In the ever-evolving world of sample systems, understanding the intricacies and nuances can be pivotal to ensuring optimal results in various industries. In this blog post, we'll explore the contents of our first session, where Phil Harris, an expert in the field, provides valuable insights into the importance of design and function in sample systems.

What Are Sample Systems?

Sample systems are crucial for the performance of analyzer installations at facilities like refineries, petrochemical plants, wastewater treatment plants, and more. They are integral to process analyzers, impacting how samples are measured and transported. The design of a sample system drastically affects the reliability and accuracy of the analytical measurements taken.

"Almost all of the analyzers that are out there are well-proven technologies capable of doing the measurement they are designed for." - Phil Harris

Why Are Sample Systems So Important?

Sample systems ensure that the composition of samples is maintained as they move to the analyzer. This process is not as straightforward as simple instrumentation applications due to:

1. Extractive Nature: Analyzers often require samples to be extracted from a process stream. Proper sample extraction and transport are vital.
2. Complex Chemistry: Many factors, such as phase changes and compatibility issues, can impact sample quality.

Common Problems in Sample Systems

• Poor Sample Point Selection: Incorrect selection can lead to inaccurate data, jeopardizing system function and feedback.
• Inadequate Flow Control: Proper flow control is essential for ensuring the analyzer receives samples under accurate conditions.
• Material Compatibility: Ensuring components are chemically compatible with the sample stream is critical.
• Phase Changes: These can result in condensation or bubble formation, affecting data accuracy.

Design Inputs and Essential Considerations

A crucial theme discussed is understanding the design inputs necessary for effective sample system construction.

The Six Key Questions

Understanding these questions is crucial for a robust system design:

1. What to measure? - Know the specific chemistries and conditions.
2. Why measure it? - Recognize the value and objectives of the measurement.
3. Who needs the results? - Identify stakeholders and users of the data.
4. Where to measure? - Consider where in the process the sample will be most accurate.
5. When is the data needed? - Determine the response time and accuracy needed.
6. Which technology to use? - Select the right analyzer and system components based on these criteria.

The Importance of Inputs

Before beginning any design, gathering comprehensive data about the process and conditions is imperative. Process flow diagrams, for example, are useful tools for understanding where a sample point should exist, and consultation with process engineers can provide invaluable insights into system needs.

Planning and Implementation

Planning involves assessing everything from flow control and filtration to sample extraction.

Phase Behavior: Understanding phase diagrams helps in foreseeing potential condensation issues or bubble formation.

Coalescer Design: Poorly designed coalescers can cause inefficiencies, thereby necessitating specific design considerations.

Real-World Applications and Examples

Phil Harris presents a compelling example of a gasoline blending application to illustrate how different objectives drive different design decisions:

Gasoline Blending

1. Objective: Ensuring a specified vapor pressure by blending butane into gasoline.
2. Measurement Needs: Rapid response analyzers for process control in blending, accurate analyzers for custody transfer at shipping points.

Each function—control and custody—demands specific technologies and setup. The blending point requires speed, while the custody transfer point prioritizes accuracy.

Understand the Who and Why

Understanding stakeholders and their reasons for the measurement is essential:

• Process Engineers tend to focus on parameters to manipulate and control.
• Environmental Compliance could dictate stricter regulations and calibration needs.
• Accounting for Custody Transfer requires accuracy to ensure proper financial transactions.

Summary

In summary, designing an effective sample system involves meticulous planning, understanding the detailed requirements of various stakeholders, and implementing systems tailored to those needs. Successfully designed sample systems are those that provide reliable, accurate, and timely data to the right people when they need it.

For those interested in furthering their knowledge, materials such as application review forms and process analyzer summaries can be valuable tools in system design. Understanding the interplay between different components and designs will ensure that sample systems deliver optimal performance and reliability.

Stay tuned for more insights as we delve deeper into the specifics of sample system design and its components in upcoming sessions. Whether you're involved in designing, operating, or utilizing these systems, understanding the full spectrum of factors involved will empower you to achieve the most out of your analytical and process measurements.

Additional Resources:

1. Systems Integration: For more details about our sample systems click here.
2. IAS - Automated Sampling: Check out our comprehensive video on our automated sampling systems on YouTube.
3. Connect with Phil Harris: Connect with Phil Harris, one of our experts, on LinkedIn here.
4. Insight Analytical LinkedIn Page: Stay updated with Insight Analytical Solutions by following our LinkedIn page here
5. Insight Analytical on YouTube: Explore more videos and insights on our YouTube channel.

We appreciate your interest in our products and expertise! If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to reach out.