Honeywell releases new gas sensor for high-risk environments

Honeywell has developed a new sensor that uses optical non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) technology to detect flammable gases, such as methane, propane and butane, in industrial settings. For workers in sectors including oil and gas, mining, plastics manufacturing and petrochemicals processing, these invisible hazards pose enormous risk.

The NDIR Hydrocarbon Gas Sensor is designed to integrate into fixed and portable gas detectors carried by workers in the field, deep underground or within a processing facility. Due to the challenging environmental conditions likely to be present, including dust and extreme temperature fluctuations, durability has been designed in.

Unlike traditional pellistor or catalytic bead sensors that can degrade or become “poisoned” in harsh environments, the NDIR sensor has been designed for high poisoning resistance, to limit the risk of sensor failure and reduce instances of false positives.

According to Honeywell, an integrated condensation reduction system allows the sensor to clear excess moisture and maintain performance in humid environments and confined spaces. Infrared technology has also been used to make the NDIR sensor more energy efficient than traditional flammable gas sensors and prolong battery life.

“In gas detection, the accuracy, precision and reliability of the sensing solution is crucial for worker safety,” says Carmen Becker, president of Honeywell Sensing Solutions. 

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