Honeywell has launched a new Hydrogen Leak Detector (HLD) designed to detect even the smallest hydrogen leaks in real time, enhancing safety across hydrogen-powered systems. Using Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD) technology, the sensor can identify leaks as small as 50 parts per million, providing early warning before they escalate into dangerous situations.
Hydrogen, while a promising clean energy source, presents unique safety challenges due to its colorless, odorless, highly flammable, and fast-diffusing nature. These properties make it difficult to detect and contain, particularly around joints and seals in tanks and pipelines. Honeywell’s HLD sensor enables operators to quickly spot and respond to leaks, reducing the risk of fire or explosion.
“Hydrogen holds great promise for powering the future, but safety must remain a top priority,” said Moin Shafai, Chief Technology Officer at Honeywell Sensing Solutions. “Our latest innovation ensures hydrogen systems can be operated more safely as global adoption accelerates.”
BWR Innovations, a leader in hydrogen energy technology, has already integrated the new sensor into its Oncore Energy System—a hydrogen fuel cell generator designed for residential and commercial use. Adam Jorgenson, the company’s COO, emphasized that the sensor allows for real-time leak monitoring, boosting the system’s safety and reliability.
As hydrogen continues to be used in critical applications such as construction equipment, backup power systems, trucks, and buses, global adoption is rapidly expanding. The Hydrogen Council reported that the number of hydrogen-powered vehicles reached 90,000 in 2024, a 14% increase from the previous year.
Unlike many traditional hydrogen sensors, Honeywell’s HLD does not require frequent calibration. It can function maintenance-free for up to 10 years when installed near tanks, pipes, fuel cells, or vehicle cabins. This low-maintenance design reduces downtime and operational costs in industries where continuous performance is vital.
