Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for

quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

1 Background and purpose

This document is an appendix to the Handbook for quantification of direct methane and
NMVOC emissions, appendix 2017 to guideline NR: 044 and shall be the starting point for
any company or installation specific procedures / instructions for OGI / IR "Leak/no-leak"
measurements described in the above-mentioned Handbook in chapter 3.11.2 Small gas
leaks / fugitive emissions – sub-source 90.2.

The purpose of the industry template is to ensure that the emissions from small leaks and
fugitive emissions are measured / calculated and reported in a way that ensures consistency
over time and across operators, licenses and facilities.

Leak detection using an IR (InfraRed) camera forms the basis for calculating / quantifying
small leaks and fugitive emissions using the OGI "leak/no-leak" method. IR cameras are also
used for other purposes, such as leak detection as a basis for the companies' LDAR 1 work.

This industry template addresses how leak detection with IR camera is used to quantify
small leaks and fugitive emissions of methane and NMVOC as a basis for emission reporting.
The industry template should be applicable even if the IR cameras are being used also for
other purposes.

The industry template also handles how the OGI leak/no-leak method is to be understood
and used to ensure consistent reporting.

2 Definitions

Small leaks/fugitive emissions are the result of gradual loss of tightness in components that
contain hydrocarbons in gaseous or liquid state. Typical sources are pipes and equipment
components such as valves, pumps, nipples, couplings of all kinds, instruments and hose
connections. These can be grouped as valves, connectors, other components. They are
reported as sub-source 90.2 in chapter 2 of the manual.

Larger leaks are the leaks reported in chapter 8 and sub-source 90.1 in chapter 7 of the
annual environmental report2 (definition is given in Ref: 2, chapter 3.11.1).

Some operators operate with other definitions and also distinguish between small leaks and
fugitive emissions. In connection with annual emissions reporting in Norway, no distinction
is made between fugitive emissions and small leaks. Thus, only the definitions above apply,
within the context of this template.
1
LDAR = Leak Detection And Repair
2
The field operators’ environmental reports prepared annually in agreement with NEA (Norwegian
Environment Agency) requirements

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

3 Elements of the OGI “leak/no-leak” method

The OGI "Leak/no-leak" method relies on the following elements:

1. An installation-specific overview of components with leakage potential

2. Leak detection using IR camera

3. Calculation of emissions using the OGI "leak/no-leak" method, hereinafter referred

to as the OGI method

4 Component overview

Components in the context of OGI are valves and connectors and possibly other equipment
that can leak methane and other HC gases (NMVOC), see definition in chapter 2.

More than 99% of the components in a processing plant are valves and connectors. For
most equipment, leakages can only occur through stuffing boxes and connectors (e.g. flange
connections). Experience also shows that the contribution from components other than
valves and connectors is negligible.

The OGI method calculates emissions based on the number of components divided by the
number of components from which the IR scan detects leakages, and on the number of
components from which the IR scan does not detect leakages (no-leak).

The number of leaking components is established from the IR scan, while the number of no-
leak components equals the total number of components on the facility minus the number
of components from which a leak has been detected. From experience, leaking components
typically make up under 0.1 percent of all components.

For most facilities, the component overview can be obtained from the facility's QRA
(Quantitative Risk Analysis) overview. This overview should include pipe systems down to ¼ʺ
tubing or less, as well as lubrication plugs. If the QRA overview does not contain lubrication
plugs and components in the smaller pipe dimensions range, then the number of
components in the QRA list should be multiplied by two to arrive at the number of
components that will form the basis for calculating the “no-leak” emissions according to the
OGI method.

Updating of the component database is performed in accordance with the update of QRA.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

5 IR scanning of components in HC containing systems

5.1 IR Camera

A number of different types of IR cameras exist. The types that can be approved for use in
connection with leak detection of HC gases must have a high sensitivity and a documented
detection limit for methane of less than 1 gram/hour when measured on a test bench. The
camera types FLIR 320 and OPGAL EyeCGas meet these requirements.

Detection limits depend on the type of gas and the composition of the gas. At least 70-80%
of the natural gas is usually methane. As long as methane is the predominant component,
methane will determine the detection limit.

