Accurate Measurement of Six Gases Simultaneously

Dräger (Germany) has expanded its range of multi-gas detection devices for personal protection. The X-am 5600 measures up to six gases simultaneously. It has a very long lifespan and due to its robustness is perfect for use in industry or supply and waste disposal.

The X-am 5600 detects explosive, flammable and toxic gases, in addition to oxygen. The heart of the device is its infrared sensor, which can measure explosive gases, carbon dioxide or both. In comparison to catalytic sensors, the infrared measurements for explosion hazards cover a larger area. They monitor the measurement range to the lower explosion limit and detect the entire range up to 100 percent by volume of methane, ethylene, butane, and propane. The CO2 sensor has a measurement resolution of 0.01 percent by volume and can detect even slight changes. The dual sensor is ideal for applications in which both substances may occur: it detects both carbon dioxide and explosive substances. Additionally, the infrared sensors do not depend on the content of the oxygen in the atmosphere. They can also be used in inertised environments. The operating range of the X-am 5600 can be expanded easily by adding it to the area monitor X-zone 5000 enabling the X-am 5600 to continuously monitor places where a gas leak is expected and pre-warn people before they enter the hazardous zone.

The expected life cycle of the infrared sensors is more than eight years. In comparison, one catalytic Ex sensor must be changed after three to four years. The device should be calibrated once a year, while the catalytic Ex sensor has a recommended service interval of six months. A service life of five years is guaranteed for the electrochemical sensors for oxygen, carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. The extended service life and lower maintenance requirements reduce the operating costs of the device.

The X-am 5600 uses the proven features of the X-am 5000. The X-am 5000 also detects possible errors in defective parts and identifies them. The daily function test can be done with the bump-test station, requiring no external power supply,  which means testing is decentralised.