Optical Gas Imaging for Chemical Emissions Regulation

FLIR Systems, a leading supplier of Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras, reports that the OGI technique has achieved inclusion in the final draft of the EU Chemical sector BREF** that looks at best available techniques for emissions regulation in this important industry sector.  Optical Gas Imaging is identified as a best available technique for measurement of diffuse emissions of Volative Organic Compounds (VOCs) to air.

The BREF details that fugitive VOC emissions can be reduced by the detection and subsequent repair or replacement of leaking components using a leak detection and repair (LDAR) programme. Optical Gas Imaging is identified as a primary detection technique that enables direct visualisation of leaks with significant benefits over traditional gas sniffers alone.

FLIR systems OGI camera's have become a defacto standard adopted by manufacturing plants across the world for the visualization and documentation of gas leaks. Since the introduction of OGI camera technology by FLIR in 2006, the company has supplied over 3000 OGI cameras to end user operators, service provider companies and Environmental Protection Agencies worldwide.

FLIR OGI cameras are able to scan large areas rapidly and pinpoint leaks in real time. The technology is ideal for monitoring plant that is difficult to reach with contact measurement tools and literally thousands of components can be scanned per shift without the need to interrupt the process. Using a FLIR OGI camera reduces repair downtime and provides verification of the process. Importantly using FLIR OGI camera technology is exceptionally safe, as potentially dangerous leaks can be monitored from several meters away.