.”

The rental equipment includes Signal analysers employing FID for VOC and non-methane hydrocarbons; chemiluminescent analysers for NO/NOx; NDIR for multiple species such as CO, CO2, CH4, NO, N2O, SO2 and HCl. In addition to reference method gas analysers, Signal Group also manufactures a comprehensive range of ancillary instruments including heated lines, sample conditioners, filters, cooler/dryers, methane cutters, NOx converters, sample dividers and calibration equipment. These instruments are all available for hire on a first-come, first-served basis.

To support the growing demand for building energy efficiency and sustainability, Vaisala, a global leader in weather, environmental, and industrial measurements, expands its product portfolio for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) products by launching the new Vaisala GMD110 carbon dioxide transmitter.

The Vaisala GMD110 is designed for measuring carbon dioxide in air-handling systems and ventilation ducts in industrial and commercial environments. The GMD110 has unique capabilities in terms of precision and measurement stability, which support precise and reliable control of HVAC systems even in demanding conditions or sites. The GMD110 is the perfect choice for demand-controlled ventilation systems and duct-mounted CO2 monitoring in industrial settings.

This IP65-rated transmitter is equipped with the renowned Vaisala CARBOCAP sensor: Its structure and reference measurement capabilities make this single-beam, dual-wavelength NDIR sensor extremely reliable with low maintenance needs. Measurement accuracy is not affected by dust, water vapour or chemicals.

The new carbon dioxide Vaisala GMD110 Carbon Dioxide Transmitter has an excellent response time, and is supplied with a calibration certificate. The product will be available during the second quarter of 2023.

Signal Group is probably best known for leading innovation in industrial gas analysis using reference methods such as FID, CLD and NDIR. However, since its inception in 1979, the company has developed a fleet of ancillary equipment to ensure that the gas analysers operate as accurately and reliably as possible. This has included cooler/dryers that help to condition sample gas prior to analysis, and remarkably, the designs for these devices have changed very little in the last 30 years.

“Simplicity and reliability have always been our guiding mantra in product design,” explains Signal’s MD James Clements. “So, once we had developed models that met our needs precisely, further development was unnecessary, and we now have hundreds of cooler/dryers operating all over the world.”

Globally, regulations dictate that stack, flue or exhaust emission samples should usually be conditioned in some way before analysis, and it is important that this conditioning should be compatible with the analysis method. Cooler/dryers remove moisture from the sample gas so that it does not enter the gas analyser where it may affect the readings or even harm the analyser. However, cooler/dryers are not normally employed with acid gas samples because acidic gases may dissolve in the condensed water and therefore not form part of the measurement.

Signal Group offers two types of cooler/dryer; both with a thermoelectric cooling system and a special gas labyrinth design to eliminate the possibility of losing non-soluble sample gas with the removed water. Signal’s portable (Model 250) Cooler/dryer weighs 15kg and runs on mains power, and a 19” rack version (Model 200SM) is available as a 1, 2 or 3 channel unit. Summarising, James says: “It is incredible that there has never really been any need to update or re-design our cooler/dryers, but they do say: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”

Visitors to Sensor + Test 2023 in Nürnberg, Germany (9 – 11^th May) can see the world’s leading sensors for the measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Particulate Matter (PM) at the ION Science booth 512 in Hall 1.

“The designers of gas detection instrumentation, systems and process control equipment will already know ION Science as a manufacturer of the market’s best PID sensors,” explains Peter Morris, Head of Sensors at ION Science Ltd. “However, they will be delighted to learn that the Next-PM high-performance Particulate Matter sensor, is now also available, and will feature prominently on our stand.”

“When customers integrate our sensors into their equipment, they know that having ‘ION inside’ enhances both their performance capability and reliability, which builds trust in their brands. We therefore look forward to welcoming all visitors, including developers, designers, engineers, technicians and product managers to speak with us at the show, so that we can explain the benefits of the unique patented technology behind the performance superiorities that ION sensors deliver.”

