Online Analyzers

Online analysis using Near-infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology provides rapid and accurate monitoring of key parameters in refining and fuel blending, reducing the need for time-consuming and costly lab analysis.

SGS provides a full suite of NIR analyzer services, including equipment supply and installation, project start-up and technical support for in-laboratory application and on-line installation. We work in close cooperation with major equipment suppliers.

What is Near-infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS)?

Near-infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) is a spectroscopic method that uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. It has wide range of applications for the oil and petrochemicals industries, including monitoring of:

• RON, MON, benzene and aromatics content and RVP in reformat rundown streams
• IBP and FPB, flashpoint, cloudpoint, CFPP in diesel during blending

The range of potential applications is constantly growing.

Advantages of NIR analysis

• Provides test results of multiple parameters in just 20 seconds
• Reduces the need for extensive sample preparation
• Requires less manpower than conventional lab analysis
• Eliminates the need for laboratory analysis and associated costs and delays
• Does not require hardware changes if a product or formula changes
• Ideally suited to support quality control processes

The SGS Near-infrared Analyzer Services (NIR) competence center

The center provides a full suite of services regarding NIR instrumentation, implementation, calibration and operation, including:

• Supply of NIR equipment and NIR models
• Start-up project management and execution
• Calibration (either locally or through remote support from the SGS NIR competence center)
• Back-up and support from qualified SGS laboratories in the area
• Coordinated support with manufacturer(s) 

How we implement NIR

There are four basic steps for NIR implementation:

• 1st step
  • Place NIR analyzer in your lab
  • Take spectra from products involved 
  • Perform lab analysis using validated methods
  • Send spectra and lab results to SGS NIR competence center
• 2nd step
  • Development of models and installation through remote control/access of the NIR analyzer
  • Monitoring and comparison of real world samples 
• 3rd step:
  • Regular correlation of NIR results against formal test results of real-life samples to provide essential input for updating the NIR calibration models
• 4th step:
  • Develop and implement next steps to place NIR on-line

Find out more about how online analyzers from SGS can support your operations.