Skip to main content Skip to footer 
Hydrogen Gas Analyzer
The TCD3000 SiA by Archigas is an innovative hydrogen analyzer based on thermal conductivity.
The device is designed for fast, reliable analysis of hydrogen concentration in binary and quasi-binary gas mixtures and is used in both industrial and laboratory applications.
The compact, screw-in design of the TCD sensor enables straightforward inline measurements in closed systems.
Key Facts
Measurement range
from several ppm to 100 vol.%
High process pressure
up to 200 barg
Response time
30 ms; T90 <1 s
Moisture and particle resistant
Certification / standards
ATEX, IECEx, CE, etc.
Certifications and Compliance
The hydrogen gas analyzer from Archigas is ATEX-certified in accordance with the requirements for mechanical equipment and holds ATEX Zone 1 certification (II 2 G Ex db IIC T4/T3 Gb, -40°C to +90°C/+125°C) as well as IECEx certification, which confirms its suitability for use in potentially hazardous and explosive environments. Archigas also confirms that the sensor complies with CE directives as well as UL HazLoc, CSA, JPEX, and CCC industrial safety standards, supporting safe deployment in regulated industrial applications worldwide.
Archigas TCD Hydrogen Analyzers: The Better Solution for Real Industrial Conditions
Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD) determines hydrogen concentration in gas mixtures based on H₂ high thermal conductivity.
Based on TCD technology, Archigas hydrogen analyzers improve the speed, stability, and accuracy of H₂ measurements. Designed for reliable operation under high pressure and high humidity, they support inline measurements and meet ATEX Zone 1 requirements.
The TCD measurement technology delivers stable and reproducible results without extracting gas samples from the process. Measurements are taken directly in the gas stream, ensuring a particularly fast response to H₂ and minimizing external influences.
This engineering enables Archigas H₂ gas analyzers to operate reliably without the typical problems of conventional TCD-based analyzers, such as signal drift, slow response times, or moisture-related failures.
Advantages of Archigas TCD Analyzers Compared to Conventional Solutions
Conventional hydrogen gas sensor
Archigas TCD sensor
False alarms, measurement deviations under the influence of humidity, pressure fluctuations and contamination
Reliable at high process pressure up to 200 barg. Low measurement drift < 100 ppm/week
Delayed response time – from 5 to 60 seconds (highly critical in case of H₂ leaks)
Instant detection of leaks and hazardous H₂ concentrations (response time 30ms)
Complex gas sampling, gas losses
Loss-free measurement directly in the pipeline
Humidity can cause destruction
Moisture and liquid resistant
Static configuration
Individual adjustment/calibration for gas mixture and process
Frequent maintenance required (usually by third parties)
Low maintenance required, can be performed by the customer
Hydrogen Analyzer Solution
TCD3000 SiA with ATEX and IECEx Certification
Archigas offers a solution for high-precision measurement of H₂ content, optimized for different operating conditions in industrial facilities and in scientific applications.
Hydrogen gas analyzer for areas with high risk of explosion (ATEX Zone 1 approval: II 2 G Ex db IIC T4/T3 Gb, -40°C to +90°C/+125°C)
The TCD3000 series gas analyzer is designed for long-term operation in real industrial conditions. It operates reliably in aggressive environments and hazardous/explosive areas (as confirmed by ATEX/IECEx certification), reduces accidental risks, and helps lower operating costs throughout the entire life cycle of the equipment.
Key Benefits of the Archigas H₂ Analyzer
- In-process hydrogen measurement. TCD sensor simplifies the overall system design, integration and operation by eliminating sampling lines and auxiliary equipment (pumps, external circuits, etc.)
- H₂ concentration across the full range. The Archigas gas analyzer detects hydrogen concentrations in the gas stream from 0 to 100 vol.%
- Measurement accuracy. Accurate measurements are achieved through compensation of cross-sensitivities under variable pressure, humidity and different gas mixtures.
- Compact design and screw-in installation. Easy installation and flexible integration into an existing process system in an industrial application.
- Instant detection. Sudden short-term peaks in hydrogen concentration during dynamic processes are detected particularly quickly. The extremely short response time of 30 ms enables near real-time measurements. The T90 value is < 1 second after the gas contacts the sensor, even at high H₂ content.
- No loss of hydrogen. The gas remains in the process – no emission into the environment, lower risk of forming an explosive atmosphere, lower direct losses and operating costs.
- Optimal performance. Individual configuration/calibration by Archigas enables the adaptation of the H₂ analyzers to a specific technological process.
