Sensiron study confirms the precise composition for different natural gas types

A comprehensive study published by Germany's Gas und Wärme-Institute (GWI, Gas and Heating Institute) has confirmed the practical functionality of Sensirion's technology. The microthermal gas meter modules from the Swiss sensor manufacturer are equipped with integrated gas recognition. The software guarantees precise flow measurement despite the differing qualities of natural gas. Furthermore, independently of pressure and temperature, the mass flow meters provide reliable measurements with long-term consistency.

Gas quality on the world's markets varies enormously. Sensirion's sensor products are based on the thermal metering principle. Essentially, this form of metering depends on the type of gas, because every gas has different thermal properties. Unlike other solutions from the competition, however, Sensirion's gas meter modules feature an innovative and highly sophisticated algorithm that recognises the composition of different gases and compensates precisely. The GWI recently confirmed the gas quality compensation of Sensirion’s sensor products in a comprehensive study. The Institute tested the gas meter modules with various natural H-family gases. It tested the accuracy of standard volume measurement and compared it with conventional diaphragm gas metering. The test gases used were normal air and common natural gases like methane, North Sea gas, RWE Süd gas, LNG and Libyan gas together with prepared and conditioned biogas. These natural gases cover variability within the H gas family. The GWI study shows conclusively that Sensirion successfully compensates for differing gas compositions. Independently of the type and quality of gas used, the measurement of standard volume with Sensirion technology, therefore, is always within the required tolerances.

As part of its study, the GWI also tested Sensirion's gas meter modules for their ability to compensate for temperature and to function correctly regardless of pressure: the technology passed on both counts. The technology's imperviousness to temperature and pressure changes removes the need for additional corrective sensors in the gas meter, making Sensirion technology a very low-cost, space-saving solution.

Sensirion's standard products are available for type G1.6, G2.5, G4 and G6 gas meters and have already proved their reliability, long-term stability and resistance to both dust and dirt. The compact design, the low power consumption and digital I2C interface facilitate simple integration and handling. Apart from its fully calibrated SGM70xx sensor product range, the company also supplies an electronic reference design that simplifies the integration of hardware and software, as well as partial certification of the gas meter module.

Edited from press release by Angharad Lock

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