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Raman Gas Analyzer System
Using Raman spectroscopy represents major advances in the quality of on-site composition analysis. This system has the accuracy, stability, repeatability and speed to quickly deliver laboratory-grade measurements to an online installation. Furthermore, the system decreases the day-to-day operational effort required to maintain measurement quality.
The natural gas industry demands solid analytical tools. Natural gas energy content calculations and processing equipment efficiencies depend on the quality of the measurements taken. Until now, measurements have been limited to those produced by gas chromatograph-based equipment. Raman spectroscopy raises the standard by providing better measurements with less effort. This equates to decreased monetary risk in custody transfer and inventory control scenarios, and greater efficiency in product processing applications.
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- MEASUREMENT QUALITY
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Raman spectroscopy performance has been proven for over 10
years in industrial environments. The algorithm was developed
in the laboratory and its accuracy has been verified in the field.
Systems installed at LNG terminals confer a high degree of
confidence because the equipment deployed in the field is
exactly the same equipment used in a controlled laboratory
setting. All equipment measurements are standardized as all
units are calibrated by NIST traceable equipment. This is not
the case for vaporizer-GC systems. Furthermore, the RGAS
takes measurements directly in the liquid in LNG applications.
This approach avoids the uncertainties introduced by the
vaporizer and accumulator.
The stability of Raman spectroscopy in LNG applications is not affected by either extreme ranges or rapid changes in flow rate and pressure. In contrast, the vaporizer and accumulator utilized in GC-based systems are adversely affected by these states.
The standard deviation of LNG BTU measurements, as evaluated in the field, is typically 0.25 for all conditions. A GC will typically show much higher variation depending on the flow rate, pressure and composition states of the product.
The speed of Raman spectroscopy is reflected in extemely fast update times. Update times of 12 seconds have been observed in optimized environments. The GC almost universally requires a minimum 5 minute update time.
- *These factors contribute to higher certainty & faster information feeds for natural gas measurements.
- MEASUREMENT MAINTENANCE
- The analyzer is engineered with optical and solid state devices resulting in a very robust system that requires very little maintenance. After commissioning, the Raman spectroscopy analyzer is self-calibrating. There are no consumables except for the laser which has a service life of five or more years, depending on usage. Routine maintenance is limited to dusting ventilation fans and checking coolant levels. Very little training is required for proper operation. All of these features ensure low life-cycle costs.
- ENERGY CONTENT
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The optical analyzer identifies the molecular composition of the
product. This is a common step in calculating energy content and
tracking product inventory. Since flow rate does not adversely
affect Raman produced measurements, the product measurements
taken during the ramp-up and ramp-down phases of the transfer
are valid and may be used for product price calculations.
Custody transfer standards disallow the use of measurements during this time for vaporizer-GC measuring equipment because the equipment does not function well under these conditions. For the first time, measurements taken during the entire transfer process can be incorporated in the energy content calculation. Furthermore, the pressure differences produced by land-based and ship-based pumps will not effect RGAS produced measurements.
Depending on the vaporizer-GC design, these differing pressures may result in measuring the same product differently. The RGAS produces practically no outlier measurements. The update time is typically 5 to 10 times faster than GC-based equipment, further increasing the amount of usable data. Trading partners can rest assured that the analysis is correct because the measurements are thorough and are taken by NIST calibrated equipment. Raman spectroscopy raises the confidence level of trading partners by minimizing the risk of monetary loss due to poor measurements.
- PROCESS CONTROL
-
Laser-based measuring is inherently fast. The Raman analyzer is
then ideally suited for on-line monitoring of continuous processes
operating at high rates.
Possible applications include LN2 blending and LPG spiking. Raman spectroscopy system’s ability to provide real-time, actionable information allows altering of the energy content as the product is transferred to the cargo ship or distribution network. Exporters and importers are now empowered with the option of trading product with a wider range of energy content, thereby opening untapped markets and sources. Composition measurements for liquefaction and vaporization processes will also benefit from the speed of the Raman system.
In general, processing equipment may be operated with increased efficiency and safety due to faster information feeds.
- SYSTEM DESCRIPTION AND INSTALLATION
-
The Raman spectroscopy system is comprised of a probe, a fiber optic cable and a base unit. The probe is inserted into a transfer pipe at the desired
sampling location. One base unit is capable of sampling at four locations allowing one to leverage the
investment. Communication is possible with Data Acquisition Systems via standard protocols.
Programmable Logic Controllers may be embedded in analyzer units. ATEX hardware and
certification is available for installation in hazardous environments.
Summary
The Raman Gas Analyzer System promises to change the way natural gas is measured. Raman spectroscopy is an indispensable tool for buyers and sellers interested in managing monetary risk as well as for process managers desiring to increase production efficiencies.
Please complete our information request form below or dial 1-561-881-8500, and Scientific Instruments associates will supply you with the requested information as quickly as possible.
