The NDA 701 Dumas nitrogen analyzer from VELP Scientifi ca (
www.velp. com) can be loaded with up to four disks with 30 positions each. The same autosampler is suitable for liquid, solid, and semisolid samples.
HORIBA’s EMGA-930 determines O/N/H in inorganic materials. The crucibles are loaded automatically, and the autocleaner brushes the electrodes after each measurement. A vacuum cleaner removes dust to prevent contamination.
The Teledyne Tekmar Dohrmann TN analyzer for water analysis has an au- tomated calibration and “intellidilution” feature that automatically detects and dilutes samples that have exceeded the selected calibration range.
Sample size Samples are measured by weight for solids and volume for liquids and gases. The standard solid sample size is 1 g, but can range from 1 mg to 3 g.
The TruSpec Micro from LECO analyzes solid or liquid microsamples of 1–10 mg. For larger samples, the challenge is to achieve a thorough combustion. The TruMac Series Macro Determinator from LECO has a hori- zontal ceramic furnace with a pure oxygen environment that can reach 1450 °C to analyze 3-g samples.
The maximum sample volumes for Analytik Jena’s Multi EA 5000 are 100 µL for liquids, 500 µL for water, 100 mL for gases, 100 mg for solids, and 50 µL for LPG.
Software and reporting mechanisms Most nitrogen analyzers include software to record and analyze the re-
sults. Consider the usability of the software and whether it is compatible with your LIMS.
HTAccess™ software for the Formacs (Skalar,
www.skalar.com) includes templates for multipoint regression, automatic exclusion of results, and recalculation. It also includes QC protocols, including password protec- tion and audit trails.
LECO ON736 analyzers feature Cornerstone® software operated by a touchscreen that can be mounted on a boom, improving ergonomics and saving bench space (Figure 2). The software includes real-time ambient monitors, with fully animated system diagrams.
Other purchasing considerations When choosing an analyzer, check the cost per analysis in terms of reagents
and reusables. Consider also the routine maintenance requirements, cost of spare parts, and manufacturers’ guarantees.
Table 2 is a list of manufacturers and suppliers of nitrogen analyzers. For more information, please visit
www.labcompare.com.
Katriona Scoffin,
B.Sc., is a freelance science writer; e-mail: articles@ scoffi
n.co.uk.
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AMERICAN LABORATORY • 17 • MAY 2014 4/21/2014 12:19:06 PM
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