Sensience Launches Novel A2L Sensor Obstruction Detection Feature

Westerville, OH – 10/01/2024 – Sensience, a pioneer in original sensing solutions, introduces a novel, near-real time blockage detection feature on its popular A2L gas sensor. This sensor, designed specifically for use with flammable refrigerants, including A2L classified gases like R-32 and R-454B, utilizes a proprietary design capable of timely detection of full or partially blocked sensor filters. A variety of technologies exist to detect A2L refrigerant gases, but many fail to meet key requirements for A2L gas sensors as identified by the Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology Institute (AHRTI), and these limitations can directly affect reliability and performance.

With the global HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) industry environmental requirements mandating the use of low global warming potential refrigerants, including flammable (A2L) refrigerants, gas sensor blockages pose a major concern, causing numerous issues, including loss of service and potential safety issues. When a sensor blockage occurs, this impacts the primary gas sensing function, causing the overall system to no longer meet the gas detection time response as per agency requirements.

Sensience’s Therm-O-Disc A2L gas sensor with expanded blockage detection offers an excellent solution for detecting leaks of mildly flammable refrigerants in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, helping equipment OEMs comply with UL and IEC safety standards. A2L refrigerants offer lower global-warming-potential (GWP), but their flammability necessitates rigorous monitoring for potential leaks. Sensience’s new 30G gas sensor serves as a critical component in safeguarding systems and adhering to stringent environmental and safety regulations.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Dual gas capability and threshold output
• PWM output
• A thinner, lighter, and smarter A2L sensor, preferred by OEMs for ease of installation and improved flexibility
• Highly sensitive to ensure early detection, preventing potential hazards while reducing the possibility of false positives
• Quick response to comply with pending UL 60335-2-40, Annex LL requirements
• A robust design for challenging environments, resistant to humidity, dust, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-term reliability
• Compliance with Global Standards: The A2L gas sensor meets or exceeds industry regulations and safety standards, pending UL60335-2-40, Annex LL and ASHRAE 15
• Patent pending for the innovative filter blockage detection feature

Applications and Availability:

Samples are available starting September 30, 2024.

The new Sensience 30G gas sensor is ideal for use in HVAC-R systems, including air conditioning units, heat pumps, and refrigeration systems where A2L refrigerants are commonly used.

Sensience’s A2L gas sensor is available globally through its distribution network. For more information, contact us.

About Sensience:

Originally founded 75 years ago under the name “Therm-O-Disc,” Sensience is a global manufacturer of highly engineered sensing, control, and sealing components that ensure safety and enhance performance. The company creates mission-critical protection and valuable data for a wide range of systems, including appliances, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration units, industrial process equipment, motor vehicles, aircraft, and other important platforms.

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Press Contact:

Olivia Boone

Marketing Communications Analyst

Olivia.Boone@Sensience.com

Disclaimer: This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the development, performance, and market acceptance of the product.

This press release highlights the key features and benefits of the new A2L gas sensor, emphasizing its role in supporting the HVAC-R industry’s transition to low-GWP refrigerants while maintaining safety standards. It targets both technical audiences and general industry stakeholders, ensuring broad appeal.