Customized configurations for a wide range of applications

Each application requires a specific configuration of the analytical system. Like a construction kit, gas chromatographs of AMA Instruments can be configured individually for any field of use.

Detector

All analyzers of the GC 4000 and the GC 5000 series can use either a Flame Ionization Detector (FID) or a Photo Ionization Detector (PID).

The Flame Ionization Detector (FID) is well known for its versatility and provides a linear signal over a wide measuring range. This robust type of detector has proven to be extremely reliable over decades of practical use. Operation of the FID requires supply of hydrogen and combustion air.

The Photo Ionization Detector (PID) allows for sensitive detection of aromatic hydrocarbons and other organic compounds characterized by their low ionization potential. As this type of detector does not provide a linear output signal, calibration of the PID requires additional time and effort compared to a FID.

Zero-/Span Gas valves

This option allows for fully automated validation of the gas chromatograph during operation. Software controlled solenoid valves will switch as selected between the sample port and two additional ports e.g. for zero air and span gas.

Stripping Column Device

This option allows the retention and back-flushing of high boiling components and/or humidity in a pre-column installed upstream of the analytical column in order to separate them from the compounds to be analyzed. This protects the analytical column and allows for short analytical cycles.

Enrichment Modules

For determination of organic compounds at extremely low concentration levels — e.g. for ambient air monitoring, purity control of industrial gases or occupational health and safety monitoring — the GC 5000 series can be provided with a single or dual stage enrichment module.

Our single stage enrichment module allows for pre-concentration of higher boiling organic components using suitable adsorbent materials. During sampling and sample pre-concentration the sampling flow rate will accurately be monitored and controlled using a high precision digital Mass Flow Controller (MFC). When sampling is completed, the analytes will automatically be introduced to the analytical column by means of thermal desorption technique.

Our proprietary dual stage enrichment technology has especially been developed for quantitative pre-concentration of even extremely volatile organic compounds. After pre-concentration and subsequent release by thermal desorption, the components will be trapped in a second stage. Only now the sample will be transferred to the analytical column by rapid heating up of the focusing capillary in order to start the next analysis run.

Active heating of the enrichment tube as well as active cooling using a peltier cooler allows for precise temperature control during sampling and sample introduction.