8 Safety Optical Gas Imaging Camera Helps Enforce Environmental Protection


FLIR Advanced Thermal Solutions (France) has released a new applications report that describes how the Dutch Environmental Protection Agency (DMCR) is using a FLIR GF320 optical gas detection camera to uphold regulations regarding fugitive gas emissions in Rijnmond, the larger 'Port of Rotterdam' area in the Netherlands.


Due to the presence of the largest seaport in Europe the Rijnmond area is filled with heavy industry, including refineries, waste incinerators, waste dumping sites as well as many large chemical and metallurgical plants. All of these operations bring with them a risk of pollution.


After comparing several techniques, including Differential Absorption Light Detection (DIAL) and Solar Occultation Flux (SOF), the report details how the DMCR opted for a FLIR GF320 optical gas imaging camera as its method of choice to detect airborne environmental pollutants. Technical specialists at DMCR concluded that while traditional methods such as DIAL and SOF are robust and can quantify the emissions these technologies are very expensive to purchase, they are unwieldy, requiring large trucks to carry the equipment, and also complicated to use, requiring a lot of training to be used effectively. In comparison the GF-Series camera was seen to provide considerable benefits in terms of affordability, compactness, portability, and was very easy to use, requiring very little training."


DMCR concluded that the FLIR GF320 optical gas imaging camera is a quick, non-contact measuring instrument that can immediately give the camera operator an overview of a fugitive emission. It can also be used in hard-to-access locations, since it can detect small leaks from several meters away and big leaks from hundreds of meters away, and it can also show leaks in moving transport vehicles, such as tanker trucks, but also barges and rail wagons.


The DCMR Environmental Protection Agency is the regional environmental agency of the local and regional authorities operating in Rijnmond, the larger 'Port of Rotterdam' area in the Netherlands. The tasks of the DCMR include regulation of the industries, monitoring and assisting authorities on developing environmental policy. The DCMR issues permits to virtually all of the 22,000 enterprises in the area and carries out more than 9,000 inspections to monitor compliance with the permit conditions.


The FLIR GF320 Optical Gas Imaging camera is a real-time infrared camera designed for use in harsh industrial environments. The FLIR GF320 takes advantage of state-of-the-art focal plane array detector and optical systems that are tuned to very narrow spectral infrared ranges. This enables the camera to image infrared energy absorbed by certain environmentally polluting gases. Images are processed and enhanced by the FLIR High Sensitivity Mode™ feature to clearly show the presence of gases against stationary backgrounds. Gases that are detectable by the FLIR GF320 camera appear on screen as smoke plumes.


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Multi-Gas Detector is Key Component of Life Safety Solution


Industrial Scientific (USA) is pleased to announce the availability of the Ventis™ LS multi-gas detector as part of the Accenture Life Safety Solution. Using Wi-Fi and location-based technologies to remotely monitor those working in potentially hazardous environments, this wireless solution helps keep people safer.


The Accenture Life Safety Solution leverages the expertise of Industrial Scientific, as well as their unique Gas Detection as a Service solution known as iNet®


. It also incorporates the leading


technologies and processes of Accenture, AeroScout and Cisco. The solution is designed to continuously monitor employees working in plant environments across oil & gas, chemicals, petrochemicals, metals,


mining, forest products and utilities.


The Ventis LS has the ability to detect one to four gases, including H2S, O2, LEL, CO, SO2 and NO2. In potentially hazardous conditions, the instrument alerts users through audible, visual and vibrating alarms. The instrument’s gas level information is then transmitted over Cisco’s Unified Wireless Network using the gas detector’s integrated Wi-Fi Tag from AeroScout. The gas detection information is then sent to a control room, where an operator can react to the data. Because of the gas detector’s wireless technology, the operator can quickly locate the employee in danger, and organize rescue operations. A separate alert would be sent to the control room if lack of motion is detected or if the individual activates the detector’s panic button.


The Accenture Life Safety Solution extends itself beyond the plant’s confines. Operators can go outside of the plant with the same functionality using a combination of Wi-Fi and cellular communications.


The solution was initially field tested at two units at Marathon Petroleum Corporation’s Robinson, Ill., refinery. After successful testing, it was later deployed through the remaining refinery units, tank farm and outside the refinery fence line to include remote workers.


“Our deployment of this pioneering solution follows extensive evaluation of its functionality and costs,” said Don McCord, operations manager, Illinois Refining Division, MPC. “The tested solution gives our workers a greater sense of confidence that their safety is being monitored in ways that have never been possible before in our industry. In addition, its proven cost effectiveness has allowed us to deploy the solution across the entire refinery.”


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Latest Developments in Gas Detection Technology at Health and Safety Expo 2012


Gas detection specialist Crowcon (UK) is showing its latest developments in gas detection technology at the Health and Safety Expo in Birmingham this May. Among the new products on show will be the Gas-Pro portable confined space entry (CSE) gas detector. Specifically designed for CSE work, the Gas-Pro has application-driven features that include a top-mount display, internal pump, detection of up to five gases simultaneously, and a tri-colour status indicator.


Crowcon will also be showing a number of other new gas detection products, including an un-powered gas test unit for the Tetra 3 portable gas detector, which utilises the functionality of the Tetra 3 to carry out a simple and fast gas test in a matter of minutes.


In addition, the IRmax infrared (IR) flammable gas detector will be on display. Unlike conventional IR gas detectors, IRmax does not use heaters to prevent condensation on windows and mirrors. Instead, its optical components are treated with a highly durable hydrophobic coating called STAY-CLIR that completely prevents signal faults due to condensation. The IRmax is also available with the HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer) Communication Protocol, a global standard for sending and receiving digital information across analog wires between smart devices and control or monitoring systems.


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ATEX Transmitter Offers the Fastest Monitoring of Flammable Gases


Wherever flammable gases or vapours are found, GfG’s (Germany) CC28 provides the best solution for safe monitoring. ATEX-certified design, built-in EX-certified horn and bright LED lights allow safe operation within highly flammable areas. The gas alarm is transmitted to the central control panel, simultaneously warning the control room and the worker in the danger area.


Using GfG’s unique sensor technology, coupled with a special "chimney-effect" the CC28 transmitter has the shortest response time in the market, detecting flammable gases using catalytic bead technology.When used in conjunction with our GMA controller series, a programmed delta alarm can shorten the response time still further. This gives an extra level of safety when handling explosive gas risks.


Installation and sensor exchange are quick and easy using pre- calibrated smart, plug-in sensors. One-man calibration/ adjustment is possible directly at the transmitter, without opening the housing.


Some flammable gases are lighter than air (e.g. methane). If a transmitter is installed close to the ceiling, it can be connected by a fixed installed cable with a plug connection to the remote control. Thus, all adjustments can be made comfortably from floor level. With one remote control device, an unlimited number of transmitters can be controlled in this way. Using transmitters without display, the remote control shows the current values on its’ own display. The display of the remote control mimics the transmitter display exactly. Inspection, maintenance and adjustment are therefore greatly simplified. Using the remote control inspection, service and calibration can be performed easily by one person.


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