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#208 - Tenova Core Receives Order from Bilstein Group for Bell-Type Furnaces

From industrialheating.com:

Tenova Core has been contracted by Bilstein Cold Rolled Steel LP for the design and supply of HPH (high-performance hydrogen) bell-type furnaces for installation at its facility in Bowling Green, Ky. The furnaces will be used to anneal steel strip coils in a 100% hydrogen atmosphere. The project scope includes: HPH heating hoods, annealing bases and JET cooling hoods as well as associated equipment and process-control systems. 

A special high-performance recirculation system ensures effective gas circulation and superior temperature uniformity. The annealing-base design is optimized for obtaining the lowest dew point possible and can be used for annealing almost any grade of steel strip coil. It also provides many years of dependable operation while requiring minimal maintenance. JET cooling requires no cooling water and ensures homogeneous cooling of all coils.

A bell furnace is a batch-operated heat-treatment furnace in which products are heated under a movable dome. It is used for heat treatment of sheet and light-section rolled products in a controlled gaseous medium. Tenova’s HPH system uses hydrogen as the atmosphere gas and features high-convection technology. The advantages of hydrogen compared with nitrogen include lower density, higher thermal conductivity and improved reduction potential, resulting in enhanced strip cleanliness. As a result, this technology has established itself as a standard throughout the world.

Bell furnaces are classified according to use (treatment of coils of narrow strip, sheets, rods, and so on). The most common bell furnaces are the single-stack and multistack types used for annealing coils of cold-rolled steel strip. In multistack bell furnaces, three to eight stacks, each of which has its own muffle for protection against the effects of the hot air and products of combustion, are mounted on a rectangular stand under the heating dome. Each stack is 3–5 m high and contains three to five coils with a total weight of up to 180 tons.

The bell furnace dome is heated by gas or electrical resistance heaters. Upon completion of the heating process, the dome is transferred by crane to another stand and the products are left to cool under the muffles on the first stand. Heat exchange under the muffle is intensified by forced circulation of controlled gas. Cooling is accelerated by wetting the muffle with water or blowing cold air over it.

During treatment in a bell furnace the coils of strip are loose, with spaces between the coil loops so that the gas circulates between the loops and flows over the entire surface of the strip, which makes possible thermochemical treatment and acceleration of heating and cooling.

For more information, contact Tenova Core at:

Tenova Core

Cherrington Corporate Center

100 Corporate Center Drive

Coraopolis, PA 15108-3185

Phone: (412) 262-2240

Fax: (412) 262-2055
core@tenova.com

Plant photo of bell furnaces from Tenova Core.
Bell furnace diagram from Industrial Heating article The Annealing Process Revealed (Part Three: Annealing of Steel Coils) Some information from Tenova Core website and from The Great Soviet Encyclopedia, 3rd Edition (1970-1979). © 2010 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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#207 - Tenova Goodfellow to optimize twin shell EAFs at Steel Dynamics Inc.

Mississauga, 17 February 2015: Tenova Goodfellow receives PO for two (2) EFSOP holistic optimization® systems including water detection for both twin shell EAFs at Steel Dynamics Inc. Butler, IN.

In Post #205, we discussed the basic operation of an electric arc furnace (EAF). One of type EAF is known as ‘twin shell’. From Wikipedia:

The scrap basket is then taken to the melt shop, the roof is swung off the furnace, and the furnace is charged with scrap from the basket. Charging is one of the more dangerous operations for the EAF operators…In some twin-shell furnaces, the scrap is charged into the second shell while the first is being melted down, and pre-heated with off-gas from the active shell…After charging, the roof is swung back over the furnace and meltdown commences. The electrodes are lowered onto the scrap, an arc is struck and the electrodes are then set to bore into the layer of shred at the top of the furnace. Lower voltages are selected for this first part of the operation to protect the roof and walls from excessive heat and damage from the arcs. Once the electrodes have reached the heavy melt at the base of the furnace and the arcs are shielded by the scrap, the voltage can be increased and the electrodes raised slightly, lengthening the arcs and increasing power to the melt. This enables a molten pool to form more rapidly, reducing tap-to-tap times.

