Crowcon Detection Instruments Ltd., the Abingdon-based manufacturer of gas detection equipment, has unveiled an important innovation in both portable and fixed gas detection with the launch of the world’s first fixed detector with a Molecular Property Spectrometer™ (MPS™) Sensor.  Developed by NevadaNano, the MPS™ sensors represent the next generation of flammable gas detectors. MPS™ can quickly detect over 15 flammable gases at once. Until recently, anyone who needed to monitor flammable gases had to select either a traditional 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 traditional solutions remain beneficial, they are not always ideal. For example, both sensor types require continual calibration and bump testing, and pellistors may be damaged by contaminants (known as ‘sensor poisoning’) or harsh conditions. In some environments, 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 without 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.  

Moreover, MPS™ sensors cannot be poisoned and require no calibration or bump testing throughout their lifespan, which generally exceeds five years, although an annual safety check is advised to ensure the device is working. They are self-monitoring and will automatically alert the user to any malfunction. 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.  

For Crowcon, becoming the first firm to incorporate MPS™ sensors into a fixed gas detector and, in doing so, creating an innovative solution to multiple problems is a matter of professional pride.  

‘By incorporating a cutting-edge MPS sensor into the Xgard Bright, we are creating a very substantial innovation and improvement in flammable gas detection. We are proud to have evaluated and incorporated a brand-new technology and put it to work in practice, for the benefit of people who need to be kept safe and the businesses that now have a genuine alternative to pellistor and IR technology.’ – Ayudh Datta, Fixed Product manager.   

The usage of Hydrogen in industrial processes is increasing as the focus to find a cleaner alternative to natural gas usage in this sector. Detection of Hydrogen is currently restricted to pellistor sensor technology due to Infra-Red sensors inability to detect Hydrogen. When faced with challenges highlighted above in poisoning or false alarms, the current solution can leave operators with costly and regular servicing as well false alarm challenges. MPS technology in both Gasman and Xgard Bright detect hydrogen and common hydrocarbons automatically in one sensor without being poisoned, any reduction in accuracy or recalibration. 

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

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 fear that the Gasman will ignite their environment. In addition, the battery life with the MPS sensor is over quadruple 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 in a fail-safe, poison-resistant solution without recalibration. 

 For more on Crowcon, visit https://www.crowcon.com or for more on Molecular Property Spectrometer™ sensors visit https://www.crowcon.com/mpsinfixed/