Resources / Guide / OGI Cameras: Your Guide to The Top Gas Detection Cameras on the Market

Guide

OGI Cameras: Your Guide to The Top Gas Detection Cameras on the Market

Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras are specialized devices used to visually detect and monitor gas leaks and emissions through infrared technology. These cameras are instrumental in various industries, offering a non-contact, real-time solution to identify harmful or costly gas leaks.

OGI cameras operate by capturing infrared radiation emitted from gases, which is invisible to the naked eye. This capability allows them to detect gases such as methane, sulfur hexafluoride, and many volatile organic compounds, making them invaluable tools in environmental protection, safety compliance, and operational efficiency.

Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) cameras are also commonly referred to by several other names, depending on the context and specific technology used. Here are some alternative names for OGI cameras:

Infrared cameras. This general term is often used because OGI cameras utilize infrared technology to detect gases.
Thermal imaging cameras. While not all thermal imaging cameras are used for gas detection, the term is sometimes used interchangeably when referring to cameras that detect heat signatures, including gases.
Gas leak detection cameras. This name highlights the specific application of detecting gas leaks.
VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) cameras. This term is used when referring to cameras specifically designed to detect VOC emissions.
IR (infrared) gas cameras. Emphasizing the infrared technology used for gas detection.
FLIR (Forward Looking Infrared) cameras. FLIR is a brand name that has become synonymous with thermal imaging and is often used to refer to thermal cameras, including those used for gas detection.

This guide to OGI cameras walks you through everything you need to know about gas leak detection cameras.

OGI Camera Rentals and Sales

Want to buy or rent an OGI camera? Keep reading to see the top options on the market.

1. MFE Detect MW (MFE OGI Camera)

The MFE Detect MW (MFE OGI Camera) is a state-of-the-art optical gas imaging camera meticulously designed for the detection and visualization of hydrocarbon gas leaks. Its innovative design ensures high sensitivity to small methane and other hydrocarbon gas emissions, making it indispensable in industries like oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation. The camera is not only robust for use in challenging environmental conditions but also lightweight and easy to operate, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical personnel. With its ergonomic build and clear HD display, the MFE OGI Camera performs exceptionally well in a variety of lighting conditions, from low light to bright sunlight.

Key features of the MFE Detect MW (MFE OGI Camera) include:

High sensitivity detection. Employs an advanced cooling system to detect even minute gas emissions swiftly and accurately.
User-friendly operation. Features an intuitive interface with a high-definition display that ensures clarity and ease of use in all working conditions.
Versatile reporting tools. Equipped with comprehensive software that supports detailed reporting and analysis, enhancing its utility in regulatory compliance and safety monitoring.

Buy the MFE Detect MW (MFE OGI Camera).

2. MFE Detect LW Payload

The MFE Detect LW is an advanced long-wave infrared (LWIR) optical gas imaging camera tailored for aerial methane leak detection. Mounted on DJI M300/M350 drones, this compact, durable system enables large-scale emissions monitoring with real-time visualization, essential for sectors like oil and gas, environmental monitoring, and industrial safety. Built to meet stringent OOOOa, b, c, and Appendix K standards, the MFE Detect LW offers reliable and accurate gas detection, even in remote or challenging areas.

Key features of the MFE Detect LW include:

High-responsivity detector. An uncooled sensor that provides precise methane detection with minimal maintenance.
Seamless DJI integration. Designed for efficient aerial inspections with DJI drones, maximizing coverage with minimal resources.
Real-time gas visualization. Visualizes methane gas plumes instantly, aiding in quick and effective leak management.

Buy or rent the MFE Detect LW.

3. OGI 640—Optical Gas Imaging Payload

The OGI 640 Optical Gas Imaging Payload is a highly specialized device engineered for integrating with unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to detect and visualize fugitive gas emissions. This cutting-edge technology is optimized for environmental monitoring and industrial inspections, enhancing the ability to identify and quantify hydrocarbon gas leaks in extensive industrial sites like oil refineries and natural gas plants. Its compatibility with drones allows for rapid deployment and access to areas that are challenging or unsafe for human operators.

