CUBIC INSTRUMENTS CUBIC-LGA-TDLAS Online CO Laser Gas Analyzer

Overview

The CUBIC-LGA-TDLAS Online CO Laser Gas Analyzer is an industrial-grade, intrinsically robust in-situ gas monitoring system engineered for continuous, real-time measurement of carbon monoxide (CO) and multiple co-analytes—including O₂, CO₂, H₂S, and CH₄—in demanding process environments. Built upon Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), this analyzer leverages near-infrared laser wavelength modulation to selectively interrogate fundamental rotational-vibrational absorption lines of target gases. Unlike broad-band NDIR or electrochemical sensors, TDLAS delivers high spectral specificity, eliminating cross-sensitivity from water vapor, dust, hydrocarbons, or background matrix gases—critical for applications where sample conditioning is limited or impractical. The instrument integrates a front-end sample conditioning module optimized for wet, dusty, and corrosive streams, enabling direct installation in flue ducts, reactor off-gas lines, biogas pipelines, and natural gas transmission headers without external analyzers or complex extractive systems.

Key Features

• TDLAS-based optical detection with dual-wavelength referencing for drift compensation and long-term stability
• Intrinsically safe and explosion-proof enclosure rated Ex db IIC T6 Gb / Ex tb IIIC T80°C Db, certified for Zone 1/21 hazardous locations
• Integrated zero-air pump with automatic air-based calibration sequence—no external calibration gas required for routine zero verification
• Real-time self-diagnostic engine monitoring laser output power, photodetector signal integrity, optical path alignment, and flow-dependent response consistency
• High-automation architecture supporting unattended operation for >6 months between maintenance intervals
• Dual analog (4–20 mA) and digital (RS-485/RS-232) outputs compliant with MODBUS RTU and HART-compatible protocols
• Backlit monochrome LCD display with local parameter configuration, alarm status, and diagnostic logs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The analyzer accepts raw process gas streams with particulate loading up to ISO Class 8 (≤3,520,000 particles/m³ ≥0.5 µm) and dew points as high as +10°C when used with the optional heated sample line and condensate trap. It operates within a sample flow range of 0.7–2.0 L/min (optimal at 0.7–1.2 L/min), with pressure tolerance from 80–120 kPa (a) and ambient operating temperature from –20°C to +55°C. All gas measurements are traceable to NIM-certified standard gases diluted in ultra-high-purity nitrogen (≥99.999% purity). Performance specifications conform to ASTM D6522 (standard test method for determination of CO in stack gas), ISO 14040 series for environmental life-cycle assessment inputs, and support audit readiness under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and EPA Method 10/10A frameworks. The firmware architecture supports GLP-compliant data logging with time-stamped events, user-access control levels, and configurable alarm thresholds.

Software & Data Management

The embedded firmware provides non-volatile storage for ≥30 days of second-level concentration data, system diagnostics, and calibration history. Data export is supported via USB host interface or serial protocol to SCADA, DCS, or cloud-based IIoT platforms (e.g., Siemens MindSphere, Rockwell FactoryTalk). Optional CUBIC-DataLink software enables remote configuration, trend visualization, report generation (PDF/CSV), and alarm acknowledgment via secure HTTPS connection. Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with role-based authentication and electronic signature modules. Firmware updates are performed over-the-air (OTA) via signed binary packages to ensure integrity and version control.

Applications

This analyzer is deployed across upstream and midstream energy infrastructure—including natural gas gathering stations, LNG liquefaction trains, compressor stations, and pipeline custody transfer points—for continuous CO leak detection and combustion efficiency optimization. In downstream refining, it monitors flare gas composition, sulfur recovery unit tail gas, and catalytic cracker regenerator off-gas. Municipal applications include landfill biogas upgrading (CH₄/CO₂ ratio control), wastewater digester headspace monitoring, and incinerator emission compliance (CO as a key indicator of incomplete combustion per EU Directive 2010/75/EU). Additional use cases span syngas quality assurance in chemical synthesis, hydrogen production safety interlocks, and coal gasification process stoichiometry control.

FAQ

What gases can the CUBIC-LGA-TDLAS measure simultaneously?
It measures CO, O₂, CO₂, H₂S, and CH₄ in a single optical path using multi-line TDLAS scanning; individual gas channels operate independently with dedicated wavelength tuning.
Is external sample conditioning required?
No—integrated particulate filtration, moisture removal, and pressure regulation enable direct in-situ mounting; however, for extremely high-dust or saturated streams, optional heated probe assemblies are recommended.
How often does the system require calibration?
Zero calibration is automated daily using internal clean air; span calibration is recommended every 3–6 months depending on application severity and regulatory requirements.
Can the analyzer be integrated into existing DCS systems?
Yes—4–20 mA analog outputs and MODBUS RTU over RS-485 provide native compatibility with Emerson DeltaV, Honeywell Experion, Yokogawa CENTUM VP, and Siemens PCS7.
Does the device meet international explosion protection standards?
Yes—it holds ATEX, IECEx, and CNEx certifications for both gas (IIIC) and dust (IIIC) environments, including full compliance with EN 60079-0, -1, -7, -11, -28, and -31.