Natural Gas Analyzer Nexis GC-2030NGA2 GC-2014NGA2

Significance of the Topic

The precise analysis of natural gas composition underpins accurate calculation of combustion properties, ensures compliance with industry regulations, and supports quality control in energy production and distribution.

Goals and Study Overview

This application note describes a robust gas chromatography method for quantifying major and minor components in natural gas mixtures. The objectives include reliable determination of heating value, relative density, and monitoring of individual gas constituents.

Used Instrumentation

• Shimadzu Nexis GC-2030NGA2 or GC-2014NGA2 system gas chromatograph
• Two switching valves and four packed columns (pre-column, DC-200, MS-5A)
• Thermal conductivity detector (single TCD channel)
• LabSolutions GC workstation with BTU and Specific Gravity calculation software

Methodology and Experimental Approach

Samples are introduced through three sample loops. A pre-column backflush step elutes the C6+ fraction as a single peak. Subsequent valve timing directs C3–C5 hydrocarbons, CO2, and C2H6 onto the DC-200 column for sequential elution to the TCD. Finally, the MS-5A column separates permanent gases (O2, N2, CH4, CO) for TCD detection. The total cycle time is approximately 20–23 minutes.

Main Results and Discussion

The method achieves baseline separation of thirteen analytes, with detection limits as low as 0.01% for most components. A representative chromatogram demonstrates clear resolution of O2, N2, CH4, CO, CO2, C2H6, C3H8, i-C4H10, n-C4H10, i-C5H12, n-C5H12, H2S, and the aggregated C6+ peak.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This analytical workflow offers:

• Comprehensive natural gas profiling for research, QA/QC, and regulatory testing
• Integrated calculation of calorific value and relative density
• High throughput suitable for routine and high-volume laboratories
• Expandable detection capabilities via an additional FID/TCD channel

Future Trends and Opportunities

Anticipated developments include faster column technologies for reduced analysis times, novel stationary phases for enhanced selectivity, AI-driven data processing for automated interpretation, and integration into remote or real-time monitoring platforms.

Conclusion

The described GC-TCD method delivers reliable, standardized analysis of natural gas compositions. Its modular design and software integration support both current operational needs and future methodological enhancements.

References

• ASTM D1945 Standard Test Method for Analysis of Natural Gas by Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D3588 Standard Test Method for Odor Intensity of Natural Gas
• Shimadzu Corporation, System Gas Chromatograph Natural Gas Analyzer Nexis GC-2030NGA2, First Edition, 2017