Tenova Goodfellow has significant expertise in making this and other types of EAF operate more efficiently and effectively.

Steel Dynamics Inc., has confirmed an order with Tenova Goodfellow for the supply and purchase of two (2) EFSOP holistic optimization® systems for both EAF batteries at their SDI, Butler, IN steelmaking facility. Tenova’s innovative technology and value proposition will provide full spectrum evaluation via upstream and downstream offgas analysis and water detection technology for all 4 EAF shells. The scope of supply will also include newly developed optical sensors for the measuring of off-gas velocity and temperature.

The order which was received in December 2014, included project work that was scheduled to begin immediately with the manufacturing of hardware & sensors at TGI’s Hamilton, ON production facility, Nova Analytical Systems. Installation and commissioning of the systems is scheduled to take place by April 2015.

About SDI Steel Dynamics, Inc. - one of the largest domestic steel producers and metals recyclers in the United States based on estimated annual steelmaking and metals recycling capability, with annual sales of $7.4 billion in 2013, over 7,400 employees, and manufacturing facilities primarily located throughout the United States (including six steel mills, six steel processing facilities, two iron production facilities, over 90 metals recycling locations and six steel fabrication plants).

About Tenova Goodfellow - part of the Metals Division of Tenova and is a leader in the design and supply of process control technology for the EAF and BOF markets. Tenova is a worldwide supplier of advanced technologies, products and engineering services for the iron & steel and mining industries providing innovative, integrated solutions for complete process areas. Tenova's network companies operate in 26 countries on 5 continents with more than 4,900 people.

For more information on EAF optimization, please contact:

Tenova Goodfellow Inc.

6711 Mississauga Road, Suite 200

Mississauga, ON

L5N 2W3 - Canada

Phone +1 905 567 3030

Fax +1 905 567 3899

goodfellow@ca.tenovagroup.com

#206 - Heart and Soul takes over 270 Sherman

We saw this article about the arts side of our facility in today’s paper:

Thursday, February 12, 2015
Hamilton Spectator
By Saira Peesker 

Arts and wellness festival beginning of ‘larger conversation’ about living sustainably

The Cotton Factory, an artist loft complex at 270 Sherman Ave. N., is like a city unto itself, several converted factory buildings teeming with art studios, workshops and businesses big and small. This weekend, its largest room — the size of a small arena — will hold a city of its own, as two-day arts and wellness festival Heart and Soul takes over.

"I see this as a park or a city block and we'll build a little city in this block," explained Annette Paiement, the event's founder, as she walked through the cavernous space, pointing out which sections would have vendor booths and which would have workshops.

Her vision is for an outdoor festival, but inside — a break from the solitude that comes with winter. The room is certainly big enough.

"I'm asking people to bring their lawn chairs and blankets."

The event starts each day with 11 a.m. yoga, followed by a suite of workshops, talks and performances. Session titles include Mindfulness: Coping with Stress; Heartbeats and Native Storytelling; Elysium Tribal Dance Presentation; and Sustainable Food and You. Admission to the event is free, but some of the workshops charge a fee.

TriciaCook courtesy Natalie Clewley
Hamilton Aerial Group performs
La Nuit de Couer Cabaret at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

"A lot of people will be set up to do mini-massages or other mini-treatments," she added. 

The event serves as a launch for the Centre for Artistic Sustainable Lifestyles, a co-working space being built in the west end of the massive room. Paiement is CASL's executive director and envisions a communal office for people working in alternative wellness, non-profit ventures and the arts.

"Heart and Soul is like a soft launch for the kinds of things we want taking place at CASL year round," she said.

Paiement also plans to expand the event to other cities. She sees the event — and the co-working space — as ways to bring people together to change the world.

"I think about sustainability and the state of the world right now, and we are at a crossroads," she said. "The only thing that is going to save us is each person on an individual level being responsible for themselves. Looking at how they do everything: how they shop, how they cook, how they make money.

"It all has to inform the larger conversation."

A lot more goes on here than just analytical technology.

NOVA Analytical Systems

270 Sherman Ave North

Article cited from: http://www.thespec.com/living-story/5333770-heart-and-soul-takes-over-270-sherman/

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#205 - What is iEAF?

