New moisture analyzer for natural gas gives unrivalled accuracy in changing gas streams

Michell Instruments has announced the launch of its latest moisture analyzer for natural gas – the OptiPEAK TDL600.
Using tuneable diode laser spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology, the analyzer offers a class-leading accuracy with a lower detection limit of less than 1ppmV. While TDLAS technology has been used for some time to measure moisture in natural gas, the OptiPEAK TDL600 is the first of a new generation of analyzers which overcomes the limitations of older models currently on the market.

Because TDLAS moisture analyzers measure the reaction of molecules to specific frequencies of light, changes in the background composition of the gas usually requires that the analyzer is adjusted to maintain its accuracy. Scientists in Michell’s research department have developed the Dynamic Methane Compensation System (D-MET) to overcome this problem. With D-MET, the OptiPEAK TDL600 is able to measure moisture reliably in natural gas with varying compositions (such as blended gas from multiple fields or following bio-methane or re-gasified LNG injection) without the need for manual software correction factors to be made. With increasing statutory requirements in many regions for bio-methane to be added to gas distribution networks, the analyzer already meets these new parameters.

Taking advantage of the latest developments in laser spectroscopy, the OptiPEAK TDL600 has an unrivalled accuracy for any process moisture analyzer of ±1% of the reading or 1ppmV. Its lower detection limit of 1ppmV makes it the most sensitive instrument in its class on the market, as well as being one of the most reliable. Michell has developed a laser lock system which automatically monitors the optical profile of the gas absorption peaks to ensure the laser remains locked to the correct water absorption signal, maintaining a high integrity measurement at all times. In existing TDLAS models on the market, laser drift results in a reduction of sensitivity.

The OptiPEAK TDL600 provides a fast response because the optical measurement technology is non-contact. This means there are no wet-up or dry-down times – measurements can be made immediately. Plus none of the sensing components are subjected to the gas stream, protecting them from aggressive compounds and harmful contamination.

Calibrated traceable to NPL (UK) and NIST (US), the analyzer also has worldwide hazardous area certification, including ATEX, IECEx, cMETus, TC TR Ex.

The OptiPEAK has also been designed for minimum cost of ownership. With an integrated sampling system and small footprint, it can easily be retro-fitted in to existing plant infrastructure. Due to the inherent stability of the instrument, regular field calibration is not required under normal operating conditions. The analyzer will perform reliably for many years with just basic maintenance and housekeeping. 		OptiPEAK TDL600


If you would like more information please contact:
Sarah Lawrence
Michell Instruments
Lancaster Way Business Park
Ely, Cambridgeshire
CB6 3NW
UK
Tel - +44(0)1353 658 000
Fax - +44(0)1353 658 199
e-mail - sarah.lawrence@michell.com


Notes for Editors
About Michell Instruments

Michell Instruments Group is a worldwide leader in the field of moisture and humidity measurement solutions. With four decades of experience, Michell designs and manufactures a wide range of sensors, instruments and customized systems capable of measuring dew-point, humidity and oxygen in applications and industries as diverse as compressed air, power generation, petrochemical, oil and gas, food processing and pharmaceutical. Michell’s innovative products make processes cheaper, cleaner, more energy efficient and safe.

The Group has multiple manufacturing locations across Europe with their international headquarters located in Ely, UK and a North America sales and service headquarters located in Rowley (MA). It has its own facilities in 10 countries with an extensive network of factory trained application and service engineers, subsidiaries and distributors stretching across 56 countries.