The new multi-perpose portable sniffer SELMA Duo for walking and vehicle surveys (Methane + Ethane)
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ALMA G5

A high-performance laser detector for helicopters, light aircrafts, and UAVs, designed for rapid detection of methane leaks along extensive aboveground and underground gas pipelines.

Aircraft-based laser methane detector

ALMA G5 is a remote laser methane detector developed for small aircraft and UAVs. It detects methane leaks from distances up to 150 meters (up to 300 meters with an amplifier) and is used to inspect gas pipelines, compressor stations, methane storage tanks, and other potential leak sources.
Specifically tuned to methane, ALMA G5 reduces false alarms. It can cover up to 600 kilometers in a day and accurately detect leaks at speeds of up to 100 km/h.
Compared to earlier models, ALMA G5 is smaller, has four times the laser power, twice the measurement frequency, and shorter laser pulses, making it twice as sensitive. A built-in infrared laser measures distance to the target, so there’s no need for an external rangefinder.

Updated interface and software

The software and user interface have been completely redesigned compared to the previous model. ALMA G5 package includes software for use during inspections, as well as software for post-processing and report generation.
The data on the operator's screen:
  • Methane concentration
  • Geographical position
  • Map
  • Flight route
  • GPS coordinates and images of the leak location
Finding gas leaks with AI
ALMA G5 utilizes AistroSpace algorithm to detect methane leaks
  • Environment detection with positioning
  • Object segmentation
  • Anomaly detection
  • Data normalization with reporting and integration

We suggest using AI hardware Nvidia Jetson

  • Easy installation
  • 12/24V power supply
  • Dust and moisture-proof case (IP67)
  • Ability to use it in a helicopters
  • Additional software functionality for specific tasks
  • Turnkey solution.

AistroSpace algorithm includes four modules:

Versatility of applications

Wide range of installation platforms
ALMA G5 can be mounted on gyroplanes, light aircraft such as Cessna or helicopters like the R44, R22, and Jet Ranger. Weighing only 6.5 kg, the device is also suitable for industrial UAVs, fixed-wing drones, and is compatible with off-road and all-terrain vehicles.
The system has been successfully tested on all these platforms and reliably identifies locations of methane leaks. The ALMA G5 operates autonomously, while enabling the operator to monitor and adjust its performance in real time.

Key features and advantages

Device mounted on a helicopter or in a fixed wing
Full automation + full AI operation
Detects faster than conventional method
Highly sensitive, wide measurement range
Real time measurement and alarm feature
Insensitive to other gases (water vapor, propane)
Minimal interference with environment
Pilot camera and monitor to aim laser
Extensive data storage capacity
GPS tracking utilising map system navigation
Laser rangefinder integrated to the main laser channel
Automatic and continuously performs self-check to ensure ability to detect gas
Post processing software
Each leak detection is reported with time, gas concentration, GPS coordinates and 4K image
Optional IR camera installation

How ALMA G5 works

ALMA G5 utilize TDLAS technology

TDLAS (Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy) technology uses a tunable diode laser for precise gas analysis. The laser emits a focused beam of light at a specific wavelength that corresponds to the absorption characteristics of the target gas. When this beam interacts with the gas, some of the light is absorbed by the gas molecules. A sensor then captures the reflected beam, and the concentration of the gas is determined by measuring the intensity of reflected light. ALMA G5 is designed for operation from helicopters and small aircraft, allowing the laser to survey large sections of gas pipelines at high speed.

The ALMA G5 utilizes a laser scanning system in which the laser beam follows a specific trajectory shown in the figure:
  • the black line shows the trajectory of the helicopter projected on the ground
  • the red line shows how the laser beam moves over the surface
  • red dots mark points every 10 milliseconds
This picture is created when flying at an altitude of 100 meters and a speed of 100 km/h. As shown in the figure, the total width of the scanned area under these conditions is about 25 meters.

Where ALMA G5 applies

ALMA G5 is designed for a wide range of aircraft-based inspections of methane infrastructure
  • Underground Gas Storage

  • Gas Distribution Station

  • Gas Processing Plant

  • Gas Compression Station

  • Transportation Gas Pipeline

  • Gas Storage

Where ALMA G5 applies

ALMA G5 is designed for a wide range of aircraft-based inspections of methane infrastructure
Underground
Gas Storage
Transportation Gas Pipeline
Gas Distribution
Station
Gas Processing
Plant
Gas Compression
Station
Gas
Storage

What's inside the box

  • Tablet (aircraft version) / mini computer (UAV version)
    Is the main computer for real time data monitoring, data recording and post inspection data analysis.
  • Optical Unit
    Housing the Laser, optics, photodetectors, mirrors, rangefinder and cameras.
  • Pilot Monitor
    Helps pilot aim laser

FAQ

Honest answers to important questions

Contact us

You can order the equipment or ask questions here