ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING
remote sites and for the operators of multiple sites. Users are able to monitor the status of analysers
remotely, so that timely service interventions can be implemented according to need rather than a timed schedule. The repeatability of Signal’s FIDs is protected by
the use of a ceramic detector and a unique precision-machined monobloc, which ensures that the geometry of the test cell remains exactly the same. In addition, sample and gas flow rates are adjusted automatically to optimise analyser performance. Signal’s Series 4 platform has built-in relays which
can be easily set by the user to operate calibration valves at the end of a heated line. This means that users can easily choose to calibrate either locally or remotely. These relays can also be used to operate external
controls, so that one instrument can be used to monitor lines from both pre- and post-abatement, irrespective of range. This is important because it means users can set the instrument to open and close sample line valves.
MONITORING APPLICATIONS In addition to regulations limiting the use of solvents in products such as paints, coatings, adhesives, aerosols, cleaning chemicals and inks, there are also regulations that set emissions limits from industrial processes. These include those that involve solvents as well as a wide variety of combustion processes. The type of monitoring will depend on a number
of factors. For example, different countries apply different regulations, and there may be variation between states or regions. In addition, local regulators may impose specific conditions on individual processes. However, a process operator may choose a more rigorous monitoring system to lower risks and improve environmental performance. In many countries, some type of third party
instrument approval is necessary to underpin the reliability of monitoring data. For example, in the EU, TÜV or MCERTS certification is required for monitoring equipment at larger processes. Process operators should therefore check that instruments have appropriate approvals before purchase.
ABATEMENT VOC monitoring checks that abatement is working correctly and provides timely warning when potential problems occur. A variety of abatement techniques are available including solvent recovery methods, such as adsorption, cryogenic condensation or absorption with oils. Solvent destruction methods include thermal or catalytic oxidation, bio-filtration, activated carbon or a sacrificial liquid, or concentration systems followed by oxidation. All of these systems require monitoring to ensure the ongoing success of emissions reduction, and in some cases, monitoring provides a feedback mechanism to optimise the performance of the abatement system.
20 /// Testing & Test Houses /// March 2019
❱❱ Rack mounted instrumentation can be used as part of a fixed installation for process monitoring and control
PROCESS MONITORING AND CONTROL The monitoring of in-process VOC levels provides insight into the process itself, especially now that most processes involving solvents are designed to minimise their use to ensure that levels in the final product are minimised and to lower solvent costs and to ensure that emissions are minimised. Monitoring also provides useful data for the
operators of combustion processes. TOC measurement is important in emissions monitoring as an increase in TOC can indicate poor combustion efficiency, resulting in the release to air of partially combusted materials containing organic carbon, which may increase the emissions of particulates.
FUGITIVE EMISSIONS In addition to VOC emissions from chimneys, stacks and vents, there are also unintended emissions that result from spills and leaks in equipment, tanks, pipes, seals, valves, etc. Fugitive emissions are therefore more difficult to monitor, but a wide range of methods are available. For example, site surveys can be conducted with a portable PID, or fixed monitors employing optical techniques are able to continuously monitor large areas of a plant.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT Some companies use Signal’s reference gas analysers in their research and development activities. In addition to FIDs, this also includes other technologies, the choice of which depends on the parameters to be measured. R&D work requires a high level of accuracy and
repeatability as well as bespoke instruments built to meet the precise needs of the research. To meet this need, Signal is able to provide bespoke instruments to this market. T&TH
is essential for compliance with VOC emissions regulations
‘ John Clements ’ Monitoring
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