Accurate sensing for mains gas

Sensor Review

ISSN: 0260-2288

Article publication date: 1 June 2001

33

Keywords

Citation

(2001), "Accurate sensing for mains gas", Sensor Review, Vol. 21 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2001.08721bad.003

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited


Accurate sensing for mains gas

Accurate sensing for mains gas

Keywords: Gas, Gas sensors

Omron is launching an innovative new gas pressure sensor capable of detecting minute changes in domestic gas supply systems, making it ideal for use in both domestic and commercial safety systems.

Omron's D8M-D8 pressure sensor uses a capacitive cell to detect pressure changes and was originally developed for use in Japan as an emergency cut-off for household gas supply in the event of an earthquake. Specifically designed to eliminate hysteresis switching problems associated with some mechanical pressure switches working at low pressures, the D8M-D8 provides enhanced reliability for accurate use.

The sensor contains a variable capacitive cell, which forms part of a CR oscillator. The capacitive cell has one fixed electrode and one diaphragm electrode, which is acted upon by the pressure of the gas supply. Any minute change in pressure bends the diaphragm and produces a change in capacitance, which in turn produces a proportional change in oscillation frequency. Therefore, any change in gas pressure is proportional to output frequency.

With a recommended operating voltage of 2.2 to 3.4V and a temperature range of –10 to +60°C, the sensor produces an output frequency of 60 to 120kHz, is suitable for use in indoor applications and features a metal mounting plate for secure installation in critical applications.

Contact: Lee Steed, Omron Electronics Limited, 1 Apsley Way, Staples Corner, London NW2 7HF, UK. Tel: +44 (0)20 8450 4646; E-mail: ukccsales@eu.omron.com

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