Wasson Chromatography Corner 25

Importance of the Topic

Chromatographic analysis of refinery gas streams and automation of handling reactive or toxic compounds are essential for modern analytical laboratories. Robust column maintenance further ensures data quality and prolongs instrument life.

Goals and Study Overview

• Introduce the 383DS Super Refinery Gas Analyzer and its expanded detection capabilities.
• Present the Automator controller for safe, automated silane analysis.
• Share practical guidelines for solvent-based column cleaning.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Used Instrumentation:

• 383DS Gas Chromatograph with dual thermal conductivity detectors, dual flame ionization detectors, auxiliary oven and programmable oven for flexible valve and column configurations.
• Automator stand-alone controller featuring configurable digital and analog I/O, four PID loops, touch screen interface and real-time data tracking via AutoVision software.
• Sequential solvent rinse procedure using sample matrix or methanol, followed by methylene chloride or acetone, and hexane under controlled pressure and flow to clean capillary columns.

Main Results and Discussion

• The 383DS system increased sample throughput and minimized required hardware by enabling simultaneous analysis of permanent gases, hydrocarbons, oxygenates and low-level CO/CO2 with an optional methanizer.
• The Automator eliminated human error and exposure by automating pressure control, valve switching between calibration blends and silane sources, ensuring reproducible results.
• The solvent cleaning protocol effectively removed persistent residues without damaging the bonded stationary phase of GC columns.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Comprehensive gas analysis in a single instrument reduces laboratory footprint and operating costs.
• Automation of hazardous sample handling enhances safety and frees researchers for higher-level tasks.
• Standardized column maintenance extends column life and maintains chromatographic performance.

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration of multi-detector systems with advanced ovens for broader analytical coverage in complex matrices.
• Wider adoption of automation platforms for reactive or toxic sample workflows across research and industry.
• Development of environmentally friendly column cleaning methods and in situ maintenance technologies.

Conclusion

The combination of specialized chromatographic analyzers, automated control systems and methodical maintenance protocols delivers efficient, reliable and safe workflows for analytical laboratories, supporting high-quality data across diverse applications.

References

No references provided in the source document.