On-Line Process Chromatographs Optimize Fine Chemicals Production

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Siemens AG

The compact Siemens PGC MicroSAM relies on state-of-the-art micro-mechanics to reduce size whilst increasing performance. Its small dimensions (the size of a soccer ball) and rugged design (IP65, NEMA4X and flameproof enclosure) allow the MicroSAM to be installed almost anywhere on a plant, for example next to a reactor sample point or in an already-crowded analyzer house. Other advantages include:

• lower investment costs through space savings, and the fact that an air-conditioned analyzer house may not be required;

• optimum process control as a result of rapid analysis;

• modular design means reduced stockholding and quicker servicing, thanks to easy replacement of standard parts;

• remote diagnostics to cut maintenance costs;

• very low consumption of power and instrument air.

Excellent long-term stability

Process gas chromatographs must be calibrated regularly using external media or a parallel laboratory analysis. How often this needs to be done depends greatly on external influences, the analytical requirements of the process, and of course the characteristics of the device. The results from a series of calibrations form a guide to the reliability of the equipment under real operating conditions.

The table shows the excellent results produced by the Maxum, which undershot the permissible tolerances by a factor of 10 on average over a period of 44 months. The stability of the MicroSAM was similarly encouraging. For both types of gas chromatographs, this proven high long-term stability means that calibration intervals can be extended to two months without any loss of reliability.

* The author is Business Development Manager for the Sensors and Communication business unit of Siemens AG, Karlsruhe/Germany.

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