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What Certification is needed for Process Analyzers in a Hazardous Area or Explosive Atmosphere?

What Certification is needed for Process Analyzers in a Hazardous Area or Explosive Atmosphere?

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NASA uses HPV Analyzer to Help Keep Planets Protected

NASA uses HPV Analyzer to Help Keep Planets Protected

HPVA Helps Keep Plants Clean

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New Intern Joins from US Department of Defense

New Intern Joins from US Department of Defense

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NIR-O and M508plus Process Analyzer Analog Inputs and Outputs

NIR-O and M508plus Process Analyzer Analog Inputs and Outputs

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OmniView 7 Part Video Training Series

OmniView 7 Part Video Training Series

Free On-Demand Training Series for OmniView Process Analysis Software

The NIR-O full spectrum NIR analyzer with OmniView process analysis software has a series of new training videos to help you become an expert user or at the very least will reduce the learning curve. There are 7 training videos in the first series that all focus on Creating a Method.

What is a Method in OmniView? 
A Method is the set of instructions which tells OMNIVIEW how to process spectra collected by the NIR-O and convert that data into actionable information or real-world values. A Method or Group of Methods includes process steps such as Baseline Correction, Multiplicative Scatter Correction, Partial Least Squares Regression with Unscrambler, and customizable functions. 

Creating a Method in OmniView NIR-O Analysis Software:

  • Part 1 – Creating a Method Introduction
    Dr Steve Elam, Lead Software Developer with Guided Wave discusses the finer parts of implementing a method with the NIR-O analyzer Omniview software.

  • Part 2 – Copy and Paste a Method
    This video covers how to copy a method or group of calibrations between sample points.

  • Part 3 – Creating a Method for 3rd Party Software
    Learn how to leverage the power of unscrambler and other 3rd party chemometric programs using the NIR-O Full Spectrum NIR analyzer with OmniView process analysis software.

  • Part 4 – Import and Export Methods
    Review this convenient method and calibration models for copying configurations between an analyzer in the field or between different channels on the same analyzer.

  • Part 5 – Creating Method Groups
    Need to predict multiple traits from a single scan? This video covers how to make groups of methods which enables you to process the spectra in unique ways for each answer.

  • Part 6 – Transferring Answers to an Output
    Learn how to configure Modbus communications in OmniView. This video covers mapping answers generated by Methods to Modbus addresses. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45×6-OPDWXU

  • Part 7 – Mapping an Output to a (4to20)
    Devices that Don’t support Modbus IP addressing? OmniView and the NIR-O Full Spectrum Analyzer also supports analog outputs. This videos demonstrates how to configure 4-20mA outputs.

NIR-O Full Spectrum NIR Analyzer using OmniView Process Analysis Software

NIR-O is the core of a comprehensive process analyzer system that includes the spectrometer, one or more NIR probes, fiber optic cables, and OmniView™ scanning and analysis software. Like our previous Guided Wave spectrometers, NIR-O uses infrared radiation to collect spectral data from liquids, gases, glass, and polymer-based films. The spectral data are interpreted by the OmniView software to determine the composition or physical characteristics of the material.

Online Process Monitoring and Control made easier with OmniView
Flexible and robust, OmniView analysis software is ideal for continuous process monitoring applications. OmniView provides an environment for continuous and batch process analysis. The software may be implemented in all installations of NIR-O analyzers.

Need More Support? Contact Guided Wave’s Support Team

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OmniView Process Software V2.5 – Lab Wizard Module

OmniView Process Software V2.5 – Lab Wizard Module

In June 2020, the engineering team completed testing on version 2.5 of the Omniview Process Control Software for the NIR-O Full Spectrum Process Analyzer. In addition to several bug fixes, this version introduces a wizard to help guided users on how to collect data for model creation and validation. The Lab Wizard is accessible from the analyzer setup window and acts as an alternative to Demand Scan functionality that has existed since version 1 of Omniview.

The lab wizard supports two use cases. The first mode is for the collection of data which will be used to create a new NIR calibration. The second mode is for QC operations and enables users to scan a series of samples with an existing NIR calibration. In both modes, the multiple scans can be exported into a single csv file for post-processing or manual submission to a LIMS system.

