Leak detection at large chemical sites can be both difficult and expensive. At one Belgian plant, operators were making twice-daily inspection rounds using portable leak detectors — but new and stricter government regulations required continuous monitoring instead. So, plant management decided to implement an online leak-detection system.
In 2013, after research on suppliers and technology, the plant installed a system that uses hydrocarbon fast-fuel sensors and sensor cables, and wireless discrete transmitters. An IEC-standard WirelessHART field network communicates leakage data from the remote transmitters to the plant control system.
Protecting electrical controls and equipment within food and beverage plants presents unique challenges due to the sanitation requirements of the hygienic environment.
