New high-performance methane surveying tool

Ashtead Technology has launched an advanced natural gas detection system that is able to differentiate between different gases and does not require a hydrogen source gas. Developed and manufactured by Inficon, the IRwin^® is a portable, intrinsically safe methane specific gas detector with additional capability for LEL, oxygen and toxic gas measurements.

“We have been hugely impressed by the IRwin,” says Josh Thomas, Ashtead Technology’s Regional Sales Manager. “It has been designed to improve the quality of measurements whilst also making the process quicker and easier – by using an advanced infrared sensor the IRwin avoids the need to carry hydrogen, and in combination with a special gas filter, it prevents interference from water vapour, ethanol or exhaust gas.

“The instrument is lightweight and battery powered, so it is simple and comfortable to use, and a wide range of modular accessories are available with different probes for almost any surface or application. A video on the Ashtead Technology website provides a more detailed explanation of the probe options provided by the IRwin.”

Highly sensitive, with a measurement range of 1ppm to 100% methane, the IRwin’s infrared sensor system (patents pending) has a very short reaction and recovery time, which dramatically improves the speed and accuracy of leak detection, whilst preventing false leak alarms. A specially developed GC and sensor combination allows fast distinction between marsh gas and natural gas from all known natural gas sources.

For survey work, an integrated GPS chip allows reliable tracking and wireless Bluetooth communication enables quick and easy data transfer to PC at the end of the day.

Ashtead Technology will offer the fully featured IRwin SXG model for hire, but this, and a range of other models, is also available for purchase. In addition to methane, the SXG is also able to measure ethane, propane, butane, CO2, CO and H2S. “This ability to speciate makes the SXG ideal for a range of environmental applications including landfill, composting and biogas sites in addition to leak detection from piped natural gas networks,” Josh adds.

“By offering rental instruments in addition to every model in the IRwin range for purchase, we aim to meet every individual customer’s financial and application-specific needs, and our team of trained advisers are available to help in the choice of the most appropriate model.”