Flammable and Toxic Gas Detection Systems

In applications where flammable or toxic gases could be leaked into the process environment, creating high risks to people and property and detection system should be used. Fire need not be the only potential risk identified.

Operationally similar to the fire alarm and detection system when a detector senses the presence of the gas it electronically notifies the alarm system of the danger. The alarm system activates audible devices within the system loop. The audible devices used are Electronic Sounders, Bells, Sirens or Public Address Voice Activation (PAVA). Again, these alarm systems can also send a signal to shut down plant, activate a ventilation system or if appropriate activate fire suppression system.

The commonly used is “point” type detectors, similar to smoke detectors. Detection can be carried out in hazardous/flameproof areas or standard safe areas. The positioning of the detectors is dependant on the density of the gas emitted. For gases lighter than air, detectors are usually mounted at high/ceiling level, for heavier than air gases detectors mounted at floor/low level and for carbon monoxide/CO2, generally detection carried out at head height level.

The level of flammable gas emission can also be transmitted to the control and indication panel to indicate the severity of risk and therefore the subsequent response required. L.E.L. (Lower Explosive Limit) provide early warning to evacuate the area that has been affected be the leak or U.E.L. (Upper Explosive Limit) which can provide plant / site-wide warning and can be linked in to the site main controls to facilitate a full plant shutdown.

Argus can provide this highly specialist solution on projects where these high hazard detection systems are required. The ability to integrate these products and services as part of a full turn-key fire protect solution means that Argus are the preferred fire contractor to business involved with the manufacturing and storage of flammable and toxic gases.

For further information of the gases used, benefits and disadvantages, typical designs and other technical data available in the technical library or contact us.