SNIFFIT - For Detection of Subsea Hydrocarbons

Neptune Oceanographics' unique SNIFFIT system for the detection of subsea leaks of hydrocarbons is a proven, real time, in situ method that has been used world-wide and has many applications in diverse underwater markets. The small, lightweight detector combines with its control unit and Windows based software to warn the user of the presence of Hydrocarbons (as oil including crude) and Methane ahead of the more obvious physical clues such as the presence of bubbles.

SNIFFIT significantly simplifies current leak detection techniques in that it eliminates the use of dyes and fluorescence detectors and therefore is environmentally and financially superior. The Sniffit was developed specifically to allow fast, real time in situ detection of dissolved and gaseous methane in water, whatever the source, and has been successful in hydrocarbon surveys to depths of over 3,000m world-wide. Although it is essentially a methane detector it is equally a hydrocarbon detector and will respond well to all hydrocarbons including oil.

The very high sensitivity of Sniffit makes it ideal for the detection of hydrocarbons leaking from the seabed or pipeline installations. The sensor can be used as a quick pass for general “look and see” surveys or used in detail mode to detect the exact location of a subsea leak.

The Sniffit is easily mounted on a ROV, AUV, towed vehicle, cable profiler or can be diver held.

Operational ranges

Depth: 0m – 2,000m
Temperature: 2°C – 20°C nominal
Methane: 50nmol/l – 10Amol/l
Power: 24VDC -36VDC - current upon switch-on (at 24V) - 400mA normal current consumption (at 24V) - 100mA
Weight in air approx.: 1.5kg