Minneapolis, MN. The new Det-Tronics Eclipse OPECL open path gas detection system delivers reliable infrared combustible gas detection for protection of oil/gas and other industrial facilities, optimized for low maintenance, low cost and exceptional performance in challenging environmental conditions.

With a sensing path of up to 60m and a response time of under 3 sec to 90% of full scale, it features stainless steel construction, redundant dual xenon flashlamp technology, unequalled ease of installation and alignment, multiple communication protocols and a 3-year warranty.

Especially useful for perimeter monitoring and applications where leaks can occur over a widely dispersed area, the system detects most flammable hydrocarbon gases and vapors. Selectable gas settings include methane, ethane, ethylene, propane, butane and propylene.

A linear 4-20mA current source indicates 0 to 5 LEL-meters gas concentration, with ±0.1 LEL-meters repeatability. Lower output levels indicate calibration or blocked beam/fault condition. RS-485 Modbus communication protocol is provided, and HART communication will be available by Q4 of 2003.

A unique xenon flashlamp configuration provides exceptional system service life, while also providing redundant bulb operation. If either flashlamp fails, the back-up lamp takes over normal operation with no loss of protection or sensitivity. A signal is generated that notifies operations that the system is operating on a single lamp. The failed lamp may be replaced when time allows.

System diagnostics information is provided by an on-board, tri-color LED, as well as analog signal levels. Optional relay outputs include two programmable alarm relays and one general fault relay. Alarm thresholds are set using Modbus communication, which also provides viewing of system history logs.

Installation is simplified through the use of indicating laser. The system also delivers exceptional misalignment tolerance of ±0.5°.

The system is housed in flameproof enclosures approved for use in Class 1, Division 1 or CENELEC Zone 1 hazardous areas and having ingress protection to IP66, NEMA 4X. On-board heaters in both the transmitter and receiver modules melt snow and ice, enabling unattended and uninterrupted operation in inclement weather.