MSA's UltraSonic EX-5 gas detector

IS & Ex

July 2012 IS & Ex

MSA Africa has released the UltraSonic EX-5 gas leak detector that responds to the ultrasonic noise created by a pressurised gas leak. “Uncontrollable elements, such as the direction of the wind or leak, or gas dispersion, can often influence results of conventional gas detection readings leading to dangerous, unpredictable situations. Our UltraSonic EX-5 is unaffected by these elements, creating a far safer working-environment,” explains Robbie Taitz, product manager, gas detection products at MSA Africa.

“This is because the EX-5 responds to the source of the gas leak rather than the overall dispersion of gas molecules in the air. It also features a unique immunity to false alarms, and can be configured to filter short timescale ultrasonic noises and frequencies below 25 kHz, which are ignored with the help of a high pass filter. Any alerts are indicated by a three-digit LED that also shows actual sound pressure levels. In addition, the alarm can be set to respond to above-ambient ultrasonic noise, reducing the possibility of a false alarm even further and inspiring a sense of security in personnel working in the area.”

The gas leak detector is ideal for use in high pressure systems, provides up to a 20 metre radius of coverage for the detection of leaks as small as 0,1 kg/sec and does not require transport of the gas to the sensor. It has been designed specifically for use in gas turbine power plants, petrochemical plants, gas storage facilities and compressor station applications.

The explosion and corrosion-resistant detector is easily configured by a single, trained operator using a portable test unit. The MSA-developed and fully integrated Sessonic self-testing system checks the detector’s electrical reliability and the high-precision stainless steel microphone every 15 minutes, helping to ensure peak operation at all times.

“The system is ATEX, IECEx, FM and CSA hazardous area certified and SIL 3 suitable,” confirms Taitz. “Along with a 4-20 mA output, the unit is available with ModBus or HART field communications protocol, enabling asset management and process improvement as well as continuous status monitoring that includes event logging, stored faults, sound checks and calibration records.

For more information contact Robbie Taitz, MSA Africa, +27 (0)11 610 2600, [email protected], www.msaafrica.co.za

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MSA's UltraSonic EX-5 gas detector

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