Phone us: 0344 809 0203 Email us: Info@ogisurveys.com
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Welcome to our webinar on the significance of Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) surveys for industries dealing with gas emissions.
OGI technology is revolutionising how we detect and visualise gas leaks, delivering quantified results that bring a host of benefits to operations.
Today, we’ll explore how these surveys enhance safety, ensure environmental compliance, and boost operational efficiency.
1. Enhanced Safety:
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OGI surveys are essential for detecting gas leaks that can endanger both workers and the environment, allowing us to "see the unseen."
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The accurate, quantified data from these surveys pinpoint the exact location and severity of leaks, enabling swift remediation.
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By proactively addressing these hidden issues, we can significantly reduce the risk of ignition, accidents, fires, and health threats, ultimately strengthening our overall safety protocols.
2. Environmental Compliance:
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With stringent OGI LDAR programs already established in the USA and Europe poised to follow, the UK is under increasing pressure to meet strict gas emissions regulations.
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The Environment Agency (EA) plans to roll out new MCERT certifications in early 2025, mandating comprehensive LDAR programs with specific Optical Gas Imaging and quantification standards for permit management. However, this timeline is slow, and we need action now.
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Taking immediate steps is essential to reach our environmental goals; OGI technology provides a more advanced and effective approach to leak detection.
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OGI not only identifies emissions but also fosters best practices that improve site efficiency, resulting in cost savings for both the environment and operational budgets.
Advantages of using OGI compared to alternative methods
While LDAR has been a long-standing industry technique, the emergence of Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) technology signifies a more advanced and efficient approach to leak detection.
The differences are -
It’s Simple to operate Very quick-you can effectively inspect a wide area quickly and efficiently.
You can actually see the gas, ensuring you know immediately if an asset is leaking. This technology can pinpoint even the tiniest leaks and seeps, allowing for safer monitoring without the need to touch anything or get too close.
Safe- remote operation and can scan from a distance, this means the site can be fully operational so there are no costly shut downs necessary. So enhances site efficiency
And finally, but most importantly -Quantified results this allows sites to prioritise and address leaks based on severity, reducing downtime and optimising maintenance schedules. There is no point knowing you have a leak if you don’t fix it
So, who are Optical Gas Imaging?
With more than 30 years of experience in leak detection across various sectors—including residential properties, commercial businesses, nuclear power plants, and even supporting the MOD in the Falkland Islands we are now looking to address the pressing need to reduce carbon footprints. We're pivoting our focus toward anaerobic digestion, landfill management, and industries committed to sustainability. Our mission is to combat emissions and advocate for green energy, addressing challenges that affect us all.
We’ve made significant investments in the technology necessary for this evolution, and we take pride in the business we’ve developed. Our first step was to reach out to the Environment Agency to explore how we could assist. As mentioned, they are currently drafting new MCERT standards that will require regular leak detection programs, mandating the use of optical gas imaging and precise quantification of detected leaks. Without compliance, sites risk losing their permits.
We’ve collaborated closely with the Agency to understand their requirements, ensuring our reports not only meet compliance but exceed expectations. Our equipment has also been certified at the highest standard required to meet these rigorous demands.
Our surveys offer a reliable method for detecting and quantifying gas leaks, helping sites meet regulatory requirements and lessen their environmental impact. The measurable results provide concrete data to demonstrate adherence to emission standards and a commitment to sustainability.
As an example, In a recent survey conducted at an anaerobic digestion (AD) plant, our team utilised Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) technology to identify potential leaks within the facility. Through this survey, we successfully identified two significant leaks that were contributing to methane loss
The first leak was detected at the pressure release valve (PRV) of the secondary digester, leading to a loss of 4.5kg per hour or 6.28m3 of methane per hour. This leak if left unaddressed, would result in substantial financial losses. To put this in perspective the estimated cost of methane loss from the PRV if the site was on a tariff of 0.60p per m3 it would cost approx.
Additionally, a second leak was identified at the hatch from the gasket seal of the secondary digester, leading to a loss of 3.28kg of methane or 4.57m3. The financial implications of this leak underscore the importance of prompt detection and mitigation measures. The cost associated with this the methane loss from the hatch leak again using an example tariff for methane at £0.60 per cubic m3
By promptly addressing these leaks based on our findings the plant was able to save a significant amount in potential losses. Our proactive approach to leak detection and mitigation not only helped in reducing methane emissions (approx. 720 hours per month) but resulted in significant cost savings for the plant.
Overall, the successful detection and mitigation of these leaks showcase the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance in AD plants to ensure operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. These leaks were quite small and definitely not anything out of the ordinary or terribly concerning. Just imagine the potential discoveries we could have made and how much larger they could have been, along with the significant amount of money literally wasted into thin air.