Processing systems/design

Review Spotlights Methane Detection, Quantification Technologies

The authors of this paper describe an initiative taken to measure baseline data for methane emission for gas-processing facilities and gas-transmission and regasification units by using accurate tools and methodologies for detection and quantification.

Fugitive-emission-quantification terminology chart.
Fig. 1—Fugitive-emission-quantification terminology chart.

In supporting the energy transition, a need exists to improve accurate quantification and reduction of methane emissions and determine long-term reduction targets to drive the competitive advantages of natural gas as a low-carbon fuel. The complete paper reviews an initiative taken to measure baseline data for methane emissions for gas-processing facilities and gas-transmission and regasification units through the use of accurate measurement tools and methodologies.

Introduction

A methane quantification tool has been developed in-house by Petronas, with two of the operator’s business units as the first users. Methane emission is quantified based on methane sources listed in the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative Guidelines. The quantification covers the following methane-emission sources based on applicability to sample plants:

  • Unintended release (fugitive leaks, loss of primary containment)
  • Intended release (venting and flaring of hydrocarbon, stationary combustion, compressor seals, and pneumatic controls and pumps)

Methane-emission volume from fugitive leaks, compressor seals, and pneumatic devices had not been quantified accurately by the operator until before the development of its methane-quantification tool.

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