TECHNICAL
liquid electrolyte , which is characterised by extremely low vapour pressure , preventing evaporation within a changing environment . This reduces maintenance as contact with ammonia has virtually no effect on the lifespan of the sensor . Such devices can withstand background gas concentrations due to the choice of the catalyst in the electrode material , which is not consumed during the chemical reaction with the target gas . This allows for an enhanced efficiency for interaction of the electrolyte , the electrode catalyst , and the target gas , regardless of environmental conditions , enabling the sensor to overcome extreme humidity and temperature levels . The result of breakthrough designs such as this provides a stable , dependable sensor performance , over a longer life span under demanding operating conditions and environments .
Perimeter ammonia monitoring Certain plants require ammonia monitoring over wide areas where a large number of detectors may have to be installed . In such cases , perimeter monitoring with open path detectors is an ideal solution , complementing traditional technologies to help enhance the overall safety performance of the gas detection system . These devices are typically located around the perimeter of a plant , process or storage area ; or positioned in close proximity to specific items of a plant , that pose a real risk of gas escape , like compressors , pump sets , pressure reducers , valves and pipe flanges .
Consider a gas detector that creates a highly reliable entire detection perimeter around any plant for the detection of ammonia , and one that is suitable for use inside the plant as well as in process areas . Technology that relies on Enhanced Laser Diode Spectroscopy ( ELDS ) to detect a specific toxic gas provides an enhanced solution . So , in the event of a gas leak , the sensor ’ s laser technology recognises and analyses a gas ’ specific harmonic fingerprint and issues an alarm when the gas is present . Moreover , ELDS technology has a speed of response of < 3 seconds and will detect ammonia anywhere it intercepts the beam . This can result in faster isolation of the leak and a reduction in the volume of ammonia that escapes .
CONCLUSION
The use of ammonia as a refrigerant in industrial applications offers significant benefits in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness . However , it comes with inherent risks , including toxicity and flammability , which requires the implementation of effective ammonia detection systems . As technology continues to advance , ammonia detection solutions are becoming more sophisticated and reliable , providing industries with enhanced capabilities to detect and respond to ammonia leaks promptly .
In the ever-evolving landscape of regulations and safety standards , businesses must remain vigilant and proactive in adopting the most suitable ammonia detection systems for their specific refrigeration applications . By doing so , they can safeguard their people , their places , and the planet . CLA
Ammonia detection .
SOURCE
Supplied by MSA Safety
REFERENCES
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( https :// coldlinkafrica . co . za / ammonia-refrigeration-plants-sans-10147-compliant-issues /)
32 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • January / February 2024