A Liverpool engineering firm specialising in sensor technology – DefProc – wins six-figure deal with Northern Gas Networks to develop a gas pressure sensor. Tony McDonough reports

Specialist Liverpool engineering innovator DefProc Engineering has won a six-figure deal to develop a sensor that will reduce disruption in peoples’ homes if gas supply is lost.

Based at Liverpool Science Park, DefProc has now secured eight projects over the past six months worth a total of £236,000. It is also reporting a 168% half-year increase in pre-tax profits to just over £40,000.

Its latest contract is with Northern Gas networks. This is a company responsible for distributing gas to homes and businesses across Yorkshire, the North East and northern Cumbria.

DefProc will develop a smart gas pressure sensor which will fill the expected market need for the monitoring of supply pressure and low-pressure shut-off status. This will significantly reduce the disruption in homes if gas supply is lost.

Operation of the sensor will include maximising the stability of introducing hydrogen on the network, reducing the need for engineer callouts, and minimising disruption in properties where it is fitted.

Householders will also get real-time updates about problems with their gas supply and the cause.

Founded in 2013, DefProc specialises in research and development for innovative products, designing for manufacturing processes and small-run production for testing. It can support clients from proof of concept through to passing regulatory testing.

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Clients have included the Environment Agency, The Science Museum Group, Culture Liverpool and commercial property owner Bruntwood. 

It has also worked as a consortium partner for the Liverpool 5G Health and Social Care Testbed, a high-profile project funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Jen Fenner, managing director at DefProc, said: “This business growth is a testament to the strategic vision and unwavering dedication of the DefProc team.

“The smart gas pressure sensor is an example of how our engineering solutions can drive meaningful impact – making a real difference to everyday life and solving problems.

“As a small business, collaborations with the likes of Northern Gas Networks validate our expertise and drive us to continuously innovate, evolve and impress.”

DefProc provides a range of services including software, CAD, structural engineering, 3D printing, and design for manufacture. Sectors include care, green energy, maritime, environmental monitoring, MedTech, automotive and sports technology.

The company is currently recruiting for a graduate electrical engineer from Liverpool city region area through the LCR Graduate Scheme.