February 2008Analytical Instrumentation & Environmental Monitoring
A new process gas chromatograph from Siemens Automation and Drives (A&D) based on micro-technology rapidly and precisely determines the calorific value of natural gas. The Sitrans CV finds application in pipeline monitoring, gas transfer and distribution, gas liquefaction and re-gasification of LNG terminals. The device has a rugged and explosion-proof housing, is compact and suitable for use in extreme conditions from -20 to +55°C. The unit can be mounted directly next to natural-gas pipelines and delivers measured results in less than three minutes.
A primary application of the Sitrans CV is the monitoring of natural gas under custody transfer
The chromatograph determines the quality of natural gas in terms of Wobbe index, calorific value and density, parameters which play an important role in the varied applications of the natural-gas industry. They are particularly important when monitoring the quality of gas under custody transfer. Measurement accuracy is independent of sample pressure or ambient temperature and results can be displayed directly on the device. The instrument uses miniaturised detectors and valves made using micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, resulting in minimal consumption of carrier gas and electricity and eliminating the need for analyser sheltering. The detectors are highly linear requiring only one calibration gas, which means reduced operating costs and increased availability. Automated optimisation of measuring parameters at calibration time ensures a high degree of accuracy and reliability.
Chemical composition of the gas under measurement is determined in accordance with ISO 6976, the measured components being methane up to nonane, nitrogen and carbon dioxide. The detection limit for pentane and higher hydrocarbons is between 10 and 50 ppm. The measuring error is less than 0,1% with repeatability greater than 0,01% and internal switching functionality allows up to four sample streams to be measured successively.
Due to its modular design the device can be maintained quickly and easily. All the analytical components, including the oven, are integrated in an analytic module that can be replaced within five minutes through plug-and-play capability. This reduces the average maintenance time to half an hour. The Windows-based software is user-friendly, simple and clear. A password protection system prevents unauthorised access to the device's parameters and analysis results, while a logbook documents all alarms and manipulation.
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