Key features of the OGI 640 Optical Gas Imaging Payload include:

Advanced gas detection capabilities. Utilizes a cooled MWIR camera core to capture sharp thermal images and detect gases like methane, sulfur hexafluoride, and benzene, even from a distance.
Drone compatibility. Specifically designed for easy integration with various drone systems, providing flexibility and enhanced mobility for aerial inspections.
Real-time monitoring and analysis. Equipped with sophisticated software that allows for real-time data processing and detailed analysis, facilitating immediate decision-making and response.

Buy the OGI 640 optical gas imaging payload.

4. FLIR GF77 OGI Camera

The FLIR GF77 Gas Find IR Camera is a groundbreaking tool designed specifically for detecting and visualizing greenhouse gas emissions and other industrial gases. This uncooled optical gas imaging camera is a cost-effective solution that does not compromise on performance, offering both versatility and accessibility for routine inspections in oil and gas, power generation, and industrial processing facilities.

Key features of the FLIR GF77 Gas Find IR Camera include:

Broadband detector. Capable of visualizing methane, sulfur hexafluoride, anhydrous ammonia, ethylene, and other gases without the need for a cooled detector.
User-friendly design. Features an ergonomic design with a rotating screen that makes it easy to use over long periods and allows for flexible viewing angles in challenging environments.
Enhanced sensitivity and resolution. Provides superior image quality and gas visualization performance, which are critical for accurate detection and analysis.

Buy or rent the FLIR GF77.

5. FLIR GF320 OGI Camera

The FLIR GF320 Infrared Camera is an advanced optical gas imaging camera designed to detect methane, hydrocarbons, and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in a variety of industrial settings, including oil refineries, natural gas processing plants, and biogas sites. This camera is renowned for its ability to improve safety and efficiency by quickly identifying and visualizing gas leaks.

Key features of the FLIR GF320 Infrared Camera include:

High sensitivity mode (HSM). Enhances the detection of smaller gas leaks with its superior image quality and sensitivity to low-level infrared emissions.
Calibrated temperature measurement. Capable of measuring temperatures up to 350°C with an accuracy of ±1°C, essential for assessing thermal contrast in industrial environments.
Rugged and user-friendly design. Built to withstand harsh industrial environments and designed for easy handling and operation, making it ideal for regular and prolonged use.

Rent the FLIR GF320.

Optical Gas Imaging Training

We offer comprehensive OGI camera training conducted by seasoned professionals from MFE Inspection Solutions, leaders in optical gas imaging technology.

Our Optical Gas Imaging Certification Course covers:

Detailed instruction on using OGI cameras for detecting and quantifying gas emissions
Best practices for environmental compliance and safety in industries such as oil and gas, utilities, and chemical manufacturing
Hands-on practice with the latest OGI camera models to enhance detection accuracy and operational proficiency

Details:

The training spans two days and includes both theoretical and practical learning components
It is led by MFE certified trainers with extensive field experience in gas detection and optical gas imaging
Participants will receive an MFE Optical Gas Imaging Certification upon completion, validating their expertise in utilizing OGI technology effectively

Types of training:

Group training. Open enrollment allows individual students to join scheduled classes for interactive, group-based learning.
Customized training. Tailored sessions designed for organizations that wish to train multiple employees, enhancing team capability in OGI applications (requires a minimum of three participants).

View our upcoming OGI training sessions now.

How OGI Cameras Works

An Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) camera utilizes specialized infrared technology to detect gas leaks that are invisible to the naked eye.

Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot equipped with the MFE OGI Camera

Here’s a detailed step-by-step explanation of how an OGI camera operates:

Infrared detection. The OGI camera is equipped with an infrared sensor that is sensitive to specific wavelengths associated with various gases. When pointed at an area, the camera detects the unique infrared absorption and emission characteristics of gases present.
Thermal contrast. Gases interacting with infrared light create a thermal contrast against the background. Different gases and concentrations affect the intensity of the infrared light in varying ways, which the camera captures as an image.
Image processing. The raw infrared data captured by the camera is processed using sophisticated algorithms that enhance the image and make the gas plumes visible on the camera’s display.
Leak identification. The processed images allow operators to see the plume of escaping gases, helping to pinpoint the exact location of leaks.
Analysis and reporting. Modern OGI cameras can analyze the images to quantify the leak rate and type of gas, and integrated software helps generate reports for documentation and regulatory compliance.

This non-invasive and efficient process enables rapid on-site inspection of facilities, ensuring they adhere to safety standards and environmental regulations without needing shutdowns or complex setups.

Curious about the next steps after detecting a leak with an OGI camera? The findings from the camera are used to assess the severity of the leak and guide maintenance decisions. This immediate insight helps prevent potential hazards and ensures operational safety across industries such as petrochemical, natural gas, and power generation.

Want to enhance your team’s ability to use this technology? Learn more about our Advanced OGI Camera Training courses to maximize the effectiveness of your environmental monitoring and compliance efforts.

Comparing OGI Camera Technologies

OGI cameras come equipped with various technologies that cater to different industrial needs and applications. The primary technologies are based on the type of infrared detectors used: cooled and uncooled IR detectors.

Cooled IR detectors. These offer higher sensitivity and the ability to detect smaller leaks at greater distances. They are typically used in environments where the detection of minute gas concentrations is critical, such as in chemical processing or high-tech manufacturing.
Uncooled IR detectors. These are more cost-effective and robust, suitable for general leak detection in environments like oil and gas production, where equipment is exposed to harsh conditions.

When choosing an OGI camera, consider the following factors:

Application specificity. Determine if the primary need is for high sensitivity or for broader, more robust applications. This choice will influence whether a cooled or uncooled detector is more appropriate.
Environmental conditions. Assess the typical operating environments. For extreme conditions, a camera with a rugged design and an uncooled detector might be more beneficial.
Budget constraints. Cooled detectors typically come at a higher cost due to their complexity and sensitivity. Balance the need for advanced technology with budgetary limitations.

Understanding the differences between these technologies and evaluating your specific needs will help you select the most suitable OGI camera for your operations, ensuring both effectiveness and cost-efficiency.

Choosing the Right OGI Camera

Selecting the appropriate OGI camera involves understanding specific features and how they align with operational requirements. Below are key features to consider:

Sensitivity and detection range. Essential for detecting different types and concentrations of gases. High sensitivity cameras can detect smaller leaks from a greater distance.
Spectral filter. Determines which gases can be detected by the camera. Different cameras are equipped with different filters based on the target gases.
Resolution and image quality. Higher resolution cameras provide clearer images, making it easier to identify and locate leaks, especially in complex environments.
Portability and durability. Consider the camera’s weight and build, especially if it will be used in harsh environments or needs to be carried to various locations.
Software integration. Advanced software can help in analyzing data more efficiently, providing not just visual images but quantitative measurements.

In different operational contexts, specifications may prioritize one feature over another. For instance, in industrial settings with high gas volumes, sensitivity might be prioritized, while in compact and hard-to-navigate spaces, portability and ease of use take precedence.

Maintenance and Care for OGI Cameras

Maintaining an OGI camera is crucial for ensuring its longevity and reliability. Here are some tips and common troubleshooting advice:

Regular calibration. Ensure your camera is calibrated regularly to maintain accuracy in gas detection.
Clean optics. Keep the lens and sensor clean from dust and debris to prevent false readings or image quality degradation.
Software updates. Keep the camera’s software up to date to enhance functionality and improve security.
Battery care. Regularly check and maintain the battery to ensure the camera is always ready for use when needed.

