Optical Gas Imaging with Cooled and Uncooled Thermal Infrared Cameras

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Optical Engineering
• Industrial Safety

Background:

• Greenhouse gas reduction is critical for climate change mitigation.
• US and EU regulations mandate methane leak detection in the oil and gas sector.
• Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) is a key technology for this detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the principles of OGI technology.
• To explain the design and performance of cooled and uncooled thermal infrared cameras.
• To present video-processing methods for improved gas leak visualization.

Main Methods:

• Detailed explanation of OGI principles, including optical-radiometric theory.
• Description of key performance indicators (KPIs) like NETD, NECL, and MDLR.
• Laboratory and outdoor measurements under various conditions (wind, complex scenes).

Main Results:

• Specificity of high-performance cooled and cost-effective uncooled cameras is covered.
• Parameters influencing camera performance indicators are detailed.
• Video-processing methods enhance visual sensitivity and reduce cognitive load for users.

Conclusions:

• OGI technology, encompassing various camera types and processing methods, is vital for effective methane leak detection.
• Understanding camera design and performance metrics is essential for optimal OGI application.
• Advanced video processing significantly improves the practical utility of OGI for environmental monitoring.