Benefits and Limitations of Beamonics Gas Analyzers
Beamonics provides a range of laser-based gas analysis solutions for industrial monitoring and process control. The product line—comprising BeamStack, BeamCell, and BeamSight—offers tailored solutions for gas analysis, adaptability, and portability, catering to a variety of industrial needs. This analysis details each product, exploring their respective benefits, features, and limitations to help industries make informed choices.
BeamStack: In-Situ Gas Analysis
BeamStack is a highly efficient system designed for in-situ, open-path gas analysis, offering non-invasive and precise monitoring of gas streams and open-air environments. It features a turnkey design, calibration-free operation, and PPB-level sensitivity (parts per billion), making it ideal for both industrial and research purposes. BeamStack’s seamless integration with PC or PLC systems simplifies data export and analysis, allowing operators to make data-driven decisions with greater efficiency and accuracy.
Benefits:
Non-Invasive Monitoring: BeamStack enables gas analysis without disrupting ongoing operations. This ensures that production or research processes continue smoothly, without interruption or the need for physical extraction.
Calibration-Free Maintenance: The absence of regular calibration requirements helps minimize downtime and lowers operational costs. This is especially valuable for industries that operate continuously and need a reliable, maintenance-free monitoring solution.
No Cross-Talks: BeamStack’s advanced technology eliminates interference, delivering accurate results even in environments where multiple gases are present. This capability is crucial for ensuring that data remains consistent and accurate in complex applications.
Rugged Construction (IP68 Rated): The system is built to withstand harsh industrial conditions. Its IP68 rating means that it is protected against dust, dirt, and even prolonged water immersion, making it highly reliable for demanding environments.
User-Friendly Integration: BeamStack’s ease of integration with existing industrial control systems allows for streamlined deployment. Its compatibility with standard protocols means that minimal adjustments are needed for implementation.
Limitations:
High Initial Investment: The upfront cost of BeamStack may be prohibitive for smaller companies or those with limited budgets. However, the advanced features, durability, lifetime is reflected in its price. To understand more about our pricing and support options, kindly schedule a demo.
Complex Setup Requirements: BeamStack’s integration with PLC systems requires specialized technical expertise, making setup somewhat complex. To mitigate this, Beamonics provides detailed training programs and access to experienced technicians who can assist with setup and integration, ensuring a seamless deployment. Organizations may need to hire or train personnel to manage installation and integration effectively.
Dependence on Data Quality: The accuracy of BeamStack’s readings depends heavily on sensor quality and stable environmental conditions. Beamonics offers high-quality, compatible sensors and ongoing calibration support to ensure the best possible performance in varying conditions. Inconsistent sensor calibration or environmental fluctuations can compromise performance, necessitating the need for reliable sensors.
BeamCell: Extractive Gas Analyzer
BeamCell is specifically designed for extractive gas analysis in controlled environments, providing rapid, high-precision measurements. It features corrosion-resistant flow chambers and push-in gas connectors for easy integration. BeamCell is capable of analyzing a wide range of gases, including toxic and corrosive substances, making it suitable for industries that need precise control over gas compositions.
Benefits:
High-Precision Extractive Analysis: BeamCell allows for detailed sampling of gas to ensure accuracy in controlled conditions. This precision is essential for industries like pharmaceuticals, chemical production, and petrochemicals where precise gas composition is critical to product quality.
Corrosion-Resistant Chambers: The flow chambers are designed with corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring durability even when exposed to harsh or reactive gases. This helps prolong the lifespan of the device, reducing the frequency of costly replacements.
Calibration-Free Operation: BeamCell’s ability to operate without frequent calibration makes it efficient and cost-effective. This feature is particularly advantageous in remote or difficult-to-access locations where maintenance is logistically challenging.
Multi-Point Sampling Capability: BeamCell is capable of sampling gases from multiple points, enhancing its coverage and effectiveness. This enables comprehensive monitoring, providing a complete picture of gas dynamics across different parts of a system.
Easy Maintenance: Designed for minimal upkeep, BeamCell facilitates easy cleaning and routine maintenance, reducing long-term costs. Operators can perform cleaning without the need for specialized tools, simplifying the process.
