Detcon TP-700 - Sensor Placement

Model TP-700
TP-700 Instruction Manual Rev. 4.1 Page 5 of 42
2.2 Sensor Placement
Selection of sensor location is critical to the overall safe performance of the product. Five factors play an
important role in selection of sensor locations:
(1) Density of the gas to be detected
(2) Most probable leak sources within the industrial process
(3) Ventilation or prevailing wind conditions
(4) Personnel exposure
(5) Maintenance access
(6) Additional Placement Considerations
Density
Placement of sensors relative to the density of the target gas is such that sensors for the detection of heavier than
air gases should be located within 4 feet of grade as these heavy gases will tend to settle in low lying areas. For
gases lighter than air, sensor placement should be 4-8 feet above grade in open areas or in pitched areas of
enclosed spaces.
Note: H
2
S is heavier than air.
Leak Sources
The most probable leak sources within an industrial process include flanges, valves, and tubing connections of
the sealed type where seals may either fail or wear. Other leak sources are best determined by facility engineers
with experience in similar processes.
Ventilation
Normal ventilation or prevailing wind conditions can dictate efficient location of gas sensors in a manner where
the migration of gas clouds is quickly detected.
Personnel Exposure
The undetected migration of gas clouds should not be allowed to approach concentrated personnel areas such as
control rooms, maintenance or warehouse buildings. A more general and applicable thought toward selecting
sensor location is combining leak source and perimeter protection in the best possible configuration.
Maintenance Access
Consideration should be given to providing easy access for maintenance personnel. Consideration should also
be given to the consequences of close proximity to contaminants that may foul the sensor prematurely.
NOTE: In all installations the gas sensor should point straight down (refer to Figure 10).
Improper sensor orientation may result in false readings and permanent sensor damage.
Additional Placement Considerations
The sensor should not be positioned where it may be sprayed or coated with surface contaminating substances.
Painting sensor assemblies is prohibited.
Although the sensor is designed to be RFI resistant, it should not be mounted in close proximity to high-powered
radio transmitters or similar RFI generating equipment.