SBS-H2-DoD Hydrogen Gas Detector Kit Instruction Manual
- July 3, 2024
- sbs
Table of Contents
SBS-H2-DoD Hydrogen Gas Detector Kit
Product Information
Specifications
- Part No.: SBS-H2-DoD
- Power Source: DC Power Supply
- Relays:
- 1 Normally Open and 1 Normally Closed contact
- Rated for 15 A resistive @ 120 Vac
- Rated for 10 A resistive @ 277 Vac
- Rated for 10 A resistive @ 28 Vdc
- 1 Normally Open and 1 Normally Closed contact
- Rated for 0.5A @ 28 Vdc
Product Usage Instructions
Overview
The SBS-H2 DoD Hydrogen Gas Detector Kit is designed to detect hydrogen gas
in areas like battery charging rooms. It includes a main control unit,
hydrogen gas sensor, and necessary cables.
Benefits
- Enhanced safety for employees and property
- Potential cost savings on energy and insurance premiums
How it Works
The detector operates by monitoring the electrical conductivity of the
hydrogen sensor, which increases when hydrogen gas is present. It continuously
checks gas concentration levels.
Installation
WARNING: AC voltage relay terminals are within the detector and should only be serviced by qualified technicians. Power must be disconnected before servicing to avoid injury or death.
Operation
The main control unit features LED indicators for monitoring sensor status and
a strobe alarm for alerts. Refer to the user manual for troubleshooting
guidance.
Electrical Testing
Follow the provided instructions to perform electrical testing on the detector
to ensure proper functionality.
Testing the Sensor
Regularly test the hydrogen gas sensor according to the user manual guidelines
to maintain accurate detection capabilities.
Troubleshooting/Maintenance
If you encounter issues with the detector, refer to the troubleshooting
section in the user manual for step-by-step guidance on resolving common
problems.
FAQ
- Q: Can the detector alarm for other gases besides hydrogen?
A: No, the sensor is specifically designed to detect hydrogen gas (H2) and will not trigger an alarm for gases like Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S).
Warnings
- This detector is added protection, not a substitute for prudent safety measures, for where hydrogen gas may be present.
- For large or highly-sensitive areas, Exponential Power, Inc. recommends installing additional sensors for increased coverage area.
- The hydrogen sensor does not provide protection from fires or hydrogen explosions. The relay contacts are intended to be connected to a safety system that would enable audible alarms, system shutdown and ventilation.
- Ensure that installation complies completely with all relevant Local, State, Federal and OSHA safety and health regulations.
- If a sensor enters warning or alarm mode there is a risk of combustion or explosion. To avoid injury, leave the area immediately.
- The sensor is calibrated for operation in air. Tampering with the sensor or operation in environments that are exposed to other types of gases can lead to inaccurate readings, false alarms or permanent damage.
- Please see troubleshooting guide for list of gases and compounds that may damage or alter a sensor’s performance.
- Uncured silicone compounds or extended exposure to silicone off gassing can give inaccurate readings or false alarms on a sensor.
Main Unit and Accessories
Overview
Batteries on charge emit hydrogen gas as part of the chemical reaction of
recharge.Concentrations of 4.1% to 75% H2 mixed with air can be explosive.
Sparks or hot surfaces can ignite hydrogen gas. The SBS-H2-DoD hydrogen
detector acts as a monitor and provides a visual and audible alarm when
hydrogen is detected. The unit also has a 0.5% concentration relay that can
trigger exhaust fan operation and a 1.0% concentration relay that can trigger
a building management/alarm system (via dry contact) before the gas reaches
the lower explosive limit (LEL) of 4.1%.
*The design of this unit has been built to meet the maximum allowable gas concentration levels allowed in the Department of Defense Specification UFC 3-520-05 Section 3-5.1 when integrated Battery Exhaust System.
