Optical Gas Cloud Imaging
Altamira was amongst the first in the industry to use optical gas imaging (OGI) technology. Optical gas imaging is the method of using thermal infrared cameras to visualize gas, including methane and many other organic gases. These cameras are fast-acting gas leak detection devices that keep the workplace, workers and environment safer.
Over the past 7 years, Altamira has developed a robust team of expertly trained inspectors, gathered multiple FLIR-GFx 320 cameras and created custom reporting software that allows our clients to stay ahead of industry trends. Together, our team of inspectors has conducted more than 1,200 inspections a year across the nation.
While we maintain OOOOa compliance, it is far from the only rule that the industry must comply with. Our field staff are trained in Spill Prevention Control and Containment Plan preparation, annual audit procedures, due diligence site evaluations, pipeline compliance leak detection inspections, as well as a host of other survey techniques (QOGI).
Optical Gas Imaging Services Include:
Optical Gas Imaging Services Include:
- NSPS Subpart OOOOa scheduling, OGI inspections and annual reports
- High quality and thorough detection of difficult-to-find leaks: elevated components, buried pipelines and more.
- Utilization of NSPS Subpart OOOOa data with emission inventory and GHG reports
- Unique custom reporting and data analytics with long-term capabilities
What makes Altamira your competitive advantage?
Our diversity and flexibility in expertise means we can supply a full suite of field compliance options for our clients through the work of our outstanding field staff coupled with our application of unique customizable reporting software and data analysis tools. We provide services and deliverables that go above and beyond so our clients can stay ahead of competitors and industry trends.
Our mission at Altamira is to solve our clients’ most complex regulatory, operational and business challenges by being the first choice and trusted partner for strategy, consulting, technical expertise and digital technology solutions.
For more details, download our Optical Gas Imaging brochure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Optical Gas Imaging
Choose QOGI when you need quantified emission data for greenhouse gas reporting, sustainability disclosures, methane performance certification, emission reduction verification or ESG investor reporting. Standard OGI is sufficient for basic leak detection and regulatory LDAR compliance. QOGI adds the emission quantification layer needed to manage and report methane performance beyond simple detection.
QOGI accuracy depends on camera type, wind conditions, distance to the source and image quality. When conducted under favorable conditions by trained operators, QOGI measurements can achieve accuracy within 25 to 50 percent of actual emission rates, which is sufficient for regulatory reporting and emission trend analysis, though not as precise as direct measurement methods for single-point sources.
QOGI supports compliance with EPA’s Subpart W greenhouse gas reporting rule (GHGRP), which requires quantified emission estimates from oil and gas sources. It also supports voluntary emissions reduction programs, corporate sustainability reporting, methane performance certifications such as MiQ or Equitable Origin and EPA’s Methane Challenge Program, where documented emission reductions are required.
Standard OGI detects and visualizes leaks qualitatively, confirming their presence and location. QOGI adds quantification capability by analyzing the optical density, plume behavior and wind conditions captured in the infrared imagery to estimate leak rate. This makes QOGI more valuable for operators who need actual emission quantities for reporting, verification or emission reduction program tracking.
Quantitative Optical Gas Imaging (QOGI) combines traditional OGI camera technology with advanced software algorithms to estimate the actual emission rate from a detected gas leak, rather than simply visualizing its presence. QOGI provides quantified emission data that supports accurate emission inventories, regulatory reporting and prioritization of repair efforts.
Altamira’s OGI services include camera inspections conducted by trained, certified operators, identification and documentation of leak locations, photographic and video evidence capture, preparation of inspection reports meeting regulatory documentation requirements and recommendations for repair prioritization. They support both compliance-driven inspection programs and voluntary methane emission reduction initiatives.
Traditional Method 21 uses a handheld gas analyzer to measure VOC concentration at individual component surfaces, which is labor-intensive and can only check one component at a time. OGI cameras scan entire pieces of equipment rapidly, making it far more efficient for covering large facilities. Regulatory programs typically allow facilities to use OGI as an alternative to Method 21 inspections when using EPA-approved camera specifications.
OGI inspections cover a wide range of equipment including valves, flanges, connectors, pump seals, compressor seals, pressure relief devices, open-ended lines and thief hatches on storage tanks. Any component that can potentially leak VOCs or methane is a candidate for OGI inspection as part of a Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) program.
Yes. EPA’s LDAR regulations under 40 CFR Part 60 (NSPS) and 40 CFR Part 63 (MACT/NESHAP) require OGI-based inspections for oil and gas facilities, natural gas processing plants and other regulated sources. NSPS Subpart OOOOa and the updated Subpart OOOOb and OOOOc rules specify inspection frequencies, camera specifications and documentation requirements for OGI surveys.
Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) is an inspection technique that uses specialized infrared cameras to visualize gas leaks from equipment that would be invisible to the naked eye. OGI cameras detect the infrared absorption signature of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and methane, making leaks visible as a plume in the camera’s viewfinder and allowing operators to quickly identify and locate emission sources.