With global organisations looking to lower safety risks and improve their environmental performance, the demand for VOC monitoring technologies is growing. Typically, ION Science customers are developing portable, wearable and fixed measurement instrumentation solutions for applications such as environmental monitoring, industrial health and safety, air quality, facility/site monitoring and fugitive emissions. Photoionisation Detection (PID) is the recommended technology for VOC detection in these applications.

One of the unique features of ION’s MiniPIDs is a patent-protected design with a third electrode that overcomes humidity interference (that plagues competitors’ sensors), delivering a stable signal from 0 – 99% RH.

The sensitivity of PID sensors is extremely important in many applications; particularly where the sensors are deployed in the measurement of trace VOCs. Again, ION leads the field, offering MiniPIDs with ten times the sensitivity of other PID manufacturers.

“We encourage anyone with an interest in developing a monitoring solution for VOCs, to view our gas response table” explains Peter Morris. “This document includes the response factors for over 900+ VOCs, as well as a small number of inorganic gases such as hydrogen sulphide, so it’s really helpful in deciding which PID variant is most appropriate to the OEM application or need.”

The NextPM sensor was recently added to the ION Science portfolio following hugely successful field trials at South Coast AQMD in the USA. The NextPM sensors showed strong to very strong correlations for both PM_1.0 and PM_2.5 with reference instruments costing several hundred times the cost of the sensors. “These results were incredibly good for such a low-cost sensor,” explains Peter Morris, “the NextPM, therefore, fits well with our philosophy of offering the best sensors to the market.”

Thanks to its patented airflow control technology, Next-PM ensures years of maintenance-free measurements, even in polluted and humid atmospheres. These sensors are therefore ideal for inclusion in instruments and systems that monitor industrial processes or air quality; both indoors and outdoors.

Fine particulates are a particular health concern, and the requirement for monitoring equipment is growing rapidly alongside tightening regulations. In 2021, the WHO halved its yearly average guideline limit for PM_2.5 from 10 to 5 µg/m³. In the UK, under the Environment Act 2021, a maximum annual mean concentration of 10 µg/m³ by 2040 has been set as the PM_2.5 target.  The EU Commission has proposed a reduction in the PM_2.5 target to 10 µg/m³ by 2030, and the US Environmental Protection Agency is currently considering recommendations from its independent particulate matter review panel to lower its target from 12 to between 8 and 10 µg/m³.

Sensor + Test visitors can see ION’s latest sensing technology and discuss their applications with the technical experts on the stand. They may also wish to take advantage of ION’s sensor development kit which helps reduce development time and cost.

https://bit.ly/3ITQRo9

Q.E.D. Environmental Systems is set to debut a new range of modular portable gas analysers at the World Biogas Expo 2023 on stand B305.

The new series – which will be officially unveiled in a matter of weeks – will be the culmination of 25 years of R&D in the field of portable gas analysis technology for the biogas and waste management industries.

The World Biogas Expo will provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the unit first hand. The new instrument will be displayed on the QED stand alongside the manufacturer’s GEOTECH BIOGAS 3000 and BIOMETHANE 3000 fixed gas analysers.

Built on field-proven gas analysis technology, the compact self-contained BIOGAS 3000 system offers cost-effective online monitoring that is ideal for anaerobic digestion, biogas monitoring, and landfill gas monitoring applications. The unit can be configured for up to four sampling points to monitor methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2), with optional monitoring of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), hydrogen gas (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO) levels – operators can choose up to five gases to monitor.

The unit is also available with a continuous monitoring option for CH4, CO2 and O2. By incorporating external H2S sensors in ranges from 50 to 40,000 parts per million (ppm), it can be manufactured to monitor before and after desulphurization.

The BIOMETHANE 3000 is designed for the high-accuracy methane and oxygen readings for a broad range of biomethane production applications, including gas-to-grid, biogas upgrading, and anaerobic digestion for agricultural and mixed food waste. The fixed unit is able to provide detailed readings about the 95% methane level and below 1% oxygen level at first stage production.