Benefits
In addition to protecting employees and property, the detector may also reduce the following costs:
Energy Efficiencies
Instead of continuously running an exhaust fan to prevent hydrogen gas
accumulation, use the detector to activate a fan only if the gas concentration
reaches 0.5%.
Insurance Savings
Installation of a detector in areas where batteries are charged may result in
a premium reduction.
How it Works
Should the concentration of hydrogen gas in the air surrounding the sensor reach 0.5% by volume, the “0.5% Warning” yellow LED will light up on the main control of the unit. In addition, the 0.5% internal relay will de-energize and can be used to activate a remote exhaust fan. Should the hydrogen gas concentration reach 1.0% by volume, the “1% Alarm” red LED will light up, the strobe will flash and an audible alarm will sound. In addition, the 1% internal relay will de-energize and can be used to activate a building management/alarm system (via SCADA/Modbus).
The SBS-H2 provides automatic operation, continuous detection, high sensitivity, stability and solid-state reliability. The unit uses 120/240 Vac 50/60 Hz and/or 12 – 48 Vdc operating voltages.
Specifications
Dimensions
- Main control: 4.7” L x 4.7” W x 1.2” D
- Sensor: 3.1” L x 1.6” W x 0.87” D
Mounting
- Wall: two 3/16” screws (not included)
- H2-JB Junction box: 4 11/16” x 4 11/16” 2-gang junction box
Power Requirements/Options
Warning: Power requirements for the unit and relays should not exceed
min/max specifications
- 120 Vac, 50/60 Hz Nominal (Terminal J8)
- 3 – 121 Vac
- 250mA / 10W Max
- 220 Vac, 50/60 Hz Nominal (Terminal J8)
- 185 – 242 Vac
- 125mA / 10W Max
- 12-48 Vdc Nominal (Terminal J9)
- 9 – 58 Vdc
- 600mA / 6W Max
- Note: An earth ground must be supplied to the GND terminal on the AC terminal block when using only the DC power supply
Relays
- 0.5% Warning Relay (Terminal J6) “Fail Safe Mode of Operation”
- 1 Normally Open and 1 Normally Closed contact
- Rated for 15 A resistive @ 120 Vac
- Rated for 10 A resistive @ 277 Vac
- Rated for 10 A resistive @ 28 Vdc
- 1.0% Alarm Relay (Terminal J3) “Fail Safe Mode of Operation”
- 1 Normally Open and 1 Normally Closed contact
- Rated for 0.5A @ 28 Vdc
Temperature/Humidity
- Operating Temperature Range: 32°F (0°C) to 122°F (50°C)
- Operating Humidity Range: 20-95% non-condensing
- Storage Humidity Range: 5-95% non-condensing
Maximum Altitude
- 2000 meters
Audible Alarm
- 85 dB at 10’ @ 1.6 – 3.2 KHz
Strobe LED
- 146 lumens at 1A @ 3.2-4.2V
Sensor
The H2-SENSOR consists of an electronic sensing element whose electrical conductivity increases when hydrogen is detected at its surface. Conductivity of the sensor is proportional to the gas concentration, which is continuously monitored by the electronic alarm circuits. The sensor only monitors for hydrogen gas (H2) and will not alarm for Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S), which has an odor at very low concentration.
Main Control
Installation
WARNING
AC voltage relay terminals (120/240 Vac) are located within this detector,
presenting a hazard to service technicians. Only qualified technicians should
open the detector case and service the internal circuits. Ensure power is
removed from the detector relays prior to servicing the unit. Failure to do so
may result in injury or death.
Mounting Location
Hydrogen is colorless and odorless; the lightest of all gases, and thus rises.
The sensor should be installed at the highest, draft-free location in the
battery room, cabinet or compartment where hydrogen gas would accumulate. The
detector measures hydrogen gas concentration in the air immediately
surrounding the sensor. The area one sensor will monitor depends on the
properties of the battery compartment or room. Hydrogen gas may accumulate in
several areas of the battery compartment or room and multiple sensors/
detectors may be necessary.
