Understanding the Difference Between Emissions Analyzers and Combustion Analyzers
In industries that rely on combustion processes, accurate gas analysis is crucial for both efficiency and compliance. Two primary tools used for gas analysis are emissions analyzers and combustion analyzers. While they may seem similar, these devices serve distinct purposes and have significant differences in their functionality. This post will explore the key differences between emissions analyzers and combustion analyzers, with insights into why high-quality emissions analyzers like the Testo 350 stand out as industry leaders.
What is a Combustion Analyzer?
A combustion analyzer is designed to measure the efficiency of a combustion process by analyzing gases such as oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO), and sometimes nitric oxide (NO). These tools are typically used for tuning burners, boilers, and furnaces to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions.
However, combustion analyzers lack the precision and durability required for emissions monitoring. They are primarily used for spot-checking combustion conditions rather than providing long-term emissions data.
What is an Emissions Analyzer?
An emissions analyzer, on the other hand, is a more sophisticated instrument engineered to provide accurate and repeatable measurements of pollutants in exhaust gases. These analyzers are essential for regulatory compliance, environmental monitoring, and optimizing pollution control technologies. The Testo 350, one of the most widely used emissions analyzers in the world, is a prime example of a robust and reliable emissions analyzer used across industries, including by OEMs of thermal and pollution treatment systems.
Key Differences Between Emissions and Combustion Analyzers
Emissions analyzers have three key engineering advantages over combustion analyzers:
Advanced Sample Gas Conditioning
An emissions analyzer like the Testo 350 features an internal, purpose-engineered sample gas conditioner that brings the gas to a 4-degree dew point. This system minimizes analyte loss due to solubility and ensures more accurate measurements by reducing wetted areas that can absorb sample gases.
Temperature Correction for Accuracy
Portability in emissions analyzers requires built-in temperature correction curves to maintain accuracy under varying operational conditions. Without this feature, sensors can experience temperature-induced bias drift, leading to inaccurate readings. The Testo 350 compensates for these fluctuations, ensuring consistent results.
Superior Pumping System for Reliable Sampling
A consistent sample flow is crucial for accurate emissions testing. The Testo 350 features a sample pump that is five times more powerful than those found in standard combustion analyzers, with five different voltage levels to adapt to changing flow requirements. This capability ensures that samples are properly delivered to the analyzer regardless of the operational conditions of the thermal system being tested.
Why Choose the Testo 350 for Emissions Monitoring?
The Testo 350 emissions analyzer is widely trusted in industries that require precise emissions monitoring. Unlike combustion analyzers, which often require external sample gas conditioners to produce a dry basis reading (an additional cost factor), the Testo 350 is designed with built-in systems to ensure reliability and accuracy. Almost all turbine manufacturers and their field service organizations, rely on the Testo 350 for field service and guarantee emissions monitoring needs.
Additionally, the Testo 350 is available in kit configurations for low-concentration sampling, making it ideal for turbine testing. With proper maintenance and servicing, this analyzer can remain in service for up to 15 years, making it an excellent ROI and a long-term investment in emissions compliance and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
While combustion analyzers serve an essential role in optimizing combustion efficiency, they fall short when it comes to precise emissions monitoring. Emissions analyzers like the Testo 350 are engineered with advanced gas conditioning, temperature correction, and superior pump performance to ensure reliable and accurate measurements. Investing in the right analyzer can make a significant difference in meeting regulatory requirements, improving efficiency, and reducing environmental impact.
For those in need of emissions analysis solutions, Highmark Analytics can supply analyzer systems, calibration gases, and training to support quarterly monitoring in compliance with the D6522 requirement. Choosing the right analyzer is critical to ensuring accurate data, regulatory compliance, and long-term cost savings. Analyzers can be provided as new, refurbished or rental options.