Blogs

On May 10-11, the APGA Research Foundation (RF) and Gas Technology Institute (GTI Energy) held the RF/GTI Research Forum in Des Plaines, IL at GTI’s headquarters.  GTI staff presented the latest updates on research, development, and commercialization projects funded by RF contributors, and attendees toured the laboratories and saw projects and equipment firsthand. The RF contributes to the GTI Operations Technology Development (OTD) program, Emerging Technology Program (ETP), and Utilization Technology Development (UTD) program. 

On Wednesday, the RF toured UTD labs, which include residential and commercial end-use projects. One high-priority project GTI is engaged in is developing cutting-edge equipment and processes that factually measure the impact of natural gas on cooking and indoor air quality. The data collected from these tests will influence policies and standards that affect many indoor natural gas appliances.  Other end-use projects include testing and improving commercial kitchen appliances, measuring the impacts of mixed fuels such as renewable natural gas (RNG) and hydrogen on end-use appliances, tankless and gas heat pump technology for water heating and indoor climate conditioning, combined heat and power (CHP) units, and micro and nano energy grids. These projects ensure natural gas will continue to be a safe, reliable, and efficient energy source for residential and commercial customers. 

On Thursday, the RF toured OTD projects that included tools developed to improve gas system safety and operations. Virtual Reality and mixed fuel training modules are being developed that improve operator safety and awareness. Breakaway meters that were originally designed as a safety feature to stop the flow of gas in case the meter was hit or damaged are now seen as an important methane mitigation tool.  Another methane mitigation tool being improved at GTI include a vacuum purge unit that minimizes methane release to the atmosphere during pipe maintenance and replacement. Internet connected devices in development include wi-fi connected smart meters that notify the gas system operator when a leak is detected (or can even stop the gas flow) and robot/drone technology that helps detect remote leaks in unstable environments or where other detection methods aren’t as effective.  

GTI research is increasing safety for gas employees, affordability for customers, and leading the effort to increase efficiency across the natural gas industry. 

If you are interested in learning more about the RF or the RF/GTI Research Forum, please contact Todd Brady at tbrady@apga.org or at 202-370-6211.