Methane measurement strategies and solutions using TDLAS

Methane remains a critical target for emissions reduction due to its high global warming potential. Effective strategies for measurement must address both combustion slip and fugitive leaks.  Sensors, Inc. who will be exhibiting at the upcoming CEM Conference and Exhibition, has leveraged Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) to develop three complementary solutions: the Methane Slip Analyzer, the eREM continuous monitor, and the HI-FLOW 3 high-volume sampler. Together, these tools form an integrated portfolio for operators facing regulatory compliance and environmental performance challenges.

Methane slip—unburned methane released from natural gas-powered engines—accounts for up to 75% of total methane emissions from compressor stations. The SEMTECH® Methane Slip Analyser provides direct, methane-specific measurements using TDLAS, eliminating cross-interference from other gases. It integrates with NDIR benches for CO and CO₂, electrochemical cells for NOx and O₂ along with exhaust flow measurement. The result is real-time quantification of methane slip in grams per second, per fuel unit, or per unit of work over a cycle. Portable, battery powered, and Wi-Fi enabled, it enables field operators to both diagnose engine performance and comply with tightening regulations.

While slip originates at the combustion source, fugitive emissions can occur across infrastructure. The eREM (enhanced Remote Emissions Monitor) addresses this challenge with continuous, open-path monitoring using backscatter TDLAS. By scanning a flux plane, eREM directly measures emission rates of methane plumes in real time at ~1 Hz. Its patented statistical algorithms distinguish intentional venting from abnormal emission events, reducing false positives while ensuring sensitivity down to 10 g/hr. Solar-powered and wirelessly connected, eREM is designed for large-scale deployment with minimal maintenance. This capability allows operators to build proactive methane mitigation strategies, improve reporting accuracy, and protect public health.

For direct leak quantification, the SEMTECH® HI-FLOW 3 provides a portable, battery-powered solution. Combining TDLAS with a high-volume vacuum sampling unit, HI-FLOW 3 captures, dilutes, and quantifies methane leaks over a wide dynamic range (0.025 LPM – 500 LPM). Its rugged design ensures accuracy in the field with minimal interference from other hydrocarbons. HI-FLOW 3 empowers operators to meet regulatory demands for fugitive methane measurement with confidence.