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When selecting an analyzer, it’s always a good idea to enlist the advice of a specialist in the field. Do not assume that “one size fits all” or that the analyzer which was correct for a previous job will also be the right choice for another application. The specific details of each application need to be examined closely to prevent disaster, especially in the complex chemical environment.

For the past couple weeks we discussed PPM monitoring in chemical processes; in both Carbon Beds and Oxidizers. This week let's look at a real life solvent recovery application:

Regulations require the chemical industry to continuously monitor VOC emissions and report their compliance status. VOC abatement systems are used to bring exhaust emissions in line with those regulations. Carbon adsorption beds are frequently used in chemical production to control VOC’s by capturing and recycling solvents.

Flame Ionization Detectors (FIDs) are used to monitor the carbon bed exhausts for solvent breakthrough and to control the switching of the carbon beds when they have become saturated.

As we talked about last week, continuous monitoring of the waste stream is necessary to identify the minimum heating value (which also helps determine if it can be used as a standalone fuel source) and ensure proper combustion efficiency.