Breakthrough IR5500 Open Path Gas Detector Leads Industry in Early Detection

Outdoor combustible gas leaks pose a significant danger at petrochemical facilities, as well as in electric utility, wastewater treatment, and otherhazardous operation plants. Leak sources typically include pipelines, valves, tanks, burners, compressors, separators, flare systems, aeration ponds, and other equipment. The distributed nature of equipment within large facilities often makes traditional point-monitoring combustible gas detectors either ineffective or cost prohibitive.

The IR5500 Open Path Gas Detector provides continuous monitoring of combustible gas concentrations. The system consists of an IR source and receiver, which continuously monitors for methane in both the 0 to 5,000 ppm•meter and 0 to 5 LEL•meter range. 0 to 2,000 ppm•meter and 0 to 1 LEL•meter scales are also available for monitoring propane. The IR5500 provides two 4 to 20 mA analog signals proportional to each of the above ranges, in addition to a digital display and relay contacts.

The IR5500’s advanced infrared sensor technology features a single beam detection design, which improves accuracy and reduces drift. The design of the sensor includes continuous self-check monitoring for fail to safe operation. Automatic gain control compensates for dirty optics, rain, and fog. The result is precision accuracy with exceptional reliability in harsh environments and improved false alarm rejection.

Unlike most open path detectors, the IR5500 features a built-in display, which simplifies installation and maintenance while reducing the total cost of ownership. The IR5500 requires no tools for alignment at any range and can be aligned without a scope at 100 meters or more. At installation, technicians simply utilize the IR5500’s integral display and adjustable mounting arms, which also eliminates the typical bulky setup equipment (e.g. digital volt meters, handheld alignment aids) commonly required with other detectors.


Sensor data and status information from the IR5500 can be transmitted up to 9,000 feet to any industrial analog to digital (A/D) converter for use in multipoint computer-based monitoring. Event logging is provided for faults, maintenance, warning, and alarm events. The IR5500 is available with HART and Modbus, providing complete status and control capability in the control room.

The IR5500’s sensitivity can be checked by placing a test gas film in front of the receiver. The IR5500 is calibrated at the factory and needs no further calibration. It also requires little maintenance other than a periodic visual inspection, test gas film check, and cleaning of thewindows to ensure dependable performance.