Common issues that may arise include:

Sensitivity loss. Over time, sensors may degrade. If the camera starts missing smaller leaks, it might be time for a sensor check or replacement.
Software glitches. Operational bugs can occasionally affect performance. Resetting the device or updating the software usually resolves these issues.
Hardware wear and tear. Regular use in harsh conditions can lead to physical damage. Inspect the camera body and lens periodically for any signs of wear that could affect its performance.

The Top 10 Applications for OGI Cameras

How do people actually use OGI cameras in the field? Here are the top ten ways.

1. Oil & Gas Industry

In the oil and gas industry, OGI cameras are essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of operations by detecting gas leaks and emissions. These cameras are utilized onsite to monitor pipelines, facilities, and other infrastructure components. Common uses for OGI cameras in the oil and gas sector include:

Leak detection. Rapid identification of leaks in pipelines, valves, and tanks, which can prevent hazardous incidents and reduce environmental impact.
Maintenance checks. Regular inspections using OGI cameras help maintain system integrity by identifying potential problems before they lead to failures.
Regulatory compliance. Ensuring that operations meet environmental standards for gas emissions, helping to avoid fines and shutdowns.

Benefits to Oil & Gas Operations

Safety. Enhances the safety of operations by detecting leaks that could lead to explosions or other dangerous incidents.
Cost savings. Reduces the costs associated with traditional leak detection methods and minimizes the financial impact of leaks by catching them early.
Operational efficiency. Improves the efficiency of maintenance routines and reduces downtime by allowing for quicker inspections and responses to issues.

2. Power Generation

In the power generation industry, OGI cameras play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and safety by detecting gas leaks and emissions in power plants, including nuclear, coal-fired, and renewable energy facilities. These cameras enable continuous monitoring and routine checks without interrupting operations. Common uses for OGI cameras in power generation include:

Emission monitoring. Continuously monitors emissions to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, helping to prevent penalties and potential shutdowns.
System integrity checks. Identifies leaks and anomalies in gas turbines, boilers, and other critical equipment, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely.
Maintenance and safety audits. Facilitates preventative maintenance and safety audits by providing real-time data on the condition of equipment, reducing the risk of failures and accidents.

Benefits to Power Generation Operations

Enhanced Safety: Helps in early detection of potentially hazardous gas emissions, which is vital for worker safety and environmental protection.
Regulatory Compliance: Assists facilities in meeting stringent environmental standards set by governments and international bodies.
Operational Continuity: Minimizes downtime by allowing for more effective maintenance scheduling and rapid response to issues detected during routine inspections.

3. Chemical Plants

OGI cameras are indispensable in chemical plants for ensuring environmental compliance and operational safety by detecting and visualizing gas leaks. These cameras allow for proactive maintenance and monitoring of facilities that handle volatile and hazardous chemicals. Common uses for OGI cameras in chemical plants include:

Leak detection. Identifies leaks in process lines, tanks, and equipment that handle gases and chemicals, preventing potential hazards and environmental damage.
Preventive maintenance. Supports preventive maintenance strategies by identifying areas of gas emissions before they escalate into more significant issues.
Regulatory compliance monitoring. Ensures the plant operates within the legal limits of gas emissions, avoiding fines and operational disruptions.

Benefits to Chemical Plants

Increased safety. Enhances safety by early detection of gas leaks, reducing the risk of explosions and exposure to harmful chemicals.
Cost efficiency. Helps avoid costly unplanned shutdowns and repairs by addressing issues promptly.
Environmental protection. Contributes to environmental protection efforts by minimizing the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere.

