Optical technologies monitor leak detection, fugitive emissions

A study published by the American Petroleum Institute in 1997 (API Publication 310 Analysis of Refinery Screening Data) found that fewer than five percent of the components in refineries accounted for more than 90 percent of fugitive emissions. It was further shown that these components were leaking at rates of 10,000 ppm or more, well beyond the leak definition or allowable levels.