Why Gas Classification is a Game-Changer for Gas Detection Devices
At the heart of advanced gas detection is the ability to accurately classify and quantify gases in real-time. The MPS™ gas sensor, powered by MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology, takes this to the next level by offering the industry’s only multi-gas classification feature that uses patented algorithms to classify and notify users of the detected gases or gas mixtures present. This type of actionable information—unavailable with other sensor platforms—enables end users to quickly pinpoint and track the source of the leak.
TrueLEL™ Technology
The MPS™ sensor is designed to provide superior gas detection capabilities using TrueLEL™ technology. Unlike traditional sensors that are typically calibrated to a specific gas, MPS™ sensors can detect up to 14 gases accurately, adapting to the gas mixture in real time. This ensures that the sensor delivers reliable results even in environments with varying gas compositions and reduces the risk of missing or masking alarms. For manufacturers, this means a more dependable gas leak detection sensor that improves device performance and end-user safety.
| Gas* | Formula | Detection Range | Accuracy (0-50%LEL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butane | C4H10 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Ethane | C2H6 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Hydrogen | H2 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Isobutane | HC(CH3)3 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Isobutylene | C4H8 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Isopropanol | C3H8O | 0-100 %LEL | ±10 %LEL |
| Methane | CH4 | 0-100 %LEL | ±3 %LEL |
| Methyl Ethyl Ketone | C4H8O | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Octane | C8H18 | 0-100 %LEL | ±12 %LEL |
| Pentane | C5H12 | 0-100 %LEL | ±7 %LEL |
| Propane | C3H8 | 0-100 %LEL | ±7 %LEL |
| Propylene | C3H6 | 0-100 %LEL | ±5 %LEL |
| Toluene | C7H8 | 0-100 %LEL | ±12 %LEL |
| Xylene | C8H10 | 0-100 %LEL | ±12 %LEL |
How Gas Classification Works in the MPS™ Sensor
The MPS™ sensor uses the thermodynamic properties of air and gas. By measuring multiple temperature points within the range of the MPS™ sensor, we are able to generate a unique “fingerprint” for each gas classification. The sensor continuously analyzes the molecular weights and densities of gas molecules that interact with it, enabling precise identification and reporting of the classification a gas belongs to. This multi-gas leak detection capability allows manufacturers to configure devices that focus on detecting only specific types of gases. This is achieved by utilizing the digital signal from the MPS™ sensor and selectively isolating signals from specific gas classes to report on their presence.
TrueLEL™ and Gas Classification Explained
Watch this 3 minute clip to learn about the MPS™ TrueLEL™ and Gas Classification features.
MPS™ Gas Classification Categories
Class 1
Hydrogen
- Molecular weight: 2.0 [g/mol]
- Density: 0.09 [kg/m3]
- # carbons: 0
Class 2
Hydrogen Mixture
- Avg molecular weight: 2-14 [g/mol]
- Density: 0.1-0.6 [kg/m3]
- # carbons: varies
Class 3
Methane (Natural Gas)
- Avg molecular weight: 16-19 [g/mol]
- Density: 0.6-0.9 [kg/m3]
- # carbons: 1-2
Class 4
Light Gas / Mixture
- Avg molecular weight: 25-65 [g/mol]
- Density: 1.2-2.5 [kg/m3]
- # carbons: 2-3
- Likely Gases: Ethane, Propane, Butane, Isopropanol
Class 5
Medium Gas / Mixture
- Avg molecular weight: 55-90 [g/mol]
- Density: 2.5-4.25 [kg/m3]
- # carbons: 3-7
- Likely Gases: Pentane, Hexane
Class 6
Heavy Gas / Mixture
- Avg molecular weight: 90+ [g/mol]
- Density: 4.1+ [kg/m3]
- # carbons: 7+
- Likely Gases: Toluene, Xylene
Key Advantages of the MPS™ Gas Sensor
In addition to its breakthrough TrueLEL™ technology and gas classification, the MPS™ sensor stands out as a robust, reliable, and cost-effective solution. Its design minimizes total cost of ownership while maximizing safety and performance, offering:
- Intrinsically safe operation in hazardous zones
- No required field calibration or ongoing maintenance
- Long operational lifespan of 15+ years
- Immune to sensor poisoning and saturation
- Ultra-low power consumption for portable devices
- Continuous built-in self-testing for assured reliability
Choosing the Right MPS™ Sensor Format for Your Application
The MPS™ sensor is available in both analog and digital versions, offering flexibility for different applications.
- 3-Pin Version: Designed as a drop-in replacement for existing Pellistor sensors, this provides an easy solution for devices that are not capable of using UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter). The 3-pin version outputs only analog data, which is suitable for basic detection needs.
- 5-Pin Version: The 5-pin version of the MPS™ sensor offers far more capabilities. It provides both digital and analog outputs, giving users the flexibility to choose the best data format for their application. The digital output via UART allows for more detailed data transmission, including commands sent to the sensor and responses received from it. This enables greater control and access to more data, making the 5-pin sensor the preferred option for advanced gas leak detection applications.
For those who need a simple and cost-effective solution, the 3-pin analog version is ideal. But for users who require more data and flexibility, the 5-pin digital and analog version is the best choice.
Conclusion
The MPS™ sensor’s gas classification capabilities provide a powerful solution for industries that require precise, real-time gas detection. Whether you’re replacing an outdated Pellistor sensor or building an advanced gas detection system, the MPS™ gas sensor offers:
- A MEMS-based design with unmatched durability
- Dual-level chemical and thermodynamic analysis for classification accuracy
- Flexible outputs (analog/digital) for multiple use cases
- A robust, reliable sensor with low total cost of ownership features
- Proven performance as a multi-gas leak detection sensor that allows manufacturers to configure it effectively as a methane gas sensor, hydrogen gas sensor, propane gas sensor, or as they wish.
With its combination of TrueLEL™, gas classification, and multi-gas leak detection, the MPS™ sensor ensures accurate and reliable performance in any environment.
Want to Know How the MPS™ Sensor Stacks Up Against NDIR and Pellistor Sensors?
Discover how the MPS™ sensor outperforms traditional gas detection technologies like NDIR and Pellistors in terms of accuracy, multi-gas detection, power efficiency, and safety certifications.
