Energy executives are always looking for the most effective way to limit gas leaks in their refineries. Aside from the potential for system complications and subsequent work stoppages, fugitive emissions are a health hazard to employees, surrounding communities, and the environment as a whole. Read on to discover the pros and cons of a popular monitoring methodology—Differential Absorption LiDAR.
Similar to Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) or Method 21, Differential Absorption LiDAR (DIAL) is an atmospheric remote sensing technique used in LDAR programs to monitor fugitive emissions. Quite basically, DIAL instruments use lasers to backscatter light and measure wavelengths and the absorption peak of a specific gas. The backscattering can indicate various signs of fugitive emissions, such as increased and unusual atmospheric density. But while OGI and Method 21 are the most common forms of LDAR fugitive emissions monitoring, DIAL is very applicable for large-scale functions. Read on to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of this technology, both for private refineries and the general public.
Differential Absorption LiDAR is a rising monitoring option for climatologists and environmental policymakers looking to set greenhouse gas (GHG) limits and regulations. This is because the “light detection and ranging” aspect of DIAL can measure radiation pulses from incredibly far distances. As such, DIAL is ideal for large-scale monitoring applications, such as measuring the total emissions from one or multiple refineries. Additionally, DIAL can accurately monitor the movements of fugitive gas to determine its impact on the environment and surrounding communities. LDAR programs currently use DIAL instruments to detect general GHGs, including CO2, N2O, and CH4.
Unfortunately, the amazing long-distance monitoring capabilities of DIAL sensing equipment aren’t always applicable for on-foot LDAR tasks. For example, Method 21 and FID monitoring are far more effective at “sniffing” fugitive emissions in indoor environments. Additionally, LiDAR technology is quite complicated to operate and requires extensive experience and training. Finally, DIAL is a newer monitoring method with expensive equipment and training requirements. Other fugitive emissions monitoring techniques are often more practical for indoor or small-scale applications.
There are plenty of pros and cons of Differential Absorption LiDAR, especially in refinery and LDAR applications. Thankfully, the technology and execution of DIAl methodology will certainly improve and advance in the coming years, leading to more accurate monitoring and a safer environment for everyone!
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