In Post #194, we asked the question - What is iBOF? In this post we will discuss iEAF.

To begin, it will be helpful to describe EAF. The acronym stands for Electric Arc Furnace and is used to describe a method of steelmaking that heats the charged material using a powerful electric arc originating from large graphite electrodes.

From Wikipedia: 

An electric arc furnace used for steelmaking consists of a refractory-lined vessel, usually water-cooled in larger sizes, covered with a retractable roof, and through which one or more graphite electrodes enter the furnace. The furnace is primarily split into three sections:

• the shell, which consists of the sidewalls and lower steel "bowl";
• the hearth, which consists of the refractory that lines the lower bowl;
• the roof, which may be refractory-lined or water-cooled, and can be shaped as a section of a sphere, or as a frustum (conical section). The roof also supports the refractory delta in its centre, through which one or more graphite electrodes enter.

The hearth may be hemispherical in shape, or in an eccentric bottom tapping furnace, the hearth has the shape of a halved egg. In modern meltshops, the furnace is often raised off the ground floor, so that ladles and slag pots can easily be maneuvered under either end of the furnace. Separate from the furnace structure is the electrode support and electrical system, and the tilting platform on which the furnace rests. Two configurations are possible: the electrode supports and the roof tilt with the furnace, or are fixed to the raised platform.

iEAF stands for “intelligent Electric Arc Furnace” and is a trademark of Tenova Goodfellow Inc. The iEAF system is a progressive, modular technology package designed to provide sustainable long-term cost savings to steelmakers. The system uses dynamic control and holistic optimization of the EAF process.

iEAF® enabling technology can be applied to all variations of the EAF process including: 

• top charge melting furnaces (bucket and/or shaft) using scrap, DRI and/or pig iron;
• the Consteel® process (iConsteel®) with or without hot metal;
• continuous DRI fed furnaces (iDRI®).

While the basic structure remains constant, the automation hardware, software and communication modules can be customized according to the individual customer’s existing automation system and network.

The iEAF technology package is comprised of well-defined modules which each focus on a specific aspect of the EAF process. 

• MODULE 1 - Dynamic Chemical Energy Control & Optimization (EFSOP)
• MODULE 2 - Dynamic Melting Control
• MODULE 3 - Dynamic End-Point Control

While the iEAF® can be easily integrated with any existing automation and process control system, the cornerstone and necessary first step in the iEAF® technology program is EFSOP® off-gas analysis; other off-gas analysis methods which cannot provide complete analysis of CO, CO2, H2 and O2 lack a necessary prerequisite for determining an online Mass & Energy Balance which is critical for efficient energy utilization and effective dynamic control of the melting and refining processes.

MAIN BENEFITS

• Dynamic Control & Optimization of the Melting & Refining Process

• Electrical Energy Savings

• Fuel Savings

• Reduced Power-On Time

• Increased Yield

• Reduced Tap Additions

• Electrode, Delta & Refractory Savings

• Reduced Tap-to-Tap Time

• Reduced Emissions

There are other add-on technologies that are available under the iEAF umbrella. We’ll elaborate on those in a future post.

For more information, contact:

Tenova Goodfellow Inc.

6711 Mississauga Road, Suite 200

Mississauga, ON

L5N 2W3 - Canada

Phone +1 905 567 3030

Fax +1 905 567 3899

goodfellow@ca.tenovagroup.com

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#204 - Zamboni engine exhaust

Canada’s 2014 gold victory at the IIHF World Juniors was great fun for Canadians especially. But in general, the speed of play and puck handling during the World Junior tournaments is always a marvel to watch.

FRANK GUNN / THE CANADIAN PRESS

And we found this fun pic
for the Habs fans on Pinterest.

Explanations of the physical mechanics of ice skating have evolved over the years. From Wikipedia: 

A skate can slide over ice because the ice molecules at the surface cannot properly bond with the molecules of the mass of ice beneath and thus are free to move like molecules of liquid water. These molecules remain in a semi-liquid state, providing lubrication. 

