Modern HVAC systems deliver air to various areas in a building for the comfort and health of occupants. It’s common to associate commercial spaces when thinking of HVAC systems, but these systems are also found within industrial facilities such as chemical processes and petroleum plants, where they perform critical functions for workers and support personnel. While systems continue to adapt with advancing technology, a gas detection solution is critical for the safety of occupants.
HVAC systems must be monitored since ventilation systems can circulate combustible and toxic gases from their original location to other areas in the building, bringing the dangerous gases into non-hazardous areas, like control rooms, electrical switch rooms, equipment rooms, and more. Regulations have established procedures for exhaust/ventilation system safety to minimize the risk of transportation of these dangerous gases. Through early detection, gas detectors reduce the risks of releases migrating by signaling operators and occupants that there is a risk, while complying with current regulations.
The velocity of airflow, dilution of the gas concentration, and stratification are common challenges for gas detection within HVAC systems. Since air flows through ducts at an accelerated rate, sensors within a gas detection system must be designed to withstand high ventilation rates. Gas detection sensors implemented within HVAC systems must have low detection levels and must remain accurate. Another challenge is dilution, as air enters the ductwork can mix with circulated air, diluting the gas concentration. This highlights the importance of gas sensors being tailored for duct applications to be highly sensitive. Low detection limits allow operators to set warning and alarm minimums and maximums, as low concentrations of detected gas may be an indication of much higher concentrations in the air stream. Stratification is the last major challenge for implementing gas detection in duct networks since ducts contain various directional features. Contractions and expansions of HVAC systems can create vortexes where gases can accumulate, leading to inaccurate detection sampling. However, specific HVAC detection systems are designed specifically for the dimensions and layout of the duct network to ensure optimal coverage.
Exhaust/ventilation systems are often exposed to smoke, combustible, and toxic gases from hazardous areas. To reduce their vulnerability, these systems should be equipped with gas sensors that address the complications of detection systems within HVAC systems. DOD Technologies offers enhanced systems and continuous monitoring solutions, making us the leader in gas detection for a variety of applications. With over 150 years of combined instrumentation and application expertise, our solutions meet the most stringent requirements to help keep your employees, operations and public health safe.
Contact DOD Technologies today at (815) 788-5200 or through our online form for more information regarding the solutions we offer as well as helping you find specific solutions for HVAC systems.