Con Ed seeks approval for leak-detecting lasers

[hrmjustin]

David Giambusso

Con Edison is awaiting state approval for a plan to use lasers to detect gas leaks.

Ever since a gas explosion in March that killed eight people in East Harlem, the utility has increased its gas leak detection throughout New York City. Measures have included calling out the fire department to all reported gas leaks and attaching gas detection technology to trucks that search for stray voltage.

Con Ed has also been seeking approval from the Public Service Commission since January for another means of detection, a technology called Remote Methane Leak Detection (RMLD).

From distances of up to 100 feet, an infrared laser can absorb methane when it is shot through a plume of gas. That absorption is converted to an electrical signal which indicates a leak.

http://www.capitalnewyork.com/article/city-hall/2014/08/8551041/con-ed-seeks-approval-leak-detecting-lasers