Streamlining Natural Gas Leak Detection Procedures

IRwin's CGI functionality

Pinpointing gas leaks requires testing numerous bar holes with a subsurface probe to locate the leak. Most standard operating procedures (SOPs) include numerous bar holes that need to be tested to determine the source of the leak. A bar hole with a high concentration is likely to be close to the origin of the leak, but this is not always the case. A leak could easily accumulate underneath a paved surface and saturate a larger area. This will result in multiple bar holes with % level gas. An established approach in such scenarios involves utilizing CGI (Combustible Gas Indicator) readings from a bar hole.

CGI measurements are often performed with help of a dedicated instrument designed specifically for the task. However, maintaining an updated and calibrated portfolio of instruments is both cumbersome and costly, and requires unnecessary administration from the device management department.

A multi-functional instrument suitable for all tasks

By using IRwin^® Methane Leak Detector in CGI mode, this task can be accomplished with the same instrument used for leak survey.

IRwin has been developed as a multi-functional instrument that can be used for all tasks an operator may encounter in daily work like survey, pinpointing, repair and commissioning of natural gas pipes. The instrument is continuously developed and fine-tuned to align with the different standards and operating procedures worldwide.

Continuous product improvements

IRwin always featured a CGI-comparable function called Auto Bar Hole. However, the Auto Bar hole sequence has not been adopted in all regions, primarily due to its long cycle time (approx. 10 minutes). A CGI function has therefore been added in the latest software upgrade. The CGI presents a peak value and a sustain value reading of CH₄  and CO₂ in as little as 15 seconds. The Auto Bar Hole sequence, that takes three repeated measurements in a row with an evacuation time in between, can still be chosen if required. Which method to use is simply a matter of which standard operating procedure is in place.

IRwin’s new CGI functionality offers users the opportunity to broaden the spectrum of tasks performed with one single instrument. This not only saves considerable time and money in the field but also simplifies operations back at the office by reducing the number of instruments to manage, calibrate and maintain.