Fixed Gas Detection

Fixed gas detection systems are used in environments that require continuous monitoring of specific hazardous gases. Fixed gas detectors are generally installed in high-risk areas where gas leaks or buildup could be disastrous such as oil and gas facilities, chemical plants or maritime vessels. For example, fixed gas detection systems on ships and tankers are necessary due to the risk of flammable gasses igniting, toxic gas buildup or displacement of oxygen in confined hull spaces. Even in small concentrations, gas leaks can cause symptoms such as nausea, dizziness and breathing difficulties. Round-the-clock monitoring and early warning of gas leaks means both people and assets can be better protected in high-risk environments.

Components of a Fixed Gas Detection System

There are two main components of a fixed gas detection system, transmitters (sensors) and control panels.

The Role of Transmitters in a Fixed Gas Detection System

Transmitters are placed strategically at places where gas leakage is a risk, such as pipe joints, to monitor gas concentration in the area. Sensors are available for many types of gases including refrigerants, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), oxygen and carbon dioxide, flammable gas, toxic gas and more.

Capabilities of Fixed Gas Detection Controllers

Signals from numerous detectors are then transmitted to control panels which display data and relay signals to alarms. Many fixed gas detection controllers are also capable of automatically triggering hazard mitigation measures like additional ventilation if gas concentration in an area reaches a dangerous threshold. Controllers are available with a variety of features and configurable options to suit a range of industries and applications from manufacturing facilities and navy ships and breweries and laboratories.

Air-Met Scientific provides fixed gas detection controllers and transmitters from a range of globally trusted brands including Oldham, AIYI technologies, Sensitron, Ion Science, Thermal Gas Systems and more. Contact one of our six locations across Australia to discuss your needs with our experienced team.

Does Air-Met Scientific service or calibrate fixed gas detection equipment?

Yes, Air-Met Scientific offers fixed gas detection system calibrations and services. Our experienced technicians can come on-site to provide calibration, service and maintenance support for your gas detection monitoring system. Contact your local Air-Met Scientific Service department to book a service or for more information. Air-Met Scientific have service centres in most major cities including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Mackay, Perth and Adelaide.

How often should a fixed gas detector be serviced or calibrated?

The recommended frequency for servicing and calibrating fixed gas detectors can vary depending on the specific detector and its operating conditions. However, most manufacturers and regulatory agencies recommend that fixed gas detectors be serviced and calibrated at least once a year.

Some detectors may require more frequent calibration, particularly if they are exposed to harsh environmental conditions or are subjected to heavy use. In addition to regular scheduled maintenance, fixed gas detectors should be inspected and tested regularly to ensure that they are operating properly. This can include functional tests, bump tests, and other diagnostic tests to verify that the detector is responding correctly to gas concentrations.

It is also important to follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures for maintaining and calibrating the detector, including the use of appropriate calibration gases and equipment. Failure to properly maintain and calibrate a fixed gas detector can result in inaccurate readings and a failure to detect gas hazards, which can pose a serious risk to workers and the facility.

What is a fixed gas detector and what are some common gases they can monitor?

Fixed gas detection systems are usually permanently installed in industrial or commercial settings, where there is a risk of gas leaks or other hazardous gas emissions. Fixed gas detectors typically consist of a sensor or sensors that are connected to a control unit, which can trigger an alarm or take other actions such as triggering a ventilation system if gas levels are exceeded. Common gases that can be monitored using fixed gas detectors include carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), methane (CH₄), oxygen (O₂), ammonia (NH₃), chlorine (Cl₂) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂).

What industries would require installation of a fixed gas detection monitoring system?

Some common applications for fixed gas detectors include:

Oil and gas: Fixed gas detectors are commonly used in oil and gas facilities to detect flammable and toxic gases. They can identify gas leaks to help prevent fires, and explosions, as well as protect workers from exposure to hazardous gases.
Chemical plants: Chemical plants often use fixed gas detectors to monitor for the presence of toxic and flammable gases. This helps ensure worker safety and prevent environmental contamination.
Carparks: Carparks can present several potential gas hazards, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other toxic gases that can be emitted from vehicles or machinery. Fixed gas detectors in carparks can continuously monitor the air quality in carparks and detect the presence of hazardous gases, alerting building management or occupants of potential safety hazards. The installation of fixed gas detectors in carparks is often mandated by building codes and regulations. Fixed gas detectors in carparks are capable of triggering ventilation fans when gas levels exceed a certain level, therefore saving energy by just using the ventilation system only when required
Manufacturing: Fixed gas detectors can also be used in manufacturing plants to monitor for the presence of gases that could be harmful to workers or the environment.
Laboratories: Laboratories that handle hazardous chemicals may also use fixed gas detectors to protect workers from exposure to toxic gases.
Wastewater treatment: Fixed gas detectors can be used in wastewater treatment facilities to monitor for the presence of gases such as hydrogen sulphide, which can be produced during the treatment process.
Breweries and distilleries: AS 5034 is a safety standard in Australia aimed at preventing gas-related accidents in these industries. It mandates the installation of gas monitoring and alarm systems in enclosed spaces such as cellars or cool rooms, where gas cylinders cannot be located in well-ventilated areas. Compliance with AS 5034 is crucial for meeting legal and regulatory obligations and ensuring employee safety.
Swim and aquatic centres: To comply with the Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations in Australia, swim centres and aquatic centres that use CO₂ for water treatment must identify and manage the risks associated with hazardous chemicals. This includes installing gas monitoring systems such as a wall mount CO₂ fixed gas detector and developing emergency response plans to address gas leaks or other incidents. Compliance with these regulations is essential for ensuring the safety of workers and the public in aquatic environments.

Where do I position the locations of fixed gas detection sensors?

The placement of fixed gas detection sensors depends on the specific gas hazards and the layout of the area being monitored. There are, however, some general guidelines that can help determine the best locations for gas detection sensors:

Identify the potential gas sources: Determine the potential gas sources and their locations, such as gas cylinders, storage tanks, pipelines, or machinery that may emit hazardous gases.
Ventilation factors: Consider the airflows in the area being monitored, including natural ventilation or mechanical ventilation systems, and place the sensors accordingly to detect gases that may accumulate in certain areas.
Consider the height of the sensors: Place the sensors at an appropriate height to detect gases at the breathing zone of the workers or occupants. For example, for toxic gases that are heavier than air, the sensors should be placed close to the ground, while for lighter-than-air gases, the sensors should be placed at a higher level.
Follow regulations and standards: Follow relevant regulations and standards for the specific industry and gas hazards being monitored, which may provide specific requirements for sensor placement.

How many fixed gas detection sensors will I require?

The number of fixed gas detector sensors needed will depend on several factors, including the type of gas hazards present, the size and layout of the area being monitored, and the applicable regulations and standards.

To determine the number of gas sensors needed, an Air-Met gas detection specialist will typically conduct a thorough site assessment and risk analysis to identify the potential gas sources and their locations. We would also need to consider the ventilation, the height of the sensors, and the regulatory requirements to determine the optimal placement and number of sensors needed to provide comprehensive coverage. For learn more about how many sensors you will require for your site, contact your local Air-Met Scientific office today to arrange a site visit.

What industries would require an intrinsically safe fixed gas detector?

Any industry that involves potentially explosive atmospheres, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and mining, would typically require intrinsically safe versions of fixed gas detectors. Other industries that may also require intrinsically safe fixed gas detectors include pharmaceutical manufacturing, food and beverage processing, and wastewater treatment.

Fixed Gas Detection