To simplify the work in the field, the cameras should be explosion-proof (NS-EN50014).
OPGAL EyeCGas meets the requirements. An explosion-proof version of the FLIR 320 may
also be available.

The operational range may vary depending on the camera type. The OPGAL EyeCGas camera
can be equipped with a telephoto lens (enhanced version). With this version, the sensitivity
(lower detection limit) increases and gives the camera a range of over 20 meters. This
means that it reaches out to almost anywhere on an offshore installation. If considering a
camera of a different brand / type than those referred above, its range and the presence of
a telephoto lens should be confirmed.

5.2 Requirements for IR camera technicians

The operators of the IR camera should have sufficient training and experience in leak
detection with IR cameras. When using a 3rd party service provider, sufficient and relevant
experience with the use of the OCI method is required. Note that there are currently
relatively few companies in Norway offering this service including experienced IR camera
technicians.

If a company’s own/internal personnel are used, they should undergo sufficient upfront
training. The suppliers of IR cameras typically offer such training. Such training can also be
commissioned from companies that offer IR scanning.

5.3 Preparation and planning

All hydrocarbon containing systems should be scanned systematically, area by area and
system by system. Care should be taken to include the equipment’s instrumentation
arrangements, control/regulation valves and lubrication nipples. Experience so far shows
that many leaks are detected from lubrication plugs and from threaded connections in
tubings and small dimension pipes.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

 Implementation should be planned based on the field operator’s procedures and

routines.

 A work plan is set up in collaboration with the IR camera technicians

 The operating company's requirements for onsite labeling of identified leakages are
communicated to the IR camera technician / IR team. It is recommended that the field
operator establishes standardized labels.

 Requirements for registration of identified leakages should be communicated to the IR

operator / IR team. It is recommended that the operator establishes a standardized
registration scheme. Norwegian Oil and Gas' spreadsheet is a good starting point. One of
the commercial IR technicians has the practice of writing a small concise report per
identified leakage (less than one page per leak). This contains a picture of the
component with reference to the leak point and some practical information. This report
is practical for the field operator during subsequent leak mitigation.

 Site maps should be obtained for plotting of identified leaks. Leaks should be registered
with a TAG number for accurate identification.

 AChecklist
hot work for
permit
OGI is/ IR
required when
screening of not using an approved explosion-proof camera.
equipment
For example the following points
 Work can take
 Agree on aplace
time without a hot work permit if an EX-certified camera is used.
for the screening
 Assemble the screening team
 Sign out the camera and check that the necessary accessories are included
 Check charging / charge the camera and test it
 Apply for and receive a work permit
 Print and bring leak tags for labeling leaking equipment – include a waterproof
marker for registration of info on the tag. Make a note of the equipment number and
area code.

Note that some companies do not recognize a certificate issued by the equipment
manufacturer (self-certified equipment).

 Consider the weather forecast when planning the sequence in which areas are
inspected:
o Strong winds make it difficult to detect leaks. During strong winds the probability of
missing fugitive emissions increases, especially when the leakage rate for these
fugitive emissions is low.
It is difficult to set an exact wind strength limit beyond which the OGI method will
not be appropriate. Wind strength and direction, as well as the location and layout
of the area being inspected should be considered when making a determination as
to whether or not conditions are suitable for conducting an inspection. It is
recommended to select sheltered areas and postpone inspections of wind-exposed
areas until wind conditions have calmed down.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

o Rain poses a challenge in several ways. The OGI cameras are generally rated with a
high degree of water/dust proofing, IP54 to IP65, and should therefore withstand
use in the rain. However, experience indicates that this is not always true.
Based on onsite knowledge and careful planning, it should be possible to identify
areas throughout the installation that are sheltered or otherwise hidden from rain,
where an effective detection inspection can be carried out even in wet weather.

Composition of the OGI / IR screening team

An example:
 Select one person who is competent in calibration and use of the IR camera
 Select one person from operations department or someone with good knowledge of
process/equipment layouts, who can also assess whether a possible leak can be
repaired immediately, without process disruptions, or if a shut-down is required.
Repairs without equipment or process shutdowns can only be done if it is safe (only
pressure-relieved systems etc.)

