Agilent 490 Micro GC Solution - Data Sheet

Importance of the Topic

Precise and rapid gas composition analysis is critical for applications ranging from natural gas quality verification to catalyst research. Achieving accurate results in seconds rather than minutes supports real-time process control, enhances product quality, and reduces operational costs in industries such as oil and gas, fuel cell development, and specialty gas production.

Objectives and Study Overview

This data sheet presents the design and performance features of the Agilent 490 Micro GC, a fifth-generation micro-gas chromatograph. Key objectives include demonstrating its rapid analysis capabilities, flexibility in channel configuration, ease of use both in laboratory and field settings, and its suitability for continuous monitoring and decision-making support.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Agilent 490 Micro GC integrates one to four analytical channels, each composed of a micro-machined injector, column oven, and thermal conductivity detector (TCD). Advanced micro-electronic gas control with time-programmable backflush reduces column fouling and extends lifetime. System control and data handling rely on Agilent OpenLAB CDS software and standard network protocols.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent 490 Micro GC with 1–4 analytical channels
• Micro-machined injector (1–10 µL injection volume, optional heated up to 110 °C)
• Thermal Conductivity Detector (dual-channel sample/reference)
• Column oven (isothermal up to 180 °C)
• Optional accessories: micro-gasifier, membrane filters, stream selection valves
• Software: Agilent OpenLAB CDS EZChrom/ChemStation with natural gas property calculations

Main Results and Discussion

Detection limits for the TCD range from 0.5 ppm for WCOT capillary columns to 10 ppm for micropacked columns. The instrument achieves full-scale analysis within seconds, offering a linear dynamic range up to 10^6. Repeatability is better than 0.5% RSD for target components. Environmental and power specifications support both laboratory and field deployment. Weight and dimensions allow portable configurations with battery operation up to 8 hours.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid gas quality analysis in seconds, enabling real-time process adjustments.
• Modular channel design allows application-specific reconfiguration without downtime.
• Compact and rugged housing ideal for online, at-line, or remote field analysis.
• Supports a broad range of applications: natural gas calorimetry, refinery gas analysis, biogas monitoring, air quality, safety testing, and fuel cell research.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in microfabrication and detector technologies will continue to shrink analyzer size while improving sensitivity and selectivity. Integration with wireless networks and cloud-based analytics will facilitate distributed monitoring and predictive maintenance. Development of novel column chemistries and detector types may expand the range of detectable compounds, enabling new applications in environmental and industrial process control.

Conclusion

The Agilent 490 Micro GC delivers a versatile and high-speed solution for gas mixture analysis, combining micro-scale design with industrial-grade performance. Its modular architecture, rapid cycle times, and robust operation make it a valuable tool for both routine quality control and advanced research applications.

Reference

• Agilent 490 Micro GC brochure; Pub. 5991-6041EN
• Agilent 490-PRO Micro GC for Process Monitoring; Pub. 5991-6056EN
• Agilent 490 Micro GC Biogas Analyzers; Pub. 5990-9517EN
• Agilent 490 Micro GC Natural Gas Analyzers; Pub. 5991-0301EN