The answer will depend on if it is only H2 measured or if VOCs are also included. The type of gas sensor may change since many detectors are limited to flammable gases. To provide feedback, the Panel would require more details on the sensors being used on the project and the failure modes. There are concerns about allowing hydrogen concentrations as large as 3.5% for the high level alarm.…

There are many manufacturers of multiple  types of flame detectors and it’s best to seek their input for the advantages of different types for specific applications. Regarding flame detector technology, UV detectors have been prone to false alarms from outside sources such as sunlight, lightning, and welding/cutting torches. The newer triple-IR detectors that are specifically designed and…

One pertinent reference is a Sandia National Laboratories paper by Schefer et al: Spatial and radiative properties of an open-flame hydrogen plume, Intl J. Hydrogen Energy, 31 (2006): 1332-1340. Information on this and other similar papers are available at https://h2tools.org/bibliography. Further information can probably be obtained from the author of this paper and other papers reporting…

The Panel is not aware of any standard for hydrogen detectors for onboard vehicle applications. Some information is available in the SAE Technical Information Report: TIR J3089 Characterization of On-Board Vehicular Hydrogen Sensors, which was published in 2018.

The manufacturer’s calibration requirements should be followed to ensure proper operation of the
detection system. The requirements will vary depending on the type of detector and the environment in
which they are installed. Calibration can usually be performed by the user/owner if properly trained and
supplied with calibration gas, etc.

Training personnel and equipping them with portable gas detectors to properly identify the gas that is
leaking can play an important role in both troubleshooting and emergency response.

While hydrogen gas detectors are less effective outdoors, they can be an important safeguard as part of an overall hydrogen system design. They have been used in many cases to automatically shut down equipment and isolate hydrogen supply. Location and type of detectors depend on the system design and siting, but when installed, should be in areas that are most likely to be exposed to hydrogen…

Leak detection system requirements depend on the system design and applicable codes. The
appropriateness of detection equipment depend on many factors, including the type of system,
application, location, and probability of leaks. For example, hydrogen refueling stations are required by
code to be equipped with leak detection systems.

Speed of detection, detection limit, location, and cross-sensitivity are some of many criteria that might be used for selecting a detector. A common setpoint for gaseous hydrogen detection is 25% of LFL, or 1% concentration in air. However, the detection limit also depends on the system and exposure. When specific hazards are likely, detectors may have detection limits in the low-ppm range.…

Nitrogen/helium blends are frequently used to leak test hydrogen systems.