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Gas fume detection system

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by Beauregard, Oct 13, 2014.

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  1. Beauregard, Oct 13, 2014
    #1
    Beauregard

    Beauregard New Member

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    Xintex gasoline detection sensor continues to sound alarm for almost anything and is extremely annoying; when I open the bilge, I could not smell gasoline. What do you think I am doing wrong for this system to be continually sounding?

    Any recommendations welcomed....
  2. Capt Ralph, Oct 13, 2014
    #2
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    The remote sensor should be low in the bilge. That is where fumes collect. You have to get your nose down there. And then, an old nose still may not smell it. Get a young set of nostrils down there also.

    A wet sensor used to make the old (real old) sensors go off. I don't know how the newer sensors act when wet.

    Low 12Vdc can also make them false alarm.
  3. RT46, Oct 13, 2014
    #3
    RT46

    RT46 Senior Member

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    Do not rule out a fuel leak! until you are absolutely positively sure.
    Do not use the boat until you are absolutely sure there is no fuel leak and no fumes.

    those sensors are more sensitive than your nose and will detect a leak long before your nose will.

    Make sure you do not have a fuel leak!

    I do not know how to field test your unit.

    if you have to, spend money on a certified tech.

    never ignore a gasoline fume detector.
    if the sensor is in question then replace it immediately.

    Gasoline boats require high vigilance with regards to fuel and exhaust venting and leaks.
  4. Capt Ralph, Oct 13, 2014
    #4
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    YEP!!!
  5. Beauregard, Oct 13, 2014
    #5
    Beauregard

    Beauregard New Member

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    Thank you, I will re install these sensors low into the bilge. That may have been the problem.
  6. Capt Ralph, Oct 13, 2014
    #6
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Where are they mounted now?
  7. RT46, Oct 13, 2014
    #7
    RT46

    RT46 Senior Member

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    gasoline vapor is heavier than air, so you are going to want the sensor low in the bilge.
    and I would even consider a second sensor if your fuel tanks are in a separate compartment.
    I am not familiar with Silverton, but it is possible to have the engines under that salon and a fuel tank under the cockpit with a solid bulkhead between the two areas.

    also, keep in mind that some sensors will sound for non-explosive exposure, like water and coolant. So avoid placement in the bilge where the sensor would get splashed by bilge water or splashed by a coolant overflow.

    Gasoline vapors need three things to explode: fuel/oxygen/ignition
    1. Just the right amount of fuel and oxygen
    a. Regarding the fuel/air ration: too little and it wont ignite, too much and it wont ignite
    b. air/oxygen should always be present in the bilge and Engine room
    c. you can control the fuel through strict maintenance and use of E/R blower during fueling.
    2. An ignition source:
    a. use only approved marine ignition protected products on the boat.
    Last edited: Oct 13, 2014