Crowcon Flamgard Plus

Crowcon Flamgard Plus is purpose-built for fixed-point, continuous monitoring of combustible gas hazards in hazardous locations. Its flameproof construction makes it suitable for Zone 1 and Zone 2 environments where ignition risks must be tightly controlled. The detector supports a 0–100% LEL measurement range for listed flammable gases, providing early warning of potentially explosive conditions so that process operators can act before incidents escalate.

The detector has a strong track record in arduous applications including oil and gas, chemical plants, steel production, water treatment and offshore installations. It is also widely deployed in automotive and aerospace manufacturing, research facilities and high-utilisation medical, civil and commercial plants, where dependable performance and low false alarm rates are critical to safe, efficient operation.

At the core of Flamgard Plus is a poison-resistant pellistor (catalytic bead) sensor that detects explosive levels of hydrocarbons, hydrogen and many other flammable gases and vapours. A wide choice of catalytic bead options allows the detector to be matched to specific process gases and ranges, helping engineering teams align monitoring capability with the fuels and solvents present on site.

On selected variants, Flamgard Plus also accepts electrochemical sensors for toxic gases and oxygen. This enables standardisation on a single detector platform across multiple gas hazards, reducing spares inventories, simplifying training and streamlining installation and maintenance procedures. Optional filters, including carbon cloth types, can be used where long-chain hydrocarbons might otherwise influence readings, supporting more stable measurement in complex gas mixtures.

Flamgard Plus is engineered for fast response, with a typical T90 of under 15 seconds to support rapid detection of rising gas concentrations. The detector delivers good measurement stability, with typical repeatability and low zero drift over extended periods between calibrations. This stability, combined with long-life sensors, helps reduce sensor replacement frequency and supports consistent performance between service visits.

The detector supports routine bump testing to verify sensor response in the field, enabling operators to confirm system integrity without removing devices from service. Its emphasis on reliability and minimising false alarms helps maintain confidence in alarm events and reduces unnecessary process interruptions.

Flamgard Plus integrates readily into new projects and retrofit schemes. A standard 4–20mA analogue output, configurable as current sink or source, ensures compatibility with a wide range of control panels, fire and gas systems and safety shutdown schemes. Availability in both 2-wire and 3-wire configurations allows designers to align the detector with site cabling philosophies and panel capabilities.

Multiple cable entry options, including common metric and NPT threads, support regional installation practices and help reduce the need for adaptors. Terminals are sized for commonly used field wiring, assisting with efficient termination and commissioning. Optional alarm and fault relays enable direct switching of local sounders, beacons or interlocks, reducing the need for additional interface hardware in many applications.

Maintenance routines are streamlined through non-intrusive calibration using magnetically operated buttons. Technicians can perform span and zero adjustments without opening the junction box in the hazardous area, helping maintain flameproof integrity and reducing the need for hot work permits. This approach shortens service windows, simplifies scheduling and supports safer intervention in classified zones.

Lower maintenance overhead: Long-life sensors, straightforward parts replacement and true one-person calibration all contribute to reduced call-outs and shorter planned maintenance activities. These characteristics help lower total cost of ownership, particularly on large sites with extensive detector populations.

A marine-grade alloy junction box and 316 stainless steel sensor housing provide robust mechanical protection and strong corrosion resistance, especially in coastal and offshore environments. The IP65 ingress protection rating allows Flamgard Plus to withstand wet, dusty and washdown conditions commonly found in heavy industry and process plants. Its compact form factor suits wall or structure mounting in congested areas, supporting flexible positioning around leak sources and ventilation patterns.

A comprehensive accessory range further extends application coverage while keeping to a single detector platform. Collector cones enhance detection of lighter-than-air gases such as methane, while spray deflectors and weatherproof caps protect the sensor in wet or washdown locations. Flow adaptors enable use with sample-draw or piped sampling systems, and certified cable glands and adaptors help retain hazardous-area integrity at cable entries. This combination allows engineering teams to address outdoor, indoor, washdown and sampling applications with consistent hardware and fewer SKUs.

A back-lit three-digit LCD display provides clear local gas readings, even in low-light or enclosed plant areas, supporting quick walk-by checks and functional verification. LED indicators show normal operation, fault and alarm states at a glance, ensuring that field personnel have immediate visibility of detector status. Local indication complements control room displays, improving situational awareness for both operations and maintenance teams.

Although Flamgard Plus may be discontinued in some channels, it remains widely referenced and supported with spares, accessories and documentation. It forms part of a broader Crowcon portfolio of fixed and portable gas detection solutions, enabling sites to protect both plant and personnel under a unified safety strategy. Fixed detectors such as Flamgard Plus provide continuous monitoring around process equipment, while portable instruments support workers moving throughout the facility.

Datasheets, user manuals and manufacturer-approved service options for installation, commissioning, calibration and maintenance assist duty holders in keeping systems within specification over the long term. In combination with support from Crowcon-certified or CompEx-certified partners, Flamgard Plus can form a key element of fully engineered gas detection schemes for industrial and commercial environments that require continuous, dependable monitoring of flammable gas hazards.