Overview

The Lab Wizard module was designed to allow users with a NIR-O process analyzer to collect on-demand scans and export them into a single file that is accessible by other software (Unscrambler© software, LIMS systems, etc.). The functionality of the Lab Wizard runs in parallel to the normal process software functionality. Changing channel configuration settings such as the number of scans to average (coadds) will also change the settings for the spectral data collected by the Scheduler. Additionally, the Scheduler can remain active while the Lab Wizard is running. This enables users to collect on demand scans on specific channels with minimal impact to ongoing operations.

Using the Lab Wizard

1) To enable the Lab Wizard button, click the Lock button,in the Analyzer window.

2) Click the Lab Wizard button to begin,

3) The Setup tab of the Lab wizard allows for the general scope or data-set of the on-demand scans to be defined. A user with Technician level privileges can only select a previously defined data-set from the drop down list. A user with Engineer level privileges can select an existing data-set or create a new data-set by clicking the plus button.

4) Once a data-set is selected, click the Next button to proceed to the Scan Setup tab.

Parameters that define a dataset include: file name prefix, file path to export scans to, selecting which channel spectra will be collected on, if any lab reference values will be supplied, if any existing models/methods should be called.  Additionally, lab required meta information such as the time that a sample was pulled can be entered as a lab reference value. The Procedure drop down list is currently a place holder

5. The Scan Setup tab allows for modification by a user with Engineer privileges to change the channel configuration.  

6. The ZERO Scan tab allows for the collection of ZERO scans and follows the same logic as the ZERO Wizard. Both Technician and Engineer users can collect a new zero or proceed with the existing zero scan.

7) The Collect Scans tab allows for data to be collected as defined by the previous tabs. If reference values were setup on the data configuration tab, the user will be prompted for them once the scan is completed. If a sample collection time is to be entered use the date format. Additionally, users will be prompted to provide a comment.  The comment can be a sample name or any other information that may be useful.  Both fields can be left blank. To collect a scan click the Perform Scan Button.

7) The lab reference value or sample scan time can be entered in the popup:

8) Once a scan is complete the spectrum will appear in the chart and tabulated data in the table above it. Additional scans added to the collection will appear in both the table and chart.

9) To export the collection of scan to a file, click the Export Collected Scans button.  The collection of scans and tabular information will be exported according to the previously selected file format (csv, gwj, etc)

10) Selecting scans in the table enables the deletion button. Scans removed from a collection are still stored in the database. Removing a scan simply removes it from the collection.  The entire collection can be deleted using the Clear Collection button.

11) A trend chart of Lab Wizard answers can be displayed by opening the Answer window and selecting the data from the list of available answers. At this time, lab reference values cannot be displayed inside of the OmniView process software. To generate a ‘Predicted vs Actual value chart, use the exported file of the collection.

For more information on how to use OmniView software see our YouTube Channel.

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Probes and Flow Cells for High Temperature and Hazardous Polymer Measurements

Probes and Flow Cells for High Temperature and Hazardous Polymer Measurements

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Rental Solutions for Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilization

Rental Solutions for Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide Sterilization

Guided Wave ClearView db photometer analyzer

Do you have an upcoming product release or need to verify a vacuum sterilization method?

The Guided Wave Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Monitor (HPVM), is a simple turnkey solution for the measurement of hydrogen peroxide and water (H2O2  and H2O) concentrations in the vapor phase. Conveniently Guided Wave offers short term HPVM rental solutions which provide continuous, accurate data for documentation and validation requirements. The HPVM rental plan is a complete ready-to-go system and includes calibration certificate, 6-meter fiber optic cables, and a redesigned 50 cm pathlength G-SST probe. The analyzer operates in real-time, which takes the guesswork out of determining the H2O2 and H2O concentrations during cycle development and throughout the actual vacuum sterilization cycle. 

Why Rent an Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Monitor?

Renting an Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Monitor (HPVM) is an ideal solution for short term monitoring needs. When only using an instrument for internment periods of time, it doesn’t make financial sense to invest precious resources learning how to set-up and operate a new interim system. As a result, the quick installation and start-up, along with the ease of operation and control, make the HPV Monitor a smart choice for rental applications.

The HPVM  is calibrated at the factory and no programming or modification is required by the user. To start-up, simply power on the HPV monitor, connect the G-SST probe via the fiber optic cables, and collect a ZERO or background reading in the dehumidified sterilization isolator. Immediately following an inject of sterilant, accurate H2O2 and H2O concentration measurements may begin. This allows for easy operation and controlled monitoring during the sterilization process.

Why Use Spectroscopy to Monitor Sterilant Concentration?