Best for:
- Hydrogen production by electrolysis
- Transportation and storage of gas mixtures
- Use in critical environments
Specifications for TCD3000 SiA Hydrogen Analyzers
Technical specifications
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Measurement principle | TCD (Thermal Conductivity Detector) |
Reaction time | 30 ms |
T90 time | < 1 s |
Warm-up time | < 1 min |
Analogue output | 4-20 mA potential-bound, RL ≤ 750 Ω |
Power supply | 24 ±25 % VDC, < 5 W |
Connection thread | G 1/2" or NPT 1/2" |
Serial interface | RS485, baud rate 38400 Bd, 8 data bits |
Dimensions | H: 96 mm; Ø: 45 mm |
Weight | 740 g |
Ambient temperature | -40 to +80 °C / +120 °C |
Measurement performance and process influence
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Noise | < 10 ppm |
Measured value drift | < 100 ppm / week |
Repeatability | < 100 ppm |
Temperature influence | < 50 ppm / 10 K |
Influence of process gas pressure at zero point | < 25 ppm / 10 hPa; from 1 MPa < 2 ppm / 10 hPa |
Influence of process gas pressure for deflection gas | < 100 ppm / 10 hPa; from 1 MPa < 10 ppm / 10 hPa |
Influence of process gas flow at zero point | < 25 ppm / 10 l/h |
Influence of process gas flow rate with deflection gas | < 100 ppm / 10 l/h |
Operating conditions
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Process gas temperature | -40 to +90 °C / +125 °C |
Process gas pressure | 0.9 to 200 barg |
Process gas flow | 0 to 10 m/s (higher flow rates on request) |
All data refer to the measuring range 0.5 vol.% H₂ in N₂
Options for the Hydrogen Analyzer
Advantages for Implementation and Engineering of the TCD Hydrogen Analyzer
The TCD3000 SiA hydrogen analyzer is used as an integrated component in equipment and process installations where hydrogen gas measurement stability, predictable device behavior, and reliability are critical.
The Archigas TCD hydrogen analyzer is integrated into process systems as part of the customer's equipment and does not require separate sampling infrastructure. This approach simplifies the system architecture and reduces the number of components that could potentially affect operational stability.
The H₂ analyzer is designed for continuous operation as part of industrial equipment. Minimal maintenance requirements reduce the workload for engineering teams.
Archigas Services
Archigas provides engineering and maintenance services to ensure the proper integration of hydrogen gas analyzers into existing equipment and their stable operation throughout their entire service life.
Consulting
Archigas specialists provide technical consulting ranging from an initial assessment to a full technical feasibility study, evaluating the suitability of the TCD3000 SiA for a specific plant or project, including a review of the operating conditions.
Individual Configuration
The sensor is individually configured and calibrated according to customer requirements, taking into account the application area, project requirements, and the composition of the gas mixture.
The individual configuration and calibration of the sensor enable precise measurements out of the box.
Configuration is carried out at the factory prior to delivery, reducing commissioning time.
Installation Support
After product delivery, Archigas can provide technical support during installation, either remotely or on site, to assist with integration and commissioning.
Test Phase
Depending on the project, Archigas can provide a limited test phase with individually tailored product configurations.
Maintenance
The hydrogen analyzer does not require frequent maintenance. To maintain accuracy and compensate for cross-sensitivities, recalibration can be performed by the customer approximately every six months.
Technical Validation with Field Engineer
A real-world example: During tests at the Le Mans racing circuit, H₂ signals were displayed in near real time, with accurate values and stable measurements.
The sensor detected the hydrogen supply immediately, even when the hydrogen was heavily diluted in air. We tested the device in two scenarios: hydrogen detection in the ambient environment and inline measurement with the analyzer installed in a pipeline.
In both scenarios, the analyzer determined the hydrogen concentration correctly and quickly.
Tom Burkard
Archigas engineer
Applications of the Archigas TCD Hydrogen Sensor
The Archigas TCD sensor is integrated into installations for the production, storage, and transportation of hydrogen.
Industrial Sectors for the TCD Hydrogen Sensor
The Archigas sensor is used by plant manufacturers, system integrators and developers of industrial facilities in various industries where control of gas composition is necessary.
Do you have technical questions or need clarification regarding the terms of use?
Contact the Archigas team to discuss the requirements for integrating and operating the gas analyzer in your project.
Additional Accessories
Archigas GmbH offers selected accessories to support the reliable connection and operation of the TCD3000 SiA.
provides a stable power supply to the gas analyzer and protects the equipment from voltage surges and electrical interference.
is used to connect the gas analyzer to a computer or control system when no direct RS485 interface is available, simplifying configuration and data exchange.
Why choose an Archigas hydrogen gas analyzer?
The TCD3000 SiA hydrogen gas analyzer is used in industrial and research projects where reliability, data accuracy, fast response, and resistance to external influences are critical. Practical experience confirms the performance and effectiveness of Archigas solutions in complex applications where traditional measurement methods are not reliable enough.
