Michell Instruments releases new moisture analyser

Michell Instruments has announced the launch of its latest moisture analyzer for natural gas – the OptiPEAK TDL600.

Using tuneable laser spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology, the new analyzer offers a class leading accuracy with a lower detection limit of less than 1 ppm_v. While TDLAS technology has been used for some time to measure moisture in natural gas, OptiPEAK TDL600 is the first of a new generation of analysers, which overcomes the limitations of older models currently on the market.

Because TDLAS moisture analyzers measure the reaction of molecules to specific frequencies of light, changes in the background composition of gas usually requires that the analyzer is adjusted to maintain its accuracy. Scientists in Michell’s research department have developed the Dynamic Methane Compensation System (D-MET) to overcome this problem.

With D-MET, the OptiPEAK TDL600 is able to measure moisture reliably in natural gas with varying compositions (such as blended gas from multiple fields or following bio-methane or re-gasified LNG injection) without the need for manual software correction factors to be made. With increasing statutory requirements in many regions for bio-methane to be added to gas distribution networks, the analyzer already meets these new parameters.

Furthermore, its lower detection limit of 1 ppm_v makes it the most sensitive instrument of its class on the market, as well as being one of the most reliable. Michell has developed a laser stock system which automatically monitors the optical profile of the gas absorption peaks to ensure the laser remains locked to the correct water absorption signal, maintaining a high integrity measurement at all times. In existing TDLAS models on the market, the laser drift results in a reduction of sensitivity.

The OptiPEAK TDL600 provides a fast response because the optical measurement is non-contact. This means that there are no wet-up or fry-down times – measurements can be made immediately. Plus none of the sensing components are subjected to the gas stream, protecting them from aggressive compounds and harmful contamination.

Calibrated traceable to NPL (UK) and NIST (US), the analyzer also has worldwide hazardous area certification, including ATEX, IECEx, cMETus, TC TR Ex.

The OptiPEAK has also been designed for minimum cost of ownership. With an integrated sampling system and small footprint, it can easily be retrofitted in to existing plant infrastructure. Due to the inherent stability of the instrument, regular field calibration is not required under normal operating conditions. The analyzer will perform reliably for many years with just basic maintenance and housekeeping.

Adapted from a press release by Emma McAleavey.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/product-news/27102014/new-moisture-analyser-for-natural-gas-141/