4. Environmental Monitoring

In environmental monitoring, OGI cameras are invaluable tools for detecting and visualizing harmful gas emissions that can impact air quality and ecosystem health. These cameras are used by environmental agencies and companies committed to sustainability to monitor and document emissions from various industrial activities. Common applications for OGI cameras in environmental monitoring include:

Leak detection. Quick identification of gas leaks from industrial sites, landfills, and other facilities to prevent environmental contamination.
Regulatory compliance monitoring. Ensures that industries comply with environmental laws by providing evidence of gas emission levels and patterns.
Impact assessment. Assists in assessing the environmental impact of industrial operations by providing accurate and real-time data on gas emissions.

Benefits to Environmental Monitoring Operations

Protection of Ecosystems: Helps protect natural habitats and wildlife by ensuring harmful gases are detected and managed before they can cause significant damage.
Community Health and Safety: Enhances community health and safety by monitoring air quality and preventing exposure to toxic gases.
Support for Sustainability Goals: Supports corporate and governmental sustainability initiatives by providing tools that help track and reduce environmental footprints.

5. Agriculture

In agriculture, OGI cameras are instrumental in enhancing productivity and environmental sustainability. These cameras help farmers and agricultural managers detect and manage gas emissions, which can affect crop health and yield. Common applications for OGI cameras in agriculture include:

Methane detection. Identifies methane emissions from livestock and manure management systems, crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Monitoring of greenhouse gases. Tracks other greenhouse gases like nitrous oxide from fertilizer application, helping to tailor sustainable agricultural practices.
Soil health assessment. Supports the assessment of soil health by monitoring gas exchanges that indicate biological activity and fertility.

Benefits to Agricultural Operations

Increased crop yield. By managing gas emissions effectively, farmers can enhance soil health and crop productivity, leading to higher yields.
Environmental compliance. Helps agricultural businesses comply with environmental regulations regarding gas emissions, avoiding penalties and supporting sustainability credentials.
Resource management. Improves resource management by providing insights into the environmental impact of farming practices, allowing for more informed decisions on resource allocation.

6. Waste Management Facilities

OGI cameras play a critical role in waste management facilities by ensuring that emissions are controlled and environmental standards are met. These cameras help facility managers detect leaks and emissions from waste processing and storage areas, which can have significant environmental impacts. Common applications for OGI cameras in waste management include:

Biogas leak detection. Identifying leaks from biogas digesters and storage tanks to prevent the release of methane and other gases.
Landfill emission monitoring. Monitoring gas emissions from landfill sites to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and reduce the risk of uncontrolled gas build-up.
Incineration plant monitoring. Checking for hazardous emissions in incineration plants to ensure combustion processes are efficient and within legal limits.

Benefits to Waste Management Operations

Environmental Protection: Helps protect the environment by identifying and managing gas emissions effectively, minimizing air pollution.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that waste management facilities meet stringent environmental regulations, avoiding fines and facilitating sustainable operations.
Safety Enhancements: Improves safety for workers and nearby communities by preventing potential hazards associated with gas emissions.

7. Maritime and Shipping

OGI cameras are increasingly important in the maritime and shipping industry for ensuring safety and environmental compliance. These cameras are used aboard ships and in port facilities to detect and monitor gas emissions, helping to prevent accidents and reduce environmental impacts. Common uses for OGI cameras in maritime and shipping include:

Fuel leak detection. Rapid identification of fuel and other chemical leaks from vessels, crucial for preventing pollution and ensuring vessel safety.
Cargo inspection. Monitoring cargo that may emit hazardous gases, ensuring safe transport and handling conditions.
Engine and machinery checks. Detecting emissions from ship engines and other machinery to ensure they are operating within environmental standards.

Benefits to Maritime and Shipping Operations

Enhanced safety. Minimizes the risk of fires and explosions by early detection of gas leaks, improving overall safety for crew and cargo.
Environmental compliance. Helps maritime operations meet strict international environmental standards by effectively monitoring and managing gas emissions.
Operational efficiency. Improves the reliability and efficiency of maritime operations by ensuring that machinery and systems are free from leaks and functioning properly.

