ELTRA THERMOSTEP Thermogravimetric Analyzer

Overview

The ELTRA THERMOSTEP Thermogravimetric Analyzer is a fully integrated, high-throughput laboratory instrument engineered for precise, reproducible determination of mass change as a function of temperature or time under controlled atmospheric conditions. Based on classical thermogravimetry (TGA) principles—where sample mass is continuously monitored during programmed thermal treatment—the THERMOSTEP combines a programmable high-temperature furnace (up to 1,000 °C) with a hermetically sealed microbalance (0.1 mg resolution) in a single robust platform. Unlike conventional benchtop furnaces or muffle ovens requiring manual intervention, the THERMOSTEP automates sample handling, atmosphere switching, lid actuation, and data acquisition—enabling unattended multi-sample analysis while maintaining strict metrological traceability. Its design targets routine quality control and regulatory-compliant testing in coal, cement, food, and metallurgical laboratories where parameters such as moisture, volatile matter, fixed carbon, ash content, and loss on ignition (LOI) must be determined according to standardized test methods.

Key Features

• High-capacity carousel accommodating up to 19 samples per run, with individual sample weights ranging from 500 mg to 5 g
• Dual thermocouple system: one embedded in the furnace chamber, another directly in the heating element—enabling rapid, accurate temperature feedback and stable ramp/hold control
• Motorized crucible lid mechanism compliant with ASTM D7582 for standardized volatile matter determination in coal and coke
• Atmosphere flexibility: independent selection of nitrogen, oxygen, or ambient air for each heating segment—supporting oxidation, inert decomposition, and low-temperature drying protocols
• Hermetically sealed weighing unit mounted via ceramic shaft to minimize thermal drift and mechanical noise; isolated from furnace gas flow and ambient drafts
• Modular hardware architecture permitting seamless integration into existing LIMS environments and supporting 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic signatures and audit trails

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The THERMOSTEP is validated for heterogeneous solid matrices including bituminous and anthracite coals, metallurgical coke, limestone, clinker, gypsum, pet food, dairy powders, and ceramic precursors. It delivers measurements aligned with internationally recognized standards: ASTM D7582 (moisture, volatile matter, ash, and fixed carbon in coal), ISO 1171 (ash content), ISO 562 (volatile matter in coal), EN 14773 (LOI in construction materials), and USP (loss on drying in pharmaceutical excipients). Crucible lid positioning and timing are programmable to replicate standardized pyrolysis sequences—ensuring inter-laboratory comparability and regulatory acceptance in GMP and GLP environments.

Software & Data Management

Controlled via Windows-based ELTRA TGA software, the system supports SOP-driven workflows with user-defined method templates, customizable screen layouts, and real-time visualization of mass loss curves, derivative (DTG) plots, and stage-wise weight retention. All analytical events—including lid movement, gas switching, temperature transitions, and balance calibration—are timestamped and logged with full audit trail functionality. Data export is compatible with CSV, PDF, and XML formats; results can be reported on as-received, dry, or ash-free basis. The software includes diagnostic modules for carousel position verification, balance stability monitoring, and furnace thermal profile validation—facilitating preventive maintenance and IQ/OQ documentation.

Applications

• Coal & Coke Analysis: Simultaneous determination of total moisture, volatile matter, ash, and fixed carbon in accordance with ASTM D7582—eliminating sequential oven-based methods
• Construction Materials: Quantification of LOI in cement, fly ash, and aggregates to assess carbonate and organic content per EN 14773 and ASTM C114
• Food & Feed Testing: Accurate dry matter, crude ash, and mineral content measurement—even for fluorine-rich ash matrices—leveraging the sealed balance’s chemical resistance
• Research & Development: Kinetic modeling of thermal decomposition pathways, polymer degradation studies, catalyst stability screening, and additive volatilization profiling

FAQ

What standards does the THERMOSTEP support for coal analysis?
ASTM D7582, ISO 562, and ISO 1171 are natively supported through preconfigured SOPs and automated lid actuation logic.
Can the instrument operate unattended overnight?
Yes—the 19-position carousel, programmable atmosphere sequencing, and automatic cooling cycle enable fully unattended multi-run operation with thermal and mass stability monitoring.
Is the weighing unit protected against corrosive ash residues?
Yes—the hermetically sealed balance compartment isolates the sensor from furnace gases and particulate carryover; ceramic shaft coupling further prevents thermal conduction-induced drift.
How is compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 ensured?
The software implements role-based access control, electronic signatures, immutable audit logs, and data integrity checks—all validated during factory IQ/OQ and configurable per site-specific validation protocols.
What crucible types are compatible?
Standard alumina, platinum, and nickel crucibles (diameters 25–30 mm) are supported; custom geometries may be accommodated upon request with mechanical interface verification.