5.4 Inspection / scanning with the IR camera and registration of

identified leakages

 Scan all HC containing systems with the IR camera. The facility's map for area
classification can be a good tool.
 When possible, the components should be scanned against a clear and even
background. (It can be difficult to spot leaks over a complex or interwoven background
with crossing instruments and pipes).
 Be careful to include all instrumentation with tubing etc. around valves and equipment.
 For systems and components that are hard to reach, it is recommended to use the IR
camera's telephoto lens if available.
 For insulated pipes and components, focus on insulation joints around valves and
instruments. (Leakages from insulated components may exit the insulation
intermittently or jerkily at several seconds’ intervals).
 In the event of a leak being detected, the leaking component is labelled onsite with the
operator's standard label. Leak identification number and other relevant data (in
accordance with the operating company's routines) are hand written on the label with a
waterproof pen/marker.
 Identified leakages are registered in consultation with the site manager in accordance
with the operatoring company's procedures. Established practices can vary both
between the field operators and between the IR camera operators. Below are some
relevant considerations:
o Save and file the video clip of the leak
o Take one (or more) still image(s) of the leaking component

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

o Tag the location with a label with the inscription "Fugitive leakage / gas leakage" and
a reference or identification number and other registration in accordance with the
operatoring company’s routines
o Keep records that include equipment tag, reference number, LEL (Lower Explosive
Limit) measurement and description / comment, as well as photo, film and
registration. This can be appropriately done in the spreadsheet Norwegian Oil and
Gas has developed for the purpose, or in another registration form or database that
is adapted for it.
o Plot all identified leakage on an area map / plot plan
 In the event of leakages under insulation, the area manager should assess and decide
whether the insulation should be removed immediately to identify the point of origin or
whether this should be done at a later stage. (Access to an IR camera should be an
important part of the decision. It can be both difficult and time-consuming to later
detect the exact origin of the leakage without an IR camera).
 In the event of a leak, a LEL measurement is performed. The LEL measurement is done
by the area manager. It is advised always to make use of the IR camera during the
measurement, to ensure that the measurement of LEL is done at the right place in
relation to leakage and wind.

Tip:
Focus the camera toward places on the equipment where leaks are most likely to occur.
It is possible to offer guidelines using figures or photos of equipment with indication of
possible leakage points. The cameras usually cover quite large areas at a short
distance, but the resolution, camera type, etc. must be be considered. Leaks under
insulation are problematic. The leaked gases can exit from under the insulation
anywhere without the actual source or origin of the leakage being identified. In some
cases, insulation materials must be removed to find the leakage point(s).

 Some leaks may be such that they can be repaired in situ and without delay. They must
still be registered. Refer next section for further details.

5.5 Repair

 All leaks detected during the IR scan are assessed for repair based on the size and
criticality of the leak.
 Some leaks can be repaired on site immediately after detection. The leak is then
registered with a notification stating that it has been repaired on site. In such cases, the
component must be re-scanned immediately after mending to confirm that the
component is tight and no longer leaking.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

 Leaks rarely go away on their own. No leaks or seeps should be removed from the
leak/seep register(s) until it hase been confirmed through an IR scanning that the
leak/seep is no longer present.
 In the event of a leak from a valve’s stuffing box, be aware that the stuffing box can be
damaged by excessive tightening. Tightening of the stuffing box should therefore only be
carried out by relevant field professionals. The risk of damage by tightening the stuffing
box too hard must be weighed against the potential leakage level.

5.6 Follow-up work (proposed)

 After completing an IR scan, the information

can be entered into a spreadsheet, database
or other register. It may be appropriate to
establish a link to the still image and video
clip.

 It may be appropriate to highlight the

leakage point as shown in the picture.

 A brief report per identified leakage can be

made (<1 page). This should include the still
image and provide information that is useful
in connection with correction of the leak.

 A summary report from the IR scans can be prepared with an overview of the number of
identified leakages and other information that the field operator finds appropriate.

