Introducing the Hydrogen Leak Detector with a built-in pump, a top-of-the-line solution for detecting hydrogen leaks. With its fast response time and point probe sampling, this detector is ideal for tracking hydrogen leaks in storage and distribution facilities, identifying hydrogen tracer gas leaks in plumbing applications, and monitoring hydrogen accumulation in battery rooms or hazardous areas.
Equipped with a 32-bit microprocessor, color LCD, and graphing capability, this advanced hydrogen leak analyzer is one of the most sophisticated on the market. For added reliability, the detector is USA NIST traceable calibrated to Hydrogen (H2) gas in Los Angeles, CA.
Hydrogen Leak Detector Accessories?
How Can a Hydrogen Leak Occur?
There are two main hydrogen leak situations.
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- Indoor Hydrogen Leak: Hydrogen gas leak detection is the process of identifying the presence of hydrogen gas in an area where it should not be, such as a confined space or an area where it can pose a safety hazard. Hydrogen gas is highly flammable and can be explosive in certain concentrations, so detecting even small amounts of hydrogen gas is critical to ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment. A hydrogen leak detector can identify leaks early to prevent potential accidents or damage.
- Hydrogen Tracer Gas Leak: Hydrogen tracer gas detection is a method of identifying leaks in systems or equipment by introducing a small amount of hydrogen gas, known as hydrogen tracer gas. Since it is light, it will rise and serves well for underground leak detection or equipment detection. Once the hydrogen gas is introduced, the system or equipment is pressurized, and any leaks that exist will allow the hydrogen gas to escape into the surrounding environment. A hydrogen leak detection is then used to detect the presence of the hydrogen tracer gas, allowing technicians to pinpoint the location of the leak.
Who Uses a Hydrogen Leak Detector?
Hydrogen leak detectors are used by a wide range of professionals and industries, including:
- Plumbers: Using hydrogen as a trace gas. Traditionally helium was used, however, it is scarce and expensive. Hydrogen is used to track down underground pipe leaks.
- Chemical and petrochemical industries: Hydrogen is used extensively in chemical and petrochemical processes, and leak detection is critical to ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.
- Power generation: Hydrogen is used in fuel cells to generate electricity, and leak detection is necessary to prevent accidents and ensure the efficient operation of the fuel cells.
- Aerospace and aviation: Hydrogen is used as fuel in rockets and aircraft, and leak detection is essential to ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.
- Automotive industry: Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, and leak detection is necessary to ensure the safety of passengers and the efficient operation of vehicles.
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Research and development: Hydrogen is used in many laboratory applications, and leak detection is necessary to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment and to prevent contamination of experiments.
How to Test for a Hydrogen Gas Leak?
To test for a hydrogen gas leak, take the following steps:
- Use a Hydrogen Leak Detector: Acquire a hydrogen leak detector and use it at suspected leakage locations. If you are using a hydrogen tracer gas, make sure you pressurize the system with a high concentration of H2 gas.
- Monitor the Hydrogen ppm Readings: Allow the hydrogen leak detector sufficient time to sample the air and provide accurate readings (see below examples on YouTube). Monitor the detector's display or indicators for any changes in hydrogen levels.
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Leak fixing: If a leak has been found. Take note of its location and tag the location. Address the leakage with an appropriate engineer or technician.
What Does A Hydrogen Gas Leak Smell Like?
Hydrogen gas is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, so it is difficult to detect with the human senses. However, in some cases, a chemical called mercaptan may be added to hydrogen gas to give it a distinct odor similar to that of rotten eggs. This is done to make it easier to detect leaks of hydrogen gas, which can be highly flammable and pose a safety hazard. If you suspect a hydrogen gas leak, it is important to evacuate the area immediately and contact the appropriate authorities for assistance.
How Long Does the Hydrogen Gas Sensor Last?
The lifespan of a hydrogen electrochemical sensor is about 2 to 3 years. The sensor's lifespan is influenced by factors such as operating temperature, humidity, exposure to contaminants, and the frequency of calibration and maintenance.
How often should I test or calibrate my Hydrogen Leak Detector?
It is best to bump test before using the Hydrogen leak detector. Calibration should be performed every 6 to 12 months. Calibration can be done by the Forensics Detectors lab or can be performed by the customer following our calibration tutorials. Items required are:
Calibration T-piece & Tubing
Calibration Gas (H2)
Calibration Gas Regulator (C10)
How Does a Hydrogen Leak Detector Work?
A hydrogen leak detector works by sensing the presence of hydrogen gas in the air and alerting the user when it is detected. A hydrogen leak detector is a digital instrument with an electrochemical hydrogen sensing cell that produces an electrical signal proportional to the hydrogen concentration. This signal is then processed by the detector's electronics. This allows the analyzer to display a quantitative representation of hydrogen levels in parts per million (ppm). The relationship between the voltage output and the H2 ppm reading is established through calibration, where a known concentration of H2 gas is used to determine the corresponding output voltage of the sensor. This calibration process ensures accurate and reliable measurements from the analyzer.
How Should I Store my Hydrogen Leak Detector?
To ensure maximum sensor life and accurate measurements upon operation, it is recommended to store the Hydrogen Leak Detector in a moderate environment with a humidity level of 50%RH and a room temperature of approximately 70F. The unit should be kept in the hard waterproof case it was sold with for optimal storage conditions.
Conclusion
- Hydrogen gas is highly flammable and explosive, so detecting even small leaks is critical to maintaining a safe work environment.
- Hydrogen gas is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without a hydrogen leak detector.
- Hydrogen leak detectors can be used to detect leaks in a variety of applications, including battery rooms, fuel cells, pipelines, storage tanks, and laboratory equipment.
- Hydrogen is often used as a tracer gas for leak detection. Hydrogen leak detectors can be used to test for leaks in real-time, allowing technicians to quickly identify and address any issues.
- Regular maintenance and calibration of hydrogen leak detectors are necessary to ensure accurate and reliable results.
About The Author
Dr. Kos Galatsis ("Dr.Koz") is the President of FORENSICS DETECTORS where the company operates from the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters, and gas analyzers. He has been designing, building, manufacturing, and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years.
Every day is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems. Dr. Koz also loves spending time with his wife and his three children going to the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the outdoors.
Read more about Forensics Detectors here.
Email: drkoz@forensicsdetectors.com