First laser open-path H2S gas detector with full SIL2 3rd party approval

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection have announced the launch of its groundbreaking GD1 laser-based gas detector with full SIL2 3rd party approval. This new development positions the GD1 SIL2 as the market's first open-path gas detector designed specifically for hydrogen sulphide (H2S) safety-related applications. The global importance of Safety Integrity Level (SIL) has significantly increased in the oil, gas, petrochemical, and other process industries over the past decade. As a result, it is crucial for devices like gas detectors to demonstrate their suitability and competence in accordance with the latest SIL2 third-party certification.

The GD1, introduced by Teledyne GFD in 2011, has already made a significant impact in the market, with over 1600 units deployed at oil and gas exploration and production companies worldwide, including the Middle East. With its new SIL2 certification, the GD1 is now suitable for use in systems with SIL2 requirements. Unlike typical SIL1 ATEX-certified gas detection devices/systems, which require regular maintenance and functional approval according to IEC 60079-29-3, the GD1 offers built-in automatic self-testing of hardware components, reducing maintenance intervals for sensors and minimizing downtime.

The GD1 complies with the latest criteria for IEC 60079-0:2017 (IECEx), ensuring its adherence to international safety regulations. What sets Teledyne GFD's GD1 apart is its innovative and customised tunable laser diode, which eliminates the effects of environmental factors such as sun, rain, or fog. This feature enables the GD1 to operate with up to 98% obscuration, enhancing overall site safety considerably. Unlike conventional straight beams, the light emitted by the GD1 detector travels as a cone, expanding after transmission and reaching the receiver mounted 75 metres away with an almost one-meter diameter. This capability enables the GD1 to penetrate harsh environments that other competitor solutions may find highly challenging.

Featuring a fast and fail-safe laser, the GD1 performs real-time dual automatic calibration and automatic proof testing, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing maintenance costs. Furthermore, it offers advantages such as low power consumption (15W), an exceptionally long lifespan, and a high sampling/detection rate of 8,000 times per second, thanks to its ultra-stable optomechanical construction. These characteristics enable the GD1 to replace multiple standard detectors, providing the same level of risk coverage and resulting in significant cost savings.

Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection's GD1 provides a new and improved solution for SIL2 applications. Its unique features and capabilities make it an attractive choice for industries requiring top-notch gas detection performance.