Dräger Polytron® 8700 IR

Premium Stationary Infrared Flammable Gas Detection

The Dräger Polytron® 8700 IR is a top-tier, explosion-proof stationary gas detector engineered for continuous monitoring of combustible gases and vapors in ambient air. Utilizing the highly advanced Dräger PIR 7000 infrared sensor, this premium transmitter delivers unmatched measurement accuracy, long-term stability, and sub-second response times. It converts gas concentrations into a standard 4 to 20 mA analog output with HART digital communication, allowing seamless integration into sophisticated asset management networks and plant control systems.

Fail-Safe Infrared Technology and Simple Maintenance

Unlike traditional catalytic bead sensors that suffer from poisoning or drift, the optical infrared technology inside the Polytron® 8700 IR is completely immune to sensor poisons such as silicones, sulfur compounds, and halogenated hydrocarbons. It operates reliably in oxygen-deficient or completely inert atmospheres. The transmitter features a matrix-backlit graphical display that presents real-time LEL measurements, status icons, and advanced diagnostics clearly. Thanks to its non-intrusive design, operators can use a magnetic wand to calibrate or configure settings without opening the flameproof housing or declassifying the hazardous area.

Modular Architecture and Digital Connectivity

Built to excel in the most punishing industrial climates, the transmitter housing is available in either copper-free aluminum or premium 316 L stainless steel, complete with an IP65/66/67 ingress protection rating to resist heavy rain, washdowns, and dust. This high-end model can be customized with optional fieldbus modules (such as Modbus or Profibus) and an integrated relay module. The relay upgrade provides two gas alarm relays and one fault relay, enabling the Polytron® 8700 IR to act as an independent, standalone safety system that automatically actuates local horns, strobes, or ventilation fans.

Industrial Applications and Use Cases

• Offshore Platforms & Refineries: Continuous explosive hazard monitoring under extreme maritime conditions and harsh land climates.

• Chemical and Petrochemical Processing: Guarding against volatile organic compound (VOC) vapor accumulation near process pumps and storage units.

• Wastewater Infrastructure: Tracking methane and flammable gas buildup in humid, corrosive wet wells.

• Power Generation Facilities: Monitoring hydrogen storage infrastructure and turbine enclosures for early explosive leaks.