Private Sector R&DOngoing
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector Development
Carbon monoxide (CO) is colourless and odourless, making it undetectable by human senses and a serious health hazard in residential and commercial buildings. HEFA Teknoloji is developing an EN 50291-1 compliant, cost-optimised carbon monoxide detector for a client. The device is currently in the certification test preparation phase under EN 50291-1.
What We're Building
Electrochemical CO Sensor for ppm-Level Measurement
- Electrochemical sensor for high CO selectivity and long-term stability
- ppm measurement targeting EN 50291-1 accuracy and response time requirements
- Low cross-sensitivity and reliable field performance compared to MOS sensors
EN 50291-1 Staged Alarm Algorithm
- 50 ppm: alarm within 60–90 minutes
- 100 ppm: alarm within 10–40 minutes
- 300 ppm: alarm within 3 minutes
- Staged structure that detects exposure at low concentrations without false alarms and enables rapid response at high concentrations
Dual Power Model Design and Power Management
- 220V AC model: mains-powered with battery backup for uninterrupted operation
- 12–24V DC model: for caravans, boats and off-grid applications
- Low power mode on battery: sensor reading cycles and LED management optimised for energy efficiency
- Audible alarm (buzzer, 85 dB @ 1m per EN 50291-1) + LED indicators
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Detected gas | CO (carbon monoxide) |
| Measurement unit | ppm |
| Sensor technology | Electrochemical |
| Alarm standard | EN 50291-1 |
| Alarm structure | Staged (concentration + time-based) |
| Alarm thresholds | 50 ppm / 60 min, 100 ppm / 10–40 min, 300 ppm / 3 min |
| Alarm notification | Audible (buzzer) + LED |
| Power models | 220V AC, 12–24V DC |
| Battery backup | Both models |
| Power management | Low power mode on battery |
| Design approach | Cost-optimised, ready for series production |
| Project phase | Test and certification preparation (EN 50291-1) |
Use Cases
- Residential and Apartment Buildings — CO leak detection in homes with natural gas boilers, water heaters and stoves. The 220V model provides continuous mains-powered monitoring; battery backup maintains protection during power cuts.
- Commercial Buildings and Offices — CO accumulation monitoring in central heating systems, boiler rooms and enclosed spaces. EN 50291-1 compliant alarm structure ensures full compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Caravans, Boats and Off-Grid Structures — The 12–24V DC model delivers CO safety in living spaces without mains connection. Low power management enables long-term operation with limited energy sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does EN 50291-1 require for CO detectors?
EN 50291-1 is a European standard that defines design, performance and alarm requirements for residential and commercial CO detectors. It covers staged alarm triggering conditions based on CO concentration and exposure time, minimum sound pressure level, sensor accuracy and environmental durability tests.
Why was an electrochemical sensor chosen?
Semiconductor (MOS) sensors are low-cost but carry reliability limitations in safety applications due to cross-sensitivity, drift and high power consumption. Electrochemical sensors are the industry standard for EN 50291-1 compliant detectors, offering high CO selectivity, low power consumption and long-term stability.
Does device performance drop in battery mode?
In battery mode the device switches to a low-power scenario. CO monitoring and alarm function continue uninterrupted; power management firmware optimises energy consumption to extend battery life. Alarm thresholds and response times meet EN 50291-1 requirements in battery mode.
Does cost optimisation affect quality?
Cost optimisation is carried out without compromising EN 50291-1 compliance or sensor performance. The process is built on component selection, evaluation of alternative supply sources, PCB design efficiency and production testability.
What is the EN 50291-1 certification status?
Device development is complete and the device is currently in the preparation phase for EN 50291-1 certification testing. Alarm response times, sensor accuracy and environmental durability parameters will be verified during testing.
This project covers a comprehensive R&D effort including electrochemical CO sensor integration, EN 50291-1 compliant staged alarm algorithm, dual power model design (220V AC / 12–24V DC), battery-backed low power management, and cost-optimised PCB design. If you have a CO detector development or EN 50291-1 compliant product development need, we can evaluate your technical requirements together. gas detection device design service for more information.
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