Ammonia and Methanol are produced from natural gas utilizing very similar processing techniques. Their production involves several independent processes, each with its own dynamics that ultimately affect the success of the total process. The processes include: Natural Gas Feed, Primary Reformer, Shift Converters and Recycle Streams. Since the effluent from the first stage becomes the feed to the second stage, variations of the sample compositions that occur in all of the processes need to be closely monitored, quickly analyzed and controlled.

Extrel MAX300-IG™ Quadrupole Process Mass Spectrometers analyze all Ammonia production process streams (or Methanol process streams) allowing control over the critical process parameters. This seventh generation of MAX300 Process Mass Spectrometers has been proven to be an economic necessity to both Ammonia and Methanol production.

The MAX300 Process Mass Spectrometer Series:

• Analyzes the natural gas feed to calculate the steam to carbon ratio
• Provides full and fast ammonia converter composition analysis maintaining optimum H2/N2 ratio in the inlet (achieving tolerance of + or – 0.01%)
• Analyzes the hydrogen recovery unit effluent which optimizes inert gas purging
• Quickly analyzes the methane slippage and inert gases to ensure safe processing
• Delivers the fast data necessary to tightly control the process algorithms, reducing stress on plant equipment such as compressors

Several documented reports from Extrel’s customers indicate savings of energy, reduction of process variance and a substantial increase in production when an Extrel Mass Spectrometer is used in a closed loop control scheme. Recognized as the leader for Ammonia Production Control, Extrel is an approved mass spectrometer supplier for ammonia process licensors worldwide.

For additional specifications and benefits of the Extrel MAX300-IG Industrial Gas Analyzer, please view our product guide or contact your local Sales Representative.