Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA: On-Site Ethane Analysis for Gas Source Identification
Natural gas leaks require immediate attention, but not all gas detection readings originate from pipeline leaks. The Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA ethane gas analyzer provides field technicians with a powerful tool to quickly differentiate between actual natural gas leaks and biogenic sources—eliminating unnecessary excavations and reducing operational costs.
Why Ethane Analysis Matters: Natural Gas vs. Biogenic Gas
When methane is detected in the field, if the user can determine if the gas has ethane, there is a reasonable likelihood that the gas is from a natural gas pipe.
- Natural Gas: Contains methane (CH₄) plus ethane (C₂H₆) and propane (C₃H₈)
- Biogenic Gas: Contains only methane, with no ethane component (swamp gas, landfill gas, sewer gas)
If the gas is swamp gas, sewer gas, or landfill gas, ethane will be absent, and there is no reason to excavate and investigate the source of a natural gas leak.
The Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA is the tool to help with this determination.
Ethane Field Testing in Minutes, Not Days
The VARIOTEC EGA adds a new efficiency level in identifying whether a gas leak originates from a natural gas pipe or swamp gas.
Traditionally, a technician may need to collect gas samples at the site and send them to a lab for a gas chromatograph analysis to determine if the source is natural gas. This process can take days.
With a Variotec EGA, the technician can collect the samples, run a 4-minute ethane analysis at the site, and quickly get the needed answer.
Key Features of the Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA
Complete Analysis Package
The VARIOTEC EGA analyzes gas samples for three key components:
- Methane (CH₄)
- Ethane (C₂H₆)
- Propane (C₃H₈)
User-Friendly Operation
- Intuitive user interface with jog dial and soft keys
- Clear step-by-step guidance through the analysis process
- No specialized training is required
Professional Documentation
- Save measurement reports directly on the device
- Transfer data to PC via USB for record-keeping
- Document the decision-making process for regulatory compliance
Field-Ready Design
- Rugged construction for daily field use
- Rapid charging in 4 hours
- Battery options include rechargeable or disposable AA batteries
EX-TEC HS Series with Ethane Gas Analyzer
Sewerin also manufactures gas leak detectors and offers ethane analysis technology as an option with Sewerin’s EX-TEC HS series gas leak detectors. This integration provides significant advantages:
- Single Device Solution: Locate leaks and identify gas sources with one instrument
- Streamlined Workflow: Move from detection to analysis without changing the equipment
- Field Efficiency: Make decisions on-site without returning to the lab
- Cost Savings: Eliminate unnecessary excavations with immediate source identification
Real-World Applications
Gas utilities and contractors use the Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA to:
- Prevent Costly Excavations: Quickly determine if a detected gas is from a pipeline leak
- Prioritize Repairs: Focus resources on actual natural gas leaks
- Accelerate Decision-Making: Make informed choices in the field without lab delays
- Document Findings: Maintain proper records of gas source determinations
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
Proper gas source identification supports:
- Regulatory compliance for leak management programs
- Accurate reporting of natural gas leaks
- Efficient allocation of repair resources
- Enhanced public safety through faster resolution of actual leaks
Conclusion: Field Intelligence for Better Decisions
The Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA transforms how gas utilities approach leak investigation by bringing laboratory-grade analysis capabilities directly to the field. It enables technicians to distinguish between natural gas and biogenic sources such as swamp gas in just four minutes, eliminating guesswork, reducing costs, and ensuring that repair resources are directed where needed.
For more information about the Sewerin VARIOTEC EGA or to request a quote, contact Linc Energy Systems at (303) 697-6701 or message us now.