It had long been believed that ice is slippery because the pressure of an object in contact with it causes a thin layer to melt. The hypothesis was that the blade of an ice skate, exerting pressure on the ice, melts a thin layer, providing lubrication between the ice and the blade. This explanation, called "pressure melting", originated in the 19th century. This, however, did not account for skating on ice temperatures lower than −3.5 °C, whereas skaters often skate on lower-temperature ice. In the 20th century, an alternative explanation, called "friction heating", was proposed, whereby friction of the material was causing the ice layer melting. However, this theory also failed to explain skating at low temperature. In fact, neither explanation explained why ice is slippery when standing still even at below-zero temperatures.

Professor Gabor Somorjai of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has studied the mechanics of skating and has found that an ice skate blade actually glides on vertically vibrating ice molecules that behave in a ‘liquid-like’ manner without actually melting and turning into liquid.

Many hockey players and coaches agree that good skating is a combination of strength and technique. But smooth skating and puck-handling are also enabled by a device that is usually activated when no skaters are on the ice. A resurfacing machine is used to wash the ice, shave the surface, and leave behind a layer of water that will freeze to form a fresh layer of ice. One of the most well-known examples in North America of an ice resurfacing machine is the Zamboni.

In 1949, Mr. Frank Zamboni developed the world’s first ice resurfacing machine. Based on a Jeep chassis, this machine automatically and quickly provided all of the necessary operations required for pristine skating ice. It also had built-in reservoirs to collect the old shaved ice and distribute the new ice-making water.

Newer Zamboni models are available with electric power supplied by rechargeable batteries. However, many of the Zamboni engines are powered by gas, propane, or CNG (compressed natural gas), similar to fork lift trucks. With an internal combustion engine, there will be an exhaust gas flow. Because these vehicles function indoors in a populated environment, it is important to keep the engines in good repair to minimize impact on indoor air quality.

Nova has various gas analysis capabilities including the gases that typically make up engine exhaust. Our 7460 Series Portable Engine Exhaust Analyzers are available in various combinations including O2, CO, CO2, HC, & NOx. Our customers have used this analyzer on diesel, gasoline, propane, or natural gas powered 2 and 4 cycle engines.

The 7460 Series is a portable analyzer that uses infrared and electrochemical sensors / detectors. Here it is in our on-line catalog.

We aren’t engine mechanics. However, we do build these analyzers to meet Bar 97 and ISO 3930/OIML R99, Class O specifications. Therefore, many mechanics have effectively used this analyzer for reliable engine tuning and emissions reduction. We have noticed that this analyzer is also popular among equipment mechanics who work on forklifts and other non-road vehicles such as Zambonis.

Added March 2013 - We have noticed that our fork-lift customers frequently print on the analyzer cabinet the target gas readings for a properly tuned engine. For example, we have a couple of units in the Nova lab right now being calibrated for one of our customers. They have printed the following target gas readings on the analyzer:

O2: 0.8 % to 2.0 %

CO: 0.1% to 0.8 %

CO2: more than 11.0 %

HC's: less than 200ppm

If you are in the business of tuning engines and require analysis of engine exhaust, ask Mike or Dave for help with the 7460 Series Gas Analyzers.

If you're a Leafs fan, there may not be anything we can do to help you.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

Zamboni pics from Zamboni website.

#203 - Nova Analyzers from the Field – Episode 10 – Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Analysis

Measuring hydrogen (H2) is something we do a lot of here at Nova. We can measure it in a mixed background of other gases, or in a binary mixture of H2 in one other gas such as O2, N2, Ar, etc.

One application that generally requires H2 analysis in a binary mixture with N2 is fuel cell operation and development. We were sent some pics a while back from a fuel cell manufacturer. They use Nova instruments to measure H2.

From Wikipedia, a general description of fuel cell operation is as follows:

Fuel cells come in many varieties; however, they all work in the same general manner. They are made up of three adjacent segments: the anode, the electrolyte, and the cathode. Two chemical reactions occur at the interfaces of the three different segments. The net result of the two reactions is that fuel is consumed, water or carbon dioxide is created, and an electric current is created, which can be used to power electrical devices, normally referred to as the load.

