Optical Gas Imaging (OGI): a Pivotal Technology to Detect and Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Optical Gas Imaging (OGI): a Pivotal Technology to Detect and Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emissions

February 25, 2025 . 3min read

Surging atmospheric concentrations of methane – which account for nearly one-third of global warming – have lifted this main constituent of natural gas to the No. 2 spot among consequential greenhouse gases, following only carbon dioxide (CO2). 

In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is introducing stringent methane-emissions guidelines for the oil and gas sector, with enhanced monitoring and maintenance requirements for industrial equipment and facilities. (Subparts OOOOa/b/c – 40 CFR Part 60, Appendix K)

The EU Regulation 2024/1787 mandates that operators of oil, gas, and coal infrastructure adopt rigorous measures for monitoring and reducing methane emissions. Key requirements include regular leak detection and repair (LDAR) surveys, comprehensive reporting, and a significant reduction in flaring and venting practices by 2027. Notably, the regulation specifies that gas-sensing systems detect and quantify methane leaks with a minimum threshold of 17 grams per hour, underscoring the importance of high-sensitivity detection instruments.

These requirements are part of the EU’s strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

 

  1. LYNRED’s Role in the OGI Market

LYNRED is a recognized leader in high-performance infrared (IR) technology. Based on a nearly 40-year experience, LYNRED develops sensors and solutions in tune with new thermal vision applications and user needs, while enhancing safety and environmental compliance across various industries and meeting regulatory requirements.

The company balances its sophisticated technologies with a commitment to support new entrants in the market who may not have the technical know-how to develop a gas leak detection system.

Anticipating the need for systems that bring advanced IR capabilities to the optical gas imaging market, LYNRED offers high-performance thermal sensors operating in all IR spectral bands. These products identify gases based on their absorption spectra. Its cooled and uncooled sensors ensure high sensitivity, providing an accurate solution for gas leak detection in industrial environments.

The company’s powerful technologies enable real-time visualization of leaks and are highly effective at detecting methane and other hydrocarbon gases. OGI also enables operators to identify and quantify leaks quickly, even from a distance, offering significant advantages over traditional detection methods.

 

  1. New Suite of OGI Sensors 

As a leading global provider of IR technologies, the company has proactively responded to the EU’s methane detection and mitigation requirements by introducing advanced imaging products tailored for OGI applications. In June 2024, LYNRED unveiled two entrees in its new suite of IR sensors targeting methane and other gases:

  • EOLE MW: A high-performance VGA sensor optimized for detecting methane and other gases, EOLE MW’s performance exceeds the requirements of new European regulations because it can detect up to 10x times lower than regulatory limits. Its compact form is suitable for portable and 24/7 applications. 

  • PICO640S BB 7-14: Scheduled for sampling in 2025, this sensor is engineered for 24/7 area-wide monitoring of high-risk sites. It provides a cost-effective solution for continuous surveillance, enabling operators to detect anomalies beyond routine inspection schedules.

In addition to these broadband detectors, LYNRED’s  comprehensive portfolio of infrared technologies aimed at enhancing safety and environmental compliance across various industries, includes:

  • SCORPIO BB MW: A dedicated VGA mid-wave infrared (MWIR) broadband sensor tailored for industrial applications. This detector is engineered to identify various gases by utilizing specific narrow-band filters, making it suitable for detecting gas plumes from long distances.

  • NGP, a satellite-based, on-board detector that helps operators track global methane emissions, identify major sources, and follow trends over time.

 

  1. Use Cases for LYNRED OGI Systems 

  • Exploration: Oil and gas facilities (natural gas treatment and gathering lines, underground natural gas storage installations, etc.)
  • Production: Industrial sites (natural gas treatment plants, oil refineries, etc.)
  • Storage / distribution: Petrochemical facilities (wells, transmission, storage and distribution pipelines, storage tanks, etc.)

 

“LYNRED's advancements in OGI sensors not only align with the EU's stringent emission reduction goals but also empower operators with the tools necessary for efficient and effective methane leak detection. By providing high-sensitivity, reliable, and integrative solutions, LYNRED plays a crucial role in the global effort to mitigate methane emissions and combat climate change.” Adrien Bertrand, cooled product manager

Going to the 3rd Annual  Methane Mitigation Europe Conference

(Feb. 25-27, Novotel | Amsterdam City, Netherlands)

Want to learn more about leading-edge solutions to develop a gas leak detection system ? 

LYNRED’s team will be onsite and would be happy to discuss how we can support your efforts to adopt innovative technologies to stay compliant.

Get an appointment
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