Methane Detection Sensitivity
Methane detection sensitivity refers to the smallest amount of methane a detection system can reliably identify and report. In aerial systems, this is usually measured in kilograms per hour (kg/hr). The lower the detection threshold, the smaller the leaks the system can detect.
Bridger Photonics’ Gas Mapping LiDAR™, when deployed aerially, offers industry-leading sensitivity capable of detecting methane emissions as low as 1 kg/hr, depending on conditions.
Why Methane Detection Sensitivity Matters for Leak Detection
Detection sensitivity directly affects how early and how often leaks are found. A system with high sensitivity can identify small leaks before they grow into bigger problems, allowing for faster repairs, reduced emissions, and better compliance outcomes.
For operators, greater sensitivity means:
- More comprehensive leak detection
- Better alignment with regulatory limits and performance standards
- Improved ability to track emissions trends over time
- Increased confidence in reported emissions data
It’s a key factor in comparing different detection technologies or providers, especially when evaluating aerial systems for LDAR, ESG, or regulatory programs.
How Methane Detection Sensitivity Works in Aerial Systems (Brief Technical)
Detection sensitivity, along with methane measurement accuracy, depends on both the sensor technology and environmental conditions.
In aerial systems like Bridger’s, sensitivity is influenced by:
- Sensor type and precision (e.g., LiDAR vs. infrared)
- Flight altitude and speed
- Weather, wind, and atmospheric mixing
- Algorithms used to analyze raw sensor data
Bridger calibrates its Gas Mapping LiDAR™ system using controlled releases to ensure reliable detection of emissions as low as 1 kg/hr. This ensures performance is both consistent and verifiable under real-world conditions.
Key Applications of Methane Detection Sensitivity in Oil & Gas
- Detecting small leaks before they escalate
- Comparing service providers or technologies for LDAR programs
- Supporting compliance with state, federal, or voluntary methane targets
- Tracking emissions performance with greater accuracy
- Demonstrating detection capabilities to regulators or stakeholders
Related: Gas Mapping LiDAR™, Methane Quantification, Detection Threshold, Localization
FAQs
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Q: What’s considered “good” detection sensitivity for aerial systems?
A: Leading aerial systems, like Bridger’s, can detect emissions as low as 1 kg/hr under normal conditions. Higher detection sensitivity thresholds (10+ kg/hr) may work depending on operator’s goals, but are less effective at catching smaller leaks. It depends on the goals of the operator, and some systems, like Bridger, can allow for flexibility when it comes to what detection sensitivity is used.
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Q: Why does sensitivity matter if large leaks are the biggest problem?
A: Large leaks are critical, but they’re not the whole picture. Better detection sensitivity helps operators catch small leaks early, before they grow into major emissions events. These smaller leaks can still add up to significant product loss over time and often signal underlying equipment or maintenance issues.
From a regulatory and sustainability standpoint, high sensitivity is essential for:
- Meeting EPA Subpart OOOOb standards
- Aligning with OGMP 2.0 reporting frameworks
- Hitting internal ESG targets
- Demonstrating responsible operations to investors and the public
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Q: Does weather affect detection sensitivity?
A: Yes, but not all systems are affected equally. Environmental factors like wind, temperature, and atmospheric mixing can impact how methane disperses in the air, which in turn affects detectability. While many aerial systems struggle under variable conditions, Bridger’s Gas Mapping LiDAR™ is designed to perform reliably even in moderate wind and shifting weather. Because the system quantifies gas concentrations along the actual flight path (not just visual indicators) it delivers consistent, high-sensitivity results in conditions that often limit other technologies.
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Q: Can operators trust sensitivity claims?
A: Only if they’re backed by controlled testing. Bridger conducts rigorous calibration and third-party validation to ensure its detection claims are accurate and defensible.