Model: FD-EX-SENSOR
Compatible: FD-60-EX, FD-60-4GAS
This sensor module uses an industry-proven catalytic bead (pellistor) sensor, the gold standard for combustible gas and explosive atmosphere (EX) monitoring. The sensor detects virtually all flammable gases and vapors — including methane, propane, butane, and solvent vapors — measuring concentrations from 0–100% LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) with a linear, stable response. Trusted for decades in industrial safety, confined space entry, and hazardous atmosphere testing, catalytic bead technology delivers reliable performance across wide temperature and humidity ranges where other sensor types struggle. Its broad-spectrum sensitivity makes it ideal for environments where the specific combustible gas may be unknown, providing dependable protection against fire and explosion hazards. Simple to calibrate and maintain, the sensor offers fast response times and long service life, making it the practical choice for oil and gas, utilities, wastewater, HVAC, and general industrial applications.
Sensor Type: Catalytic bead (pellistor)
Target Gases: Combustible gases & vapors (CH4, C3H8, etc.)
Measuring Range: 0-100% LEL
Resolution: 1% LEL
Accuracy: +/-3% LEL (typical)
Response Time (T90): <= 15 seconds
Operating Temperature: -20C to +55C (-4F to +131F)
Operating Humidity: 10-95% RH (non-condensing)
Operating Pressure: 90-110 kPa
Oxygen Requirement: > 10% vol O2 for accurate reading
Linearity: Linear across full 0-100% LEL range
Expected Sensor Life: 2-3 years (typical)
Warm-up Time: <= 60 seconds
Calibration Gas: 50% LEL CH4 (2.5% vol methane) recommended
Drift: < 5% LEL per year (typical)
Known Inhibitors/Poisons: Silicones, sulfur compounds, lead, halogenated hydrocarbons
Calibrated on Methane (CH4 = 1.00)
| Gas | Formula | Correction Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Methane | CH4 | 1.00 |
| Ethanol | C2H5OH | 1.45 |
| Methanol | CH3OH | 1.30 |
| Propane | C3H8 | 1.60 |
| Propylene | C3H6 | 1.55 |
| Acetone | C3H6O | 1.70 |
| Butane | C4H10 | 1.80 |
| Isopropanol | C3H8O | 1.85 |
| Acetylene | C2H2 | 1.35 |
| Pentane | C5H12 | 2.00 |
| MEK | C4H8O | 2.00 |
| Hexane | C6H14 | 2.30 |
| Toluene | C7H8 | 2.40 |
| Gasoline vapor | (mixture) | 2.10 |
| Xylene | C8H10 | 2.80 |
Usage: True %LEL = Reading × Correction Factor
Example: 10% LEL reading in propane = 10 × 1.60 = 16% LEL actual