XOS has released its Petra MAXTM, a new D4294 analyser with combined analysis of 13 elements from P to Zn. Petra MAX delivers high precision sulfur analysis and rapid monitoring of critical elements such has Ca, Fe, K, Ni, and V at sub-ppm levels.
Test methods for measuring sulfur content, like ASTM D4294 and ISO 8754, have become critical for assessing the value of crude oil. The blending of crude oils from different sources has become more commonplace within the industry to meet specifications for the classification of sweet crude oil. The introduction of new crudes brings new challenges, such as higher concentrations of metals known to rapidly deactivate process catalysts in the catalytic cracker and hydrotreaters, and cause pump and exchanger fouling, and off-specification coke.
Petra MAX is powered by HDXRF, utilising XOS’ doubly curved crystal optics, coupled with a high performance silicon drift detector and an intense monochromatic excitation beam. This technology reduces background noise and increases signal-to-noise output, enabling low detection limits and high precision without the need for consumable helium gas, a vacuum pump or extensive sample preparation.
Kyle Kuwitzky, Product Manager for XOS, believes this benefit both refineries and independent labs, stating: “Existing D4294 instruments do not offer simultaneous measurement of sulfur and trace analysis of other critical elements. Petra MAX delivers repeatable sub-ppm measurements of metals like nickel, vanadium, and iron combined with sulfur measurements as low as 5.7ppm.”