Gas Detection Systems

The first step to building a gas detection system is identifying the target gas. CTI manufactures detectors for a variety of gases Including Ammonia, Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, and others.

The number of detectors required varies based on code requirements, facility size, target gas, and potential leak sources. Generally speaking, a gas detector is required within 30-45ft of a leak source in order to detect leaks in a timely fashion. Leak sources vary between compressors, freeze tunnels, evaporators, penthouses, fill stations, vehicle locations, etc.

Alarm levels are driven by OSHA exposure limits, fire departments, PSM coordinators, and other governing bodies. The recommended alarm levels vary greatly depending on the target gas and application. Desired alarm levels should be chosen before purchasing to select the proper sensor range.

See CTI Buying guides for target gas specific information.

buying guides

Once the target gas and alarm levels are determined; it is time to choose a detector model and sensor element.

GG gas detector

Simple and proven platform outputs 4-20 mA and detects many different target gases. Built for extreme temperatures and the harshest conditions in the food industry.

GG-EXP

The GG-EXP is designed with an explosion proof enclosure and outputs 4-20 mA. Designed for toxic gas detection in industrial settings, and does not offer the extreme temperature range of the GG gas detector

GG-LEL2

The GG-LEL2 detects combustible gases and outputs 4-20 mA. Comes with an explosion proof enclosure and detects: Methane, Hydrogen, Propane, Ethane, and others.

GG-VL2

The GG-VL2 is designed for gas detection in vent lines, and has sensor elements for Ammonia, Carbon Dioxide, and synthetic refrigerants (R22, R507A, etc.). The GG-VL2 performance in vent line gas detection is unmatched.

What will the gas detection system do when alarm levels are reached? Relays can be triggered, and signal outputs can be sent to PLC’s. The goal here is to determine how many outputs are required to satisfy all of the alarm conditions, and what connectivity is required to other systems. If the system is to be monitored by a PLC, the connection type should be chosen, whether that be analog output, ethernet, etc.

The GG-6 is a full-featured gas detection system controller that monitors up to 30 gas detectors. The GG-6 contains 6 4-20 mA inputs, and 6 relay outputs, and Expansion modules can connect to the GG-6, bringing 8 additional 4-20 mA sensor inputs, and 8 relay outputs onto the system. Each GG-6 can control up to 3 GG-6 expansion modules. Remote Displays also connect to the GG-6, and can be located throughout a facility. The GG-6 has optional analog outputs, or ethernet outputs to transmit sensor data to a PLC. Exhaust Fans, solenoids, power shutdown, building alert systems, and more can all be brought onto the relay outputs.

To accommodate smaller systems or standalone detection, CTI has the GG-2 controller and the EM2 entrance monitor. The GG-2 has 2 4-20 mA inputs, 6 relay outputs, and 2 analog outputs. For locations requiring only 1 detector, the EM2-120 provides a simple solution with 4/20 mA input, and 1 relay output.

CTI manufactures emergency stop buttons, exhaust fan control, and remote reset/silence switch boxes to boost to integrate with the gas detection system.

Audio/Visual devices are an integral part to any gas detection system. Audio/Visual devices can be connected to relay outputs on the cti controllers, or to the relay module if the output is required at the detector location. See the Audio/Visual devices page for more detailed information.

Determine locations for controller, sensors, audio/visual devices, power supplies, and all other equipment. Make sure sensors are located to protect personnel, and that alert systems are easily noticed.

Install equipment per wiring diagrams and instructions found in CTI Manuals.

After installation the system should be commissioned. Program all equipment to achieve desired functionality. Once programmed, test sensors and all outputs to ensure all functionality is working as intended. CTI offers a comprehensive startup service for those interested. See the Field Service page or contact CTI for startup details.