7 Tips For Improved Analytical Sampling and Reliability

An inert flowpath is key to reliable process sampling and lab analysis.   SilcoTek^® is dedicated to providing coating services and can make stainless steel, glass, ceramic, titanium or exotic alloy inert, even outside of a standard GC configuration. Any surface that contacts your sample should be coated to ensure reliable results.

If you're not getting the sample results you expect, here are tips for how to improve analytical sampling system performance.

 

1. Make the flowpath inert

SilcoNert^® 2000 and Dursan^® inert coatings improve sample reliability of active and unstable compounds.

Pesticides	NOx/SOx/Stack	Pharamceuticals
Semi volatiles	VOCs	Explosives/chemical agents
Amines	OP/chlorinated pesticides	Alcohols

Coating of wetted flow pathways of analytical and process sampling instrumentation minimizes surface interaction and breakdown of active compounds.

 

2. Coat the entire sample pathway

Injectors Fittings Tubing Separators/Filters Weldment Probes Liners

 

3. Check the calibration system

• Active or adsorptive surfaces:  One stainless steel fitting or fritted filter can adsorb active sample compounds.
• Check calibration gas

 

4. Check the sample probe location 

• Improper sample location can distort results.

 

5. Is the heat trace tubing inert and installed per manufacturer specifications?  

• Reactive tubing surfaces can adsorb sample 
• Dips, kinks, and off spec heating can distort results or cause reactive corrosion or moisture accumulation

 

6. Are regulators designed for inertness?

• Regulators can trap particulates or adsorb active compounds.  
• Check with your regulator manufacturer to be sure it's designed for analytical use.

 

7. Are GC setup conditions, column, and injection volume within spec?  

• GC troubleshooting guidelines can help improve sample performance.