Identification of methane leaks at Samotlorneftegaz production sites
In early October 2020, ZALA AERO performed pilot tests at the linear part of pipelines and production sites of Samotlorneftegaz JSC. The main objective of the tests is timely detection of methane leaks for prompt remedial measures.
The object of pilot tests was a complex of unmanned aircraft of aircraft type ZALA 421-16E with a target load "DLS-LA", detecting the locations and concentration of methane leaks, as well as software for processing of the obtained data.
During two summer days, work was carried out to survey the infrastructure facilities of Samotlorneftegaz JSC, located in the region with swampy terrain. The methane detection system "DLS-LA" using ZALA BVS showed high efficiency of use due to precise stabilisation of the device and its ability to cut off the place of methane leakage from the natural background.
In the process of flight performance, data on the location and value of exceeded methane content indicators in the atmosphere were transmitted to the Customer's representatives in real time, for prompt response and confirmation of measurement results with subsequent preparation of report cards of detected "violations".
The gas analysis system has already been tested on helicopter-type UAVs using a target load to search for leaks of hazardous chemicals of the contact type in 2018. While the traditional methane leak detection survey scheme involves the use of manned aircraft, the adaptation of the methane leak detection technology to ZALA drones makes the technology more cost-effective and efficient, as it requires less time to organise and carry out disturbance detection work on pipelines and production sites.
