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An Introduction to LEL Gas Monitoring Systems

If you manage a petroleum refinery, a production facility — or any other worksite where there are dangerous gases around — nothing is so important as being alerted to the presence of combustible gases. LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) gas detectors are necessary to alert you when certain gases are approaching the density that's required for them to become combustible. Here's how LEL gas detectors work and why they're so important to maintaining a safe work environment.

Sophisticated Equipment

LEL gas detectors are designed to monitor the presence of a specific kind of gas that's relevant to the facility for which they're required. Relying on a sample draw mechanism or spectral analysis, the detector relies on a series of sensors to measure the gas's density. Each detector can be calibrated to detect both the relative density of a specific gas as well as the density of oxygen. The degree to which a gas is combustible will depend on its compound, and how much needs to be present compared to the surrounding oxygen that's available to reach combustibility.

The Lower Explosive Limit

LEL gas detectors measure the percentage of gas and oxygen present in an environment and apply a 0 to 100 percent with 100 being the lower explosive limit. Anything below 100 is considered a safe environment, but when 100 is reached, alarms will sound indicating that machinery will have to be shut down and the area evacuated before work can proceed. Monitoring equipment can be installed that will automatically shut down machinery when 100 is reached and vent the areas that are at risk.

Benefits of LEL Gas Detectors

Any facility where dangerous and potentially explosive gases are present require LEL gas detectors. Being able to properly protect your employees as well as the worksite is essential if you're going to run a responsible company. Furthermore, being immediately warned of the presence of the LEL of a combustible gas allows you to locate the leak and shut it down as quickly as possible. The faster you can make repairs and secure the environment, the quicker you can get back to work.

Knowing you and your employees are able to get your work done without being at risk gives you the certainty you need to run a safe and efficient facility. LEL gas detectors play an essential role in providing the peace of mind you expect in order to operate the healthiest worksite possible.