Overview

K-Detect-iON is a high-sensitivity, calibration-free gas sensor designed to work seamlessly with Kentec’s fire detection and extinguishing control panels. It monitors for the presence of hydrogen and other flammable gases released during battery degradation or failure, providing early warning before heat, smoke, or flame is present.

Ideal for use in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and enclosed technical environments like Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) rooms. K-Detect-iON enables proactive action to reduce risk and prevent escalation. The sensor includes three relay outputs: two for gas concentration thresholds and one for fault indication. These outputs support coordinated system responses such as venting, shutdown, or escalation, helping operators act quickly and effectively.

Compact and robust, K-Detect-iON is easy to install and requires no recalibration throughout its 10+ year lifespan—minimising maintenance while ensuring long-term reliability. By detecting the release of explosive gases at an early stage, the sensor plays a vital role in protecting lives, preserving infrastructure, and supporting safety compliance in high-risk environments.

Why Some Gas Sensors Fail Inside BESS Containers

Calibration-Free for Life

Zero field calibration needed over its 10+ year lifespan – reduces maintenance, saves time.

Built for Battery Safety

Specifically designed to detect hydrogen during thermal runaway events in lithium-ion ESS.

0–100% LEL Detection

Detects rising gas concentrations with precision, enabling rapid action before explosive limits are reached.

ETL Listed to UL 2075 Approved

Certified gas detection for safety-critical environments, independently tested to meet the UL 2075 standard.

Seamless Panel Connectivity

Can be combined with Kentec's extinguishing control panels to provide a complete BESS solution.

Ready for Harsh Conditions

Withstands -30°C to +75°C operating temperature and 0–100% relative humidity, non-condensing with ±2% accuracy – ideal for utility and industrial sites.

Infographics

Listed vs. Recognised: What is the Difference?

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Early Warning Testing

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Sensor Overview

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Siloxane Vapour Immunity

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Siloxane Vapour Immunity

Advanced Hydrogen and Flammable Gas Detection for Battery Safety

Abuse Phase – Mechanical, thermal or electrical stress causes internal degradation — often undetected by standard fire systems.

Gas Venting – The cell releases gases such as hydrogen and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) — a clear early sign of failure. This can occur minutes or even hours before ignition.

Flammable Gas Phase – Concentrated gases, including hydrogen, reach the lower explosive limit (LEL) — a critical point where rapid detection can trigger automated suppression.

Thermal Runaway – Combustion occurs, leading to fire.

Fire & Risk Alliance Li-ion Battery Fire Test Results

Independently tested by the Fire & Risk Alliance in a live-fire lithium-ion battery thermal runaway test. K-Detect-iON provides superior early warning for both initial off-gas and faster hydrogen detection compared to legacy LEL detectors.

0:00: Initial off-gas signal detected.
+0:07: Venting confirmed (RoR), while legacy detectors remained silent due to lacking off-gas channels.
+2:20: H2 hazard alarm triggered at 10% LEL.
+3:50: Legacy detectors finally triggered a hazard alarm, showing a 90-second delay in hydrogen detection.

The Verdict: By confirming hazards faster, K-Detect-iON secures a critical 90-second mitigation window.