Optronics Technology AS is revolutionizing gas detection with advanced infrared technology. Focused on sustainability and scalable production, the company is driving innovation across key industries, including oil and gas, marine, and green energy, while advancing Norway’s leadership in this critical field.

Optronics Technology AS, with over 40 years of experience in the gas detection industry, has rapidly established itself as a leader in optical gas detection. Founded in 2018 by industry veterans Lasse Irvam, Preben Storås, and Even Rognlien, Optronics was formed to preserve and further develop Norway’s legacy in infrared gas detection technology. By combining cutting-edge innovation, scalable production capabilities, efficient logistics, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Optronics is at the forefront of industries requiring precise and reliable gas detection systems, including oil and gas, marine, infrastructure, and green energy.

The Legacy and Vision

Optronics Technology AS has its roots in the early innovations of infrared gas detection, particularly the development of the first solid-state infrared source in collaboration with SINTEF, one of Europe’s largest independent research organisations. This technology set a benchmark for stability, longevity, and durability in gas detection, especially in harsh environments. However, after a shift in ownership and the relocation of production overseas in 2017, Norway’s leadership in the sector began to diminish.

In response, Optronics’ founders took a bold step to reclaim Norway’s expertise by establishing a new company. Their mission was clear: to design the world’s best infrared gas detectors and maintain Norway’s leadership in this critical field. Optronics is dedicated to pushing technological boundaries whilst ensuring its products and processes meet the highest standards of sustainability and efficiency.

Sustainability, Logistics, and Scalable Production

At the core of Optronics Technology’s operations is a strong commitment to sustainability, logistics efficiency, and modular, scalable production. This year, Optronics has a production capacity of 20,000 units, with the ability to quickly scale up to meet rising global demand. The production process is designed to be both flexible and efficient, allowing for seamless adjustments in response to market needs.

Optronics employs a bulk shipping model, distributing products to handpicked partners around the world. This bulk distribution strategy optimises logistics and minimises environmental impact by reducing the frequency of transport, using less packaging material, and incorporating recycled materials throughout the production process. This approach significantly lowers the company’s carbon footprint, aligning with Optronics’ mission of sustainability. The company’s focus on sustainability is evident across every area of its operations, from research and development (R&D) to final delivery.

By reducing transportation and packaging needs, Optronics minimises waste and emissions, creating a more sustainable operation in every aspect. The company’s products are shipped in bulk to reduce environmental costs, while recycled materials in production and packaging further contribute to their sustainability efforts.

Technological Prowess and Innovation

Optronics Technology is built on a foundation of in-house expertise and control over every stage of production—from microchip design to the final assembly of its gas detectors. The company’s commitment to controlling every step of its process has enabled it to innovate rapidly and consistently deliver cutting-edge products to the market.

The flagship product, the PG11 optical point detector, exemplifies this technological prowess. Designed for detecting flammable gases and CO2, the PG11 combines explosion-proof durability, lifetime factory calibration, and advanced condition monitoring. These features minimise the need for maintenance and maximise uptime, which is essential in high-risk industries where safety and operational efficiency are paramount.

The PG11 stands out thanks to its Solid State Infrared SafeSource™ technology, which ensures exceptional stability and longevity, even in extreme environments. Additionally, its modular design allows for easy integration with various systems, increasing its versatility across industries. This modularity is crucial to Optronics’ strategy of scalable production, ensuring its products can be tailored to meet specific customer needs without requiring a complete overhaul of the production line.

Optronics’ focus on a strong process-engineered structure guarantees that every component, down to the smallest part, is rigorously tested for reliability. The company’s all-in-one approach, which includes R&D, design for manufacturing (DFM), laboratory testing, and management within a single facility, enables streamlined production processes and enhances the overall quality and consistency of its products.

Meeting Market Demands Across Multiple Sectors

Optronics Technology’s products are designed to meet the high standards of industries where safety and reliability are paramount. The company has established partnerships with key players in the oil and gas, marine, infrastructure, and green energy sectors, providing gas detection solutions tailored to the unique demands of each market.

In the oil and gas industry, managing hazardous gases is critical. Optronics’ detectors, particularly the PG11, play a vital role in ensuring safety by detecting flammable and toxic gases before they can cause harm. The PG11 is built to withstand extreme temperatures and vibrations, making it an ideal choice for the rigorous conditions found in oil and gas operations.

Similarly, in the marine sector, Optronics’ gas detectors are tested and certified to meet the latest maritime standards. The harsh marine environment requires detection systems that can operate reliably under extreme conditions, and Optronics’ products provide essential protection for both workers and passengers, as well as the surrounding environment.

In infrastructure industries such as pulp and paper, food and beverage, and chemical manufacturing, gas leaks can have disastrous consequences, leading to contamination, explosions, or environmental damage. Optronics’ gas detectors are essential for maintaining safe industrial operations, reducing the risk of accidents, and ensuring the smooth running of critical infrastructures.

As the world transitions towards green energy, Optronics is also leading the way by providing robust gas detection solutions for applications such as LNG, biogas production, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). These systems play a crucial role in preventing explosions, poisoning, and asphyxiation during the production and storage of green energy.

A Fully Integrated Process and Global Reach

One of Optronics Technology’s key differentiators is its fully integrated supply chain, which encompasses all aspects of the production process. From R&D to DFM, laboratory testing, and management, all operations are housed under one roof. This integration enables Optronics to maintain full control over the production process, ensuring both quality and scalability. The result is a robust process-engineered structure that delivers reliability down to the smallest component, ensuring that Optronics’ products are both safe and dependable.

The company’s global reach is achieved through its trusted network of handpicked partners, which allows Optronics to distribute its products worldwide. All sales are conducted through this network, ensuring that Optronics’ detectors are deployed efficiently across the globe while maintaining sustainability at every stage of the process.

Quality and Safety First

Optronics Technology AS adheres to stringent international standards and certifications, ensuring that its products meet the highest safety and reliability criteria. For example, the PG11 is certified for use in hazardous environments and complies with globally recognised standards such as ATEX, IECEx, and cFMus.

Looking Ahead

As Optronics Technology AS continues to innovate and expand, its dedication to sustainability, logistics efficiency, and scalable production remains central to its mission. By continually pushing the boundaries of gas detection technology and ensuring that its products meet evolving industry demands, Optronics is positioned to lead the way in sustainable manufacturing and gas detection solutions for years to come.To learn more about how Optronics Technology AS is setting a new standard for sustainable practices in the global market, visit Optronics Technology AS.