With ExxonMobil Research Qatar, RasGas is field-testing a new remote gas detection system designed to improve process safety and environment performance at LNG and other gas-processing facilities. The pilot project, near RasGas’ Train 7 and expected to continue through 2014, was designed to test the accuracy and durability of the system under field conditions such as heat, humidity, sand and fog. Feedback from operating and maintenance personnel will further improve reliability and ease of use.
The system’s algorithm analyses infrared camera images and detects escaping hydrocarbon gasses, delivering early warning alerts, with minimal false alarms. Plans are in place to deploy an advanced version of the system, which incorporates a custom-built camera with two infrared sensors and image-recognition technology, increasing accuracy and further eliminating background interferences.