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Diagram illustrating the TDLAS measurement principle, detailing how Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy operates

Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS)

Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) is a laser-based sensing technology used for precise, non-contact methane detection. It works by emitting a laser at a specific wavelength that is uniquely absorbed by methane (CH₄), allowing accurate measurement of gas concentration from a distance.

Wavelength Selectivity
Each gas absorbs light at specific wavelengths. The TDLAS sensor uses a laser tuned to methane’s absorption line (~1653 nm), ensuring high specificity to CH₄.
Quantitative Measurement
The amount of light absorbed is proportional to the gas concentration and the distance the laser travels through it (optical path length). This allows accurate, physics-based quantification of methane levels.
Remote Detection
By analyzing the returned laser signal, the system calculates methane concentration without any physical contact, enabling safe and efficient inspections.

How TDLAS Works

Why TDLAS

A Purway UAV TDLAS methane detector with a green light, positioned near a leaking pipeline to demonstrate its functionality
Highly Selective
Targets methane specifically with minimal interference from other gases
Quantitative
Provides measurable, reliable concentration data
Non-Contact
Enables safe, remote operation from aerial platforms
Real-Time
Delivers immediate detection and visualization
Focused Experiments
Initial trials using controlled methane sources established baseline performance and calibration conditions.
Real-World Testing
Field tests conducted on active natural gas pipelines provided actionable data under practical operating conditions.
AI-Driven Analysis
Measurement data, combined with spatial coordinates, were analyzed using advanced machine learning models to identify methane concentration patterns and leak-prone areas.
Optimized Flight
Testing showed optimal detection performance at flight altitudes of 50–200 meters and speeds of 5–9 m/s, balancing coverage and accuracy.

Key Insights from Our Research

Warranty & Aftersales

The Purway UAV TDLAS Methane Leak Detector Model III is supported by a comprehensive two-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering key hardware components such as sensors, processing units, and internal electronics under normal operating conditions. This warranty also includes access to free software and firmware updates released during the coverage period, ensuring your system remains up to date and performing at its best. Please note that the warranty does not cover damage caused by accidents, misuse, unauthorized modifications, or external factors. For full details on coverage, exclusions, and service procedures, download the complete warranty policy.

A closed-up side view of a drone equipped with a Purway UAV TDLAS methane detector flying over a refinery in an industrial park

Frequently Asked Questions

Delivery, Warranty & Aftersales
  • A standard package typically includes:

    • Methane detector payload

    • Integrated camera system

    • Mounting bracket / gimbal solution

    • Data storage card

    • Charging / connection accessories

    • User manual

    • Protective carrying case (optional depending on package)

    • Online training and technical onboarding support

    Final package contents may vary depending on drone platform and project requirements.

  • The methane detector itself does not include internal lithium batteries.

    It is powered through the drone payload interface or external regulated power connection depending on platform configuration. This helps simplify shipping and customs handling.

  • We provide a 2-year warranty for the product.

    During the warranty period, if any non-human-caused hardware issue occurs, we will provide repair service, replacement parts, or unit replacement depending on the case.

  • We provide comprehensive aftersales support, including:

    • Free online training

    • Remote technical support

    • Installation guidance

    • Firmware update assistance

    • Data analysis guidance

    • Troubleshooting support

    • Replacement coordination during warranty period

    Our team supports customers remotely for fast response and continuous operation.

  • The product is shipped from Shenzhen, China, where our production and logistics center is located.

    We support international delivery and can arrange shipping terms such as EXW, DDP, or other commercial terms depending on destination and customer requirements.

Product & Compatibility
  • The UAV Laser CH₄ Leak Detector is designed for rapid airborne methane detection and leak localization. It is widely used for:

    • Natural gas pipeline inspection

    • Oil & gas facility leak surveys

    • Landfill methane emission monitoring

    • Industrial plant safety inspections

    • Emergency methane leak response

    • Routine environmental compliance surveys

    Mounted on a drone, the system allows operators to inspect large or hard-to-reach areas safely and efficiently without ground access.

  • Our turnkey version is fully compatible with DJI enterprise platforms—Matrice 300/350/400 RTK.

    These platforms offer stable flight performance, long endurance, and seamless payload integration.

    For customers using other drone platforms, custom integration solutions are also available.

  • Yes. The detector can be integrated with selected third-party UAV platforms.

    For non-DJI integration, customers usually need to provide:

    • Power supply specifications

    • Payload mounting structure

    • Communication interface details

    • Gimbal or fixed-mount requirements

    • Ground control / video transmission preferences

    Our engineering team can assist with technical evaluation and integration support.

  • For DJI turnkey systems, the detector is operated through our dedicated Captain APP, developed based on DJI SDK architecture. You can download it here.

    Main functions include:

    • Real-time methane concentration display

    • Alarm indication

    • Camera video feed

    • Flight mission support

    • Data recording to SD card

    • CSV export for analysis

    • Report generation support

    Customer familar with DJI Pilot 2 APP can also use it for the mission. For custom integrations, software solutions can be adapted according to project requirements.

Detection Performance
  • The detector is specifically designed to measure methane (CH₄). It is optimized for methane leak detection in applications such as natural gas infrastructure, landfills, oil & gas facilities, and industrial sites.

  • The detector uses laser absorption spectroscopy to remotely identify methane in the air. A laser beam is emitted toward the target area, and methane absorbs light at a specific wavelength. By analyzing the returned signal, the system calculates methane presence and concentration path values.

    This method allows fast, non-contact, and highly selective methane detection during drone flight.

  • TDLAS stands for Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy.

    It is a highly accurate gas sensing technology widely used in industrial and environmental monitoring. TDLAS offers major advantages such as:

    • High sensitivity

    • Fast response time

    • Strong selectivity for methane

    • Long-distance remote sensing capability

    • Stable performance in outdoor environments

Data Reports & Operation Training
  • The system can export inspection data in CSV format for further analysis and reporting.

    Typical exported data may include:

    • Methane concentration (ppm·m)

    • GPS coordinates

    • Flight altitude

    • Timestamp

    • Signal quality / SNR

    • Distance to target

    • Device status information

    This allows customers to review survey results, generate reports, or import data into GIS platforms.

  • Yes. The system supports inspection report generation through the Captain APP, with both quick summaries and detailed reports available.

    Users can:

    • Export methane detection data in CSV format

    • Review methane concentration, GPS location, altitude, and timestamps

    • Identify and mark potential leak points

    • Generate concise field reports directly in the APP

    • Export reports in Word or PDF format for easy sharing

    For more advanced requirements, users can also use the exported data to create more detailed, customized reports using GIS software or internal reporting templates.

  • Most users can learn the basic operation of the system within 1 to 2 hours through our online training session.

    This typically includes:

    • Equipment installation and setup

    • Software operation

    • Live methane detection display

    • Basic flight survey workflow

    • Data export and review

    • Common precautions and troubleshooting

    For experienced drone operators, the learning process is usually even faster. Advanced applications such as pipeline patrol planning or landfill survey optimization may require additional practice.

Need A Demo?

We regularly share industry insights and updates, along with downloadable user guides to help you get the most out of our solutions. If you need a 1-1 live demo session or direct technical support, don’t hesitate to send us a inquiry here. Whether you're exploring remote methane leak detection solutions or looking to upgrade your current inspection workflow, we’ll guide you every step of the way.