The main control can be mounted wherever is convenient for the user, but should be within the cable length range to connect to each sensor.
The sensor should be mounted at the highest, draft-free location in the battery room, cabinet or compartment. Each sensor connects with the main control via the cable.
Carefully remove the main control cover by removing the two screws located on the front of the cover. Attach the main control to the wall, ceiling or optional junction box using the mounting holes at the top and bottom of the main control’s mounting plate.
After the power and relay wiring is complete, connect each cable from main control to each sensor and refasten the main control cover.
Power Options
The detector has terminal blocks for connections to a single-phase 120/240 Vac
50/60 Hz power source (Terminal J8), and/or a 12-48 Vdc power source (Terminal
J9). The power supply inputs are redundant, so the unit can use the DC input
as a backup source.
Relays
The detector has two (2) internal alarm relays:
-
0.5% warning relay (Terminal J6) is activated when a sensor detects 0.5% concentration of hydrogen gas. The 0.5% relay’s dry contacts are rated at 10A/250 Vac, sufficient for most 1/3 HP exhaust fans.
-
1% alarm relay (Terminal J3) is activated when a sensor detects 1% concentration of hydrogen gas.
The 1% relay’s dry contacts are rated for 0.5A/28 Vdc. -
Note: For higher current requirements, add an external relay.
Mounting Options
-
Junction Box Mounted
For 120/240 Vac power, use 18-3 gauge stranded wire.
For 9 – 58 Vdc power, use 18-2 conductor insulated wire.
For relay wires, use stranded wire. Maximum wire size for connector terminations is 14 AWG. Stranded conductors must be terminated in a manner to prevent shorting from one terminal to another by a loose strand. Tin the wires with solder if required. -
Wall Mounted
For 120 Vac power, an 18-3 gauge insulated line cord is required.
For 9 – 58 Vdc power, use 18-2 conductor insulated cable from the DC supply.
For relay wires, use stranded wire. Maximum wire size for connector terminations is 14 AWG.
Disconnection of Supplying Power
When the unit is hard wired, an external 10 Amp (minimum) circuit-breaker or
switch should be installed to act as a disconnecting device. The circuit-
breaker must open all supply conductors simultaneously, be easily reached by
operators and be marked as the disconnecting device for the equipment.
For Installation of Additional Sensors
A maximum of three (3) sensors may be connected to each main control. Multiple
detectors and sensors can be installed to meet the space coverage requirements
of your particular installation. Locate the additional sensors’ installation
points within cable reach of the main control and mount the sensor. Connect
the cables from any additional sensors to the Sensor 2 and Sensor 3 inputs on
the main control.
Alarm System Electronics
Please refer to the illustration below to identify proper power and relay
connection points in the detector. It is advisable to use a pair of 14 gauge
or smaller stranded wire for the relay contacts to help reduce any
interference within the area that may cause false alarms.
Each of the Cat5 sensor input connections has a status indicator LED on the
main control, which will illuminate solid green when a sensor is connected and
operating normally. A sensor’s corresponding LED will flash at the same rate
as the strobe LED when detecting 0.5% or 1% H2 concentration. The LED for a
sensor that is in alarm mode will flash at the same rate as the strobe LED.
The alarming sensor and strobe LED will flash at a faster rate than the LED
for a sensor that is only in warning mode.
Terminal Connection Diagram
Using the Mechanical Relays
- Remove the front cover of the main control by removing two fix screws and pulling straight off the body. This will reveal the inner electronics of the alarm box.
- Locate the terminal blocks for the relays and determine which condition you would like the relay to be related to. Use the 0.5% relay (Terminal J6) for the warning condition and the 1% relay (Terminal J3) for the alarm condition.
- Replace the front cover on the alarm box.
Operation
Keep the detector on at all times. The solid green LED for ‘POWER’ on the main control indicates that the detector is powered on.
