Gas detection and environmental monitoring systems manufacturer Trolex released an open protocol version of its industry-proven Sentro gas detector, the SentrO P, which allows direct integration with existing data networks, in December.

Trolex explains that when other existing gas detectors fail, it can be quickly swapped with the SentrO P and integrated into the system quickly, which is a highly reliable product.

Once the old detectors are replaced or interchanged, they are able to communicate with the other gas detectors and integrate into their data communications system.

Further, Trolex says’ with gas detector failures and false alarming becoming an increasingly problematic issue on many existing systems in the mining industry, the new Trolex SentrO P will be well received by the mining and tunnelling industries.

Product Capabilities

Trolex says that the new SentrO P carries all the features of the Sentro range and central to the product is the Sentro eModule, an intelligent standardised gas sensing module.

There are different eModules for sensing different gas types and gas concentrations, and the eModule stores dynamic data, its general condition and its service history.

Service and calibration are undertaken by simply changing the eModule, which can be done in a few seconds, even when the power is still applied, giving cost savings in time and maintenance.

The SentrO P can be easily integrated into proprietary information networks and can form part of a new data communications system using the RS-485 standard with the Modbus protocol.

“All contained within a compact heavy-duty dual-wall housing, the gas detector features a large back-lit liquid crystal display screen, providing a con-cise menu-driven calibration guide and sensor diagnostics,” states Trolex.

Moreover, the company asserts that the system is safe for 12 V distribution centre operating areas and is dust and moisture protected; the RS-485 databus output permits up to 32 gas sensors to be networked on a single data cable for ease of installation, giving a significant cost saving.

Further, an independent analogue output signal available on each sensor can be used to trigger a local audiovisual alarm if required.

“Our systems and products are relied on globally to detect gases, monitor other key environmental conditions and provide optimal machinery performance in the mining and tunnelling industries,” Trolex notes.

In the Field

US mining-supply company Pillar realised the benefits of replacing its failed gas detectors with Trolex’s new SentrO P system, says Pillar marketing director Adam Brenneman.

“Pillar’s customers trust us to source and supply ‘best of breed’ components throughout our systems, and that search led us to Trolex,” he states.

“The modular design of the Sentro line of sensors fits with the Pillar design ethos of using technological advancements to simplify processes. Trolex engineering staff have worked closely with Pillar counterparts to adapt an already great product to the US market.

“Extensive testing before deployment also yielded a sensor, which can be dropped into existing Pillar atmospheric monitoring systems. This will give our customers the flexibility to upgrade over time and keep costs in check,” he concludes.