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CH4

CH4

Table of Contents

General Information on CH4

Methane (CH4) is the simplest member of the alkane group (CnH2n+2). Under normal conditions, it is a colorless, odorless, flammable gas. Methane is insoluble in water and forms explosive mixtures with air. It burns in the presence of oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water. It occurs naturally as the main component of natural gas, among other things. Since it exists in large quantities in deposits, it is an attractive source of energy. Methane serves as a heating gas and is used in the chemical industry as a starting material for technical syntheses.
The gas is produced in considerable quantities by biological processes and is the main component of biogas. Other sources, such as forest fires or volcanic eruptions also release methane.

Methane measurement in biogas plants

Measuring methane in biogas plants is an important process to ensure the efficiency and safety of the plant. This can be done by using a gas analyzer capable of measuring the concentration of methane in the exhaust air. An important factor when measuring methane is the accuracy of the instrument, as an inaccurate measurement can lead to misjudgements of plant performance. It is also important that the instrument is regularly maintained and calibrated to ensure that the measurements are reliable. Measuring methane is also important to ensure that the plant remains within the legal limits for greenhouse gas emissions.

Measuring methane in the air cows breathe

Methane is a greenhouse gas produced by many animals, including cows. It is produced when microorganisms in the digestive tract of animals break down organic material, releasing methane. In cows, Methane is mainly produced by the first part of the digestive tract, the rumen. The concentration of Methane in the respiratory gas of cows can be detected by NDIR measurements as part of a Methane emission study. These studies can help quantify the amount of Methane produced by cows and can help provide better estimates of global Methane emissions. Feed selection, feeding times and amount of feed have a significant impact on CH4 emissions.

CH4 measurement in natural gas

CH4 measurement is important because methane is a significant indicator of the quality of natural gas and also an important factor in the efficiency and sustainability of gas production. The CH4 content is usually measured using the NDIR method (INFRA.sens).  The INFRA.sens can accurately determine the Methane content by selective IR analysis, even in the presence of other hydrocarbons (Ethane, Propane, Butane). The calorific value determination of natural gas is a measure of the energy released during the combustion of Methane. These measurements are important to monitor and regulate the quality and efficiency of natural gas production, and to minimize environmental impacts. The results of CH4 measurements can also be used to develop emission standards and regulations for natural gas production.

Gas sensors for the detection of CH4

Some relevant Applications to CH4

Automotive exhaust gas analysis

Automotive exhaust gas analysis

  • For high carbon monoxide ranges additional gas filter for suppression of interfering gases are integrated 
  • Low N2O measurement without CO2 interference powered by software algorithm 
INFRA.sens® N2O / CH4 / CO2-AK220G/AK5 // INFRA.sens® N2O / CH4 / CO2-AK250G/AK5  Low emission means low ranges  Combustion engines emit a large number of gaseous substances that must be …
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Renewable Gas Monitoring

Renewable Gas Monitoring

  • Wide range of solution in the area of renewable energy sources and infrastructure
  • Development in progress for a new kind of portable H2S detektor
INFRA.sens® AK20Gcompact & ULTRA.sens® H2S Modul Measure the future energy sources  Biogas is produced by fermentation of organic waste and renewable resources (NAWAROS). The main components of biogas are methane …
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Natural Gas Monitoring

Natural Gas Monitoring 

  • Low power consumption (< 10 Watt) 
  • Small size (28 cm x 20 cm x 10 cm) 
  • Fast response time (t90 = 10 sec.) 
  • No complex calibrations required 
  • Temperature and pressure compensated gas measurements 
  • Designed for high pressure range up to 15 bar 
NGM 1000 Selective measurement in complex gas mixtures  The analysis of natural gas has recently become increasingly important. Since energy flows currently come from a variety of sources, this has …
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Customer Specific Projects

Customer Specific Projects

  • You have a measurement task that goes beyond the usual standards and are looking for a competent partner?
  • Please contact us. Your measurement task is our challenge!
  • The employees of Wi.Tec-Sensorik GmbH have extensive expertise in the field of industrial gas measurement technology and sensor signal processing.
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