RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 Hydrocarbon Sensor Element

RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 Iso-Butane (i-C4H10) Hydrocarbon Sensor

The RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 is a heavy-duty, marine-grade flammable hydrocarbon sensor element designed to continuously detect Iso-Butane and general Hydrocarbon (HC) vapors in hazardous maritime and offshore situations. The DE-3123-1 works on the non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) / catalytic detection principles as per transmitter pairing and provides the precise concentration readings in dual Lower Explosive Limit (0-100% LEL) and Volume Percentage (0-100 Vol%) ranges.

This sensor module is the primary sensing element used in portable and fixed marine gas monitoring systems such as the RIKEN KEIKI RX-415 series, which are designed to survive extreme vibration, salt spray, thermal cycling and high humidity aboard chemical tankers, LNG/LPG carriers and offshore platforms. In Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations, it incorporates a built-in sinter-glass flame arrestor to prevent internal ignition sources from escaping the enclosure.

Model Details

Manufacturer: RIKEN KEIKI Co., Ltd. (Japan)

Model Number: DE-3123-1

Target Gas / Calibration Base: Iso-Butane (i-C4H10)

MPN / Factory Code: DE-3123-1 / 2Y7050010RN

Cross-Reference Assemblies: T-N07N054N07N006, OS-B3 paired assembly

Key Features

1. Dual-Range Measurement Capability: Provides seamless linear signal output for low-level LEL (safety warnings) and high-level Vol% concentration (inert tank purging).
2. High Chemical & Poisoning Resistance: Advanced cell construction withstands silicon, sulfur, and heavy hydrocarbon exposure without premature drift or sensitivity decay.
3. Rapid T90 Response Speed: Delivers sub-15-second response times critical for immediate alarm triggering during dangerous gas accumulation in pump rooms or double hulls.
4. Corrosion-Resistant Enclosure: Anodized housing with potted terminal connections prevents marine air intrusion and salt-corrosion oxidation.
5. Pre-Calibrated Element: Pre-trimmed voltage outputs allow rapid field replacement with minimal Span/Zero recalibration downtime.

Equipment Compatibility

The RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 sensor is verified compatible with the following instruments and sampling systems:

• RIKEN KEIKI RX-415 Portable Dual-Range HC/O2 Gas Monitors
• RIKEN KEIKI RX-515 Marine Inerting/Purging Gas Detectors
• RIKEN KEIKI SD-1RI / SD-3RI Series Stationary Gas Transmitter Heads
• RIKEN KEIKI RI-557 / RI-257 Portable Infrared Hydrocarbon Analyzers

Applications

• Marine Cargo Tanks: Hydrocarbon gas monitoring during tank cleaning, gas-freeing, and inerting operations using Nitrogen.
• Pump Rooms & Bilges: Continuous ambient sampling on oil tankers, chemical carriers, and bunkering vessels.
• Offshore Platforms & FPSOs: Hydrocarbon leak detection in mud pits, wellhead rooms, and hazardous process zones.
• Industrial Refineries & LPG Depots: Confined space safety checks prior to hot-work entry.

Chief Engineer’s Field Guide:

When servicing gas detection equipment on tanker fleets, the DE-3123-1 sensor is often misdiagnosed as faulty when the real issue is sensor poisoning or condensation buildup in the sample line. Follow these operational protocols to maintain maximum accuracy and lifespan:

Frequently Asked Questions

What target gas is the RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 sensor calibrated for?

The DE-3123-1 sensor is calibrated at the factory for Iso-Butane (i-C4H10) However, it responds accurately across the general hydrocarbon spectrum (Propane, Pentane, Hexane) when applying Riken Keiki’s published cross-sensitivity response factors.

How often should I calibrate the DE-3123-1 sensor cell in my marine detector?

According to SOLAS regulations and manufacturer guidelines, portable marine gas detectors equipped with the DE-3123-1 element should undergo a bump test prior to every daily use and a full span calibration every 6 months using certified calibration gas.

Can I replace the DE-3123-1 sensor element myself onboard a vessel?

Yes. The DE-3123-1 features a quick-plug pin arrangement. Ensure the RX-415 host monitor is powered off, unscrew the sensor chamber housing, swap the module, replace the internal O-ring seal, power up, and complete a zero and span calibration.

What are the signs that a RIKEN KEIKI DE-3123-1 sensor element needs replacement?

Typical indicators include: failure to reach span value during calibration, constant “FAIL ZERO” or baseline drift errors on the monitor, response times exceeding 30 seconds or physical corrosion/poisoning caused by liquid exposure.