Protecting against natural gas leaks is crucial for the safety of your business, but knowing where natural gas sensors should be placed is a question that can’t be ignored. That being said, installing gas detection in a facility or manufacturing building involves a number of factors. From the type of combustible gases to the equipment used on a daily basis, it’s important to consider the best place for a detection system.
Considerations for Installing Gas Sensors
Natural gas is a hazardous gas with serious health implications. From sudden explosion to suffocation from inhalation, the effects of a natural gas leak can have both destructive and potentially lethal consequences. Because natural gas is naturally odorless and colorless, having a detection system programmed with natural gas sensors is essential. If you’re wondering where these sensors and gas alarms should be installed, consider the following:
- Nearby Hazardous Gases or Materials
- Weight Properties of Natural Gas
- Surrounding Air Flow
Nearby Hazardous Gases or Materials
What kind of materials do you deal with in your manufacturing processes? While you may work with natural gas or other combustible gases, there are certain areas more susceptible than others. Take a look at your equipment to determine where a leak could be discovered. Which hazardous places are frequented very often? Areas such as gas boilers, compressors, pressurized storage tanks, cylinders, or pipelines may require constant monitoring.
Pro Tip: If the natural gas detector is being mounted to a certain piece of equipment, ensure that the equipment is not prone to any vibration that could damage the gas detectors’ sensor.
Weight Properties of Natural Gas
Like many hazardous gases, the composition of natural gas is naturally lighter than air. The methane in natural gas causes the gas to gradually separate from oxygen in the air. In a confined space, it will rise. With these chemical properties in mind, it’s important to place your gas detectors in areas above the level of windows or doors where the gas may collect.
Surrounding Air Flow
Lastly, the way a natural gas sensor is designed and air flowing nearby are important considerations. Most gas detection systems use ambient detectors that sense the presence of gas through the process of diffusion. In situations where gases may collect in inaccessible areas, the use of a sample-draw monitor is recommended. In every case, the goal of any gas detection system is to ensure that concentration levels of certain gases remain below hazardous levels.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind that while combustible gas detection systems are important during normal working hours, they are critically important during periods of inactivity when no employees are present and even small leaks can create dangerous and explosive concentrations of gas.
Protecting Against Gas Leaks
If you regularly work with natural gas, having a detection system is a number one priority for your safety. Without adequate detection, your facility could be at risk for dangerous gas leaks and explosions. Determine which locations need constant monitoring in your industry and install a complete detection system for ongoing protection.
Connect with our sales team for more information about our natural gas sensors and detection solutions to keep you and your workers safe from hazardous situations.