At the anode a catalyst oxidizes the fuel, usually hydrogen, turning the fuel into a positively charged ion and a negatively charged electron. The electrolyte is a substance specifically designed so ions can pass through it, but the electrons cannot. The freed electrons travel through a wire creating the electric current. The ions travel through the electrolyte to the cathode. Once reaching the cathode, the ions are reunited with the electrons and the two react with a third chemical, usually oxygen, to create water or carbon dioxide.

  

The most important design features in a fuel cell are:

• The electrolyte substance. The electrolyte substance usually defines the type of fuel cell.
• The fuel that is used. The most common fuel is hydrogen.
• The anode catalyst breaks down the fuel into electrons and ions. The anode catalyst is usually made up of very fine platinum powder.
• The cathode catalyst turns the ions into the waste chemicals like water or carbon dioxide. The cathode catalyst is often made up of nickel but it can also be a nanomaterial-based catalyst.

In the specific project from which the field pictures were taken, the requirement was for measurement of 0-100.0 % H2. The sample is typically 70-90% H2 in balance N2, and is obtained at the anode portion of the fuel cell. Measuring the H2 here is useful in evaluating what the cell’s power output will be.

The sample itself is clean and basically dry, with the possibility of occasional moisture in some operation conditions. The gas analyzer has a condensate collection system and a liquid block membrane to avoid water infiltration to the detector. The sample gas is under pressure up to 1.2 barg (17psig). The analyzer has a built-in regulator. The fuel cell manufacturer uses a peristaltic pump to push the sample that is vented out of the analyzer back into the process to maintain the system gas composition.

Connection to the analyzer itself is quite simple, as shown in this picture.

One potential safety concern is related to the possibility of a gas leak occurring inside the analyzer cabinet. We can offer an ex-proof leak detector that is mounted in the cabinet which will de-power the analyzer in the event of a leak. To actively dilute a potential leak, we can also arrange a continuous vent flow through the analyzer using a fan. This is only suitable in clean environments with stable warm temperatures.

On this project, the fuel cell manufacturer and end-user have been very happy with the Nova units. They have since ordered a few spare filters in anticipation of normal maintenance.

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

If you have any Nova instruments at your plant or lab and want to share a couple of photos, feel free to send them to us along with a brief explanation of your application.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

*Fuel cell diagrams from Wikipedia, in public domain.

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#202 - GE 7216 V2.2 H2 Analyzer available at Nova

Over the years, we have had many requests for an analyzer system called GE 7216 V2.1 or V2.2. We used to manufacture this product for GE. It was specifically for use as a stator leak detector on large electric generators. In time, some of the components and technologies used in this analyzer were discontinued and subsequently updated.

We have also noticed that the functionality of some of these systems has been impaired by moisture ingress over the years. On most sites, the moisture removal systems prior to the H2 detector have been designed and installed by the original generator provider. If these fail, moisture can enter the H2 detector and ruin it.

Even though the GE 7216 V2 is no longer available to electric power providers, we do have a couple of options to allow you to proceed with a solution.

Replacement detector assembly – If all of the other components on the system are functioning properly, and an updated detector is all that is needed, we may be able to provide a heated box assembly with the updated detector inside. This option is not available in every case, but may be worth inquiring about.

Replacement gas analyzer – The GE 7216 V2 product was in production quite a number of years ago. Many of the installations are getting old or have been contaminated with water, and require replacement instead of repair. The Models 430VN4 and 430QN4 Continuous Hydrogen Monitor are available for this purpose.

The various components are now protected inside a common NEMA 4 wall-mount cabinet. The H2 reading is displayed locally on the analyzer cabinet, and is also sent to an analog 4-20mA output. As an option, we can make this an isolated or non-isolated output. We can also provide a hydrogen alarm with indicator light and relay contact.

The slight difference in model numbers designates the design of moisture removal system. Some installations have a supply in instrument air already connected to the old 7216 module. The new 430VN4 can also utilize this air supply. If there is no instrument air available, the model 430QN4 can be used instead.

If you have a 7216 and are experiencing age- or moisture-related problems, we can undoubtedly assist you. Contact us by e-mail. Be sure to state your 4-digit serial number and full model number.

