Honeywell has introduced a Hydrogen Leak Detector (HLD) engineered to detect microscopic hydrogen leaks in real time, significantly enhancing the safety of hydrogen-powered systems. Utilizing advanced Thermal Conductivity Detection technology, the sensor can identify leaks as small as 50 parts per million (ppm)—a major leap forward in safety for hydrogen infrastructure.
Addressing the Hidden Risks of Hydrogen
Hydrogen presents unique safety challenges. It’s colourless, odourless, highly flammable, and quickly diffuses—making it notoriously difficult to detect when leaked. Even microscopic leaks from seals or joints in storage tanks and pipelines can pose serious fire and explosion hazards.
With Honeywell’s new HLD technology, operators can take proactive safety measures by identifying and resolving leaks before they escalate into dangerous events.
Safety Must Be Top-of-Mind
“Hydrogen has tremendous potential to power our global infrastructure, but it must be done with safety top-of-mind,” said Moin Shafai, Chief Technology Officer, Honeywell Sensing Solutions. “By innovating in leak detection technologies, Honeywell is helping to safeguard hydrogen-powered systems and the people who operate them as global demand continues to grow,” Shafai added.
BWR Innovations Leads Early Adoption
BWR Innovations is among the first to adopt the new HLD solution. The company is incorporating the sensor into its Oncore Energy System—a hydrogen fuel cell generator designed for both residential and commercial use.
“The integration of Honeywell’s HLD sensor into our Oncore Energy System provides us with reliable leak detection that reinforces operational safety and enables real-time monitoring of our hydrogen-powered equipment,” said Adam Jorgenson, Chief Operating Officer at BWR Innovations.
Supporting a Growing Global Hydrogen Economy
As hydrogen adoption spreads across critical infrastructure—including power generation, construction equipment, heavy-duty transport, and residential systems—demand is rising sharply. According to the Hydrogen Council, nearly 90,000 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles were on the road globally in 2024, marking a 14% increase from the previous year.
Low-Maintenance, Long-Life Performance
Unlike traditional detection systems that require frequent recalibration, Honeywell’s HLD sensor is designed for maintenance-free operation for up to 10 years. As per the press release, whether placed near hydrogen storage tanks, gas lines, vehicle cabins, or fuel cells, the sensor maintains accurate detection without manual adjustments—reducing downtime and labor costs in
mission-critical industries.
