Challenge
Traditional methods for detecting methane leaks, such as sniffers, bubble tests, and laser technology, are not only costly and time-consuming but also pose safety risks and offer limited reliability in locating leak sources. These inefficiencies impact the company's bottom line and the environment. With global emission reduction targets becoming more stringent, accurately quantifying emissions has become increasingly essential.
SEAGas, operating a 700km high-pressure natural gas pipeline from Port Campbell in Victoria to Adelaide in South Australia, faced the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying emissions across over 30 above-ground facilities, including pumping stations, regulation and metering stations, compression sites, and pig launching and receiving infrastructure. SEAGas needed a comprehensive, real-world emissions overview rather than relying on estimated figures.
Solution
Inspectahire was engaged to provide emission location and quantification services for SEAGas. Using the Cooled FLIR GFX320 infrared camera, spectrally filtered to visualise methane and other industrial gases, Inspectahire conducted methodical inspections across all SEAGas locations. This approach allowed for rapid surveying of large areas for gas leaks without impacting ongoing operations.
The Inspectahire team recorded over 150 individual emissions across all locations. Each emission was documented with video footage showing the gas plume's nature and shape, digital still images for real-time visual representation, and specific tags for easy identification by remedial operators.
Following the detection survey, Inspectahire quantified each emission using calibrated gas sampling equipment to record the percentage of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL). The data was analysed to calculate the gas emissions in kilograms per year for each location, providing a comprehensive emissions figure for each facility and the entire system.
Results
Inspectahire's OGI survey enabled SEAGas to accurately identify and quantify over 150 emissions, replacing the previously estimated figures with real-world data. This information was critical for calculating remaining material and overall condition, ensuring the tubes were within acceptable parameters. The tubes were then treated with a marine growth retardant to manage their condition until the next planned dry dock.
This advanced approach has helped SEAGas prioritise and plan repair and remediation operations, significantly improving their predictive maintenance plan. As a result, SEAGas has reduced emissions, avoided product losses, and ensured a safer working environment. Inspectahire's services have proven invaluable, supporting SEAGas in achieving their environmental and operational goals.
