Preparing your gas analyzer and systems for spring

Many Thermo Scientific gas analyzers have a maximum operating temperature and exceeding the recommended temperatures can result in reduced performance. Be sure the shelter is ready for a sudden spike in air temperatures by checking the flanges and gaskets on the doors and windows for damage or excessive wear. Ensure the air conditioning unit is functioning and clean or replace fans and screens if necessary. Inspect your shelter for evidence of animals and vegetation overgrowth to ensure maximum air flow. 

In many parts of the United States, winter was harsh so take a look around for evidence of damage to the umbilical.    Ice and cold causes expansion and the sample, or umbilical, line may have pulled away from the stack.  Check for air leaks in the tubing, sample leaks, zero air, and blowback air.  Refer to the operator’s manual for specific recommendations.

Many power generation plants shut down during the spring season because consumer demand is low.  Take advantage of a plant shutdown and send your instrument to us for factory depot repair or calibrator service.  Our Calibrator Certification Service compares and validates the Thermo Scientific Model 81i Mercury Calibrator to a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceable Vendor Prime or Field Reference Generator.   To begin the process of sending your instrument to us, simply contact Customer Service by email or at 1 (508) 520-0430, option 1.   

Prior to the annual relative accuracy test audit (RATA) in accordance with 40 CFR Part 60 or Part 75, ensure the probes, samples and analyzers work together without errors.   To avoid costs associated with failing RATAs, consider some or all of these preventative maintenance items:  probe inspection and cleaning, scrubber replacement, filter changes, diagnostic check on all analyzers, complete scaling of the system and complete calibration.  Still need info on how to meet data reporting requirements and quality assurance documentation? Contact our technical support team by email or at 1 (508) 520-0430, option 2.  

Analyze and manage data effectively, optimize your process, improve decision making and increase equipment uptime by becoming an expert on your instrument.  Choose from over 30 technical training courses for the operation and maintenance of Thermo Scientific iSeries gas analyzers, the Thermo Scientific Mercury Freedom System and the Thermo Scientific Omni FTIR System.   Courses focus on principles of operation, calibration, testing, diagnosing, repair, and troubleshooting and courses are suitable for the novice and the expert.  Find the schedule and register at our Technical Training site.