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 designin 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, 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 target gas specific information.

buying guides

02. Select gas detectors

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

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 industrial gas detection in vent lines, and has sensor element types for ammonia, carbon dioxide, 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 GG-6 is a full-featured gas detection system controller that monitors up to 30 gas detector sensors. 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.

 

Accessories

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 startup service for industrial gas detection equipment. See the Field Service page to learn more about CTI Field Service offerings or contact CTI for startup details.

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.

Audio Visual Alarms
CTI Field Service

Reports and documentation should be updated with any gas detection system changes and all calibration data, and documentation of system calibration shall be kept on file for OSHA PSM documentation requirements. All relevant details to meet gas detection system requirments shall be included in reports.

Interested in having a third party perform your annual 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.

CTI FIELD SERVICE

Shop Gas Detection Products

Control Panels

M255 Modbus controller

Fixed Gas Detectors

Portable Gas Detectors

Wingman F1

Need additional assistance?

Fill out the request a quote form and CTI can assist in designing a fixed gas detection system for your facility that meets all industrial gas detection system requirements.

Additional Industrial Gas Detection System Resources

Resources from Your Gas Detection Specialists

CTI has additional resources published on the website to assist with meeting gas detection standards, how to avoid false alarms, product feature videos, and more.

GAS DETECTION SYSTEM RESOURCES