Crowcon Smart S-MS

The Crowcon Smart S-MS is designed for facilities where fixed gas detection forms part of the overall functional safety strategy. Its SIL2 hardware and SIL3 software architecture underpin use in safety-instrumented systems that demand high integrity and redundancy. The SIL certification and referenced high-integrity design provide clear support for defining and documenting safety loops, giving engineering teams confidence that the detector contributes reliably to risk reduction measures.

Smart S-MS is intended for heavy industries such as oil and gas, refining and petrochemical plants, where explosive atmospheres and aggressive process conditions are routine. It is approved to ATEX and IECEx standards and carries Ex db IIC T5 Gb marking, enabling installation in Zone 1 Category 2 hazardous areas that require explosion-proof equipment. Suitability for both land-based and offshore environments allows consistent deployment across entire asset portfolios with mixed area classifications.

The detector supports catalytic pellistor, infrared (IR), electrochemical and PID sensor technologies, creating a flexible platform for a broad range of gases. It can be configured for flammable hydrocarbons, toxic gases, oxygen, VOCs, refrigerants and CO₂, as well as gases associated with the hydrogen economy. Multiple measurement ranges, including percentage LEL, ppm and percentage volume, allow the system to be tailored to different process risks. A comprehensive library of sensor heads and ranges enables standardisation on one detector type across flammable, toxic and refrigerant monitoring, reducing spares holdings and simplifying training and engineering.

Smart S-MS is optimised for harsh conditions where vibration, temperature extremes and airborne contaminants are present. It is available in robust aluminium or stainless steel enclosures with IP65 ingress protection. The die-cast aluminium version features a colour and chemically resistant epoxy coating for long-term durability, while the stainless steel option suits highly corrosive atmospheres. Its compact form factor and relatively low weight simplify mounting on pipe racks, skids and exposed structures. Wide operating temperature and humidity capabilities, defined by sensor type, support reliable continuous monitoring in both indoor and outdoor locations.

Fast response times (t90 < 60 s; t50 < 20 s) help provide early warning of emerging gas hazards, allowing prompt intervention before incidents escalate. Performance testing in accordance with EN 60079-29-1 for flammable gas detection underpins measurement accuracy and repeatability in demanding industrial conditions. This focus on response speed and validated performance helps operators maintain alignment with corporate and regulatory expectations for fixed gas detection.

The Smart S-MS is designed for straightforward integration into fixed gas detection and wider control infrastructures. A standard analogue 4–20 mA output supports conventional loop-powered systems, while RS485 communication enables digital networking and remote monitoring. Optional three-relay output boards provide local alarm, fault and control signalling without additional junction boxes. An optional HART^® modem supports advanced diagnostics, configuration and asset management from compatible host systems. Flexible cable entry options with 2 or 3 x ¾” NPT entries, and compact dimensions, ease routing and daisy-chaining in congested plant areas.

The detector is intentionally supplied without an on-board display, keeping the sensing head compact, robust and well suited to exposed or hard-to-reach positions. This supports architectures that use remote indicators, control panels or HMIs located in safer or more accessible areas, reducing local complexity at the gas hazard point while maintaining clear visibility of status and alarms at control locations.

Smart S-MS is suitable for marine applications, supported by Lloyd’s Register certification and capable of MED-certified configurations for specific projects. This makes it appropriate for vessels, offshore units, port facilities and associated infrastructure. Extensive technical documentation, including datasheets, manuals, quick start guides and functional safety assessments, is available in multiple languages to support specification, installation and maintenance across international sites.

The detector is intended for long-term, low-maintenance operation in continuous monitoring applications. Its extensive range of sensor heads for flammable, toxic, oxygen, CO₂, SF₆ and refrigerant gases allows multiple applications to be covered with a common hardware platform. This supports standardisation across sites and projects, including hydrogen-related and energy transition applications, while optional accessories such as test gas kits, keypads and additional boards facilitate commissioning, routine testing and future system expansion.

Designed by Sensitron and supplied by Crowcon, the Smart S-MS is backed by global technical support, repair services and established expertise in fixed gas detection. Comprehensive documentation and functional safety assessments assist engineering and safety teams in designing robust systems, evidencing safety functions and maintaining performance over the detector’s lifecycle. In combination, these attributes provide a high-integrity gas detection solution for protecting personnel, plant and the environment in the most demanding industrial and marine settings.