Advanced Method 21 Leak Detection Solutions

EPA Method 21 is a leak-detection procedure used to screen regulated equipment components, such as valves, connectors, pumps, and compressors, for volatile organic compound leaks. It generally uses a portable organic vapor analyzer to measure concentrations near a potential leak source. Applicable regulations establish the monitoring frequency, instrument requirements, leak definitions, repair provisions, and recordkeeping obligations for a facility or equipment category.

EPA Compendium Method TO-3 is used to determine volatile organic compounds in ambient air. It involves collecting air in a specially prepared canister, concentrating the sample at low temperature, and analyzing compounds by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Unlike Method 21, which is used for component leak screening, TO-3 is an ambient-air sampling and laboratory analysis method.

Continuous monitoring can complement a Method 21-oriented LDAR program by providing persistent visibility between scheduled component surveys. Well Checked Systems uses infrared imaging, video, acoustic sensing, and AI validation to flag potential fugitive events for operator investigation. It does not replace a Method 21 survey where that method is specifically required; operators should align their program with the applicable rule and approved monitoring approach.

Long-wave infrared optical gas imaging can provide day-and-night visibility of methane and VOC plume behavior under suitable operating and atmospheric conditions. Performance can be affected by factors such as gas concentration, temperature contrast, wind, distance, backgrounds, and camera placement. Well Checked Systems combines infrared imaging with video and acoustic signals to improve event validation rather than relying on a single data stream.

Zentinal Core uses information from multiple sensor streams and an approximately two-day AI Site Learning cycle to establish normal site behavior. The system is designed to separate expected process emissions and routine activity from potential fugitive anomalies. Alert tuning can further adjust site sensitivity, suppress known non-fugitive events, and refine escalation rules as operating baselines evolve.

After Zentinal Core validates a potential fugitive gas event, the operator’s designated dispatch team can receive near-real-time notifications through the Well Checked Dashboard, email, text, and SCADA integration. Well Checked Systems provides response-workflow templates, dispatch runbooks, and rapid-response protocols. The operator then investigates, dispatches the appropriate personnel, mitigates the issue, and documents its response according to internal and regulatory procedures.

Yes. Zentinal IQ is designed to quantify emissions after Zentinal Core has validated an event, helping create data that can support emissions tracking, repair prioritization, and reporting preparation. Well Checked Systems structures outputs to support EPA methane-rule alternative-monitoring compliance submissions and measurement-based frameworks such as OGMP 2.0 Level 4/5. Final reporting obligations remain the responsibility of the operator.

Yes. Well Checked Systems offers SCADA integration services that bring monitoring alerts, emissions data, and operational insights into existing control-room workflows. Integration can allow designated personnel to receive validated-event notifications alongside other site information. The appropriate configuration depends on the operator’s SCADA environment, communications architecture, alert-routing needs, and established incident-management procedures.