1-800-295-3771

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

https://twitter.com/NOVAGAS

http://www.linkedin.com/company/nova-analytical-systems-inc-

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#201 - Top 10 Nova Blog Posts from 2014

Probably everyone does a year-end post about what content was most popular on their blog. The areas of interest sometimes indicate an explainable trend, and sometimes they don’t. Nova is a technical company that manufactures analytical instruments. So our audience tends to be of the engineering and analytical types.

Our top 10 posts from 2014 are the following:

1. Post #167 - Using the Energiron Process with SynGas for DRI Production
2. Post #169 - Most Common Connections to Nova Analyzers (electrical & tubing)
3. Post #175 - Tenova Factories
4. Post #171 - New TGI White paper - Real-Time Water Detection in EAF Steelmaking
5. Post #173 - Nova tech climbs Mount Kilimanjaro
6. Post #168 - Nova Analyzers from the Field – Episode 4
7. Post #172 - Ash Classification Technology for Coal-fired Power Plants
8. Post #174 - Nova Analyzers from the Field – Episode 5
9. Post #178 - Nova Analyzers from the Field – Episode 6
10. Post #182 - Oil & Gas Spills Increase in 2013

For the most part, these posts from 2014 have simply accumulated higher popularity because they are from the first half of the year and are obviously older than any recent posts.

In terms of persistent interest, our ‘Analyzers from the Field’ posts seem to do well. People are always interested in reading about something ‘real world’. Frequently, these instruments have been in service for a number of years and have some kind of back-story that may be instructive.

Regarding Post #173 mentioned above, in May of 2014, one of our tech staff ventured to Africa to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Lots of readers from inside and outside the Tenova Group were interested to hear the story and see the pictures. We still have tons of pics besides what we posted. We'll share a few more soon. 

Our all-time #1 post continues to be Post #70 - "Post #5 is our most popular blog post (Syngas and Gasification)". This one started out as a commentary on another popular post and then itself became most widely read. It indicates the continued interest in measuring the gas compositions produced by gasifiers.

Looking forward to 2015!

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

If you have any Nova instruments at your plant or lab and want to share a couple of photos, feel free to send them to us along with a brief explanation of your application.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

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#200 - Nova Analyzers from the Field - Episode 9 (Studies of CO2 Absorption / Desorption by Amine Solutions)

We were recently sent a published paper containing a brief mention of a Nova analyzer. The paper itself is about the kinetics of CO2 absorption in various aqueous amine solutions. We have periodically addressed this type of application over the years. As carbon dioxide (CO2) becomes more prominently connected with concerns about greenhouse gases, we expect to see more of it in the future also.

From the Introduction of the paper: 

“The separation of acid gas impurities such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from gas mixtures is an important operation in natural gas processing, petroleum refining, coal gasification and ammonia manufacturing industries. Since CO2 is widely regarded as a major greenhouse gas, potentially contributing to global warming, recently, there has also been considerable interest in developing technologies for capturing and sequestering large quantities of CO2 produced from industrial sources such as fossil-fuel electric power generation facilities. Various technologies have been developed for CO2 and H2S removal from gas streams. These include absorption by chemical and physical solvents, cryogenic separation and membrane separation. Among these methods, gas absorption by chemical solvents such as aqueous solutions of alkanolamines is one of the most popular and effective methods.”

Even though this area of study has been active and applied in industry for over 50years, the authors note that complete investigations with mathematical models for absorption and desorption have been lacking. The authors then present a more unified approach in an effort to allow more standardized evaluations of this application across different reactions.

In this study, a novel design of laboratory contactor apparatus was used for interfacial contact between the amine and CO2. This apparatus allows for accurate and easier evaluation of physical mass transfer between the reactants. A diagram of the apparatus as presented in the paper is shown below.

The complete experimental setup from the paper is shown below:

After the dryer and just prior to the fume hood, the CO2 analyzer is shown in the above setup diagram. In this particular study the authors cite the Nova Model 300 infrared analyzer. In our experience, we have supplied a couple of different instruments for this type of application.

