ABB’s newly developed gas leak detection system is based on a high sensitivity gas analyzer capable of measuring and reporting methane and ethane concentrations several times per second. The analyzer uses the Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy (OA-ICOS) principle, which utilizes tunable laser sources that produces light at a selected wavelengths to interact with the gases being analyzed.
Each laser beam enters a highly reflective mirrored cavity, where it is reflected thousands of times before exiting onto a photodetector. This creates a very long optical path many kilometres in length. The enhanced optical path length allows the use of telecommunications-grade near-infrared diode lasers, the most reliable, rugged and longest lifetime lasers available and yield very strong absorption signals. As a result, the measurements of the target gases are recorded quickly and with extremely high sensitivity, precision, and accuracy.
The OA-ICOS method offers a sensitivity over 1,000 times higher than conventional leak detection technologies, allowing the analyzer to detect single parts per billion (ppb) variations of the target gases over ambient levels rapidly. In turn, this allows detection of methane emissions and natural gas leaks quickly from long distances, a feat that legacy technologies cannot achieve.
In addition to these benefits, the OA-ICOS technology is also highly robust, enabling its deployment in multiple formats that enable data to be collected in a variety of ways including on foot, mounted on a vehicle or aircraft, or used in conjunction with a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) such as a drone. With the ability to collect data faster without sacrificing sensitivity or accuracy, the technology provides advantages over older technologies.
The availability of highly accurate and easily usable methane detection technologies will play a role in reducing the effect of this significant greenhouse gas and help ensure a better environment for everyone.