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Efficient leak detection solution for monitoring fugitive emissions and leaks

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By Flir Systems on

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FLIR Systems has published a new application note that describes how an upstream oil and gas company have successfully implemented a continuous monitoring system for their oil pads improving safety and reducing operating costs by 35%.

Fugitive emissions and hydrocarbon leaks at an oil and gas site can cause devastating explosions if they are not caught early. Such problems are not only a risk to the facility, but the surrounding community. The company drills on approximately 300 oil pads, all located in populated areas near homes and schools. If they missed a leak at one of their oil pads or caught it too late, the company would be forced to evacuate thousands of people.

The application note describes how a local systems integrator developed a custom leak detection system based upon a FLIR G300a Optical Gas Imaging camera and map-based, user-interface monitoring software that can continuously and autonomously monitor installations.

A primary reason the systems integrator selected the FLIR G300a camera was its ability to detect spectral changes in the atmosphere, as well as adjust for diurnal swings that cross exposure settings. This allows continuous use across seasons, including in fog, rain, or snow. The oil and gas company had an interest in visualizing 20 different hydrocarbons, including benzene, ethanol, methane, and propane. The FLIR G300a had the capability to detect each of these gases and more.

Within the first three weeks of operating the new monitoring system, it detected two leaks that the previous control system didn’t. Using the new FLIR G300a based system – an automation supervisor receives alerts and video on a mobile device while in the field. As a result, the supervisor is now able to immediately react and deploy field technicians who are then able to repair the leaks within 30 minutes of detection.

The new system is enabling the oil and gas company to be more precise with their resources, make better use of their field technicians/maintenance vehicles and provide 24/7 coverage compared to previously looking at installations for just 15 minutes per day.  With automated analytics and continuous coverage of assets, leaks can be detected as they occur, not hours or days later. The enhanced virtual monitoring capabilities have led to increased operational efficiency, improved safety, and reduced costs to inspect and operate the site.

To download a copy of this application note please visit http://www.flir.eu/ogi/display/?id=42236  or contact FLIR Systems in Europe on +32-3665-5100 or gasimaging@flir.com. For further information on the FLIR G300a Optical Gas Imaging camera please visit http://www.flir.eu/ogi/g300a/

Flir Systems

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FLIR Systems specialises in technologies that enhance perception and awareness.  The company brings innovative sensing solutions into daily life through its thermal imaging and visible light imaging technology and systems for measurement, diagnosis, location and advanced threat detection.  Its products improve the way people interact with the world around them, enhance productivity, increase energy efficiency and make the workplace safer.

FLIR Systems has six operating segments – surveillance, instruments, OEM and emerging markets, maritime, security and finally, detection. Of these six, ‘instruments’ is of greatest interest to trade and industry and the second largest segment in the company’s portfolio. This division provides devices that image, measure and assess thermal energy, gases and other environmental elements for industrial, commercial and scientific applications.

These products are manufactured across five production sites, three in the USA and two in Europe; Sweden and Estonia.

A model to suit every application and budget
The options that FLIR Systems provides for measuring temperature and studying thermal performance have never been greater.  Not only does the company offer a huge range of models to suit all thermal application needs but the technology is also affordable and very easy to use.  Thermal cameras now come in various shapes, sizes and degrees of sophistication and FLIR continues to invest heavily in the development of new and complementary technologies to differentiate itself from competitors.

An important milestone in the development of thermal imaging has been the introduction of the FLIR Lepton® core, a micro longwave detector, the size of a mobile SIM.  This has allowed thermal imaging to be repackaged to meet the needs of an even wider audience and, in combination with another new technology called Infrared Guided Measurement – IGM™ – has led to the development of a range of test and measurement meters with imaging capability.

Another important growth area for FLIR thermal imaging is in continuous monitoring to assure quality and safety.  Through its introduction of discrete fixed mounted thermal cameras which are fully compliant industry standard plug-and-play protocols, FLIR Systems has provided industry with infrared machine vision which is instantly ready for quick and easy network installation.

Protecting assets and people from fire is an area for which thermal imaging is least known but, thanks to FLIR Systems’ development, it is now one of the most cost-effective methods available.  Its application flexibility and rapid return on investment present an attractive proposition for any site or safety manager.

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