NYSEARCH/NGA (formerly NYGAS) will present its latest development in remote leak detecting technology. NYSEARCH/NGA contracted with Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) to develop a new optical 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 eye-safe laser beam measures the amount of target gas along a line of sight transmitted by the laser beam. No special reflective materials are needed and unlike other forms of gas detectors, this device can remotely detect a gas leak outside the leak plume. The ultimate goal of the program is to develop a Remote Methane Leak Detector (RMLD) that will improve leak survey productivity and be as effective as other leak detection devices.

To help accomplish this, Heath Consultants Incorporated has joined this effort and plans to deliver an RMLD field-ready tool to the market by 2004. This project was presented at the Natural Gas Technologies Conference in 2002 and in the last year RMLD has undergone many field tests. The presentation will provide non-proprietary RMLD specifications, accomplishments to date and results of field tests on real system leaks.