-          Model 302A – CO2 analysis by infrared detector

-          Model 336BT – CO2 analysis by thermal-conductivity (not shown in on-line catalog)

In one application in 2013, we supplied multiple units of Model 336BT in two ranges:

-          0-25.0 % CO2 in Air

-          0-100.0 % CO2 in Air

This application was for a large educational training assembly that involved the same absorption reactions between amine & CO2 mentioned above. The different instrument ranges corresponded to different points in the process before & after CO2 absorption. Purchasing separate instruments allowed simultaneous measurement of each point over a specific period of time.

In most cases, these studies are performed using portable instruments that provide accurate analysis on a temporary / intermittent basis. A wall-mounted version of this instrumentation can also be produced. For study apparatuses that are large enough to be permanently installed, a wall-mount analyzer in its own steel cabinet may be desired.

The study mentioned above is actually described in a two part paper as follows:

Part 1

Kinetics of carbon dioxide absorption and desorption in aqueous

alkanolamine solutions using a novel hemispherical contactor—I:

Experimental apparatus and mathematical modeling.

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0009250906003319

Part 2

Kinetics of carbon dioxide absorption and desorption in aqueous alkanolamine solutions using a novel hemispherical contactor—II: Experimental results and parameter estimation

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0009250906003381

Authors:

Aqil Jamal

Axel Meisen

C. Jim Lim

Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering,

The University of British Columbia

Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z3

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

Hey, this is Post #200 in our blog. Still haven’t run out of things to say!

Author: Aqil Jamal, Axel Meisen and C. Jim Lim

Publication: Chemical Engineering Science

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: October 2006

Copyright © 2006 Elsevier Ltd.

All rights reserved.
* Experiment diagrams and information property of authors

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#199 - Why Buy 970?

The most popular post on this blog is #70, which is ironically entitled “Post #5 is Our Most Popular Blog Post”. Post #70 was intended to highlight the previous successful post #5 that discussed the growing interest in our 970 Series analyzers for syngas applications.

These posts are probably so popular because there is much world-wide interest in gasification as an energy source. These posts contain specific information and pictures about gas analyzers that can successfully measure O2 / CO / CO2 / CH4 / H2 in produced syngas.

We are often asked questions about the price and configuration of the 970 Series. We do have instruments in our product line that are much smaller and simpler (as pictured below). There are other analyzer manufacturers in the marketplace that also have multi-gas capability like Nova, but who are possibly lower-cost. For a gasification application, is it simply a matter of obtaining an analyzer that will measure the gases of interest?

Not always. Gas analysis is usually only the second half of the whole task. The first half involves extracting the sample, filtering it, and drying it. Doing this properly in a syngas application is important.

There is an old saying about comparing ‘apples to apples’. When we are asked to compare the 970 to another analyzer that resembles the picture above, the first thing that we notice is that all of the sample extraction and conditioning components are missing. Unless the end-user is absolutely confident that the produced gas is clean and dry, this style of instrument will not function properly for very long. Trust us - we have learned that lesson the hard way in the past.

The Nova 970 Series Syngas and Gasification Analyzers are analytical instruments that are industrially hardened but user-friendly.

• High temp probe & heated filter at extraction point.
• Choice of compression or thermoelectric style moisture removal.
• Weather-proof cabinet with climate control.
• Stainless steel tubing and industrial components.
• Temperature-controlled detectors for O2 / CO / CO2 / CH4 / H2
• Accurate H2 measurement in varying background gases.
• High measurement ranges available; up to 100%.
• Built-in ‘Smart Control’ analyzer functions

Here is some more information plus a link to the 970 section of the catalog. 

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

#197 - Borehole and soil gas analysis- Part 2

A while back, we posted some information about analysis of boreholes at decommissioned mine sites. Here is Part 1 of the discussion.

At the time, we mentioned that we have frequently sold the Model 309 Portable O2 / CO2 analyzer for this application. Because some of the samples will be pulled up from deep into the borehole, we can install a heavy duty pump into the instrument. This solution has been great for this application.

One mining company recently contacted us requesting a solution to a problem they were having with water accumulation in their analyzers. In the standard instrument we supply to this company, we incorporate a bowl filter of some kind at the sample inlet to capture any water that may come up with the gas. This approach has usually been adequate for the brief period that they have sampled at each point. However, at some boreholes, water accumulation in the interstices between the back-fill material and the liner has been significant. The analyzer has to pull out a large volume of water from each of the tubes in the bundle before the gas analysis can begin.

