Alytech NOMAD Multi-Channel Dynamic Gas Dilution System

Overview

The Alytech NOMAD is a precision-engineered multi-channel dynamic gas dilution system designed for the accurate, real-time generation of certified reference gas mixtures across environmental monitoring, emissions testing, and analytical instrument calibration applications. Operating on the principle of mass flow-controlled dynamic dilution, the NOMAD precisely blends primary standard gases (e.g., permeation tubes, cylinder-based standards, or zero air) with purified diluent gas—typically high-purity zero air generated internally or supplied externally—to produce stable, traceable output concentrations ranging from sub-ppb to low-ppm levels. Unlike static blending methods, its continuous-flow architecture ensures thermodynamic stability, eliminates adsorption artifacts, and supports uninterrupted operation during extended calibration campaigns. The system is engineered for metrological integrity: all critical fluidic paths are temperature-stabilized, flow controllers are individually calibrated and traceable to NIST or COFRAC standards, and pressure/temperature compensation algorithms are embedded in firmware to maintain volumetric accuracy under variable ambient conditions.

Key Features

• Configurable channel count: 2–4 independent dilution channels, each with dedicated thermal mass flow controllers (MFCs) and proportional valves
• Integrated zero-air generator (5 L/min capacity) with dual-stage hydrocarbon and moisture removal; optional external zero-air inlet
• Modular architecture supporting interchangeable source modules: permeation tube ovens (e.g., PerMix ATMO-compatible), cylinder manifolds, or LPG evaporation units (AURA II)
• Thermal management: All MFCs and mixing manifolds housed in thermally insulated enclosures with active temperature stabilization (±0.2 °C)
• Flexible control interface: Optional 7-inch capacitive touchscreen with embedded Linux OS or full remote operation via Ethernet/USB using Alytech’s GasMix™ Control Suite (Windows/macOS)
• Robust mechanical design: Aluminum alloy chassis (IP54-rated), weight <12 kg, dimensions 320 × 280 × 180 mm — optimized for field deployment and benchtop integration
• Built-in audit trail: Timestamped event logging (power cycles, parameter changes, calibration actions) compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The NOMAD accommodates diverse gas-phase standards including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), NO_x, SO₂, CO, O₃, and halogenated species—provided they are compatible with stainless-steel 316L and EPDM/PFA wetted materials. It supports permeation tube sources (e.g., PerMix ATMO module with ±0.1 °C oven stability at 40–70 °C), pressurized cylinder inputs (up to 50 bar inlet pressure, safety relief valve included), and liquid-phase evaporators (AURA II, 40–160 °C range). The system conforms to EN 14181 (QAL2/QAL3 calibration protocols), ASTM D6348 (gaseous emission analysis), and ISO 6145 series (gas mixture preparation). Its firmware supports GLP/GMP-aligned data integrity features—including electronic signatures, user-level access control, and 21 CFR Part 11–ready audit logs when operated with validated software configuration.

Software & Data Management

GasMix™ Control Suite provides deterministic real-time control, automated sequence execution (e.g., multi-point calibration curves), and raw data export in CSV/Excel format with metadata headers (timestamp, channel ID, setpoint, actual flow, temperature, pressure). All measurement data are time-synchronized to internal RTC with NTP support. The software includes built-in uncertainty propagation models per ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 (GUM), enabling automatic calculation of expanded uncertainty (k=2) for each generated concentration. Calibration certificates for MFCs and pressure transducers are stored digitally within the system and retrievable via encrypted USB export. Remote diagnostics and firmware updates are supported over secure TLS-encrypted connections.

Applications

• Dynamic calibration of CEMS (Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems) and portable FID/PID/FTIR analyzers
• Generation of tiered calibration standards for EPA Method 25A, TO-14A, and EN 14662 compliance testing
• Field validation of ambient air quality monitors (O₃, NO₂, benzene) under ISO 50082-1
• Supporting laboratory accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 7.7 (sampling and calibration gas traceability)
• Research-grade exposure studies requiring precise, repeatable VOC gradients (e.g., chamber dosing, sensor response characterization)

FAQ

What is the minimum detectable concentration achievable with the NOMAD system?

The lower limit depends on source purity, MFC resolution, and background contamination—but typical sub-ppb stability (e.g., 0.2 ppb benzene) is attainable using PerMix ATMO permeation sources and internal zero-air generation.
Can the NOMAD be used with reactive or corrosive gases such as Cl₂ or H₂S?

Yes—when configured with Hastelloy C-276 MFCs and PTFE/PFA seals (optional upgrade); standard configuration uses 316L SS and EPDM, suitable for non-corrosive VOCs and inorganic gases.
Is external power required, or does it operate on battery?

The NOMAD is mains-powered (100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz); unlike the ZEPHYR or HURRICANE variants, it does not include an internal rechargeable battery—intended for fixed or semi-permanent lab/field deployment.
How is traceability maintained across calibration intervals?

Each unit ships with COFRAC-accredited calibration certificates for all MFCs and pressure sensors; users may perform in-house verification using NIST-traceable reference analyzers, with results logged automatically in the audit trail.
Does the system support automated compliance reporting for regulatory submissions?

Yes—the GasMix™ Control Suite generates PDF-formatted calibration reports containing instrument IDs, environmental conditions, uncertainty budgets, and digital signatures, aligned with EU 2017/1432 and US EPA 40 CFR Part 60 Appendix B requirements.