Ammonia slip (SCR/SNCR)
Real-time NH₃ monitoring with TDLAS-based systems for efficient NOₓ reduction and regulatory compliance.
Overview
SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) and SNCR systems reduce NOₓ emissions by injecting ammonia or urea into the flue gas stream.
If dosing isn’t matched to the actual NOₓ load, ammonia slip occurs, unreacted NH₃ passing downstream.
Ammonia slip causes:
- Higher reagent consumption
- Catalyst fouling and corrosion
- Visible plumes (“blue haze”)
- Increased particulate formation (ammonium salts)
- Environmental non-compliance
Real-time NH₃ measurement is the only reliable way to keep dosing under control while maintaining NOₓ reduction efficiency.
Why Ammonia slip happens
Ammonia slip is typically caused by:
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Rapid load changes and transient combustion
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Maldistribution of reagent injection
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Catalyst age or degradation
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Incorrect air–fuel ratio
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Temperature deviations in SCR zones
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Mixing limitations in SNCR systems
Because conditions change continuously, static dosing models are not enough. Plants need continuous NH₃ feedback.
How we measure Ammonia slip
Beamonics’ TDLAS analyzers provide:
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True real-time detection (millisecond response)
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Sub-ppm accuracy
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No drift, no calibration cylinders
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Reliable readings in high humidity, dust, and heat
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Direct in-situ or extractive installation
Our systems measure NH₃ before and after SCR/SNCR zones to give operators immediate insight into dosing effectiveness.
Our products
Why our products are different
Adaptive Signal Control
Real-time compensation for fluctuating transmission.
Unmatched Precision
Flexible Integration
Adaptable outputs in your preferred format, fitting into existing PC/PLC.
True Real-Time Insights
>1000 analyses per second, notifying you when conditions change.
Ultra-Low Detection Limits
Compact Form Factor
Small, lightweight design makes installation and retrofitting simple.
Instant Startup
No warm-up or stabilizing time. Start measuring within seconds.
Reliable in Harsh Conditions
Accurate measurement even at low transmission levels, down to ~1%.
Made in Sweden
Built with robust, replaceable components for long service life.
How our technology works
1. Laser Emission
A tunable diode laser emits specific colors (wavelengths) of light that is directed through the gas sample.
2. Absorption Measurement
As the laser passes through the gas, molecules absorb some light, which is then measured and recorded.
3. Concentration Calculation
The absorption is analyzed to determine the gas concentration, providing precise, real-time measurements.
Frequently asked questions
What problems do your gas analyzers solve?
We help process and environmental teams measure critical gases in real time (e.g., CH₄, CO₂, H₂S, HF, HCl, H₂O, O₂) for safety, quality, and compliance across biogas, CCUS, battery, chemicals, and more.
How is TDLAS different from NDIR or electrochemical sensors?
TDLAS measures the unique absorption line of a gas with a laser. It’s fast, selective, stable, and needs less frequent calibration than NDIR/electrochemical cells in most tough processes.
Do you offer both in-situ and extractive measurement?
Yes. We provide line-of-sight in-situ probes for hot/wet ducts and extractive analyzers for conditioned sample lines. We help you choose based on dust load, pressure, temperature, and access.
What gases do you measure today?
Common: CH₄, CO₂, H₂S, NH₃, HF, HCl, H₂O, O₂, CO, and others on request. Please ask if your target gas isn’t listed.
How fast is the response time?
In practice, there is no T90, as our TDLAS analyzers operate in real time. For example, we deploy solutions in high-speed processes with several 100 Hz/ms. However, typical end-user requirements are often 1–2 seconds in situ and 2–5 seconds for extractive applications (application-dependent).
What accuracy and detection limits can we expect?
Process-ready accuracy (often ±1–2% of reading) and low ppm detection for many species. We’ll quote measurement range, repeatability, and LOD per application.
What does maintenance look like?
Maintenance is typically minimal. Mainly optics checks and purge air filter changes. No consumable cells. Annual verification is standard. No calibration is needed, since TDLAS is self-referencing.
Can you integrate with our DCS/PLC/PC?
Yes, please review the specific datasheet for the product you are interested in. Standard configurations are RS-485, RS-422, USB, 4-20 mA, and so on. Our solution comes complete with a servicing and commissioning software and integration-ready API. We are happy to help if you are unsure which integration method is best for you.
What certifications and ATEX/IECEx options are available?
We offer some enclosures and probes for industrial and explosive areas. Please reach out to us if you have questions regarding ATEX/IECEx, and we will do our best to assist you. We are committed to quality and are certified to ISO 9001:2015.
What are typical lead times and pricing models?
Most systems ship in 4–6 weeks, while some custom builds can take up to 12 weeks. Pricing depends on gas set, configuration, and explosive-area needs. We also offer pilot programs.
TALK TO OUR TDLAS EXPERTS
Interested in learning more?
Talk to an engineer or contact us to learn more about our products and technology, and explore how our next-generation TDLAS gas analyzers can solve your gas analysis applications.
