Faster moisture analyser

March 2004 Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring

Ametek's Model 3050 OLV process moisture analyser uses a fundamentally different technology, namely a quartz-crystal oscillator to measure moisture. It allows moisture molecules to sit on the surface of the sensor. Even after a high moisture event, excess water is quickly swept away, so quickly that, for a sudden drop from 1000 to 10 ppm, the Model 3050 OLV reaches 90% of steady state reading within minutes.

Moisture concentration is measured directly in parts per million by volume, parts per million by weight, or mass of water per standard volume. There is no need for pressure or temperature compensation as the true moisture concentration is totally independent of these parameters.

The heart of the 3050-OLV analyser is a quartz crystal microbalance sensor and sampling system. The sampling system provides a high degree of accuracy, repeatability and speed of response compared to other moisture analysers.

With its quartz-crystal microbalance method, the sensor is periodically cycled between the process gas and the dried reference gas. During the reference gas cycle, the water molecules are swept off the sensor. This cycling action allows the 3050-OLV to respond to high moisture events and then 'dry down' within minutes, not hours or days - like aluminium-oxide sensors.

Using an integral moisture generator that is NIST-traceable, the 3050-0LV uniquely verifies the accuracy of its measurements. This verification can be programmed at regular intervals, or accomplished by a manual command at any time. During the verification process the analyser can make any necessary small corrections to its calibration automatically. If a severe calibration problem exists, the analyser will provide an alarm.

Each 3050-OLV is supplied with system configuration software that provides a graphical user interface to set up analyser parameters. Accuracy is 10% of the reading from 1 to 2500 ppmv with standard calibration, and sensitivity is 0,1 ppmv or 1% of the reading, whichever is greater, making the 3050-OLV a fast and accurate instrument. The unit is available in various Ex configurations depending on the hazardous area classification. Ametek is represented locally by OEN Enterprises.

For more information contact Noel Bauchop, OEN Enterprises, 011 675 4447, [email protected], www.oenenterprises.co.za

Further reading:

Meteorological data logger with up to 32 analogue sensors
Senseca Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Senseca has introduced its advanced data acquisition system for environmental monitoring, which has a universal data logger for up to 32 analogue, pulse and smart digital sensors.

Read more...

---

Cooling tower bleed control
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Cooling towers rely on evaporation to remove heat, but this process also concentrates dissolved solids in the system. Left unmanaged, this buildup can lead to scaling, corrosion and fouling, reducing efficiency and increasing maintenance costs.

Read more...

---

Importance of gas analysis in the petrochemical industry
Elemental Analytics Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Gas analysis plays a critical role in petrochemical operations, supporting process optimisation, product quality and plant safety. As an experienced and expert gas analysis supplier, Elemental Analytics can provide the correct analyser and sample system package to meet individual plant requirements.

Read more...

---

Expanded test laboratory provides polymer users with more information
igus Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
igus has expanded its international testing facilities to accommodate its increasing product portfolio and enable continuous improvement of its product quality.

Read more...

---

Filters for zero-alcohol wine
Parker Hannifin - Sales Company South Africa Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The market for zero-alcohol wine is creating fresh opportunities for wine producers, but processing these products creates new contamination challenges. Technical support from an established filtration specialist, such as Parker, can help wineries in overcoming the challenges posed by the increased risk of contamination.

Read more...

---

Remote monitoring solution for sewage plants
ifm - South Africa Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
With ifm’s remote monitoring solution, you can visualise the condition of the submersible pumps in your sewage plant and diagnose issues before they become serious problems.

Read more...

---

Precision in every drop, powered by ICP technology
Wearcheck Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
Elemental profiling using Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission spectroscopy provides useful information on the chemical composition of lubricants.

Read more...

---

A trusted oxygen analyser back in action
Elemental Analytics Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
After a period of discontinuation, Servomex’s Oxy 1810 oxygen analyser has officially returned.

Read more...

---

Multi-channel pH and conductivity controller for the water sector
Senseca Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
The measurement of pH and conductivity plays an integral role in water systems. Senseca South Africa has introduced a multi-channel controller that allows the connection of up to five digital sensors and a frequency-emitting flow sensor.

Read more...

---

DEKRA Industrial sets new standards for asset integrity in local petrochemical sector
Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
DEKRA Industrial South Africa has strengthened its position as a leader in hydrogen-induced cracking inspections through a strategic combination of advanced non-destructive testing techniques, investment in state-of-the-art inspection equipment and global technical collaboration.

Read more...

---