Both units are ATEX and IECEx-certified and can be configured to provide a remote data access via a secure, cloud-based remote access portal.

Adam Taylor, Product Manager – Gas Analysis & Detection at QED Environmental Systems, comments: “To date, the UK’s biogas production potential has largely remained untapped. However, the growing pressure to decarbonize and diversify our energy supply chain is resulting in more and more stakeholders investing and expanding in anaerobic digestion infrastructure.

“Through the development of our new series of modular gas analysers, we now have comprehensive suite of portable and fixed solutions to help stakeholders with efficient and accurate end-to-end monitoring capabilities throughout the entire production process. We are very much looking forward to demonstrating these products to our customers at the World Biogas Expo.”

For more information on QED Environmental Systems, visit: https://www.qedenv.com/

Two of the world’s leading companies in VOC detection have launched an informative on-demand (free) webinar that is available now. Speakers from both ION Science and Industrial Scientific describe what VOCs are, why they should be monitored, what detection techniques are suitable, and where and when measurements should be undertaken.

The webinar speakers are Ilaria Tramelli, Business Development Director for PID, at Industrial Scientific, and Peter Morris, Head of Sensors at ION Science. “This webinar will be an ideal learning opportunity for anyone with responsibility for health, safety or the environment in almost any industry,” explained the webinar host, Emily Lane, Marketing Manager at ION Science Ltd, “VOCs occur in most industrial sectors, but their relative toxicity varies widely, and there are a number of ways in which they can be detected, so this webinar has been designed to provide the core knowledge that is necessary for VOCs to be managed effectively.”

The on-demand webinar lasts for around 30 minutes and can be accessed, free of charge, by visiting https://bit.ly/3j7RUI0

The main objective of the webinar is to provide educational content that contributes to the professional development of viewers. Whilst explaining the advantages and disadvantages of different detection technologies, the speakers also describe the unique aspects of the ION Science MiniPIDs that make them ideal for OEM integration for accurate and reliable VOC detection.

The speakers also describe the most common applications for VOC detection; providing insights into the factors which can lead to potentially dangerous concentrations of VOCs. Pete also describes the increasing use of PIDs in low-cost, (sometimes mobile) spatially dense ambient air quality monitoring networks and in indoor air quality monitoring; an area of growing concern post-Covid. In addition, Ilaria explains the requirement for first responders to be able to quickly assess the levels of danger following an incident or accident involving hazardous materials.

Given the fast response, sensitivity and wide range of VOCs detected by ION’s MiniPID, their inclusion in the Industrial Scientific products is a major benefit. Laura Faust, Product Manager at Industrial Scientific commented: “The Ventis Pro 5 multi-gas monitor gives you the power to monitor up to five gases simultaneously and with multiple connectivity options, you can manager worker safety anytime, anywhere. Now with the addition of the PID sensor, you can protect workers from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) with the same compact personal monitor. This valuable addition brings us one step closer to our vision of ending workplace deaths by 2050.”

After viewing the webinar, attendees should have a better understanding of what VOCs are, what their acute and chronic health effects are, and how they affect the environment. They will also be aware of the different detection techniques that are available, and their relative advantages and disadvantages. This should include an understanding of the reasons why PID is the most commonly accepted method for VOC detection.

For the last 20 years, Powrmatic a leading British manufacturer of HVAC equipment, has been using Signal Group analysers to check the regulatory compliance of its products, which include gas burning warm air heaters, radiant heaters and ventilation equipment.

Powrmatic’s Engineering Manager, Dr Lee Herbert, says: “It’s incredible that the same analyser rack has delivered consistently reliable measurements over such a long period of time, but we attribute this longevity to the quality of the analysers themselves and to the excellent service that Signal Group delivers.

“Under our agreement with Signal, they visit the factory twice a year for routine maintenance, and provide a rapid call-out service if necessary.”

