Catalytic combustible gas sensor

Catalytic combustible gas sensor uses the thermal effect principle of catalytic combustion. It consists of a detection element and a compensation element paired to form a measurement bridge. Under certain temperature conditions, combustible gas burns flamelessly under the action of the detection element carrier surface and the catalyst, and the carrier temperature is increases, the resistance of the platinum wire inside it also increases accordingly, causing the balance bridge to lose balance and output an electrical signal proportional to the concentration of combustible gas. By measuring the change in resistance of the platinum wire, the concentration of flammable gas can be known. It is mainly used for the detection of flammable gases. It has good output signal linearity, reliable index, low price, and will not cause cross-infection with other non-flammable gases.

Catalytic combustible gas sensor working principle

The detection methods are diffusion and adsorption. The air and detection gas are in full contact with the detector and balancer through a sintered stainless steel filter. The heated surface on the detector promotes the oxidation of combustible gas molecules; the treated balancer does not support this oxidation process and is inert. Balancers maintain zero drift stability over a wide range of environmental conditions. When combustible gas molecules oxidize on the detector, a temperature increase occurs and its resistance changes accordingly. The change in resistance is accurately measured via a Wheatstone bridge.

Advantages of Catalytic combustible gas sensor

Catalytic combustible gas sensor uses the most commonly used flammable gas detection technology, whether it is for organic gases or inorganic gases. It has a wide range of applications and is known as a “non-fussy sensor”. It responds well to both alkane and non-alkane combustible gases. Infrared gas sensors are limited to the detection and monitoring of alkane combustible gases. Both sensors are highly responsive and find use in many industrial settings.

The catalytic combustion type is considered an industry standard for flammable gas detection and has won a high reputation for its reliability and good field performance. Its flexibility and low cost in installation and maintenance make it easier to accept.

The calibration cycle for Catalytic combustible gas sensors is 90 to 180 days. Infrared sensors typically require half a year, or in some cases up to a year. Choosing the best sensor for any application involves many factors. From the accuracy and maintenance requirements required by the end user to the prevailing environmental conditions.