PRESS RELEASE
New Crowcon gas detector, IR Plus, offers unparalleled stability in harsh environments
3 min read
November 05, 2024
Didcot, November 5th, 2024 – Crowcon Detection Instruments, a global leader in gas safety solutions, has launched a new dual beam infrared (IR) hydrocarbon detector, the IR Plus, to add to its extensive fixed gas detection portfolio.
Crowcon, which has over half a century’s expertise in gas detection, has developed the instrument which offers real-time measurement and fail-safe detection of methane, propane, and various other hydrocarbon gases and vapours, to safeguard assets and employees working in highly flammable and explosive atmospheres.
Engineered to withstand the toughest weather conditions, including offshore installations, IR Plus features a state-of-the-art dual beam signal stabilising system. This heated optical setup uses no light beam splitting, employing a set of Stay-clIR coated hydrophobic reflectors instead, making it highly resistant to common interferences such as dust, moisture and corrosive chemicals.
Having been tested in accordance with GB/T 2423.3-2006 (Chinese Humidity Test), which evaluates a product’s ability to endure high humidity and temperature conditions, the IR Plus can withstand even the harshest environments. In fact, it’s the only IR detector out of those tested that remained fault-free when exposed to a combination of 40°C and over 93% relative humidity for extended periods[1].
This innovation ensures that the IR Plus eliminates false alarms and downtime, providing peace of mind and safety for personnel.
“We have listened to the industry and understand the problems faced. The IR Plus is one of the few pieces of kit on the market that is able to withstand both the extreme temperatures and humidity faced in regions like the Middle East, and the wet and windy challenges of the North Sea, making it suitable for a range of applications across the oil and gas industry.”
Yasin Yehya,
Product Manager, Fixed Systems
IR Plus is the fastest infrared detector to respond when exposed to minimal gas levels (1.0l/m). From its standard 4-second reaction to its unrivalled speed with the slightest gas exposure, it leads the market in rapid detection.
Encased in robust stainless steel SS 316L, it is explosion-proof and resistant to corrosive environments, ensuring long-term durability and reliability. The device also offers consistent performance over time with remote non-intrusive calibration and maintenance, maximising uptime and ensuring continuous monitoring. IR Plus can also be installed in hard-to-reach areas and tested remotely using advanced accessories, allowing for easy maintenance and diagnostics from accessible locations.
Providing analogue 4-20mA and RS-485 Modbus signals as standard, IR Plus is optionally available with HART communications. This comprehensive set of output interfaces ensures compatibility with virtually any control system from gas detection panels, to PLC’s (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS’s (Distributed Control Systems) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems. HART communications enables diagnostic checking and maintenance using industry-standard communications tools remotely or locally in the hazardous area. The HART feature also enables IR Plus to be logged and monitored automatically on asset management systems.
Michael Vaux, Crowcon Product Director, said: “With nearly two decades of experience in infrared technology, Crowcon has ensured that the IR Plus meets the highest standards of safety and reliability. The device will be SIL 2 certified in December, complying with the Functional Safety standard EN 61508, which applies to both hardware and software components. This certification will underscore the device’s excellence in safety integrity and reliability.”
“The launch of IR Plus further enhances Crowcon’s mission to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone every day”, Vaux added.
[1] Products tested included IRmax, IR Plus, PIR 7000 and GD10P.
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