Thermal Imaging for the Oil and Gas Industry

How does a thermal camera conduct a gas leak inspection?

Specialized infrared cameras use Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) to show the presence of methane, hydrocarbon, and other gases during an equipment or pipeline inspection procedure. They provide a contactless way to detect safety and production issues and are especially useful in hard to reach or see areas. OGI tools visualize the gas leaking out of a valve, coupling, or seal. Early detection allows you to act fast, saving products and exposing fewer workers.

Regular oil pipeline inspections with infrared cameras help identify incorrectly installed parts, track how long pieces of equipment last so you can plan for repairs, and help prepare you to meet regulations, saving you time and money. OGI cameras are gaining popularity within the oil and gas industry because of their speed, accuracy, and ability to see the invisible without putting a person in contact with leaking gas. They are beginning to replace the old “sniffers” that came before them.

What tools should you use for a safe and efficient gas and oil pipeline inspection?

While Optical Gas Imaging tools are the go-to for detecting gas leaks, thermal cameras offer many other benefits for inspecting pipeline installation. Infrared cameras map out different temperatures, so they are able to monitor crude oil or gas as it moves through a pipeline. The cameras can also detect deficiencies in insulation and irregular pressure in a system. Because of this, many oil and gas industry producers turn to thermal cameras mounted on aerial drones or UAV systems to inspect and monitor long stretches of a pipeline.

Thermal infrared cameras can fly on drones, helicopters, multicopters, and smaller planes. They then send their images back to you on the ground. This allows you to inspect miles of pipeline for leaks and damages at once, saving hours of labor and transportation costs while keeping your workers out of hazardous situations.