Fixed Gas Detector

What is a fixed gas detector?

A fixed gas detector is a device that monitors atmospheric conditions of indoor spaces. They’re called fixed gas detectors because, unlike portable units, fixed gas detectors remain in one place, generally mounted on a wall in a critical area. If you have an industrial or indoor facility that produces one or more types of dangerous or combustible gases, a fixed gas detector can be set up to make sure that the levels are being monitored 24/7 for everyone’s safety. As long as the detector is set up, powered and in good working order, it will monitor for dangerous levels of gases, and raise an alert if amounts increase above specified levels.

What are the two types of gas detection systems?

Fixed and portable gas monitors are used in many industries. As mentioned above, fixed detection devices remain in one place and continuously monitor a specific area, such as an industrial setting, for gases and potential dangers. These can be connected to a detection system to display the gas concentration and trigger alerts when hazardous levels are reached.

Portable detectors are designed to be carried by a worker into a workspace. They’re typically worn on a collar or lapel, near the nose and mouth known as the breathing zone, to detect gases that the worker is in danger of breathing. Because of their portability, they’re great for workers who move to different sites, or who work in confined spaces that aren’t designed for continuous occupancy.

What is gas detector calibration?

Gas detectors are calibrated to confirm they are accurately measuring readings. It involves adjusting instrument readings to fall in line with a known concentration of gas (or calibration gas). During calibration, instruments self-correct to the appropriate level of sensitivity. This can be vital for older devices where sensors will degrade over time and use. To calibrate a gas detector, you’ll typically need to bump test it first against a known, traceable concentration of unexpired test gas of the type that’s going to be on your site (your gas detector manufacturer will be able to recommend a source of fresh calibration gases). If the detector’s measurements are inaccurate, it will need to be recalibrated, ideally in an environment similar to the workplace conditions that it will be operating in. A device that can’t accurately read set values will need to be replaced. If a device has been dropped or otherwise damaged, consider recalibrating. 

How does a combustible gas detection system work?

A gas detection system measures the gases in the air, and alerts the user to any abnormal and dangerous gas level. If the detected level is too high, the monitor, whether it’s fixed or portable, will use a combination of audible, visible or vibrating indicators to alert the user. The way in which the gases are detected and measured varies, based on the particular device, but whether they use catalytic sensors or infrared ones, the sensors will pick up on high levels of gas, and alert users.