Because the HPVM uses proven NIR spectroscopic technology for quantifying the concentration of vaporized hydrogen peroxide in the sterilization chamber, renters/users can be totally confident in the monitoring results. NIR Spectroscopy is the only real-time monitoring technology capable of operating inside of a vacuum chamber during the sterilization process. Electrochemical hydrogen peroxide sensors cannot handle the harsh vacuum conditions and elevated temperatures used in a modern sterilization process.  The HPV Monitor is not suitable to determine low (<100 ppm) concentrations, which are of occupational health and safety concerns.

The Smart Choice for Reliable Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor Measurement

Guided Wave’s HPV Monitor delivers accurate, real-time H2O2 and H2O measurement results under vacuum conditions. Its long term stability and no maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective, smart choice to help optimize production and ensure product quality ultimately enhancing profitability. Quick and accurate determination of how much sterilant is actually in the vacuum chamber is achieved using the HPV Monitor.

An ISO 9001 certified company, Guided Wave maintains expert technical support and responsive global service for the lifetime of the HPV analyzer system.

Need a Long Term Sterilant Monitor?

Contact a Guided Wave Sales Representative to discuss purchasing the new Vaporization Hydrogen Peroxide Analyzer or the Vaporized Ethylene oxide (ETO) Analyzer. Based on the ClearView’s proven dual-beam photometer technology. the new HPV and ETO analyzers provide a cost effect monitor.

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Rugged Probes and Flow Cells Meet Refinery Requirements

Rugged Probes and Flow Cells Meet Refinery Requirements

woman installing probe in pipeline

Guided Wave pioneered in-line fiber optic sample interfaces more than twenty-five years ago, with the introduction of the SST (Single Sided Transmission) Probe. This probe permits precise spectroscopic analysis of products directly in the process line without the need for sample systems and their associated investment and installation costs, lag times, failures, and constant maintenance requirements. In refineries, there are various operations that make the use of the SST probe ideal. For example, in para-xylene and petrol/gasoline plants where the sample is very clean (free from particulates and moisture), a direct in-situ SST probe is the best choice. It allows direct process measurement with simple installation in a pressurized line.

However, for diesel/gas oil applications it is highly recommended to use a heated MultiPurpose Flow Cell (MPFC) with a heated incoming line to dissolve the trace levels of water in the sample. While direct insertion probes eliminate sample loops and sample systems and their associated problems, sometimes it is necessary to install sample loops for safety, service, and/or sample conditioning reasons. The MPFC is a convenient, compact, rugged sample interface that is easy to install and even easier to service. The cell’s sapphire windows can be cleaned by simply removing a clean-out plug (a Guided Wave innovation) for direct access to the windows without disconnecting process lines or fiber optic cables.

How to Choose the Right Probe or Flow Cell for Refinery Measurements

Probe Selection Table

Guided Wave probes and flow cells offer high throughput, collimated optical beams through the sample, yielding lower noise and more accurate transmission values free of sample index of refraction effects. For faster maintenance and cleaning of insertion probes, Guided Wave’s Extractor Mechanism can be used. The controlled extraction of an in-line probe from pressurized process streams or reactors can be accomplished without shutting down the process, allowing continued use of the analyzer to verify process quality. Coupled with a gate or ball valve, these extractors have proven safe and effective in a variety of refinery installations such as Reformer, Gasoline Blending, Blender and Feed Streams saving downtime. James Low, Guided Wave’s Director of Sales and Support states, “The SST insertion probe extractor assembly is worth every penny when you consider the time saved on insertion probe maintenance.” He continue “I’ve been with Guided Wave almost since its beginning and the SST probe and the multipurpose flow cell are extremely durable and reliable. Our probes and flow cells are compatible with nearly every brand of analyzer and in normal refinery use they function virtually forever”.

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Safe and Efficient Control of the Acrolein Process

Safe and Efficient Control of the Acrolein Process

Are You Using the Safest Process Control Methods?

Acrolein is an explosive and extremely toxic chemical whose handling requires the highest safety standards.

Review Guided Wave’s Application Note Safe and Efficient Control of the Acrolein Process

  • Guided Wave ClearView® db enables measurement of water and acetaldehyde in Acrolein at low % concentrations at 1 or 2 sample points
  • The use of NIR spectroscopy limits the need for hazardous, manual lab sampling
  • Accurate, repeatable results are available online in real-time (seconds)
  • Proven field installations which have been operating for many years
  • Reliable results are obtained safely and with minimal ongoing costs

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