Many types of energy-related products (ErP) are regulated to ensure that they meet specific criteria relating to their energy usage. This reduces their environmental impact, improves their energy efficiency, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions. All products must have supporting technical documentation to demonstrate compliance, as well as a Declaration of Conformity, and they must display the appropriate conformity marking.

During 2021 the Ecodesign requirements in the ErP regulation reduced the maximum levels of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) emissions allowable for space heaters. This regulation also raised the efficiency requirements for this type of equipment. Powrmatic’s products are therefore tested with the Signal analysers, and supplied with a BSI verified Declaration of Conformity with ErP 2021.

In addition to NOx, the Signal analysers also measure carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, and are used by both the production team and the R&D department, where they help develop new HVAC products with lower emissions and even better efficiency.

Looking forward, Dr Herbert says: “I have seen Signal’s latest analysers, and would very much like to benefit from their new technologies, but with 20 years under their belt, our current analysers are still going strong, so for the time being, we’ll just have to wait for the day when they can be upgraded.”

ION Science, a developer and manufacturer of PID gas sensors and instruments, has announced the acquisition of Analox Group, a gas sensing and analysis manufacturer based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire. “This is a major step on our strategic growth journey,” explains ION Science Group Managing Director, Duncan Johns. “With strong brands in global markets, ION and Analox will continue to operate separately. However, both companies invest heavily in research and development, so by working together, we are really excited by the opportunities this acquisition presents for accelerating future growth.

“Importantly, both companies share a common focus on customers’ needs, and especially product quality and reliability. We also both supply OEM sensors and engineered solutions, so customers can expect a broader range of solutions in the future. From an ION Science perspective, this move will expand the range of measurement technologies that we will be able to offer, which means that in addition to VOCs, we will also offer detection and measurement solutions for a wide range of other gases.”

Analox Managing Director, Emma Harbottle says: “Over the last 40 years we have designed and developed innovative gas sensing solutions that truly solve our customers’ challenges. We are extremely proud of the reputation we have built, especially in the defence, beverage & hospitality and laboratory sectors. By working closely with ION we can continue to build on the success of both companies and I am excited to see what the future holds.”

The world-leading measurement technology company Vaisala, received first prize at the Instrumentation Excellence Awards. The company’s winning MGP261 device is a ground-breaking 3-in-1 measurement innovation for biogas production that enables more value from waste. The award ceremony was held last Thursday in London.

Gas detection product of the year that fights the climate change

Vaisala’s MGP261 multigas measurement instrument won the Gas Detection Product of the Year category. It measures methane, humidity, and temperature inside the biogas process pipeline without sampling, even in hazardous environments.

“This unique new technology represents a major breakthrough for the operators of biogas plants,” explains Vaisala’s Product Manager Antti Heikkilä.

“Not only are they able to control biogas production more efficiently, and at a lower cost with this instrument, but they can also improve the quality of the biogas. By helping to improve efficiency and financial performance, this technology is also contributing to the fight against climate change. Anaerobic digestion turns waste into renewable energy and reduces dependency on fossil fuels, which is even more important in an energy crisis,” Heikkilä comments.

Vaisala’s Sales Manager Andrew Williams was also present at the award ceremony.

“I am very proud and happy for the win and want to give thanks to the whole team who made this possible: starting from our R&D scientists and engineers at Vaisala, but also our customers and partners who choose to use our technology to provide the measurements that they rely on to drive their businesses forward,” says Williams.

Strong stand in sustainable technology

Vaisala has strong sustainability impact through its measurement solutions, for instance helping to fight climate change in three ways: With Vaisala’s world-class environmental observations scientists can study climate change. By optimizing processes with Vaisala’s accurate measurement instruments customers can minimize waste, increase energy efficiency, and improve renewable energy production – such as biogas with the awarded MGP261. Thirdly, precise weather observations conducted by Vaisala’s monitoring systems help societies prepare for and adapt to extreme weather.

