Who needs a gas leak detector?
The CSA B52 Mechanical Refrigeration Code in Canada, and the ANSI/ASHRAE 15 Safety Code for Mechanical Refrigeration in the USA, has specific requirements for refrigerant leak direction systems. In general, systems over 100 HP, or any system required to be housed in a standard or Class T machinery, will by code require a detector. Regardless of specific codes, the escalating costs of refrigerant, as well as concerns for safety and the environment, have led to the use of detection systems even in the smallest systems. In addition, more stringent ventilation code requirements, especially in ice rinks, has led to the increased need for both carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring. How to leak detectors work? There are five types of sensors available for leak directors which range dramatically in price and features. Chemical (detector tubes) are the lease expensive then solid state, electrochemical, infrared, and ionmobility spectrometers as the most expensive. Each of the
