Gas Leak Reduction, Bangladesh
Location
Bangladesh
SDGs Contribution
4
Solution Type
Energy Efficiency
Project Type
Carbon Reduction
Fact File
💧 Before this project was implemented, the examination of leaks were primarily undertaken through visual (i.e., bubbling of leaks through water), noise and odour detection.
🔧 To make above ground repairs, Titas principally used leak repair clamps and polyethylene-based tape, a material unsuited for long term repairs in outdoor equipment facing varying temperatures and humidity.
🧕🏽 In households without gas supply, women spend a lot of time collecting firewood, which is unpaid domestic work. The project improved line pressure for over 38k households, thus reducing the average time associated with cooking and fuel collection (SDG 5).
Partnership &
Certification
About this Project
The Problem
The construction of the Titas natural gas distribution system in Greater Dhaka began in the 1960s. Over the years, the system has not been adequately maintained. As a result, a significant percentage of the natural gas (predominately methane, CH4) now leaks and releases components into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Leaks in the distribution system are caused by normal component wear, thermal and vibrational stresses as well as seasonal expansion/contraction. The company operators lack the advanced leak detection equipment, repair materials and trained workers to identify chronically leaking components and make reliable repairs.
The Solution
The project aims to reduce gas leakages in the gas distribution system, using various advanced leak detection equipment. Leaks are identified throughout the above ground infrastructure, including flanges, valves, insulating joints. The main leak detection and quantification technology used in the project is the “Hi-Flow Sampler” (HFS), a machine designed to detect and measure leaks in gas infrastructure. Once a leak is found and measured, quality repair materials is used to seal it indefinitely. The project has an ongoing monitoring program to ensure leak repairs remain intact.
Project Location
SDG Contributions
