Fixed and flame
Searchpoint Optima Plus
Searchpoint Optima Plus is an infrared point gas detector designed for hydrocarbon detection in potentially explosive environments — the reference device for permanently installed flammable gas detection where a catalytic sensor would not survive the duty.

What it is
Purpose and use
Infrared detection gives fast response times and fail-safe operation: unlike a catalytic bead, an infrared detector cannot be poisoned by silicones or sulphur compounds, and it does not fail silently when the sensing element degrades. Honeywell states advanced internal fault diagnostics and false alarm rejection algorithms to maintain operational integrity.
The commercial argument follows from that. Honeywell positions the detector on a low total cost of ownership compared with conventional electro-catalytic detectors, because routine maintenance is minimised. On an installation with dozens of measuring points, the difference is not the purchase price but the number of site visits per year.
Honeywell states 100 gases available for the detector, with an optional HART® signal over the 4-20 mA output.
Technical description
- Infrared point gas detector for hydrocarbon detection
- 100 gases available
- Optional HART® over 4-20 mA output
- Internal fault diagnostics and false alarm rejection algorithms
- Fast response and fail-safe operation through the infrared principle
- Certified for use in hazardous environments
Stated according to the current manufacturer documentation. Binding data for a specific configuration is confirmed with the quotation.
Application
Where it is used
- Refineries, tank farms and loading areas
- Gas compressor and metering stations
- Offshore and onshore oil and gas installations
- Any point where a known hydrocarbon release would accumulate
Accessories and spare parts
- Weather and splash protection for outdoor installations
- Calibration and test gas accessories
- Mounting and junction box components
Service by VERTEX GmbH
What we deliver around this product
VERTEX GmbH works out the number and position of the measuring points from the release scenarios, supplies and installs the detectors, connects them to the controller and the plant control system, functionally tests the complete alarm chain, and keeps the installation calibrated under a service agreement.
Honeywell and the product names on this page are trademarks of Honeywell International Inc. VERTEX GmbH is an independent supplier and service provider in Krefeld, Germany.
FAQ
Questions about Searchpoint Optima Plus
Infrared or catalytic bead for flammable gas detection?
Infrared where the atmosphere can contain catalyst poisons such as silicones or sulphur compounds, where oxygen may be absent, or where a fail-safe indication of sensor failure is required. Catalytic bead remains valid for hydrogen and for some light gases that infrared cannot see. The decision is made per measuring point, not per plant.
What does HART over 4-20 mA give us in practice?
Diagnostics and configuration over the same two wires that carry the measurement, so a detector can be interrogated without opening it in a hazardous area. Whether it is usable depends on whether your control system or handheld communicator supports HART, which we check before quoting it.
Enquiry
Send us your specification
Send us your requests with technical specifications to receive a prompt reply from our industry specialists. For gas detection, add the gases and the zone classification.
Or by email: purchasing@vertex-group.de