Training packet for natural gas leak detection
Natural gas is a more environmentally friendly fuel than coal or oil, emitting fewer pollutants to the atmosphere. It is also often more economical for the consumer. There are, however, safety issues. Detecting leaks as quickly as possible is of utmost importance, yet it remains a challenging task. The Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development (EESD) Programme funded a consortium of nine organisations to improve upon existing leak detection techniques. To do so, one must understand how leaks evolve in space and time. Up to now, such knowledge has been derived from crude approximations using smoke instead of natural gas for visualisation purposes or inappropriate diffusion models. Scientists at the University of Gävle in Sweden managed to image real-life natural gas leaks with the aid of passive infrared imaging equipment. The photographs and videos collected with this technique were further processed at Glasgow University to improve contrast and other image features. Advantica, the company coordinating the VOGUE project, took on the responsibility of packaging the knowledge acquired for dissemination to potential users. Apart from a CD with photos and videos of actual leaks, supplementary materials regarding safety guidelines, using gas detectors and other topics were compiled. The packet will be useful for utility companies providing natural gas as they train new field personnel. Plans also exist for designing an online e-learning environment based on the same content.
