Problem Solving

Troubleshooting is an intricate part of the work of most engineers. Daily unexpected interruptions happen. A key part of our work is to tackle these and prevent re-occurrence. Quality monitoring systems such as gas chromatographs, FTIR, FT-NIR, and Raman spectrometers most of the time make use of sample handling system that decreases temperature, pressure, solids (filters) and such to match the input capabilities (conditions) of these analyzers. In general extractive, sample conditioning systems are employed, but sometimes measurements can be insitu.

Sample conditioning systems for liquid and gas analyzers are used to ensure a representative sample is presented to the analyzer to achieve optimal accuracy and an improved lifetime of the analyzers and sensors.

The sample conditioning systems can experience a multitude of issues. For example:

• Blockage

• Air bubbles

• Leakages

• Unstable measurements

• Low accuracy

Most problems with sample conditioning systems can usually be traced back to bad design, lack of knowledge of the sample composition and take-off conditions, and/or materials and components used.