Citation:
Jane Hodgkinson, Russ Pride, Chris Tandy, David G Moodie and George Stewart. Field evaluation of a multipoint fiber optic sensor array for methane detection (OMEGA). Proc SPIE 4074, pp 90-98, Applications of Optical Fiber Sensors, Sunday 21 May 2000, Glasgow, United Kingdom. Alan J. Rogers; Ed., 2000
Abstract:
A multi-point fibre optic sensor array for methane detection (“OMEGA”) has been developed and tested under semiquantitative
field conditions. The new system employed wavelength modulation spectroscopy using a DFB laser source
scanned across the Q6 methane line at 1.665•m. A branched fibre network connected the single source to up to 64 sensor
heads. Controlled releases of natural gas were provided for test purposes within an array of four optical sensors and four
pellistor reference sensors. An automated system delivered standard gases to each sensor, to enable routine calibration
checks to be carried out. Agreement between the conventional and optical systems was excellent in the range 0-100% LEL
(lower explosion limit). The optical system offers a simple, intrinsically safe design with a low cost of ownership per sensor
head.