Limitations:
Complex Setup: The requirement for gas extraction means that BeamCell involves a more complex setup compared to non-extractive systems. Beamonics provides detailed setup guides, as well as on-site support for customers to ensure the correct installation and configuration of the system. Specialized equipment and trained personnel may be needed, increasing initial deployment costs and time.
Sensitivity to Contamination: During gas sampling, BeamCell is susceptible to contamination, which can affect the accuracy of its measurements. To minimize this risk, Beamonics provides best practices for handling and maintenance, including the use of specialized filters to reduce the likelihood of contamination. Careful handling and regular maintenance are needed to prevent contamination and ensure reliable performance.
BeamSight: Remote Gas Analysis
BeamSight is a versatile system designed for remote, stand-off gas detection. It is available in both portable and fixed configurations, making it suitable for monitoring hazardous or hard-to-access areas from a safe distance. BeamSight utilizes Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology to detect gas concentrations from up to 100 meters away, without requiring complex alignment or frequent recalibration. For more on how TDLAS technology works, see this .
Benefits:
Flexible Deployment: BeamSight can be deployed in portable or permanent configurations, making it adaptable to different operational needs. This versatility allows it to be used for temporary monitoring during site assessments or as a permanent safety feature in hazardous locations.
Extended Detection Range: BeamSight’s ability to measure gases at distances of up to 100 meters is ideal for monitoring large areas, particularly in outdoor or industrial environments. This feature is especially useful for ensuring worker safety in zones that may contain hazardous gases.
Independent Operation: The portable configuration allows BeamSight to operate on battery power for up to 5 hours, enabling adaptability in remote locations without a power supply. This makes it an excellent option for emergency response situations or temporary field deployments.
Real-Time Data Analysis: BeamSight provides immediate gas analysis results, aiding in proactive decision-making and enhancing safety. Real-time insights allow operators to take swift action in response to detected hazards, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
Maintenance-Free: The system is designed to operate without frequent calibration, which minimizes the need for maintenance. This is particularly valuable in remote or hard-to-reach areas, where routine servicing would be costly and difficult to arrange.
Limitations:
Battery Life: The battery-powered version of BeamSight has a limited operating time of 5 hours, which may not be sufficient for extended field applications. Users can extend operational time by carrying additional battery packs or using an external power source for long-term deployments. Users may need to carry additional batteries or have a recharging plan for longer deployments.
Sensitivity to Environmental Conditions: BeamSight’s performance can be affected by extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or very high temperatures. Beamonics recommends deploying the system in weather-protected enclosures where possible, and provides guidelines on best practices for use in harsh environments. Proper positioning and weather considerations are necessary for accurate readings.
Detection Range Limitations: While BeamSight can detect gases up to 100 meters, the accuracy of detection may decrease at maximum range, especially in unfavorable environmental conditions. Beamonics advises proper positioning and alignment to optimize accuracy, along with using additional sensors if greater precision is required over extended ranges. Operators need to be aware of these limitations when deploying the system for long-distance monitoring.
Conclusion
Beamonics offers a comprehensive suite of gas analysis products designed to meet diverse industrial needs. BeamStack, BeamCell, and BeamSight each provide specialized solutions for various applications—from in-situ gas analysis and controlled extractive sampling to remote detection in hazardous areas. With calibration-free technology, real-time insights, and robust designs, Beamonics products help enhance industrial efficiency, support regulatory compliance, and optimize overall process control.
BeamStack is ideal for non-invasive, in-situ analysis that integrates seamlessly with existing industrial systems, while BeamCell excels in high-precision extractive analysis in controlled environments. BeamSight is the preferred choice for remote monitoring, providing safe and reliable gas detection in hazardous or inaccessible locations. Despite the initial costs and specialized setup requirements, Beamonics products offer significant long-term benefits in terms of operational efficiency, safety, and productivity, making them valuable assets for industrial gas monitoring and control. By investing in Beamonics solutions, industries can improve the quality of their gas analysis processes, reduce operational risks, and ensure compliance with stringent safety standards, ultimately contributing to a safer and more efficient work environment.
