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Title: Odorization
Author: m. Floyd Fuller
Source: 1975 International School of Hydrocarbon Measurement
Year Published: 1975
Abstract: Natural gas in the desirable marketable state is practically dry, either direct from the field or after removal of the condensable hydrocarbons. The major constituents - methane and ethane are almost odorless, so a warning agent must be added to facilitate the prompt detection of uncontrolled gas. The warning agent which is added to the gas is known as a malodorant, the process by which it is added is termed odorization and the apparatus through which it is added is called an odorizer. Odorization of natural gas was suggested as early as 1885 as a means of facilitating leak detection. Although odorization has been used for many years, it was not until 1968 when the Office of Pipeline Safety adapted the ASA B31.8 Code, and later their own codes, as a Federal Standard that it became mandatory. Prior to this date, except for 34 states having varying regulations, odorization was done for safety and economics at the option of the utilities. Gas is odorized primarily to protect life, property and for economic reasons. Sufficient odor is added to an otherwise odorless gas so that the presence of gas can be detected by the sense of smell long before the concentration of gas in the area becomes hazardous. Leaks may be detected not only on the customers premises, but also in service lines, mains and regulator stations and everywhere that gas is handled. The early detection of leaks not only contributes to a safe operation but also can help reduce the unaccounted for gas and results in saving to the company.

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