If you need to clarify technical details, discuss specifications, or get help choosing a solution, please send us a message.
Talk to experts
Testimonials
We use the TCD3000 SiA in an AEM electrolysis test bench. The sensor is characterized by a very stable measurement signal and low drift with simple and uncomplicated calibration. Even the smallest quantities of gas are sufficient to obtain plausible values.
By using the sensor in the oxygen line of our electrolysis systems, we can quickly and reliably detect hydrogen crossover across the membrane and potential membrane and seal damage very accurately.
The sensor itself can be implemented and put into operation easily and without great effort. A practical feature is that it can also be installed in confined spaces due to its compact size. We will be equipping further systems with the device.
DI Stefan Kolar
H2i GreenHydrogen GmbH
We use the Archigas TCD3000 in electrolysis to determine the hydrogen crossover on the oxygen side and the purity on the hydrogen side. The sensors work precisely and react very quickly to changes in gas quality. They also cope very well with any moisture or residual caustic.
Another great advantage is that the gas quality can be reliably determined throughout operation without major changes to the system.
Implementation and handling are easy: the sensors are installed in the gas path and can simply be read out via a current signal.
Erik Delp
Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
We use the solution in the areas of catalyst testing and contract research. The device is durable and accurate.
We can ABSOLUTELY recommend it and will continue to use it in the future. In our application, it has replaced an expensive quadrupole mass spectrometer.
Erik Abbenhuis
Hybrid Catalysis BV
We monitor, measure and control the atmosphere in our electrode boilers. This is because the boilers heat the water with electrodes and separate the water into various gases.
We require to control the atmosphere in the electrode boilers and have chosen to use technology from Archigas.
Alongside, that we have good experience with this technology, we also experience professional dialogue with Archigas staff.
Morten Hildebrandt Jensen
Fjernvarme Fyn
We use the TCD3000 Si from Archigas to determine the gas composition of the product gas in a test setup for zinc interstage electrolysis.
The device is able to detect from 0-100% hydrogen content with high accuracy, which is absolutely essential for the application. We obtain a stable signal without any significant noise or drift. And even with high humidity and even condensing conditions in the sample gas, the sensor delivers a reproducible signal.
Thanks to clear documentation and a well thought-out communication protocol, installation and commissioning are easy. Communication between the PC and sensor is stable.
We would also like to use the device for a later application with high pressure. If we have any questions or queries for Archigas, they respond quickly and helpfully.
Technische Universität Berlin
Chair of Powertrain Technologies
The environment at Le Mans this year gave us the perfect opportunity to test the Archigas sensors. The tests were very successful: The measurements were fast and accurate – they were exactly what we were looking for.
Mathieu Walter
H2 motorsport expert
We hereby confirm our recommendation of Archigas as a trusted and reliable manufacturer of gas sensor products. In particular, we would like to highlight the TCD3000Si model, which we have used in our projects.
Based on our experience and cooperation with Archigas, we have found the TCD3000Si and their other products to be of high quality and performance. Their support and technical service have met our expectations, and we are satisfied with the outcomes of our projects involving their technology.
We confidently recommend Archigas and their TCD3000Si product to other potential customers or partners who are considering their solutions.
Global Nova Co., Ltd.
FAQ
Why are TCDs (thermal conductivity detectors) well suited for measuring hydrogen concentrations?
Thermal conductivity measurement is a particularly suitable method for determining hydrogen, since hydrogen has the highest thermal conductivity of all gases. This makes it possible to measure hydrogen reliably from a few ppm up to 100 vol.%.
Can the analyzer be integrated into industrial PLC systems?
The Archigas gas analyzer supports RS485 industrial interface and can be integrated into control and automation systems.
How does the TCD3000 SiA analyzer respond to humidity?
The TCD3000 SiA is moisture resistant up to 2.7 barg. The influence of humidity on the measurement result can be compensated, enabling precise and reliable measurements even under humid conditions.
Can the analyzer operate directly in the process line without gas sampling?
Yes. The TCD3000 SiA is designed for inline operation directly in the process line. Hydrogen concentration is measured in real time without gas extraction, external sampling lines, or bypass systems. This reduces system complexity and lowers costs.
How can I read out the measurement results?
The measured values can be read out either as an analog 4–20 mA signal or digitally via the serial RS485 interface. The digital interface is required to use the Archigas software.
Can I monitor the N₂ purge with the same sensor?
Yes. Multiple measuring ranges and gases can be stored on one sensor. For example, the same sensor can be used for nitrogen in oxygen as well as hydrogen in air. The stored measuring ranges can then be switched via software.
Do Archigas sensors show a memory effect?
Archigas sensors show no memory effect. This enables precise measurement results even during rapid concentration changes and very short response times of just 30 ms.
