METHANE GUIDE
METHANE
Methane ( CH 4 ) is a hydrocarbon and the primary constituent of natural gas . It is extremely flammable , and can form explosive mixtures with air . Methane is used in many industrial processes , both as a chemical feedstock and as a fuel .
When methane is used in combustion , it is important to measure CH 4 levels in the heater , to ensure safety . Pockets of high methane concentration can form during the process , which significantly increase the risk of an explosion . These may not be detected by spot measurements , so a cross-stack analyzer is better suited to this application .
Methane is used in the production of hydrogen gas through the steam reforming process . Measurement of CH 4 is key to reaction efficiency and safety .
CH 4 reactions are typically difficult to control , so accurate monitoring by a gas analyzer is essential for safety and efficiency .
It may also be a contaminant in medical or semiconductor gases , so needs to be measured at trace levels to ensure product purity .
As methane is a greenhouse gas , many industrial processes must be monitored to ensure CH 4 emissions do not exceed environmental regulatory limits .
Use pages 18-19 to identify the best CH 4 solution for your process
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