Fixed Gas Detection Systems
How It Works
Gas Detection Design
CTI Gas Detection Systems
Industrial gas detection systems from CTI incorporate a host of relevant features to deliver a fully functional system to anywhere in the world. The below guide explains how to design a CTI fixed gas detection system.
01. Determine the target gas, # of fixed detectors, and alarm output levels required
The first step to designing an industrial gas detection system is identifying the target gas. CTI manufactures gas detectors for a variety of gases, specifically ammonia, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and others.
The number of fixed gas 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 gas leak source in order to detect leaks in a timely fashion. Gas leak sources vary between compressors, freeze tunnels, evaporators, penthouses, fill stations, vehicle locations, etc.
Alarm levels are driven by OSHA exposure limits, local fire departments, PSM coordinators, and other governing bodies. The recommended alarm output levels vary greatly depending on the target gas and application. Desired alarm levels should be considered before purchasing to select the proper gas detection sensor range.
See CTI Buying guides for system guidance and recommendations of specific target gases.
02. Select gas detectors
Once the target gas and alarm levels are determined; it is time to choose a gas detector model.
The GASMARK™ M1 industrial gas detector for ammonia has proven reliability, a rugged design, and 4–20 mA output, while adding built‑in Modbus communication and optional relays for facilities that want greater connectivity, diagnostics, system flexibility, and cost savings.
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.
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
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.
The GG-VL2 is designed for industrial gas detection in vent lines, and has sensor element types for ammonia and synthetic refrigerants (R22, R507A, etc.). The GG-VL2 performance in vent line gas detection is unmatched.
03. Determine gas detection system functions
What will the gas detection system do when alarm ouput levels are reached? Relays can be triggered, and signal outputs can be sent to PLC’s. The goal 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.
04. Select control panel and accessories
The M255 Control Panel can connect up to 255 devices while reducing the required amount of wiring. The 10” color touchscreen display makes it easy to program and provides the real-time status of gas detector concentrations and alarms. The M255 comes standard with eight analog inputs, four Modbus channels, and eight onboard relays, but can be expanded based on the facilities needs using the GASMARK™ M255 Expansion Modules.
CTI has the EM2 entrance monitor to accomodate smaller facilities only requiring 1 detector. The EM2 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 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 control panels, or to the relay module if the output is required at the detector location. See the Audio/Visual devices page for more detailed information.
05. System Installation & Startup
Determine placement locations for gas detection system equipment, specifically the control panel, gas detection sensors, audio/visual devices, and any power supplies. Make sure gas detection sensors are located to protect personnel, and that alert systems are easily noticed.
Install gas detection system equipment per wiring diagrams and instructions found in CTI Manuals.
After installation the gas detection system should be commissioned. Program all equipment in the leak detection system to achieve desired functionality. Once programmed, test gas detection sensors and all alarm output signals to ensure all functionality is working as intended. CTI offers a comprehensive start-up service for industrial gas detection equipment. See the CTI Service Page to learn more about CTI Service Department offerings or contact CTI for start-up details.
CTI offers replacement sensor elements for both portable and fixed detectors. Beyond sensor elements, CTI also sells replacement batteries for the Wingman F1 Portable Detector and a Wingman F1Maintenance Kit.
Fixed Gas Detection System Maintenance
Maintenance of the gas detection system should be performed every 6 months. Gas detector sensors need to be calibrated to maintain accuracy. Audio/visual alarms and other outputs should be tested during the system calibration to ensure functionality.
Reports and documentation should be updated with any gas detection system changes and documentation of system calibration shall be kept on file to satisfy OSHA PSM documentation requirements. All relevant details to meet gas detection system requirements shall be included in reports.
Interested in having a third party perform your gas detection system testing and calibration? CTI has well trained, experienced Field Service Technicians that will service your gas detection system properly, and provide thorough documentation to satisfy requirements of regulatory agencies and inspectors. For more information about CTI Service, please visit our field service page.
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Additional Industrial Gas Detection System Resources
Resources from Your Gas Detection Specialists
CTI has additional resources published on our website to assist with meeting gas detection standards, how to avoid false alarms, product feature videos, and more.
