Crowcon Detection Instruments was shortlisted for ‘Best gas network improvement’ at the UK Energy Innovation Awards in Liverpool. The listing recognises the role of the Crowcon LaserMethane mini (LMm) compact handheld gas detector in improving the safety of engineers as they scan for escaping methane gas.

While traditional portable methane detectors must be operated at close quarters so that gas samples can be collected by a probe, the LMm relies on laser technology, which can detect escaping methane from up to 100 metres away. It can quantify gas leaks in real time and is simple enough for gas engineers to use as part of routine surveys.

Crowcon worked closely with gas distribution company Wales and West Utilities (WWU) at the start of the year to trial the LMm in different scenarios where a methane leak might be hard to access, such as gas supplies to high rise, multi-occupancy buildings, or distribution pipelines passing across road or rail bridges.

“This technology allows us to quickly and effectively check for leakage as part of our regular inspections,” says Steve Harding, Senior Distribution Systems Asset Manager with WWU. “This check for safety ensures that we know there are no leaks in our asset, in areas that are hard or impossible to reach. We have recently procured more [LMm] units as the benefits are realised.”

“We are thrilled that the advantages of the LMm have been recognised in this way,” says Louise Early, Marketing Director with Crowcon. “The ability of laser monitoring to check for methane leaks remotely will go a long way to improve the safety of gas engineers in the future, as well as making their job easier.”

The UK Energy Innovation awards have been showcasing the best innovations within the gas and electricity sectors since 2011.