Nov 14, 2025

What gases can a fixed gas detector detect?

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Hey there! As a supplier of fixed gas detectors, I often get asked about what gases these nifty devices can detect. Well, you're in the right place because I'm gonna break it down for you in this blog post.

Combustible Gases

One of the most common types of gases that fixed gas detectors can detect is combustible gases. These are gases that can catch fire and burn when mixed with air in the right proportions. Some well - known combustible gases include methane (CH₄), propane (C₃H₈), and hydrogen (H₂).

Methane is a major component of natural gas. It's colorless and odorless, which makes it a bit of a sneaky threat. In places like oil and gas fields, coal mines, and even in some industrial settings where natural gas is used, there's always a risk of methane leaks. That's where our Point Type Combustible Fixed Gas Detector GWD31 comes in super handy. It can quickly and accurately detect the presence of methane, alerting you before things get out of hand.

Propane is another combustible gas that's widely used for heating, cooking, and in some vehicles. It's heavier than air, so it can accumulate in low - lying areas. If there's a propane leak in a storage facility or a home with a propane - powered appliance, a fixed gas detector can sense it and give you a heads - up.

Hydrogen is a clean - burning fuel, but it's also highly flammable. It's used in fuel cells, in the chemical industry, and in some research facilities. A fixed gas detector can keep tabs on hydrogen levels, ensuring a safe working environment.

Toxic Gases

Toxic gases are a real concern in many workplaces and industrial settings. Exposure to these gases can cause serious health problems, ranging from mild irritation to long - term damage and even death.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a well - known toxic gas. It's produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels like gasoline, natural gas, coal, and wood. You can't see, smell, or taste it, which makes it extremely dangerous. In homes with gas - fired appliances, garages, and industrial areas with combustion processes, a fixed gas detector can detect CO and save lives.

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is another toxic gas. It has a characteristic "rotten egg" smell, but at high concentrations, it can paralyze your sense of smell, making it even more hazardous. It's commonly found in oil and gas production, wastewater treatment plants, and some mines. Our fixed gas detectors can pick up even trace amounts of H₂S, protecting workers from its harmful effects.

Ammonia (NH₃) is widely used in the agricultural and chemical industries. It's a respiratory irritant, and high - level exposure can cause lung damage. Fixed gas detectors can monitor ammonia levels in facilities where it's used or stored, preventing accidental exposure.

Oxygen

Oxygen is essential for life, but both too little and too much oxygen can be dangerous. In confined spaces like storage tanks, sewers, and mines, oxygen levels can drop due to processes like rusting, fermentation, or the presence of other gases. On the other hand, in some industrial processes where oxygen is used, there's a risk of oxygen enrichment.

A fixed gas detector can measure the oxygen level in the air. If the oxygen level drops below the safe range (usually around 19.5%), it can trigger an alarm, warning you to take action, like evacuating the area or providing additional ventilation. Similarly, if the oxygen level rises above the normal range (around 23.5%), it can also alert you to potential fire or explosion hazards.

Other Gases

There are also other gases that fixed gas detectors can detect, depending on the specific model and its capabilities. For example, some detectors can detect chlorine (Cl₂), which is used in water treatment and the chemical industry. Chlorine is a strong irritant and can be very dangerous if inhaled.

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is another gas that can be detected. It's produced by the burning of fossil fuels and in some industrial processes. Exposure to SO₂ can cause respiratory problems and environmental damage.

Our Gas Transmitters GWD31E are designed to be versatile and can be configured to detect a wide range of gases, giving you the flexibility to meet different monitoring needs.

How Do Fixed Gas Detectors Work?

Fixed gas detectors use different technologies to detect gases. For combustible gases, catalytic bead sensors are commonly used. These sensors work by measuring the heat released when the combustible gas burns on the surface of a catalyst.

For toxic gases, electrochemical sensors are often employed. These sensors generate an electrical current when the toxic gas reacts with an electrolyte inside the sensor.

Infrared sensors are used for detecting some gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane. They work by measuring the absorption of infrared light by the gas molecules.

Why You Need a Fixed Gas Detector

Having a fixed gas detector is crucial for safety. In industrial settings, it can prevent accidents, protect workers' health, and avoid costly downtime due to gas - related incidents. In homes, it can safeguard your family from the dangers of toxic and combustible gases.

If you're in an industry where gas detection is necessary, or if you just want to ensure the safety of your home, our fixed gas detectors are a reliable choice. They're built to last, with high - quality sensors and robust construction. And they're easy to install and maintain.

Contact Us for Purchase and Consultation

If you're interested in learning more about our fixed gas detectors or are ready to make a purchase, don't hesitate to reach out. We have a team of experts who can help you choose the right detector for your specific needs. Whether you need to detect a single gas or multiple gases, we've got you covered.

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References

  • "Gas Detection Handbook" by John W. Gardner
  • "Industrial Hygiene: A Practical Guide" by Thomas A. Armstrong
  • Various industry standards and guidelines related to gas detection
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