GC
IndustriesEnergy & Chemicals
ManufacturerAgilent Technologies, PAC
Importance of the Topic
The accurate determination of true boiling point distribution is fundamental for petroleum characterization, quality control, and regulatory compliance. Simulated distillation (SIMDIS) delivers detailed boiling range profiles from light naphtha to heavy residues, guiding refining decisions and ensuring conformity with global standards.
Study Objectives and Overview
This application note introduces a complete, turn-key SIMDIS workflow for boiling point analysis up to carbon number C120. The system is factory-calibrated and validated against certified reference materials and adheres to ASTM, IP, ISO, and DIN methods. It targets users in labs, QC/QA environments, and process monitoring, emphasizing automation, data integrity, and method compliance.
Methodology and Instrumentation
Analysis employs gas chromatography with automated sample handling and specialized hardware optimized for SIMDIS. Key elements include:
- Agilent 8890 GC platform with an intuitive touchscreen and mobile access features
- Temperature-programmable inlet for reproducible, clean injections
- Automated liquid sampler (ALS) with cooling and optimized airflow
- Dedicated AC CNS and AC 8634 analyzers for combined boiling range and heteroatom determination
- SIMDIS XLNC software for method definition, blank subtraction, calibration, and LIMS connectivity
Main Results and Discussion
The system delivers precise boiling point distributions in accordance with multiple standard methods (e.g., ASTM D2887, D7169, D7096). Factory calibration and performance checks guarantee sensitivity and repeatability at or above method requirements. Software-driven QA/QC tools provide instant pass/fail status, audit trails, and customizable reporting.
Benefits and Practical Applications
Key advantages include:
- Fully automated workflows reducing operator intervention and human error
- Compliance with global test standards for gasoline, jet fuel, diesel, lube oils, and crude oils
- Comprehensive reporting options (chromatograms, boiling point plots, correlation data) in multiple formats
- Remote monitoring and mobile control for increased uptime and lab flexibility
- Combined boiling range and sulfur/nitrogen analysis for process optimization
Future Trends and Potential Applications
Advancements in SIMDIS may include integration with artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance, expansion of boiling range capabilities beyond C120, and enhanced data analytics for real-time refinery process control. Further software interoperability could enable centralized data management across distributed laboratories.
Conclusion
The described SIMDIS solution offers a robust, compliant, and user-friendly platform for true boiling point determination across a wide range of petroleum products. Its turnkey configuration, coupled with advanced hardware and software, ensures reliable performance and streamlines laboratory workflows.
Content was automatically generated from an orignal PDF document using AI and may contain inaccuracies.