Compact gas chromatograph is suited for real-time control
15 Jan 2000
Gas chromatographs are bulky, slow, complicated and can't be set up or maintained without a chromatography specialist on-hand; in short, they're completely unsuited for real-time control of industrial processes. At least, that's the received wisdom. Fisher-Rosemount disagrees.
The GCX system, according to F-R, combines the performance of traditional gas chromatographs with the `ease and flexibility of smart transmitters.' It weighs less than 50kg and is fully modular, with simplified operator interfaces which make set-up and maintenance simple.
Designed for repetitive monitoring of monitor liquid and gas streams in process, pipeline and environmental applications, the GCX can separate, identify and quantify multiple analysis components. According to F-R, it reduces the capital, installation and operating costs of GC analysis, while cutting repair times.
All the system's components - an oven designed to be fully replaceable within minutes; a microprocessor-based analyser configured for high-speed analysis; and flame ionisation and thermal conductivity detectors - are housed within an lightweight and compact explosion-proofed shell. Moreover, the detectors have miniaturised pressure and flow controls which can cut analysis times by half. The electronics are sealed within a vibration-proof unit which also serves to protect them from hazardous substances.
