Researchers at Vologda State University have unveiled a novel method for determining the volume of natural gas during a leak, a breakthrough highlighted by a major regional publication. The new approach promises a practical, user friendly alternative to current techniques, with potential applications that span residential buildings and industrial gas pipelines. The project brings together a team from the university’s heat and gas supply department, including several senior researchers who have dedicated themselves to finding reliable ways to quantify gas loss in real world conditions. The overarching aim is to deliver a measurement technique that is not only accurate but also easy to deploy in various settings, reducing downtime and enhancing safety for workers and residents alike.
As explained by key researchers, the method emphasizes simplicity and accessibility. It is designed to deliver trustworthy results without requiring specialized training or expensive equipment. This practicality makes it suitable for use in homes where natural gas lines pass through living spaces, as well as in the field where pipelines traverse rural, urban, and industrial zones. The development was motivated by collaboration with gas supply companies seeking a straightforward tool to assess gas leakage efficiently, ensuring timely interventions and better resource management. The researchers note that the goal was to create something that operators can rely on under demanding conditions, while keeping the device affordable enough for widespread adoption in a range of settings.
The core principle, outlined by Associate Professor Mikhail Pokrovsky, involves measuring the gas volume as it flows into a specially designed cylinder under controlled filling conditions. The device prototype has been engineered to be widely compatible and easy to manufacture, with an initial cost estimated around ten thousand rubles. For large scale industrial production, the team recommends employing materials that can withstand aggressive environments and prolonged use. In such configurations, the price of equipment can vary significantly based on durability, precision components, and customization options, potentially ranging from one hundred thousand to as much as one million rubles. The team emphasizes that the cost is flexible because it depends on the level of ruggedness, accuracy, and the specific interface needs of different gas systems, including cuffs and connectors of various sizes.
Independent testing has indicated that the method performs reliably under a variety of conditions, with results that align well with established standards for leak assessment. The researchers report that field trials have confirmed the device’s capability to produce repeatable measurements across multiple gas compositions and pressure regimes, reinforcing confidence in its practical value. Early adopters among customer companies have already begun integrating the device into their operational workflows, signaling a shift toward more proactive gas loss monitoring. The research team envisions this technology forming the foundation for a mobile laboratory concept, enabling rapid on site evaluation of natural gas leaks and facilitating faster decision making in maintenance programs. A formal patent for the invention was secured toward the end of February, marking a milestone that supports further development and potential licensing opportunities.
With the groundwork laid, the researchers anticipate ongoing refinements and broader testing across international contexts. They see strong potential for adaptation to different regulatory environments, international safety standards, and cross border collaborations that could accelerate the deployment of this technology beyond Russia. By pursuing parallel lines of development, the team aims to enhance measurement precision, expand compatibility with a wider range of field equipment, and explore scalable production models that could meet growing demand in both North American and European markets.