One of the largest events of its kind, ADIPEC 2022 (31 October – 3 November, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates)will host more than 150,000 energy professionals and visitors worldwide.

With over 140,000 gross square metres of exhibition space across sixteen halls, there will be plenty to see, especially for any companies seeking reliable, high-quality, proven gas detection and monitoring technologies. From Booth 9413 in Hall 9, Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection will shine the spotlight on several proven products that enhance safety and bring even more capabilities to the oil and gas sector.

Visitors to the booth will also discover how Teledyne will meet the gas detection demands of the giant Hail and Ghasha sour gas project that is currently in development off the UAE coastline.

Among the class-leading products on display from Teledyne GFD will be the GD1 hydrogen sulphide (H2S) laser detector, which features a unique, customisable laser diode that, rather than emitting a conventional straight beam of light, travels as a cone from one point to another. In other words, the beam expands after transmission and is almost a metre in diameter when it reaches the receiver. As a result, the beam can penetrate harsh environments that competitor solutions may find difficult. The GD1 also performs real-time auto-calibration and auto-proof testing, and provides a very high sampling or detection rate i.e., 8000 times/sec. Well over 800 units have been deployed in the field since 2011.

Also in the spotlight will be the GD10P infrared gas detector with full firmware upgrade, enhancing the product’s performance in high demand mode SIL2 approved applications. In comparison with other infrared gas detectors, the new firmware adds further to GD10P’s differentiating factors, which include a solid-state infrared source and a 15-year warranty.

Moreover, despite the shortages experienced in the global semiconductor industry, we have been able to ensure business continuity for most of our products. As such we demonstrate our operational excellence and continue to respond quickly to almost any need. With GD10P, we prove our product leadership, offering to our partners leading-edge products and services. In fact, we have recently sold our 100,000th.

Elsewhere on the booth, ADIPEC visitors will find the GD10PE infrared point gas detector, which is ideal when users need fast, reliable detection of low gas concentrations. With a measuring range of 0-20% LEL, the GD10PE is five times more sensitive than standard point detectors.

Another exciting innovation launching at the show is Spyglass™, a brand-new range of flame detectors offering integrated high-definition CCTV video that facilitates the clear, rapid imaging of fire and people at unprecedented distances. When connected to a DVR/NVR, the rescue team becomes aware of the exact situation before entering the hazardous area. A range of high-capability models is available offering a selection of different detectors. Visitors should head for the booth to find out more.

Teledyne’s product portfolio houses a variety of detection technologies, including fixed, portable and wireless, as well as area monitors. Sometimes a mix of solutions can improve reliability and availability, as evidenced in the company’s proposal for the enormous Hail and Ghasha sour gas development, which is set to go live in 2024.

The main contractor tasked Teledyne GFD to ensure reliable wireless gas detection with 24-7 availability. As a result, the company proposed fixed gas detectors connected via a wireless mesh as a primary means of detecting LEL explosive gases and hydrogen sulphide gases. The solution also includes a second line of defence, utilising a mesh network of Teledyne’s field proven BM25 wireless area monitors. Implementation commenced in June 2021, with the wireless mesh network featuring independent supervision from field-mounted controllers and remote displays.

The BM25 will be on display at the booth, alongside other Teledyne industrial gas and flame detectors – both fixed and portable, including the wireless CXT. Personal gas monitors on view will include the PS200, PS500 and Protégé ZM, while a ‘Solution Wall’ will showcase DG MOS detector with Telecapteur asset management software, but also the high temperature SIL 2 DF flame detector.

Any company seeking the latest detection and monitoring technologies to keep oil and gas operations running safely, efficiently, and profitably, should look no further than the innovative solutions available from Teledyne GFD. ADIPEC visitors are welcome to discuss their specific challenges and requirements for which we will have an experienced and knowledgeable team on the booth.

At Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection, we focus on delivering superior customer value which means operational excellence and product leadership.

For more information, visit www.TeledyneGFD.com or contact gasandflamedetection@teledyne.com