Trolex has developed the SentrO P, an open protocol version of its proven Sentro gas detector, which allows direct integration with existing data networks.

It means when other existing gas detectors have failed, they can be quickly swapped out with the SentrO P and integrated into the system quickly, safe in the knowledge that this replacement is reliable.

Once replaced – and any number can be interchanged – they are able to “talk” with the other gas detectors and integrate into the data communications system.

With gas detector failures and false alarms reaching epidemic proportions on so many existing systems in the mining industry, the Trolex SentrO P is welcome news, according to the company.

US mining supply company Pillar Innovations understood the benefits of replacing failed gas detectors with the SentrO P.

“Pillar's customers trust us to source and supply ‘best of breed’ components throughout our systems and that search led us to Trolex,” Pillar marketing director Adam Brenneman said.

“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 has 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.”

The SentrO P carries all the features of the Sentro range.

The heart of 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 is 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 data communications system using RS485 with Modbus protocol.

All contained within a compact heavy-duty dual-wall housing, the gas detector features a large back-lit LCD screen providing a concise menu-driven calibration guide and sensor diagnostics.

Intrinsically safe for 12 volt direct current operating areas, the SentrO P is dust and moisture protected.

The RS485 databus output permits up to 32 gas sensors to be networked on a single data cable for ease of installations and significant cost saving.

An independent analogue output signal available on each sensor can be used to trigger a local audio visual alarm if required.

Trolex systems and products are intrinsically safe, carry independent accreditation and are at the forefront of safety and condition monitoring technology.