When power is first turned on, the 0.5% and 1.0% relays will energize switching the positions of the contacts, a warm up period of 30 seconds will elapse before the unit will function. This delay is to prevent false activation of the internal relays and alarm. Should the concentration of hydrogen gas in the air surrounding the sensor reach 0.5% by volume, the “0.5%
Warning” yellow LED will light up on the main control of the unit. In addition, the 0.5% internal relay will deenergize and can be used to activate a remote exhaust fan.
Should the hydrogen gas concentration reach 1.0% by volume, the “1% Alarm” red LED will light up, the strobe will flash and an audible alarm will sound. In addition, the 1% internal relay will de-energize and can be used to activate a building management/alarm system (via dry contacts).
Electrical Testing
A “TEST” button is located on the front of the main control. Push and hold
this button for approximately 10 seconds to test the unit’s electronic
circuitry. The warning and alarm LEDs will light up in sequence, the strobe
will flash, the relays will activate whatever is connected to them and the
internal warning alarm will sound.
Note: The “TEST” button does NOT test the sensor(s) itself – only the
unit’s electronic circuitry.
Testing the Sensor
The sensors and main controls are factory calibrated. It is recommended to
test each sensor’s functionality every 12-18 months with the H2-DoD TESTKIT.
The H2-TESTKIT is intended for periodic testing of the functionality and
proper operation of the system. Once a sensor is installed, calibration or
adjustment of the sensor is not possible. Please contact your sales
representative if sensor calibration is desired or required.
The H2-DoD TESTKIT includes the following:
- 0.5% (17 liters) H2 in air calibrated gas canister
- 1.0% (17 liters) H2 in air calibrated gas canister
- Regulator
- Flexible tubing with sensor head adapter
Testing the 0.5% Warning and 1.0% Alarm State
- Connect the calibration fixture to the 0.5% H2 air gas cylinder.
- Secure the test fixture to the sensor module connected to sensor by pressing the flexible tubing completely over the inlet to the sensor head.
- Turn on the gas flow by fully opening the valve on the cylinder regulator to allow gas to flow. Please wait 30 seconds to ensure the air in the tubing has been purged.
- Continue gas flow and wait for the yellow LED warning to light up and the 0.5% relay to energize.
- Turn off gas and remove from sensor.
- Repeat Steps 1-5 above using the 1% H2 air gas cylinder to activate the 1% alarm and relay. The 1% alarm threshold is connected to the red LED, the audible alarm and the strobe light up, which will activate during testing.
- Repeat steps for every sensor installed.
Note: If the unit does not alarm during these tests the sensor may need to be replaced.
Replacing the Sensor
In a typical operating environment Exponential Power, Inc. recommends that
each sensor be replaced every three years. An abusive operating environment
can and will shorten a unit’s useful life. In dusty/dirty applications or in
situations where a sensor is often subjected to different gases, it is
recommended to replace each sensor after one (1) year.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
No Power
Verify the AC and/or DC power cables are installed per the connection diagram
on page 11.
Relays
The SBS-H2 system was designed for the relays to operate in a failsafe
condition when the power supply is interrupted. If the fan connected to a
relay runs as soon as the unit is powered on, the unit has been wired for the
use of the Normally Open contact instead of a Normally Closed contact.
False Alarms
Each sensor has been calibrated for the detection of hydrogen gas, however any
combustible gas that comes in contact with a sensor has the potential to
activate the warning and/or alarm relays. Contact with any individual or
combination of the following gases could trigger false alarms and/or
contaminate a sensor.
Gases include but are not limited to:
- Acetone
- Acetylene
- Ammonia
- Benzene
- Butane
- n-Butyl Acetate
- Carbon Dioxide
- Carbon Monoxide
- Ethane
- Ethanol
- Ethyl Acetate
- Ethyl Ether
- Ethyl Oxide
- Gasoline
- Heptane
- Hexane
- Hydrogen
- Hydrogen Cyanide
- Hydrogen Sulfide
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Methane
- Methanol
- Methyl Ethyl Ketone
- Nitric Oxide
- Nitric Dioxide
- Propane
- Propylene Oxide
- Styrene
- Sulfur Dioxide
- Toluene
- Turpentine
- Vinyl Acetate
- Xylene
If a sensor’s warning or alarm condition is reached, ventilate the area with
clean air. This should reduce the concentration of most gases and the warning
or alarm condition should clear.
