In the field of gas detection, methane monitoring is particularly important, with infrared methane sensors and laser methane sensors being two representative non-contact high-tech solutions. Although both belong to gas detection technology, they differ significantly in their working principles, technical characteristics, and practical applications.

    01. Differences in Principle

    Infrared Methane Sensor: Based on the selective absorption of infrared light by methane molecules at specific wavelengths, it detects methane according to the Lambert-Beer Law. The sensor emits an infrared beam of a specific frequency towards the gas being measured. The methane gas absorbs the infrared energy of the corresponding wavelength, causing a decrease in the intensity of the transmitted light, thus allowing the calculation of the methane concentration.

    Laser Methane Sensor: Employs Tunable Semiconductor Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology, emitting a single-mode laser at a specific frequency. Methane has a strong absorption effect on specific laser wavelengths. The sensor analyzes the degree of laser intensity attenuation to achieve high-precision measurement of methane concentration. This technology offers higher measurement resolution and accuracy.

    02. Feature Comparison

    Infrared Methane Sensor:

    High stability, suitable for continuous online monitoring

    Mature technology, low cost

    Possibly susceptible to cross-interference from other gases, requiring filtering to improve selectivity

    Laser Methane Sensor

    High sensitivity, wide dynamic range, suitable for detecting a wide range of concentrations from low to high

    Extremely high selectivity and accuracy, effectively reducing false alarms and missed alarms

    Complex technology, higher initial cost, but lower long-term maintenance cost

    03. Application Scenarios

    Infrared Methane Sensor: Mostly used in conventional industrial environments, urban gas pipeline network monitoring, and environmental air pollution source monitoring, becoming the choice for common gas leak early warning systems due to its high cost-effectiveness.

    Laser Methane Sensor: Primarily used in applications requiring high precision, such as oil and gas extraction, hazardous chemical storage and transportation, scientific research laboratories, and high-precision environmental monitoring. Even in complex environments, it can accurately detect and locate trace amounts of methane leaks.

    Application Trends in Home Gas Safety

    With technological advancements and increased public awareness of safety, laser methane sensors have begun to be applied to next-generation home gas alarms. Compared to traditional sensors, laser methane sensors can detect weak leak signals earlier, offering rapid response and high accuracy, significantly improving the reliability of home gas safety systems. Furthermore, the localization of laser and detector technologies in China has made these sensors more cost-effective.

TX911-A Laser Methane Gas Sensor

    Tensensor's TX911-A laser methane gas sensor is a home-use methane sensor that detects methane gas based on TDLAS technology. It features excellent gas selectivity, oxygen independence, resistance to moisture and poisoning, and long lifespan. The sensor's core components are independently developed and offer stable performance. It incorporates temperature control and compensation algorithms to achieve accurate methane gas measurement. This high-performance sensor combines mature laser gas absorption detection technology with stable optical path and circuit design.

    Infrared and laser methane sensors each have their own characteristics, and the choice should be based on specific application requirements. With the increasing trend towards intelligent and refined home gas safety management, laser methane sensors, due to their superior performance, are gradually becoming an important component of modern home security systems.

For further information, please feel free to contact us.

Web: www.tensensor.com

Email: [email protected]

WhatsApp: +86 18335818384