 The detected leaks can be marked on the installation's plot plans in accordance with the
company's routines.

 Leaks can be registered in the operator's seep/leak register and other files according to
company procedures.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

6 Calculation of emissions using the OGI method

6.1 Emission factors

Calculation of emissions for the relevant period is made using statistically established
"standard" leakage rates from components with detected leakage and components with
undetected leakages (leak/no-leak). Reference is made to Error: Reference source not
Table 1 Emission factors using the OGI method*
found.

Emissions factors f (g/hour per component)

Component Type of
type emission
factor Detection limit Detection limit Detection limit Detection limit
3 g/hour 6 g/hour 30 g/hour 60 g/hour

Valves No leak 0.0190 0.0430 0.1700 0.2700

Leak 55 73 140 200
Connectors (flanges/ No leak 0.0026 0.0041 0.0100 0.0140
threaded connections) Leak 29 45 88 120
Pumps No leak 0.0960 0.1300 0.5900 0.7500
Leak 140 160 310 350
Other / all components No leak 0.0070 0.0140 0.0510 0.0810
Leak 56 75 150 210
* See also Table 2.7 in Ref: 6: “Alternative Leak/No-Leak Emission Factors for OGI technologies”

It is recommended to use the emission factors for detection limit 3 g/hour when using the
cameras listed in chapter 5.1. The basis for this is that comprehensive measurements at
Kårstø, Kollsnes, Mongstad and Sture using the "High Flow Sampling" method show that the
emissions pr. detected leakage is on average lower than what Error: Reference source not
found shows at a detection limit of 3 g/hour.

It is also recommended to use only the factors for "Other / all components" and that these
factors are used for all components. Thus, the table should be read as follows:

For all components from which leakage has been detected, an emission factor of 56
g/hour is used, while for all components from which no emission has been detected, an
emission factor of 0.0070 g/hour is used.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

6.2 Calculation of annual emissions

Annual emissions are calculated according to the following formula:

c leak∗f leak∗1
∗h
A c ∗f ∗h {1}
E= + no−leak no−leak
1 000 000 1 000 000

Where:
E = annual emissions of HC gas (methane + NMVOC) [tonnes/year]
c leak = number of components with proven leakage
f leak = emission factor type «leak» [g/hour]
A = fraction of hydrocarbon containing systems covered by the IR scan (if 70% was
covered, A is equal to 0.7)
h = number of operational hours during the reporting period [hours]
c no-leak = number of components on the facility
f no-leak = emission factor type «no leak» [g/hour]

Comments:

The method as it appears from equation {1} ensures consistent reporting. It is however
important to note the following:

If less than 100% of the hydrocarbon containing systems are covered by the IR scan, this is
compensated by factor A.

h will normally be 8760 hours. This can result in overreporting if the leaks are sealed before
end of the year. On the other hand, little is known about when the leak occurred (any time
since the previous IR scan). In the long term and over several years, it provides consistent
reporting by assuming that the leak was open throughout the reporting year.

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Industry template – OGI "Leak/no-leak" method for quantification of small leaks and fugitive emissions

References / bibliography:

Ref: 1 Quantification of fugitive emissions - Experiences from projects in 2016 & 2017, Nems AS
for Norwegian Oil and Gas (NOROG), 2019

Ref: 2 GUIDELINE 044 ver16 2018 APPENDIX B «Handbook for quantification of direct methane
and NMVOC emissions”

Ref: 3 JRC Science and Policy Reports - Best Available Techniques (BAT) Reference Document
for the Refining of Mineral Oil and Gas 2015 (Industrial Emissions Directive 2010/75 / EU
Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control)

Ref: 4 CONCAWE REPORT no. 6/15 Techniques for detecting and quantifying fugitive emissions -
results of comparative field studies

Ref: 5 CONCAWE REPORT no. 2/17 An evaluation of an optical gas imaging system for the
quantification of fugitive hydrocarbon emissions

Ref: 6 Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) Technical Guidance Document Number 2: Fugitive
Component and Equipment Leaks

Attachments:

Template for registrations / database format developed by Norwegian Oil and Gas,
Emissions to air network

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