MicroFLOW CH4 . select 10 Vol.-%

The MicroFLOW CH4 .select 10 Vol.-% sensor is suitable for a wide range of demanding applications that require precision and reliability.

FIELDS OF APPLICATION

Environmental technology: In composting plants, the analysis of methane is important to monitor the anaerobic decomposition process. Methane is a significant by-product of this process and serves as an indicator of the efficiency of the plant. Continuous monitoring makes it possible to optimize process parameters, control operations and ensure that the plant operates in compliance with environmental regulations. Precise measurement of methane concentrations in biogas plants enables targeted adjustment of process conditions to ensure maximum gas yield.

Industry: In petrochemical plants for the further processing of fossil raw materials, fast and precise detection of leaks ensures that potentially dangerous methane leaks are detected at an early stage. Furthermore, the MicroFLOW CH4 .select 10 Vol.-% can be used to test the quality and purity of natural gas in order to comply with methane content specifications.

Plant cultivation: Methane is an indicator of biological activity in the soil but also a greenhouse gas. _CH4 is monitored because it can influence plant growth in the soil atmosphere. By accurately measuring methane concentrations, environmental impacts can also be assessed and measures taken to reduce emissions.

MEASUREMENT ACCURACY

Our NDIR gas sensor achieves precise results for the selective measurement of methane without cross-sensitivity to other hydrocarbons. The IR detector in the sensor uses the absorption band of CH₄ of 7.5 to 8 µm for this purpose. Thanks to 10-point linearization, the maximum deviation of the measured gas concentration is less than one percent over the entire measuring range up to 10 % by volume.

The sensor reliably detects minimal gas concentrations in order to recognize even the smallest changes in the gas mixture. You can freely select your application measuring range (e.g. 1 vol.-%) within the entire measuring range (0 to 10 vol.-%).

Measurement deviations due to pressure fluctuations or barometric changes are compensated for using the µP.sens pressure sensor in the cuvette block (< 0.1 % / 10 hPa). Leakages and falsification of measured values are excluded. The integration of the pressure sensor in the cuvette block helps to reduce the space requirement of the overall module compared to comparable sensors.

Temperature compensation is guaranteed for each sensor module. Each module is tested and calibrated in the climate chamber by recording and correcting the error curve during measurement with a test gas at a specified concentration. The test and correction are carried out at zero point and end point as well as at other typical temperatures within the sensor's operating range of 5 - 45 °C. The maximum deviation is less than one third. The maximum deviation is less than 1 % per 10 K.

RANGE OF FUNCTIONS

With the digital interfaces RS232 and CAN bus, the interfaces most commonly used in industry are available ex works. You can select one of the two interfaces for your individual presetting on delivery. With the MARS light software, you can also change the interface at a later date if required. To do this, follow the instructions in the software manual.

The cuvette is optimized for methane in the measuring range of up to 10 % by volume.

In contrast to conventional sensors, our sensor enables measurements in a wide pressure range of 300 - 1200 hPa. This opens up an extended range of applications, e.g. for applications in higher geographical locations or for systems that work with negative pressure.

LIFETIME

The gas connection blocks made of anodized aluminium with high chemical resistance guarantee a long service life and reliability under demanding conditions. The stainless steel gas connections also ensure durability.

Premature component failures are ruled out by climate chamber tests in the operating temperature range.

INSTALLATION AND OPERATION

The MARS light software specially developed for the gas sensors is available to download free of charge. This means your gas sensor is ready for immediate use. You save project time as you do not have to develop your own software for initial test measurements. The sensor is characterized by a low power consumption of less than 1 watt. This allows it to be used in battery-operated devices. The wide voltage range of 9 to 30 volts allows easy integration into most existing systems.

Depending on the application, gases sometimes need to be pre-cooled or heated before the actual analysis. Possible condensation effects of the gas in the cuvette are prevented by monitoring the gas temperature in the measuring system.

In contrast to many comparable products, cleaning and any maintenance can be carried out with little effort thanks to the modular design.

All information on commissioning and operation can be found in the manual.

You will find a clear summary of the most important technical details in our data sheet. We will be happy to advise you on individual questions and requirements.