QED Huberg SEM5000 portable methane detector

The Huberg SEM5000 is a field-proven portable methane detector for landfill surface emissions monitoring.

The detector is the latest addition to QED’s Huberg range of gas analysers and detectors. Built around LASER-based tuneable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TLDAS) technology, the SEM5000 is designed to provide fast and precise readings at levels as low as 1 ppm, with zero cross-sensitivity to other gases.

With a response time of below two seconds, technicians are able to accurately pinpoint the location of leaks during walkover surveys, making the detector suitable for landfill surface emissions monitoring, wellhead and surface penetration leak detection, environmental compliance surveys or methane hot spot detection.

Designed for the field, the detector features a rugged IP65/NEMA4 enclosure, with the entire device weighing 2.9 lbs — half as much as comparative technologies, according to QED — allowing it to be easily carried by a sole operator.

The detector is able to warm up in 30–60 seconds and features a field-swappable 10-hour battery, providing enough power for a full working day and minimising the need for back-to-base charging. ATEX Zone 1 certification allows the instrument to be used in hazardous environments, with an operational range between –25 and 50°C.

Equipped with GPS, Bluetooth and QED’s bespoke SEMSoft software, the detector allows users to easily manage data and generate reports for compliance, with the transfer of readings to a PC, tablet or mobile device for reporting and analysis.

The SEM5000 can be used for up to two years before it requires factory calibration, which is handled through the QED Express servicing program.