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FTIR gas analyser

2025-10-27T13:29:49Z

CEMSolutions: Created page with "Accurate gas analysis is critical in monitoring industrial emissions and ensuring safe working environments. Traditional monitoring tools have been used to measure one gas at a t..."

Accurate gas analysis is critical in monitoring industrial emissions and ensuring safe working environments. Traditional monitoring tools have been used to measure one gas at a time, which can be limiting when multiple compounds are present.

FTIR analysers now identify and measure several gases at once, providing fast, reliable data that supports compliance, safety and efficiency. In this article, [https://www.cemsolutions.co.uk/ CEM Solutions] take a closer look at what FTIR gas analysers are, and why you should choose them.

== What is FTIR? ==

FTIR stands for Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, which is a technique that measures how molecules absorb infrared light. Each gas has its own unique spectral fingerprint, which represents specific wavelengths absorbed due to molecular vibrations. By detecting absorbed wavelengths, an FTIR analyser identifies the gas and its concentration.

When using an FTIR gas analyser, a beam of infrared light is passed through a gas sample. Absorbed wavelengths are recorded and converted via a Fourier transform into a spectrum that shows which gases are present and their quantities.

== How FTIR works? ==

FTIR analysers use an interferometer, an optical device with mirrors and a beamsplitter. Infrared light is split into two paths where one hits a fixed mirror and the other hits a moving mirror.

The recombined beams interfere, creating an interferogram that contains all infrared wavelengths at once. As gases absorb different wavelengths, the analyser can recognise multiple gases simultaneously, even in complex mixtures.

The analyser collects a complete spectrum in every scan so data can be reprocessed later without resampling.

== Why choose FTIR? ==

There are a number of features that make FTIR analysers attractive for industries and regulators. Their multi-gas capability is one of the most important factors as instead of installing separate sensors for each gas, a single FTIR unit is capable of measuring dozens of compounds at the same time.

They also offer great levels of flexibility as updates are handled through software rather than hardware changes, which allows them to adapt if regulations change or new compounds need to be tracked.

FTIR gas analysers also provide real-time results thanks to continuous monitoring which gives operators important, instant information about gas concentrations. They are an important part of non-destructive testing as the gas sample itself is not altered or consumed in any way, meaning that results are both fast and repeatable.

== Advantages of FTIR ==

Compared with traditional techniques such as Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) sensors or chemical analysers, FTIR is able to offer higher sensitivity by detecting gases at low concentrations. As they capture the full infrared spectrum, FTIR analysers also distinguish overlapping signals from different gases reducing the chance of false results and provide greater levels of accuracy in complex mixtures. They also require less frequent calibration and can remain reliable over long periods.

FTIR analysers offer high levels of efficiency and cost savings, as they can often replace multiple single-gas analysers, and as they are designed to be lightweight and rugged, they are suitable for both fieldwork and fixed installations. They are also important in environmental compliance as industries like energy, waste management and shipping have strict emissions standards that require FTIR analysis.

FTIR gas analysers are more than just monitoring tools as they can capture complete infrared spectra and analyse multiple gases at once, providing a powerful, flexible and cost-effective way to manage emissions, ensure compliance and protect people and the environment.

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How To Select The Right Gas Analyser For Your Business

2025-07-29T10:59:07Z

CEMSolutions: Created page with "Gas analysers are incredibly important pieces of equipment in a variety of industries. By measuring the gases in the air, they are able to detect problems and alert people as qui..."

Gas analysers are incredibly important pieces of equipment in a variety of industries. By measuring the gases in the air, they are able to detect problems and alert people as quickly as possible to ensure that workers and anyone in the surrounding area is kept safe.

There are different types of gas analysers available, so to explain further, [https://www.cemsolutions.co.uk/ CEM Solutions], specialists in continuous emissions monitoring, explore the options to help you decide which one is right for your business.

== First, you need to identify what type of gas needs to be measured ==

The first thing to think about is the type of gas that you are required to measure, as different analysers will be set up to detect specific gases. They may include:

* Carbon Dioxide (CO)
* Methane (CH)
* Carbon Monoxide (CO)
* Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
* Hydrogen Sulphide (HS)
* Nitrogen Oxide (NO or NO)
* Oxygen (O)
* Ammonia (NH)

Once you’ve identified the type of gas, you can then consider which type of gas analyser will be most suitable for your environment and monitoring requirements, for example:

Infrared analysers detect gases such as carbon dioxide and methane by measuring the absorption of infrared light.

Photoionisation detectors (PID) are extremely effective for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and some toxic gases at low concentrations, whilst paramagnetic analysers are better suited for measuring oxygen concentrations in both process and ambient environments.

There are also thermal conductivity detectors (TCDs) that can measure binary gas mixtures and are often used in applications that require hydrogen, helium, or argon analysis.

However, electrochemical sensors are better at detecting toxic gases like carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulphide by using a chemical reaction that can produce a measurable electrical signal to determine gas concentration.

Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) analysers are useful for selective measurements of gases like ammonia and methane, particularly where high precision and fast response times are needed.

You may also want to consider the function of the equipment, i.e., whether it’s a [https://www.cemsolutions.co.uk/solutions/gas-emissions/process-control-and-measurement/ handheld gas analyser], or a fixed gas analyser. This is usually determined by the type of gas you need to monitor, and how hazardous the environment may be.

