LUMEX RA-915AMNG Natural Gas Mercury Online Monitor
| Brand | LUMEX |
|---|---|
| Origin | Canada |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | RA-915AMNG |
| Instrument Type | Online Analyzer |
| Principle | Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectrometry with High-Frequency Modulation (ZAAS-HFM) |
| Detection Limit | 0.5 ng/m³ |
| Repeatability | ±1% |
| Linearity Error | ±1% |
| Measurement Range | 0–2000 ng/m³ (configurable multi-range options available) |
| Reporting Interval | ≥2 s (user-definable) |
| Benzene Correction | Fully Automatic |
| Zero Drift Correction | User-selectable (recommended every 60 min) |
| Span Drift Correction | User-selectable (recommended every 3 h) |
| Calibration | Fully Automated (calibration source ≈12,000 ng/m³ Hg) |
| Sample Flow Rate | 7–10 L/min |
| Communication Protocol | Standard Bavarian Protocol (customizable upon request) |
| Status Outputs | SERVICE (zero/calibration mode), FAILURE, MEASURE (Bavarian) |
| Operating Temperature | 14–40 °C |
| Atmospheric Pressure | 84–106.7 kPa |
| Relative Humidity | <99% at 35 °C |
| Power Supply | 220–240 VAC, 50 Hz |
| Dimensions | 600 × 480 × 220 mm |
| Weight | 19 kg |
Overview
The LUMEX RA-915AMNG Natural Gas Mercury Online Monitor is an industrial-grade, fully automated analyzer engineered for continuous, real-time quantification of elemental mercury (Hg⁰) in hydrocarbon gas streams—including natural gas, coalbed methane, and associated process gases. It employs Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectrometry with High-Frequency Modulation (ZAAS-HFM), a physics-based optical technique that eliminates spectral interferences by applying a high-frequency magnetic field to split the 254 nm mercury resonance line into polarization components. This enables direct, selective detection of gaseous atomic mercury without chemical conversion or pre-concentration—delivering high specificity even in complex matrices containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), sulfur species, and particulates. Unlike conventional cold vapor atomic absorption (CVAA) systems requiring sample digestion or amalgamation, the RA-915AMNG operates on raw, unconditioned gas flow, making it suitable for harsh upstream and midstream environments where reliability, low maintenance, and regulatory compliance are critical.
Key Features
- True online operation with zero reagent consumption—no wet chemistry, no consumables, no sample derivatization
- Multi-pass optical cell providing effective path length of up to 10 meters, enhancing sensitivity while maintaining compact footprint
- Integrated, long-life mercury calibration source (≈12,000 ng/m³) enabling fully automated zero/span verification without external standards
- Real-time benzene interference correction algorithm—essential for accurate Hg measurement in raw natural gas containing aromatic hydrocarbons
- Automatic baseline drift compensation and dynamic range adjustment synchronized with user-defined maintenance intervals (e.g., zero check every 60 min, span check every 3 h)
- Robust mechanical architecture designed for installation in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations; compatible with standard 19-inch explosion-proof enclosures
- Native support for Bavarian protocol (DIN EN 15267-compliant messaging structure), with optional Modbus TCP, Profibus DP, or OPC UA integration
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RA-915AMNG is validated for direct analysis of untreated natural gas and coalbed methane across full operational pressure and compositional ranges encountered in custody transfer, pipeline injection, and LNG pretreatment facilities. It meets functional safety requirements aligned with IEC 61508 SIL 2 for continuous emission monitoring applications. Data integrity conforms to ALARP principles and supports audit readiness for ISO 17025-accredited laboratories. While not inherently FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant (as it is a field-deployed industrial analyzer), its firmware supports secure user access control, electronic logbook with timestamped event records (including calibration, failure, and maintenance actions), and configurable data retention—enabling traceability required under GLP and GMP-aligned QA frameworks. All hardware components comply with RoHS 2011/65/EU and CE marking directives.
Software & Data Management
The embedded firmware provides deterministic real-time processing with dual-channel A/D conversion and lock-in amplification for optimal signal-to-noise ratio. Measurement results are output as dry-gas-corrected values referenced to standard temperature (0 °C) and pressure (101.325 kPa), eliminating need for manual normalization. Configuration, diagnostics, and historical trend review are accessible via web-based interface (HTTPS/TLS 1.2) or local Ethernet connection. Raw absorbance spectra, calibration logs, and system health metrics (lamp intensity, detector gain, flow stability) are stored onboard for ≥30 days and exportable in CSV or XML format. Remote firmware updates are supported over secure SSH channels. Optional LUMEX MercuryView™ desktop software enables advanced statistical analysis, alarm threshold configuration, and integration with SCADA or DCS platforms via OPC DA/UA.
Applications
- Continuous mercury monitoring at natural gas sweetening units and amine regenerator off-gas streams
- Custody transfer point verification per ISO 14113 and GPA 2261 specifications
- Compliance assurance for EPA Method 29, ASTM D6348, and EN 13211 mercury emission limits
- Process optimization in mercury removal unit (MRU) operation—correlating inlet/outlet Hg concentrations with adsorbent bed performance
- Early-warning detection of mercury breakthrough in activated carbon or sulfur-impregnated alumina beds
- Baseline characterization during pipeline commissioning and post-maintenance validation
FAQ
Does the RA-915AMNG require gas conditioning or filtration prior to analysis?
No. The instrument is designed for direct analysis of raw natural gas. An integrated heated particulate filter (1 µm cut-off) and moisture trap protect the optical path, but no external scrubbers, chillers, or catalytic converters are needed.
How often must the internal mercury calibration source be replaced?
The sealed, solid-state calibration source has a certified service life of ≥5 years under continuous operation and requires no user replacement—only periodic functional verification via automated span checks.
Can the RA-915AMNG operate in ambient temperatures below 14 °C?
Operation below 14 °C is not recommended due to potential condensation in the optical cell and reduced lamp stability; however, optional thermostatically controlled enclosure heating kits are available for sub-zero deployments.
Is the instrument certified for use in hazardous areas?
The RA-915AMNG itself is non-incendive (Class I, Div. 2 Group B/C); final hazardous location certification depends on integration within an approved explosion-proof cabinet meeting NEC 500 or IECEx requirements.
What data output formats are supported for integration with third-party systems?
Standard outputs include analog 4–20 mA (Hg concentration), digital dry contacts (SERVICE/FAILURE/MEASURE), and serial Bavarian protocol. Custom protocol adaptation (e.g., Modbus RTU/TCP, DNP3) is available through LUMEX’s engineering services team.
