SEMTECH® Methane Slip Analyzer

The SEMTECH® Methane Slip Analyzer measures the mass emissions of methane produced by stationary engines, such as those in compressor stations for natural gas distribution. It uses state-of-the-art Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), tuned specifically to methane, eliminating interference from other gases. The Methane Slip Analyzer also measures CO and CO2 emissions with a Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) bench designed for regulatory compliance, and NOx and O2 using industry-standard electrochemical sensors. Close – In addition, the Methane Slip Analyzer records pressure and temperature for exhaust flow calculations via third-party pitot tube devices, and can interface with CAN-based engine control modules to retrieve parameters such as engine speed and torque. These measurements are then combined to calculate mass emissions in grams per second, grams per gram of fuel, or grams per unit of work over a test cycle. Methane slip is the release of unburned methane from natural gaspowered engines. It has become a critical environmental issue due to methane's high global warming potential. Compressor stations, which predominantly use large reciprocating or turbine engines, are major sources of methane slip, with combustion slip contributing approximately 75% of total emissions. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that about 5,600 sparkignited engine-compressors are in use across the U.S. pipeline industry, most of them aging two- and four-stroke engines, with around 3,600 units between 30 and 60 years old. Effective, realtime monitoring tools are vital for reducing fugitive emissions, achieving compliance, and improving combustion efficiency.