8. Automotive Industry

OGI cameras are vital tools in the automotive industry for ensuring that vehicles meet environmental regulations and for improving safety. These cameras help detect and monitor emissions and leaks from vehicle manufacturing processes and exhaust systems. Common uses for OGI cameras in the automotive industry include:

Emissions testing. Monitoring vehicle emissions during testing phases to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
Component checks. Inspecting components such as gaskets, hoses, and assemblies for leaks that can compromise vehicle efficiency and safety.
Manufacturing processes. Detecting leaks in fluids and gases used in manufacturing, ensuring all systems are sealed and functional before vehicles leave the factory.

Benefits to Automotive Operations

Regulatory compliance. Helps manufacturers adhere to stringent environmental standards, reducing the risk of penalties and recalls.
Quality assurance. Ensures the quality and safety of vehicles by identifying issues early in the manufacturing process, leading to fewer defects and higher customer satisfaction.
Sustainability. Supports industry efforts to reduce overall environmental impact by identifying and mitigating sources of emissions.

9. Building Inspections

OGI cameras are invaluable in the field of building inspections, offering a non-invasive method to identify and visualize gas leaks and insulation defects. These cameras are extensively used by building inspectors to ensure residential and commercial properties are safe, energy-efficient, and compliant with building codes. Common uses for OGI cameras in building inspections include:

Gas leak detection. Identifying leaks from heating systems, pipelines, and appliances to prevent potential hazards and improve energy efficiency.
Thermal insulation evaluation. Assessing the effectiveness of insulation in walls, roofs, and other structural elements to identify heat loss areas.
HVAC system checks. Monitoring HVAC systems for proper operation and detecting leaks or inefficiencies that could impact indoor air quality and energy usage.

Benefits to Building Inspection Operations

Enhanced safety. Prevents potential risks associated with gas leaks, such as explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Increased energy efficiency. Helps identify areas where heat is escaping, leading to recommendations for improvements that reduce energy costs and environmental impact.
Compliance assurance. Ensures that buildings meet safety and energy regulations, helping owners avoid fines and improve property value.

10. Research and Development

OGI cameras are pivotal tools in research and development (R&D) sectors, particularly in fields that require precise measurements and monitoring of gas emissions and reactions. These cameras assist researchers in developing new materials, products, and processes with an emphasis on sustainability and safety. Common uses for OGI cameras in research and development include:

Material testing. Observing how materials react under different environmental conditions and detecting gas emissions during the testing phase.
Environmental impact studies. Measuring the type and quantity of gases emitted by new industrial processes or products to assess their environmental impact.
Innovative product development. Using advanced imaging to enhance the development of new technologies and solutions, particularly those that involve the handling or containment of gases.

Benefits to Research and Development Operations

Enhanced innovation. Provides detailed visual data that helps drive innovation in product development, leading to more effective and sustainable solutions.
Improved safety. Helps identify potential risks in new materials and processes early in the development phase, ensuring safer outcomes.
Regulatory compliance. Assists in ensuring that new developments meet environmental standards, aiding in smoother regulatory approval processes.

Other Types of OGI Equipment

Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) equipment varies widely to meet the diverse needs of gas detection and analysis across different environments and industries—below are some of the different types inspectors use in their work.

1. Handheld OGI Cameras

Portable devices that offer flexibility and ease of use for on-the-ground inspections, commonly used in pipeline and facility inspections.

2. Drone-Mounted OGI Cameras

Attached to drones to facilitate aerial inspections, ideal for large-scale or inaccessible areas such as oil rigs and flare stacks.

3. Fixed OGI Systems

Permanently installed for continuous monitoring of specific areas, perfect for ongoing surveillance of industrial plant perimeters or landfill sites.

4. Mobile OGI Units

Mounted on vehicles, these systems provide the mobility needed to inspect extensive pipeline networks or large industrial areas efficiently.

5. Multi-Spectral OGI Cameras

Capable of detecting multiple types of gases simultaneously, essential in complex environments where various gases are present.