DESCRIPTION

The typical configuration of a measuring system includes a COMBIMASS® series thermal flow meter whose signal is constantly corrected based on the current gas composition and a gas quality measurement in front of the CHP. The analyser station is suitable for the cyclic analysis of methane, CO, CO2 and H2 in the synthesis gas. The CO and H2 contents have a significant influence on the calorific value and are therefore especially accurate to measure. This requires e.g. for hydrogen the use of a COMBIMASS® thermal conductivity sensor developed especially for this case.

The analyser station is completely modular. All pumps, valves and gas modules are individually mounted on DIN rail for easy maintenance. The gas modules can be recalibrated in the station. This serves the long-term stability of the measured values. As an alternative to manual calibration an autocalibration function is also available with permanent connection of one or more test gas cylinders.

The operator can adjust the acceptable deviation of the measurement results from the calibration state for a specific project. If the desired accuracy during recalibration cannot be achieved any more due to actual wear, the gas modules should be checked at the manufacturer. Using traffic light system, service cycles can be automatically adapted to the frequency of use or the accuracy requirements. The current status of the gas modules is signaled by traffic light colors: green – ready for operation and accurate; yellow – maintenance / recalibration is coming soon; red – maintenance now. Due to the traffic light system, service cycles can be automatically adapted to the frequency of use or the accuracy requirements.

The data can be stored internally or transmitted via various standard interfaces. Optional modules for remote dial-in can be used for function testing, maintenance diagnostics and/or data transmission. An optional life bit indicates the operating ability of the station. An (optional) independent power supply executes the operation of the station even after failure of the regular power supply and certainly ensures an alarm message.

The interior of the station and the syngas are monitored for pressure and temperature. Optionally, the measured data can be checked for plausibility and therby increasing the manipulation safety. A key-operated switch or password-protected software prevents improper modification of configuration parameter.

Gas analysis in general requires a high level of technical effort to maintain long-term accuracy and reliability, which is ultimately also reflected in the purchase price and maintenance costs. If several gas analysis instruments are used, not only the cost of ownership and maintenance costs, but also the uncertainty of measurement sum up, so that it is hard to recognise a trend at an early stage.

If an analyser station is sent in for maintenance to the manufacturer, the operator must waive for values during this time. Due to the modular design, all spare and wearing parts can be replaced by the operator himself or by a service company.

The operator can also use a second set of gas modules while the used ones are under revision / refurbishment if the availability requirements are very high. Alternatively, loan modules are available.