Gas Detectors
Gas leak detectors are used to pinpoint the source of a leak. Gas detectors use tracer gases like hydrogen and helium to find the leak. After filling the chamber with helium or a hydrogen/nitrogen mix, the gas loss is measured with a mass spectrometer that detects the helium or hydrogen.
Gas and vapor leaks are common in virtually any industry. In fact, just about anything that uses gas will likely leak. The concerning factor, however, is how fast the leak occurs, whether it be a small amount by the second or every thousand years. When the amount leaking becomes a potential danger to the equipment or the health of employees, a gas leak detector is used to determine the amount and composition of the gas being leaked. When this step is complete, a corresponding action is taken to deal with the leak.
Gas leaks can be found via electronic, chemical, and sound-sensitive technologies. Most leak detectors are hand-held devices that are programmed to monitor specific conditions. The mobility of a leak detector is important because of the tight and complex networks of piping that are sometimes used to house a gas or a liquid. Most methods of gas leak detection are operator dependant.
Different types of detectors are used for specific duties, such as the actual gas detection at the spot of the leak, the amount that is coming out, and the type of gas. Sometimes a tracer gas, like helium, is used to help aid in the detection of other gases.