Learnings

Outcomes

The outcomes of the project are:

1.      PPM, LEL and %GAS was all successfully tested with some variation in the readings 

2.      Hydrogen device requires more frequent calibration to prevent drift 

3.      CO sensors are significantly affected by exposure to hydrogen, the device needs to be able to rapidly protect the sensor to allow for use in the network

4.      Hydrogen was correctly indicated at 20% blends; some modification is needed to ensure accuracy it can be done across the full range 1-20%

5.      Oxygen sensors behave as expected

6.      Detectors performed well in the field trials

7.      Through a rating system it was identified, the blend detector was ‘as easy to use’ as the existing instruments 

8.      Some issues experienced with the battery which were rectified following replacement of the charger. 

9.      Natural gas readings were similar to those on existing instrument.

10.   Full set of recommendations has been sent to Bascom Turner following both test programs to ensure detector is fit for purpose in the gas network. 

Lessons Learnt

The key lessons learnt for future project are:

1.      A detailed early assessment of the device prior to any physical testing allows for development of a robust test programme and helps build on previous work. 

2.      Early collaboration with the OEM and other gas networks ensures all project requirements are captured and suitably assessed. 

3.      Feedback from the operatives who will eventually be using the device is critical to the successful implementation of any future equipment and this has been captured as part of this work. 

4.      Development on CO sensors is still required to allow for reduction in cross sensitivity with hydrogen, however other options are available which allow protection of the sensor to ensure high concentrations of hydrogen don’t over saturate the sensor. 
Consistent communication between the project team and OEM is critical to ensure improvements are made through the course of the testing.