To cope with this reality, we proposed a closed catch-pot arrangement that isolates the water while maintaining the extractive suction. In operation, the sample pump pulls on the borehole tube. The entrained water comes up first and simply falls to the bottom of the clear bowl. When the water is evacuated from the tube, the gas sample passes into the detectors for measurement.

This arrangement is nothing new; it’s an old trick that has been around for years. We just haven’t implemented it in such an overt style with a portable analyzer. If you are monitoring soil gas from a tube bundle in a mine tailings borehole, let us know. We can offer a solution.

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

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#196 - Nova Analyzers from the Field – Episode 8

Frequently, we get requests from power plants to offer a solution for hydrogen analysis. We mentioned before in this post and on the website here, that the power industry often uses hydrogen as a coolant for their electric generators. It is quite important in this application to maintain a high-purity of hydrogen. Reduction in purity can reduce cooling effectiveness and possibly allow an explosion potential to develop in the generator.

A common scenario involves older generators that still have the original hydrogen detector. The old H2 detector may be failing and a new instrument using modern technology and components is required.

Old GE Hydrogen panel.

We were sent these pictures from a large power provider in North America. The basic scope of this project was to replace the old OEM hydrogen purity analyzer which was manufactured by GE circa 1950’s. It measured the generator cooling gas, but in recent years, the spare parts and replacement sensors were getting too costly.

From the customer’s inspection of the old equipment, the old electronics consisted of wire wound resistors and transistors which had been obsolete for years. According to them, it was ‘state of the ark’ technology, as opposed to ‘state of the art’. The actual H2 purity measurement apparently used 100 ohm nickel RTD’s (resistance temperature detectors). Gas temperature and dew point of the gas are also usually measured in this application.

The upgrade project required a replacement hydrogen detector. The Nova Model 436 was the instrument of choice for this plant. This was probably because they had excellent success and performance from the portable 380 instrument that is used for the same application.

The generator has a fan on it to circulate the gas. One of the hurdles on this project was to get enough differential across the new analyzer sample cell to avoid having to vent the atmosphere gas out of the generator. They were able to configure the generator gas flow and sample input/output points to produce 0.6 LPM flow out of the generator, through the analyzer, and back into the generator.*

New Nova Hydrogen panel. Model 436N7N4 - The Control Cabinet
is on the left. The Detector Cabinet is on the right.

Recent performance evaluations at the plant indicate that the NOVA appears to have enough flow to measure correctly. The temperatures are measured with Rosemount Smart Temperature Transmitters. Everything seems to working very well now and they are very pleased with the results of their new panel.

For information on these and other gas analyzer systems, give Mike or Dave at Nova a call, or send us an e-mail.

1-800-295-3771

sales at nova-gas dot com

websales at nova-gas dot com

http://www.nova-gas.com/

* Nova analyzers usually operate best with a flow of 1 LPM. However, in this case, the flow of 0.6 LPM will be sufficient as long as they calibrate at that flow rate.

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#195 - Mad Science follow-up

A few weeks ago, we had a post about some experimentation that we were doing with steel furnace rolling oil. The effort was focused on bringing a viable sample to a detector and obtaining a suitable response. That initial testing has recently translated into some real equipment.

Mini-furnace used for testing.

Two of the instruments built for this project.

Now that the instruments are built, we have been able to resume testing to verify the initial conclusions. Detector response is good as long as the sample temperature is maintained on the way to the analyzer port. This will require that the sample line be insulated and possibly even heated.

Internal layout. The detectors are
in the white heated box.

Sample input port. Most access ports on
Nova analyzers are located on the right
side of the cabinet.

The customer is commissioning the furnaces during this month and next. Altogether, 3 analyzer systems were built. The units provide a 3 channel analysis including LEL, O2, & DewPoint.

The whole challenge on this application was preserving the sample constituent intact to the detector. Our next project for research will probably be for a blast furnace gas analysis application. That application will no doubt focus on removing unwanted debris from the sample.