Hydrogen Sulphide is more than just a nasty smell.
Hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) exposure presents a serious threat in the oil and gas sector. It is often found as a byproduct of drilling operations and occurs naturally in oil fields. While it is highly flammable, the primary concern is its extreme toxicity. The fact that H₂S gas is 19% heavier than air means it readily collects in confined spaces and low-lying areas, further compounding the issue. Read more about the industrial safety concerns for H₂S here.
Workers are most likely to come into contact with Hydrogen Sulphide while conducting maintenance work or operating within tankers. Solo workers carry out much of this labour, thus exposing themselves to a high level of risk. Even low concentrations of hydrogen sulphide can cause moderate health effects like headaches and eye irritation. Higher concentrations can result in unconsciousness, coma, and death.
Fixed gas detectors are unsuitable for many of these working environments. The only appropriate precaution that solo workers can take is to carry portable hydrogen sulphide detectors. Portables are an essential safety measure. They monitor the surrounding atmosphere and alert workers to the presence of Hydrogen Sulphide. Crucially, they offer rapid responsiveness in even harsh environments. Hydrogen sulphide is a fast-acting toxin, so detection speed is an essential metric for early detection and safety.
Principles of Operation
Most Hydrogen Sulphide detectors operate based on one of the following principles:
- Electrochemical Sensing: This is the most common method for detecting H2S. An electrochemical cell consists of electrodes immersed in an electrolyte. When H2S gas comes into contact with the sensor, it undergoes a chemical reaction that produces an electric current. The magnitude of this current is proportional to the concentration of H2S, which the detector then translates into a concentration reading.
- Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Sensing: In this method, a heated metal oxide surface changes its electrical resistance in the presence of H2S. The change in resistance is measured and correlated to the gas concentration.
Features and Components
- Sensing Element: The core component that interacts directly with the gas. Its material and design depend on the detection principle being used.
- Display: Most modern detectors have a digital display that provides a real-time reading of the H2S concentration, usually in parts per million (ppm).
- Alarms: Detectors have visual, audible, and sometimes vibratory alarms that activate when the H2S concentration exceeds preset levels.
- Battery: Since portability and continuous operation are crucial, these detectors are typically powered by long-lasting batteries, which can be rechargeable or replaceable.
- Data Logging: Advanced detectors can store data over time, allowing for analysing exposure patterns and trends.
- Calibration: To maintain accuracy, detectors need periodic calibration using known concentrations of H2S. Some advanced models offer automatic calibration features.
Performance Specifications
- Range: The minimum and maximum concentrations the detector can measure. Detectors commonly measure Hydrogen Sulphide levels from 0 to 100 ppm, but some industrial models can detect even higher concentrations.
- Resolution: The smallest change in concentration the detector can identify. For H2S, this is often 0.1 ppm.
- Response Time: The time the detector takes to display a reading after exposure to H2S. Rapid response times are crucial for safety.
- Accuracy: A measure of how close the detector’s reading is to the actual concentration. It’s usually expressed as a percentage of the reading.
Environmental Considerations
- Temperature and Humidity Ranges: Detectors are designed to operate within specific temperature and humidity ranges. Exceeding these can affect accuracy.
- Ingress Protection (IP) Rating: This rating indicates the device’s resistance to dust and water ingress.
Introducing the SGT-P Portable Hydrogen Sulphide Detector
The SGT-P is a game-changer in personal safety against Hydrogen Sulphide. Weighing a mere 93g, this lightweight yet robust device is tailor-made for the harshest environments, especially confined spaces. Its intuitive one-button interface ensures minimal training, while its unique feature of displaying live gas concentrations sets it apart from the competition. With a 24-month warranty and H2S sensors that last an impressive 3-5 years, this detector promises unparalleled reliability. Plus, with IGD’s commitment to service excellence, expect a fast calibration service for your device. Choose the SGT-P for a safer, greener, and more efficient H2S detection experience.
Contact our team today about our range of H2S portables.
