Millennium Projects
Technical Details
Millennium Project Number: M-2000-005
Project Title:Development of Remote Methane Leak Detector (RMLD)
Project Start Date: 2000
Projected End Date: 2005
Technical Details:
NYSEARCH contracted with PSI and later with Heath Consultants Incorporated to develop and commercialize a new survey tool to remotely detect natural gas leaks in service pipelines. The tool is based on Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), a sensing technology that is rapidly gaining acceptance in industrial environments for detecting releases of selected gases. Used like a spotlight, the instrument measures the amount of target gas along the line of sight transmitted by the eye safe infrared laser beam. No special reflective materials are needed and unlike other forms of gas detectors, this instrument can remotely detect a gas leak outside the leak plume. The ultimate goal of the program is to develop and commercialize an RMLD that will improve leak survey productivity and be as effective as other leak detection instruments.The RMLD project was completed in late 2004 with a series of Beta tests that were successfully completed on real survey leaks, primarily at member company locations. The RMLD’s performed as well as and at times better than standard leak detection instruments. Heath in collaboration with PSI and input from NYSEARCH has successfully completed commercializing RMLD for gas industry.