FLOW DIAGRAM DESCRIPTION

Model 101 UV Persulfate TOC

OPERATION

Sample is continuously drawn by pump P1 either through a non-fouling sample By-Pass or directly from the bulkhead fitting, if the sample By-Pass is not used. P1 then delivers the sample through pinch valve V1 to the Sparger, where acid is added by pump P2 to lower the sample pH to 2 for conversion of the TIC (Total Inorganic Carbon) interference to dissolved CO₂. All sample lines, including V1 have inside diameters of 3.2 millimeters throughout the analyzer in order to prevent blockage by suspended particles in the sample. Comet has avoided traditional TOC methods of placing small orifice valves in the sample lines.

The TIC related dissolved CO₂ is continuously sparged out by oxygen or CO₂-free air in Comet’s counter-flow Sparger which has been shown to be 99% effective in eliminating TIC from the sample, leaving only the Total Organic Carbon of the carbonaceous species. Pump P3 delivers the sample from the Sparger to the UV Reactor. Pump P4 delivers sodium persulfate reagent to assure complete oxidation of the TOC to dissolved CO₂ in the Reactor. Oxygen flow is combined with the continuous sample stream as computer controlled by the Mass Flow Controller and acts as an oxidizer as well as a carrier gas for the dissolved CO₂. 

The CO₂ and vapor exhaust from the Reactor is directed to the Gas/Liquid Separator where the liquid is separated from the CO₂ and other gases and drained while the CO₂ gas is dried and proceeds through valve V3 to be analyzed by the Non-Dispersive Infrared Analyzer. The CO₂ generated in the Reactor is a direct correlation to the TOC of the sample and is converted as such, displayed and output through various methods as a TOC.

CLEANUP

Pumps P1, P3, and P4 are stopped, blocking downstream flow. Pump P2 is sped up and delivers an acid wash through the entire sample input system including the interior By-Pass sample tube. The system automatically returns to its normal operating mode after a programmed or “on demand” actuation by the Operator or in response to an alarm of a sample clog. Because of its continuous method, any coating on the UV lamp is avoided and is continuously cleaned by persulfate and acid reagents, as experienced over years of operation.

CALIBRATION

LIQUID:

Model 101 avoids frequent calibrations due to Comet’s advanced technology and component selections but the analyzer should be checked every six (6) months to verify its calibrated state. Others require a costly periodic maintenance to calibrate and do preventive servicing on the analyzer and have adopted a “trust me “approach that the analyzer will remain in a proper calibrated state, whereas Comet has provided a complete auto-calibration utility to assure maximum “up time” of operation when different processes require recalibration.

To calibrate, V1 is actuated, blocking flow from the sample. V2 is sequenced for automatic DI/Zero and Span calibration solutions in response to computer command.

NDIR GAS CALIBRATION

Comet’s advanced NDIR has superior reliability and stability and does not require recalibration for over a year in normal operation. However, again Comet has provided a full auto-calibration utility in recognition that any delay in operation is serious and any problem in the field should be quickly resolved by having all possible remedies available, such as this onboard, easy-to-use automatic NDIR calibration utility. 

Periodically a “zero” check is automatically made by flowing oxygen to the NDIR through V4 and V3, performing a completely automatic acceptance or resets the NDIR to a true gas “zero.” The “end-to-end” NDIR calibration is automatically performed by introducing oxygen or CO₂-free air and then a CO₂ span gas through V4 and V3 as actuated and controlled by the onboard computer. 

COMPONENTS