Why Searchpoint Optima Plus Leads in Hydrocarbon Gas Detection

For over 40 years, Honeywell Analytics has been at the forefront of point-infrared gas detection. With more than 100,000 units installed worldwide, the Searchpoint Optima Plus has earned its reputation across applications ranging from light industrial facilities to the most demanding offshore environments.

The Infrared Advantage

Why choose infrared over traditional electro-catalytic detection? The advantages are compelling:

• Fail-to-safe operation – continuous self-diagnostics ensure that any internal fault triggers a warning, so no undetected failures compromise safety
• Exceptional speed – response times of T50 < 3 seconds and T90 < 4 seconds for methane provide near-instantaneous alerting
• Immunity to catalytic poisons – unaffected by silicone vapors, hydrogen sulfide, or other compounds that would degrade conventional sensors
• Reduced maintenance – self-compensating optics and Dynamic Heating Control minimize routine service, lowering the total cost of ownership
• Works in inert atmospheres – remains operational even in oxygen-deficient environments where catalytic sensors would fail

Built for the Harshest Environments

The Searchpoint Optima Plus is engineered to endure extreme conditions. Constructed from rugged 316 stainless steel, it is certified for hazardous areas under UL, CSA, ATEX, IECEx, and more. Its operational temperature range spans -40°C to +65°C, ensuring dependable performance whether in arctic cold or desert heat.

Intelligent Features That Enhance Operations

Beyond core detection, the Optima Plus incorporates smart capabilities that deliver real operational value:

• Advanced false alarm rejection algorithms reduce nuisance trips that can erode operator confidence and cause unnecessary shutdowns
• Contaminated optics warning alerts maintenance teams before performance is compromised, maximizing uptime
• Integral event logging provides valuable data for compliance reporting and post-incident analysis
• Remote functional gas test facility enables testing without bringing a cylinder to the detector, saving time and reducing risk
• Optional HART® communication allows digital diagnostics and configuration over existing 4-20mA wiring, simplifying integration with modern control systems

Versatile Applications

The Optima Plus is suitable for a wide range of hydrocarbon-related environments:

• Offshore oil and gas platforms, FPSO vessels, and tankers
• Onshore terminals, refineries, and LNG/LPG bottling plants
• Gas compressor and metering stations
• Gas turbine power plants
• Solvent printing and coating facilities

With calibrations available for over 100 gases and vapors, it adapts to virtually any hydrocarbon monitoring requirement.

Backed by Global Expertise

Even the best technology requires expert support. Honeywell complements the Searchpoint Optima Plus with comprehensive maintenance and consultancy services, designed to maximize uptime, control costs, and ensure projects stay on schedule and on budget.