Ammonia, a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen widely used as a refrigerant and in fertilizer production, is a prime example of a commonly used gas that is toxic and combustible. Other gases that represent dual threats include benzene, butadiene, chlorobezene, methanol and many others.
In all, FM Approvals can now evaluate 47 toxic and/or combustible gases for certification of gas detection systems in its newly opened gas detection laboratory in West Glocester, Rhode Island, USA. The new facility provides more than double the space and capacity than the previous lab in Norwood, Massachusetts.
Gas detection technology is widely used in industry to protect facilities, processes and personnel from unexpected leaks and discharges of combustible or potentially harmful or toxic gases and vapors. Gas detectors trigger alarms, record events, provide time for intervention or evacuation, activate ventilation, or even release water mist or CO2 to suppress ignition if a gas cloud is forming.
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Fixed point and open path (line of sight) gas detection systems are typically used by oil, gas, power generation, chemical processing, pharmaceutical and waste facilities to create layered protection. Gas detection technologies include catalytic or electrocatalytic, electrochemical cell, solid state sensors, ultraviolet or infrared (IR) detectors.
FM Approvals certification when it counts
For over 40 years, FM Approvals has been the only certification organization in the world that mandates performance testing for all types of gas detection (i.e., combustible, toxics and oxygen depletion) as a requirement to earn the FM Diamond. In addition to validating that the detector will not present a shock, fire or explosion risk, it is also imperative that the system detects the gas when it is called upon to do so.
Increased capacity = increased opportunity
FM Approvals helps manufacturers worldwide save time and costs by providing certification to Approval Standards as well as ANSI/ISA, CAN/CSA, EN, ATEX, and IEC standards. The new gas detection laboratory more than doubles FM Approvals' testing capacity and enables the testing of a far greater range of combustible and toxic gases.
"We are already seeing an increase in interest from manufacturers around the world who are seeking to consolidate testing services," notes Patrick Byrne, FM Approvals assistant vice president and technical team manager. Byrne, who oversees the new gas detection lab, adds, "We can provide preliminary testing and research testing at a fraction of the cost of a full certification program. That gives manufacturers an opportunity to verify the operation of their equipment and systems. It's a great way to ensure instrument accuracy before submitting a system for a full test program."
He says of the new facility and its capabilities, "We're working hard to create a seamless transition for our current customers, particularly as we work through a reexamination of all existing Approved gas detection systems, beginning next year. Our expanded lab facilities enable us to carry out those re-exams in parallel without disrupting new test programs. We look forward to serving a truly global clientele.