In the production of acetic acid, a highly versatile substance, BP Chemicals is responsible for a significant proportion of the world’s capacity. It is produced by combining carbon monoxide and methanol in the presence of a catalyst. Every year, the company invests many millions of pounds in improving production efficiency, minimizing environmental impact and protecting the workforce. It is largely with personnel safety in mind that BP Chemicals took a fresh look at how Flir thermal imaging technology could help minimize leaks.

Effective leak detection is a priority at BP Chemicals and one of a number of procedures for ensuring safe operation, said the company.

Three Flir GasFindIR cameras were employed to check plant integrity at the company’s flagship manufacturing and research site at Saltend, England. Designed for outdoor use, the Flir GasfindIR HSX camera was used to detect a range of gases, including methane and methanol, which are both predominant at the UK plant. In addition, a long-wave version of the camera was used for detecting acetic acid, acetic anhydride and ammonia, three of the total of eight products processed at Saltend. Completing the set was a Flir GasFindIR model specifically designed to detect carbon monoxide — a colorless, odorless,but highly poisonous gas.

Flir GasFindIR cameras are increasingly being adopted by plants across the world for the visualization and documentation of gas leaks. Flir said it’s GasFindIR cameras can scan large areas rapidly and pinpoint leaks in real time. The technology is ideal for monitoring that is difficult to perform with contact measurement tools, and literally thousands of components can be scanned per shift without the need to interrupt the process. Flir also said that using the GasFindIR camera reduces repair downtime and provides verification of the process.

For more information, visit: www.flir.com