Hydrogen Infrastructure Gets a Safety Boost with Honeywell’s Real-Time Leak Detector

Honeywell just rolled out a new hydrogen leak detector that could seriously change the game when it comes to the safety and growth of hydrogen infrastructure. Powered by smart Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD) technology, this device can sense even the tiniest hydrogen leaks—down to just 50 parts per million—in real time. That’s a big deal, especially since detecting leaks quickly has always been a major roadblock in the wider adoption of hydrogen fuel cells. On top of that, it’s maintenance-free for a full decade and can save up to $12,000 per unit over its lifetime compared to older detection systems.

Real-world use and certification

The detector isn’t just sitting on the shelf—it’s already being put to work. BWR Innovations has integrated it into its Oncore Energy System, and it’s currently being tested in real-world settings for distributed hydrogen fuel cell applications. Even better, it’s compliant with ISO 26142:2010, which means it’s ready for global deployment without skipping a beat.

A step forward for zero-emission power

We’re seeing more than 90,000 fuel cell electric vehicles on the road globally, and the demand for hydrogen in stationary power systems keeps climbing. As the world leans further into sustainable energy and ramps up efforts in industrial decarbonization, having reliable safety technologies like this detector is key. It’s tools like these that make it possible to build out a safer, more efficient hydrogen infrastructure that supports the next generation of fuel cell technology.