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Seismic Acceleration Sensor
DEC.SAS™

Industrial plants (chemical, pharma, packaging), by their very nature, house complex processes and potentially hazardous materials. Ensuring operational safety, even in the face of natural disasters, is a priority. One critical safety measure gaining increased adoption is the installation of Seismic Acceleration Sensors (SASs) to initiate controlled shutdowns in the event of significant seismic activity.


DEC.SAS™ triaxial seismic acceleration sensor unit

Seismic Acceleration Sensors (also known as Seismic Acceleration Detectors, SAD) are sophisticated instruments designed to continuously monitor ground motion and detect strong seismic events acting as a critical early warning system, enabling a proactive and controlled response.

Seismic Acceleration Sensors (also known as Seismic Acceleration Detectors, SAD) are sophisticated instruments designed to continuously monitor ground motion and detect strong seismic events acting as a critical early warning system, enabling a proactive and controlled response.

In regions prone to seismic activity, the integration of a DEC.SAS™Seismic Acceleration Sensor into the safety architecture of chemical plants is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. By providing an immediate and reliable trigger for controlled shutdowns, DEC.SAS™ significantly enhance plant safety, protect personnel, minimize environmental impact, and contribute to the overall resilience of critical industrial infrastructure.

DEC.SAS™ • how it works

DEC.SAS™ typically employ highly sensitive accelerometers that measure ground acceleration in three dimensions (vertical, horizontal x, and horizontal y). These devices are calibrated to trigger an alarm and output signal when detected acceleration surpasses a pre-defined threshold, often expressed in terms of G-force or Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI). This threshold is carefully determined based on the plant's structural integrity, the nature of the processes, and local seismic hazard assessments.

DEC.SAS™ • integration

The true value of a DEC.SAS™ lies in its integration with the plant's Control System through Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system. Upon detection of a seismic event exceeding the set threshold, the DEC.SAS™ immediately transmits a signal to the control system. This signal initiates a pre-programmed, automated sequence of actions designed to bring the plant to a safe, controlled shutdown state.

DEC.SAS™ • installation

Proper installation of SADs is crucial, involving careful selection of location to ensure accurate ground motion detection, away from localized vibrations. Regular calibration and maintenance are also essential to ensure the reliability and functionality of the system.

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seismic shutdown safety, explained

FAQs • Frequently Asked Questions

Seismic Acceleration Sensor • DEC.SAS™

What is a DEC.SAS™ Seismic Acceleration Sensor?

DEC.SAS™ (also referred to as a Seismic Acceleration Detector, SAD) is a triaxial accelerometer-based instrument that continuously monitors ground motion in three dimensions and detects strong seismic events, acting as an early-warning trigger for a plant's emergency shutdown system.

How does DEC.SAS™ integrate with a plant's control system?

DEC.SAS™ connects directly to the plant's Control System through the Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system. When detected ground acceleration exceeds a pre-defined threshold, DEC.SAS™ sends an immediate signal that initiates a pre-programmed, automated sequence bringing the plant to a safe, controlled shutdown.

What triggers a DEC.SAS™ shutdown signal?

DEC.SAS™ triggers an alarm and output signal when measured ground acceleration surpasses a threshold set in G-force or Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI), calibrated to the plant's structural integrity, process characteristics, and local seismic hazard assessment.

Where should DEC.SAS™ sensors be installed, and how are they maintained?

DEC.SAS™ sensors must be installed away from localized vibration sources to ensure accurate ground-motion detection, and require regular calibration and maintenance to keep the system reliable and functional.

Is pricing available for DEC.SAS™, and can I purchase a system directly?

DEC.SAS™ is a custom-engineered, quote-based safety system rather than an off-the-shelf product, so there is no fixed list price. Each system is sized, specified and priced by DEC's engineering team after evaluating your plant's structural characteristics and seismic risk profile — request a project quote via the contact page.

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