top of page

Twin Falls Natural Gas Odorization: Overcoming Odor Fade and Ensuring Safety

  • Writer: Mitch
    Mitch
  • Dec 29, 2025
  • 2 min read


Reliable Energy for Twin Falls and Surrounding Communities

Twin Falls, Idaho is known for its breathtaking views of Shoshone Falls, the Snake River Canyon, and the iconic Perrine Bridge. Behind the beauty, the city relies on dependable natural gas infrastructure to power homes, businesses, and industries. But natural gas in its raw state is odorless, which means leaks could go undetected without proper odorization.

Burgess Pipeline Services provides advanced odorization systems, odorant injection technology, and odor fade solutions to ensure Twin Falls’ natural gas network operates safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with federal regulations.

Twin Falls Natural Gas Odorization: Overcoming Odor Fade and Ensuring Safety

Why Odorization Is Critical

Natural gas is primarily methane, which is colorless and odorless. Without an added scent, leaks pose serious hazards. Federal regulations require odorization for all natural gas distributed to end-users.

Key Points

  • Methane is naturally odorless.

  • Odorization is mandated by 49 CFR 192.625.

  • Mercaptan is the most common odorant used in natural gas systems.

Understanding Odor Fade

Odor fade occurs when the odorant added to natural gas becomes less detectable over time or under certain conditions. This can happen due to:

  • Absorption of odorant into pipeline materials.

  • Chemical reactions with contaminants.

  • Low-flow conditions reducing odorant distribution.

Why It Matters

  • Reduced leak detection capability.

  • Increased safety risks.

  • Non-compliance with federal standards.

Advanced Odorization Systems for Twin Falls Pipelines

Our odorization systems are designed to maintain consistent odorant levels and prevent odor fade. These systems include:

  • Odorant storage tanks with secondary containment.

  • Mercaptan injection pumps for precise dosing.

  • Flow meters for monitoring gas and odorant levels.

  • Automated controls for real-time adjustments.

Mercaptan Injection Technology

Mercaptan gives natural gas its distinctive smell, but improper dosing can lead to odor fade or over-odorization. Our mercaptan injection systems deliver accurate odorant levels for consistent safety.

Features

  • Automated odorant dosing.

  • Real-time monitoring for compliance.

  • Fail-safe mechanisms to prevent over-injection.

Solutions for Low-Flow Odorization Challenges

Low-flow conditions are common in seasonal demand fluctuations and can cause odor fade. Burgess Pipeline Services addresses these challenges with:

  • High-precision odorant injection systems.

  • Automated monitoring and adjustments.

  • Advanced controls for bypass gas flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is odor fade?


A reduction in the detectability of odorant in natural gas, often caused by absorption or low-flow conditions.

What is added to natural gas to make it smell?


Mercaptan, a sulfur-based compound.

Why would a gas be described as odorless?


Because methane has no natural scent, making odorization essential for safety.

What does mercaptan smell like?


It has a strong sulfur-like odor, similar to rotten eggs.

What is an odorization system?


A system that injects odorant into natural gas streams for leak detection.

Compliance and Safety Standards

Burgess Pipeline Services ensures compliance with:

  • 49 CFR 192.625 – Odorization of Gas.

  • EPA guidelines for odorant handling.

  • ASTM standards for odorant storage and transfer.

Why Choose Burgess Pipeline Services?

  • Expertise in odorization systems and odor fade solutions.

  • Custom solutions for Twin Falls’ unique infrastructure.

  • 24/7 support for emergency odorization and mercaptan odor control.

Contact Us Today

Ready to optimize your pipeline operations in Twin Falls?


Call us at 323-609-5009, email us, or use our live chat for immediate assistance.

 
 
bottom of page