Shimadzu Simulated Distillation Gas Chromatograph System

Importance of the Topic

The boiling point distribution of petroleum fractions is a critical parameter for process control, refining efficiency and product quality in the petroleum industry. Simulated distillation by gas chromatography (GC) provides a rapid, reproducible alternative to traditional distillation methods and meets stringent international standards. Its ability to characterize light to heavy hydrocarbons with minimal sample volume makes it an essential analytical tool in research, quality assurance and industrial process monitoring.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This article reviews the Shimadzu Simulated Distillation Gas Chromatograph System, consisting of the GC-2030 capillary gas chromatograph, OCI-2030NX on-column injector and LabSolutions simulated distillation software. The system’s compliance with ASTM, ISO, EN and JIS standards for simulated distillation is highlighted. Key objectives include demonstrating the system’s accuracy, reproducibility and high-temperature capability for heavy-end analysis in crude oil and lubricants.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The simulated distillation method uses a nonpolar capillary column to separate hydrocarbons according to boiling point. Calibration is performed by injecting mixtures of n-paraffins with known boiling points to generate a retention time–boiling point curve. Sample analysis applies three approaches:

• Total area method for fractions that fully elute
• Internal standard method for crude samples spiked with selected n-paraffins
• External standard method comparing to reference oils

The LabSolutions software automates calibration, peak detection, distillation curve generation and physical property calculations. It supports conversions to ASTM D86, NOACK, Reid vapor pressure and other parameters.

Used Instrumentation

• Shimadzu GC-2030 Capillary Gas Chromatograph
• OCI-2030NX On-column Injection Unit
• LabSolutions Simulated Distillation GC Analysis Software

Key Results and Discussion

The system achieved excellent reproducibility with relative standard deviations below 0.1% for final boiling points (e.g., ASTM D7500 reference oil). High-temperature analysis up to C120 (boiling point ~750 °C) was demonstrated for heavy lubricating oil and crude fractions. Carryover was minimized by the on-column injector, and system checks met resolution, symmetry and sensitivity criteria. Software-supported overlays of up to 16 distillation curves and statistical comparisons streamline quality control tasks.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The integrated system delivers rapid, high-throughput analysis for gasoline, kerosene, diesel, lubricants and crude oil. Compliance with multiple global standards ensures data acceptance in regulatory and industrial settings. Automated calculations of distillation points, cuts, flash and vapor pressures facilitate process decisions and product specification checks.

Future Trends and Prospects

Advances in data connectivity and networked LabSolutions databases will enable remote monitoring, centralized data management and traceability. Increasing demand for heavy-end characterization may drive development of even higher temperature columns and novel stationary phases. Integration of machine learning algorithms could further enhance peak identification, prediction of physical properties and real-time process control.

Conclusion

Shimadzu’s simulated distillation GC system offers a compliant, high-resolution solution for comprehensive boiling point distribution analysis across a wide range of petroleum products. Its robust instrumentation, versatile software and proven reproducibility make it a valuable asset for laboratories focused on quality control, research and process optimization.