Spectro Scientific InfraCal 2 TOG/TPH Analyzer

Overview

The Spectro Scientific InfraCal 2 TOG/TPH Analyzer is a field-deployable, fixed-filter infrared (IR) spectrophotometer engineered for rapid, quantitative determination of total oil and grease (TOG), total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), and fats, oils, and greases (FOG) in liquid, semi-solid, and solid matrices. Based on the principle of absorption spectroscopy at characteristic mid-infrared wavelengths (e.g., C–H stretching vibrations near 2960 cm⁻¹), the instrument delivers laboratory-grade accuracy without requiring solvent extraction or complex sample preparation. Its optical architecture employs dual-wavelength, single-beam detection with temperature-stabilized filters to ensure high reproducibility across variable ambient conditions—critical for offshore platforms, remediation sites, and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. Designed for compliance-driven environments, the InfraCal 2 meets the performance criteria outlined in ASTM D7066, EPA Method 413.2 (for TOG in water), and EPA Method 418.1 (for FOG in wastewater), with measurement equivalence demonstrated against reference methods including EPA 1664A and ISO 9377-2.

Key Features

• Fixed-filter IR detection system optimized for C–H bond absorbance at ~2960 cm⁻¹, eliminating need for scanning optics or moving parts
• Sub-ppm detection capability (typical limit of quantitation: 0.1 ppm TOG in water, matrix-dependent)
• Ruggedized aluminum chassis rated for IP65 environmental protection; operational from –10 °C to 50 °C and 95% non-condensing humidity
• Onboard memory stores up to 1,000 sample records with timestamp, operator ID, calibration ID, and raw absorbance values
• USB 2.0 interface for secure data export in CSV format compatible with LIMS and QA/QC reporting systems
• Multi-curve calibration support: up to 10 user-defined calibration sets, each with slope, intercept, correlation coefficient (r²), and validity date
• Password-protected configuration mode restricts access to calibration editing, system settings, and data deletion functions
• Battery-operated (rechargeable Li-ion, >8 hours continuous use) with AC adapter option for benchtop operation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The InfraCal 2 accepts extracts prepared via standard EPA-approved solvents (e.g., Freon-113 substitute, hexane, or S-316), enabling analysis of diverse sample types: aqueous effluents (produced water, cooling tower blowdown), drill cuttings and muds (per API RP 13B-1 protocols), soil/sediment extracts (per EPA SW-846 Method 3540C), and industrial cleaning solutions. All measurements adhere to regulatory chain-of-custody documentation requirements when paired with optional audit-trail-enabled software. The analyzer supports GLP-compliant workflows through traceable calibration logs, user authentication, and immutable data storage—facilitating readiness for FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned validation where electronic records are subject to review.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and management are handled via the embedded firmware and companion desktop application (InfraCal Connect). The firmware enforces mandatory entry of sample ID, analyst initials, and calibration set selection prior to analysis. Each result includes metadata such as ambient temperature, battery voltage, filter status, and deviation from calibration baseline. USB-exported files contain ASCII-encoded columns: Sample_ID, Date_Time, Calibration_ID, Absorbance_Reading, Concentration_(mg/L), Units, Operator, and QC_Flag. No cloud connectivity or remote telemetry is implemented—ensuring data sovereignty and alignment with ITAR and industrial cybersecurity policies.

Applications

• Real-time monitoring of produced water discharge from offshore and onshore oil & gas operations
• Compliance verification of wastewater effluent from refineries, petrochemical plants, and metal finishing facilities
• FOG concentration tracking in municipal pretreatment programs and food service establishment inspections
• Performance evaluation of gravity separators, coalescers, and dissolved air flotation units
• Field screening of drill cuttings for landfarm acceptance per state regulatory thresholds (e.g., Texas RRC Rule 91)
• Verification of degreasing efficacy on machined components prior to plating or painting
• Purity assessment of recovered hydrocarbon solvents in closed-loop cleaning systems
• In-situ TPH profiling during brownfield site characterization and excavation decision-making

FAQ

Does the InfraCal 2 require daily calibration verification?
No—calibration stability is verified weekly using a certified reference standard; daily zeroing with blank solvent is recommended before batch analysis.
Can the instrument be used for diesel-range organics (DRO) quantification?
Yes, when calibrated with diesel fuel extract standards and operated within the linear dynamic range (typically 0.1–100 mg/L), it provides DRO-equivalent results consistent with EPA 8015M.
Is method validation support available for regulatory submissions?
Spectro Scientific provides IQ/OQ documentation templates, precision/recovery study protocols, and ASTM D7066-compliant validation reports upon request.
What maintenance is required beyond routine cleaning?
Annual optical path inspection and filter certification by authorized service centers are recommended; no consumables other than standard lab solvents and disposable cuvettes are needed.
How does the InfraCal 2 handle emulsified oil samples?
Emulsions must be broken via centrifugation or acidification prior to extraction; the analyzer measures only extractable hydrocarbons, not dispersed micelles.