== The required levels of sensitivity ==

In addition to the type of gas you are looking to monitor, you also need to think about the measurement range and sensitivity of your analyser. Some applications might require the detection of low concentrations of gas, while others will require measurement over a wide range of concentrations.

High sensitivity analysers like TDLAS analysers are essential if you are looking for trace amounts of gas in things like leak detection, greenhouse gas monitoring or safety applications.

Depending on your application, other options such as electrochemical sensors for low-level toxic gases or photoacoustic spectroscopy analysers for trace gas monitoring may also offer suitable sensitivity and accuracy.

Gas chromatography (GC) systems with thermal conductivity or flame ionisation detectors also allow sensitive multi-gas measurements.

You should also think about the lower detection limit and upper detection limit of the analyser, as these specifications will determine the range in which the analyser can provide reliable measurements.

== The chosen environment ==

The environment in which the analyser is to be used is also an important factor. Harsh environments with high temperatures, humidity and dust will need an analyser with a rugged design and non-contact measurement capabilities.

Many industrial environments use a combination of analyser types, including electrochemical, paramagnetic and infrared analysers, which can be housed in rugged explosion-proof enclosures.

Gas chromatographs are preferred in applications requiring the separation and analysis of complex gas mixtures, such as in refining or petrochemical processes, whilst portable multi-gas detectors, often equipped with multiple sensor technologies, are ideal for remote or field operations.

== Response times ==

If you are in an environment where conditions can change rapidly, you need to think carefully about the response time of your chosen gas analyser. In a combustion control environment, speed is of the essence in order to maintain optimal combustion efficiency and minimise any emissions.

Confined spaces will also require fast response times to detect any dangerous gas levels and initiate corrective actions. The response time is usually measured in terms of the time required for the analyser to reach a certain percentage of the final value after a change in gas concentration. Shorter response times are usually preferred for dynamic processes.

While TDLAS is known for fast response, other technologies such as electrochemical sensors and NDIR also provide quick and reliable readings depending on the setup. For complex multi-component analysis, gas chromatography may have longer response times but can also provide more detailed insight into gas composition.

When selecting a gas analyser, you need to carefully consider all of the factors, including the type of gas that needs to be measured and the sensitivity, response time, and application environment. This will help you narrow down the most appropriate gas analyser for your business and ensure a safe environment for everyone.

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How Frequently Is Gas Analyser Calibration Required?

2025-03-27T10:52:37Z

CEMSolutions: Created page with "Gas analysers are important tools for ensuring that dangerous appliances are kept safe. Whether it is in a domestic or business setting, a gas analyser will measure the carbon di..."

Gas analysers are important tools for ensuring that dangerous appliances are kept safe. Whether it is in a domestic or business setting, a gas analyser will measure the carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emissions of a range of appliances to ensure that they are operating safely.

It is therefore essential to ensure that these analysers are fully calibrated in order for them to deliver accurate results. In this article, [https://www.cemsolutions.co.uk/ CEM Solutions] look at the importance of gas analyser calibration and how often it should be taking place.

== What is a gas analyser? ==

Combustion based appliances such as stoves, boilers, generators and furnaces in commercial and domestic settings, can be responsible for a number of emissions. These have the potential to be extremely dangerous, and so a gas analyser is needed to help measure the extent of these emissions. They are capable of measuring a number of critical gases, including carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

The analyser will check whether these are being emitted while the appliance is in operation and alert the operator straight away so that any appropriate action can be taken in order to keep people safe.

In addition to this, a gas analyser can also measure the ambient air temperature and oxygen levels to ensure that the appliance has the correct level of ventilation and that the conditions in the room are safe for use.

== Calibrating a gas analyser ==

A gas analyser is an incredibly important tool as it plays a key role in safety. As it is continually exposed to gas, it is likely that sensors and components will deteriorate over time which could lead to false or inaccurate readings. This can have massive safety implications as unsafe appliances may go undetected.

It is for this reason that gas analysers need to be [https://www.cemsolutions.co.uk/services/servicing-and-calibration/ regularly calibrated and checked] to ensure that they are always working correctly. In order to calibrate a gas analyser, it will be exposed to different gas mixtures so that each part can be properly tested. Individual components will also be assessed to determine whether they are fit for purpose.

== Gas calibration frequency ==

Many gas analysers are able to warn you that a calibration is due, which will allow you to stay on top of any calibration schedules. As a general rule, gas analyser should be calibrated at least once a year.

However, if it is something that is used heavily then you should be looking to do this on a more regular basis. It is also important to remember that if you believe the analyser is faulty at any point, you should have it checked immediately and not wait until the next part of the calibration cycle.

It is important to remember that the calibration process can take a number of days, so this needs to be taken into account when planning your calibration schedule. You may want to stagger the calibration of your devices if you have multiple gas analysers to ensure that you are not left without one for any period of time.

== Why does regular calibration matter? ==

Ensuring that your gas analyses have been calibrated is essential for both safety reasons and legal compliance for your business. The calibration is particularly important to ensure that your business adheres to strict safety standards and a failure to do so could result in a loss of your licence to operate.

It is also important to note that using a gas analyser without a valid calibration certificate may constitute a criminal offence. Putting together a thorough calibration schedule can ensure that your devices are checked on a regular basis and remain safe and functioning properly at all times.

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