Fast NGA System with He/H2 Analysis Nexis GC-2030 FNGA-II1 GC-2014 FNGA-II1

Importance of the Topic

Accurate analysis of natural gas composition underpins key industrial processes, including energy content evaluation, pipeline transport quality control, and environmental monitoring. Rapid and reliable gas chromatography methods allow operators to determine heating value, relative density, and track impurities for safe and efficient gas utilization.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents a Fast Natural Gas Analysis (Fast NGA) method using the Shimadzu Nexis GC-2030 FNGA-II (and GC-2014 FNGA-II) systems. The study aims to demonstrate a 10-minute workflow for simultaneous quantification of permanent gases (He, H₂, O₂, N₂, CH₄, CO, CO₂, H₂S) and hydrocarbons (C₂–C6+) in a single run, complying with ASTM D1945, D3588, and GPA-2261.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• System configuration: Five valves, seven packed columns, one capillary column (Rtx-1), two thermal conductivity detectors (TCD-1, TCD-2) and one flame ionization detector (FID).
• Sample handling: Three sample loops and a back-flush pre-column for C6+ as a single peak.
• Separation scheme:
    • C3–C5 hydrocarbons individually resolved on Rtx-1 and detected by FID.
    • Permanent gases and light hydrocarbons separated via packed column P-N to MS-5A and detected by TCD-1.
    • CO₂, C₂, H₂S directed to P-Q column and resolved with TCD-1.
    • He and H₂ separated on MS-5A and measured by TCD-2.
• Software: LabSolutions GC workstation with BTU and specific gravity calculation modules.

Main Results and Discussion

The method achieved baseline separation of 15 components within ten minutes. Detection ranges span 0.01–100% (depending on compound), with detection limits down to 0.001% for C₃–C₆+. Typical chromatograms exhibit clear peaks for all targeted analytes, confirming system repeatability and robustness for routine gas analysis.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Fast analysis cycle increases laboratory throughput.
• Comprehensive profiling of permanent gases and hydrocarbons in a single injection.
• Compliance with standard methods ensures data reliability for custody transfer and quality control.
• Back-flush capability reduces column fouling and maintenance.

Future Trends and Applications

Integration of more sensitive detectors and advanced data processing could enhance low-level impurity detection. Compact GC systems and field-deployable modules may expand on-site monitoring. AI-driven data analytics will further streamline quality assurance workflows.

Conclusion

The Shimadzu Fast NGA method offers a rapid, precise, and standardized approach for natural gas composition analysis. Its high throughput and broad dynamic range make it a valuable tool for energy companies, environmental monitoring agencies, and industrial laboratories.

Reference

• ASTM D1945: Standard Test Method for Analysis of Natural Gas by Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D3588: Standard Test Method for Total Sulfur in Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, and Lubricants by Gas Chromatography
• GPA 2261: Standard Test Method for Analysis of Natural Gas by Gas Chromatography