Climate-friendly and reliable: Gas detection in shipping

Intelligent gas warning devices from MSR-Electronic detect gases in engine rooms and cargo holds of ships at an early stage and reliably. Commercial shipping poses a particular risk in the event of dangerous gas leaks, as there is no possibility of escape for the crew. It is therefore all the more important to detect and avoid hazards at an early stage.

Particularly high risks arise, among other things, in engine and crew rooms, in case of transports of hazardous materials and gas, as well as with fuel emissions and inerting systems. In order to detect dangerous gas leaks and prevent fires, gas detectors from MSR-Electronic are employed here. The reliable gas warning devices not only protect equipment and systems on the ship, but in particular the lives of the crew.

How are the gas detectors used in the marine sector?

The gas detectors are used to measure combustible and toxic gases as well as oxygen. By analysing oxygen and monitoring the gas concentration, the ambient air on board is continuously checked. In the event of increased values, an early warning is given, thus preventing the release of hazardous gases into the atmosphere.

High risks also arise during inerting processes. Here, low-reaction substances are added to the tank to displace the oxygen in the tank and thus prevent the formation of explosive gas mixtures. It is particularly important that the maximum permissible oxygen concentration is not exceeded.

If the oxygen concentration in the inerting system is nevertheless exceeded, the crew on the ship is immediately warned and an alarm is triggered. In this way, measures can be taken at an early stage and people and equipment can be protected.

MSR-Electronic solutions for reliable gas detection in shipping

The PX2 gas detector is used for gas detection on board.

The PX2 detector with microprocessor, 4-20mA / RS485 Modbus output signal, alarm and fault signal relay monitors the ambient air for toxic and combustible gases as well as for oxygen concentration and refrigerants. Optionally, the unit is also available with LC display.

The calibration of gas detectors without LCD display is carried out via the calibration device STL06 or the PC software PCE06. Gas detectors with LCD display have an integrated calibration routine that is started from the outside by a permanent magnet without opening the housing. In case of an alarm or failure the backlight of gas detectors with LCD display changes from green to red.

Certified with ATEX, IECEx and, for some types, with the tested measuring function, the unit is optimally suited for electrical explosion protection in Zone 1 and Zone 2

BENEFITS

• MED Certificate and TA Certificate: Approval according to Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EU by DNV
• PX2-1 for zone 1 (and also suitable for zone 2): Type “Ex db” protection flame-proof enclosure 
• SIL2 safety functions 4–20 mA, RS-485 and relay
• Enclosure: Additional FM and CSA certificates for Class I, Div. 1 
• Continuous self-monitoring
• Microprocessor with 12-bit converter resolution
• Reverse polarity protection 
• Overload protection
• Easy calibration 
• Calibration service by exchanging the sensor head
• Proportional 4–20 mA output 
• Serial interface to the control centre 
• Alarm and fault signal relay

OPTIONAL FEATURES 

• LCD display with status LEDs 
• Connection of SSAX1 sensor head - not in conjunction with tested measuring function for explosion protection 
• IP66 protection with SplashGuard accessories

APPLICATION

The PolyXeta®2 PX2 detector is used on ships, shipyards and offshore platforms as well as in industrial areas like oil/gas industry, biogas plants, petrochemical industry, power plants etc. in Ex Zone 1 or 2. The PolyXeta®2 gas detector is also suitable for commercial areas like gas transfer like e.g. gas transfer stations etc. With the 4–20 mA / RS-485 Modbus output signal the gas detector is suitable for connection to the PolyGard®2 gas controller series by MSR-Electronic, as well as to any other controllers or automation devices.

Further information on MSR products can be found here in the current Online Catalog or in the webshop www.msr-24.com.

MSR-Electronic is a manufacturer of fixed gas warning systems with decades of experience in the field of building automation and gas measurement technology. The international company with headquarters in Germany has a wide range of methods for the detection of toxic and combustible gases. On this basis MSRElectronic develops individual gas sensors, controllers and warning devices for many applications, such as parking garages, tunnels, petrochemical industry or shipping. The products meet more than the general standards and regulations and can therefore guarantee the safety of the plant. www.msr-electronic.de/en/