Overview
Gas leak detection in indoor installations requires accuracy, speed, and reliability—especially when working around pipelines, valves, fittings, and connection points. The EX-TEC® SNOOPER 4 is a compact, explosion-proof gas detection device engineered specifically for low-level gas leak identification.
This case study highlights how the device enhances routine inspections, improves safety, and increases operational efficiency in industrial and commercial environments.
Challenge
Indoor gas networks often have:
- Multiple connection points
- Hard-to-reach service lines
- Confined spaces
- Risk of gas leaks during routine maintenance
Standard detectors may not offer adequate sensitivity or flexibility, especially when detecting very small leaks or gases like hydrogen that require higher precision.
The requirement was straightforward:
A portable, extremely sensitive, multi-gas leak detector suitable for indoor use and capable of detecting leaks early before they escalate.
Solution – EX-TEC® SNOOPER 4
The EX-TEC® SNOOPER 4 provided an ideal solution due to its advanced sensing technology and flexible operating modes.
Key Strengths
- High sensitivity for early detection of small leaks
- Measurement capability up to 22,000 ppm
- Adjustable minimum sensitivity (down to very low ppm levels)
- Suitable for multiple gases, including methane, propane, butane, hydrogen, and more
- Explosion-proof design for safe operation in hazardous environments
- Compact and ergonomic, ideal for indoor inspections
- Flexible probe options for inaccessible or narrow areas
- Clear acoustic and visual alarms for quick operator response
This allowed technicians to inspect pipelines, joints, appliances, and fittings with confidence, detecting leaks at a very early stage.
Implementation
The EX-TEC® SNOOPER 4 was integrated into regular inspection routines to support:
- Indoor pipeline checks
- Connection-point inspections
- Confined space leak detection
- Hydrogen-ready environments
- Appliance servicing and maintenance
Operators set appropriate sensitivity thresholds, performed systematic scans along pipelines and components, and used the visual/acoustic alerts to confirm leak locations.
The handheld format and optional probes significantly reduced inspection time and improved accessibility.
Results
1. Early Leak Identification
Small leaks were detected before they developed into major faults, reducing operational risk.
2. Enhanced Safety
The explosion-proof certification and precise ppm detection improved safety compliance and reduced exposure to hazardous conditions.
3. Faster Inspection Cycles
The flexible design enabled quicker scanning of multiple indoor sections, saving time during routine maintenance.
4. Multi-Gas Flexibility
Instead of multiple detectors, a single device was used across various applications, simplifying the workflow.
5. Reliable Documentation
Consistent sensitivity settings and systematic inspections ensured accurate reporting and traceability.
Conclusion
The EX-TEC® SNOOPER 4 proved to be a reliable and highly sensitive gas leak detection tool for indoor environments. Its compact design, multi-gas capability, and robust safety features make it ideal for routine inspections and maintenance workflows where early gas leak identification is critical.
Its adoption leads to improved safety, reduced downtime, and increased operational efficiency—making it a preferred choice for gas utilities, maintenance teams, and facility operators.