Industrial Client ProjectCompleted
Natural Gas and LPG Alarm Detector Development
Gas leak detection in residential and commercial buildings is a domain with clear technical boundaries defined by the TSE EN 50194-1 standard. HEFA Teknoloji A.Ş. developed a natural gas and LPG gas alarm device designed in compliance with TSE EN 50194-1 and EMC/LVD directives, with two power supply models (12–24V DC and 220V AC), at a client's request.
What We Built
Sensor Technology
- MOS (Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor technology was used for natural gas (methane, CH₄) and LPG (butane) detection, selected primarily for its cost suitability for this application.
Two Power Supply Models
- 220V AC Model: An integrated AC/DC converter circuit was designed producing suitable DC voltage from 220V AC input for mains-connected installation scenarios. Transformer-based power supply topology was selected balancing EMC requirements and cost.
- 12–24V DC Model: A separate circuit was designed with 12–24V DC input for building automation systems, fire alarm panels or centrally powered installations.
Alarm Output
- EN 50194-1 defines the concentration range within which the device must produce an alarm with lower and upper bounds. The alarm set point was determined and validated through testing.
- When alarm is triggered, audible/visual alert is produced; hysteresis is applied to the alarm set point to prevent chattering.
EMC and LVD Compliance
- LVD (Low Voltage Directive) — electrical safety in the 220V AC model; isolation distances, creepage/clearance requirements
- EMC Directive — conducted and radiated emission limits; layout-level measures to protect sensitive analog sensor front-end from digital and power blocks
Production-Ready Design
- Commonly available, alternative-sourced components; PCB designed for standard panel sizes with SMT pick-and-place compatible pad geometries; cost optimisation without sacrificing EN 50194-1 compliance.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard compliance | TSE EN 50194-1 |
| Directives | EMC Directive, LVD |
| Target gases | Natural gas (CH₄), LPG (butane) |
| Sensor technology | MOS (Metal Oxide Semiconductor) |
| Supply — Model 1 | 220V AC (integrated AC/DC) |
| Supply — Model 2 | 12–24V DC (integrated DC/DC) |
| Alarm output | Audible/visual, on/off |
| Production suitability | SMT, automatic assembly compatible PCB |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to develop a TSE EN 50194-compliant gas alarm detector?
EN 50194 covers specific requirements including alarm response time, false alarm immunity, environmental tests and alarm set point verification. Designing the correct circuit and firmware from the outset minimises revision needs during type testing. The primary variable affecting development time is sensor selection and calibration.
MOS or electrochemical sensor — which is preferred for natural gas/LPG?
Electrochemical sensors provide high selectivity for specific gases but unit cost is significantly higher than MOS and shelf life is limited. For natural gas and LPG detection under EN 50194, MOS sensors are accepted by the standard and widely used in the industry; they are also aligned with mass production cost targets.
Were the 220V AC and 12–24V DC models developed simultaneously, sharing a common platform?
The core circuit architecture of both models is common; only the power input differs. This means a product family addressing two different installation scenarios through a single development process.
How far does HEFA support the certification process?
HEFA's deliverables include the technical file, PCB Gerber files, BOM and test reports. Certification is the client's responsibility; however, design revisions for tests at an accredited laboratory can be evaluated within the project scope.
This project covers EN 50194 standard requirements, EMC/LVD directive compliance, and cost-focused PCB development experience for mass production. If you have a gas alarm detector development need — new design or revision of an existing product — we can evaluate your technical requirements together. gas detection device design service for more information.
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