EVO gas sensor line – high-resolution NDIR sensors for detection of CFC gases

Gas sensors based on non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) absorption offer decisive advantages compared with electrochemical and catalytic sensors. The sensor principle exploits the quality of gases and absorbs infrared radiation at a specific, characteristic wavelength. The sensors work very selectively and display almost no cross-sensitivities to other gases. The smartMODUL EVO NDIR series is available for all commonly used CFC refrigerants in compression cooling systems.

A number of statutory regulations have recently been agreed upon in order to restrict use of high GWP gases in compression cooling systems and to minimize escape of high GWP gases. For example, compression-cooling systems that contain the two former most popular refrigerants, R507 and R404a, cannot be sold after 2020 and certified personnel must inspect existing systems regularly for emissions. The inspection interval depends on the amount of refrigerant used and is usually three months for larger cooling systems. If the installed leakage detection system is able to detect any refrigerant leaks and to activate an alarm inspection interval can be twice as long. The smartMODUL EVO series module is ideally suited for use in such leakage detection systems. False alarms, which may occur with other sensors, are eliminated due to the high selectivity of the verification procedure.

The smartMODUL EVO series of sensors offer very high zero-stability, a very high resolution and a very high signal-to-noise ratio in the low-ppm range. All three parameters are very important to have in control in order to achieve an early detection of a leak. The sensors are available as standalone sensors with standardized interfaces or as finished devices ready-to-use. A transmitter is available for easy installation and operation, but also systems for gas extraction and analysis can be engineered