Note: when a warning occurs at 0.5%, the warning will not clear until
concentrations drop below 0.3%. Similarly, when an alarm occurs at 1%, the
alarm will not clear until concentrations drop below 0.6%.
Avoid installation in highly corrosive environments where high densities of hydrogen sulfide, sulfur oxide, chlorine, hydrogen chloride, etc. may be present. These gases can cause corrosion of the element and the power leads to the circuit board.
A sensor’s output characteristics can be affected if the sensor becomes contaminated or exposed to heavy alkaline metals.
A sensor cannot operate in a zero or low oxygen content atmosphere.
If a sensor collects water condensation, its characteristics may temporarily drift. However, light levels of condensation under normal indoor use should not pose a significant problem with performance.
Storage
The longer a sensor is stored prior to being energized, the longer the warm-up
and stabilization period may become. Storage Humidity Range: 5 – 95% non-
condensing.
Maintenance Tips
To maintain the unit, it is recommended to:
- Test the detector once a month by pressing the ‘TEST’ button.
- Vacuum the alarm cover once a month to remove accumulated dust.
- Never use detergents or solvents to clean the unit or sensor. Chemicals can permanently damage or temporarily contaminate a sensor.
- Avoid spraying air fresheners, hair spray, paint or other aerosols near a sensor.
- Never paint the unit or sensor. Paint will seal the vents and interfere with proper sensor operation.
WARNINGS
Do not disassemble the unit or attempt to repair or modify any component of this instrument. This instrument contains no user-serviceable parts, and substitution of components may impair intrinsic safety, which may adversely affect product performance and result in injury.
The SBS-H2 Hydrogen Alarm System is not a standalone safety device and does not protect from hydrogen explosions. The relay contacts are intended to be connected to a safety system, enabling audible alarms, system shutdown, ventilation, or other measures to ensure monitoring of hydrogen gas occurs before concentrations reach dangerous levels.
The information in this sheet has been carefully reviewed and is believed to be accurate; however, no responsibility is assumed for inaccuracies. Exponential Power, Inc. reserves the right to make changes without further notice to any product, datasheet, technical data bulletin, or website.
Exponential Power, Inc. makes no warranty, representation of guarantee regarding the suitability of its product for any particular purpose, nor does Exponential Power, Inc. assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any product and specifically disclaims any and all liability, including without limitation consequential or incidental damages. “Typical” parameters can and do vary in different applications. All operating parameters, including “Typical” must be validated for each customer application by the customer’s technical experts.
Exponential Power, Inc. products are not designed, intended, or authorized for use in any application in which the failure of the Exponential Power, Inc. product could create a situation where personal injury or death may occur.
Should the buyer purchase or use Exponential Power, Inc. products for any such unintended or unauthorized application, the Buyer shall indemnify and hold Exponential Power, Inc. and its officers, employees, subsidiaries, affiliates, and distributors harmless against all claims, costs, damages, and expenses, and reasonable attorney fees arising out of, directly or indirectly, any claim of personal injury or death associated with such unintended or unauthorized use, even if claim alleges that Exponential Power, Inc. was negligent regarding the design or manufacture of the part.
In the case of a defect in the sensor, Exponential Power, Inc. shall not be liable for any damages that may result, including, but not limited to, loss of revenue, property, or life. In the event, that Exponential Power, Inc. shall limit liability to the replacement of the defective unit. Exponential Power, Inc. does not convey any license under its patent rights nor the rights of others.
Test Equipment Depot – 800.517.8431 – TestEquipmentDepot.com