A Leading Gas Company in China Adopts BLV Drone-based Methane Remote Detector to Safeguard the Urban 'Lifeline' — Case Study

With the rapid expansion of urban gas pipeline networks, the safety risks posed by gas leaks have become increasingly prominent. Traditional inspection methods often face challenges such as low efficiency, blind spots in detection, and delayed response. To further enhance safety management, a regional branch of a leading gas company in China has taken the lead in adopting UGI’s drones equipped with methane remote detectors, creating a new model of intelligent and efficient gas inspection. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in “aerial inspections” for urban gas networks.

Project Background

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At gas distribution stations, significant pipeline pressure fluctuations and high leakage risks at valves and joints present pressing challenges for inspection.

The project is located at a gas distribution station in a major city in East China, situated on the urban outskirts or at key pipeline nodes, supplying gas to residential, commercial, and industrial users. Along the long-distance transmission pipelines, gas is distributed to regional branch networks or large industrial users. With numerous sites scattered over a wide area, some locations are difficult for manual access and inspection, creating potential leakage risks.

Solutions: DJI Matrice 350 RTK+ BL-CH4 sensor

The inspection system uses the DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone with the 350 RC Plus remote controller, equipped with the advanced BL-CH4 Laser Methane Telemetry Sensor (based on TDLAS technology), featuring the following technical advantages:

Long-distance, non-contact measurement: capable of detecting leaks from up to 300 meters above ground.

Ultra-fast response: 5 ms response time for real-time leak source localization.

Intelligent heatmap analysis: displays methane concentration synchronized with visual imaging.

High-precision positioning: equipped with an RTK system for accurate leak location marking.

Achievements

Three gas leaks, located beneath a greenbelt and at a bridge connection point, had repeatedly gone undetected by traditional manual inspections. Using drone-mounted sensors, which offer higher sensitivity and faster response than handheld devices, we were able to detect these leaks early. Through aerial telemetry, proactive warnings were issued, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the gas network.

Always adhering to the philosophy of “customer-centric, technology-driven,” BLV Tech continuously advances product optimization and system integration innovation, striving to enhance operational safety, improve maintenance efficiency, and support the industry’s low-carbon transition.

Looking ahead, BLV Tech will continue to expand its global partnership network, promoting large-scale deployment of drone-based gas monitoring technologies across wider regions and scenarios, accelerating the industry’s move toward a new era of intelligent and green development.