Sampling systems

As stated above, the sampling operation is carried out with the aid of a moving aspirating tip in continuous segmented systems. However, unlike in other configurations, some air is also withdrawn between sample aspirations. The volume taken by the tip can be quantized In two ways, namely  

Most samplers are electronically or computer-controlled, so that they allow programming of the aspiration probe and the turntable. Thus, the Techni-con Sampler II permits the selection of the sample-to-washing solution volume ratio, which can be varied between 1 6 and 6 1, and the sampling rate (20, 40 or 60 samples/h). Later models such as the Sampler IV are even more flexible and work over wider ranges of the above-mentioned parameters. The SOLIPpepII module (also manufactured by Technicon), described in Chapter 3, allows direct sampling of solid samples in automatic continuous analysers. 

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Cq ), where is the blended impurity concentration of impurity a Cq, the background impurity level and the multiplication constant. Possible sources of background response include instmment noise, sample system outgassing, or interference from other impurity response signals. Proper setup, purging, and operation of the instmment should reduce background levels weU below ippb. 

Generally, Httle is known in advance concerning the degree of homogeneity of most sampled systems. Uniformity, rarely constant throughout bulk systems, is often nonrandom. During the production of thousands of tons of material, size and shape distribution, surface and bulk composition, density, moisture, etc, can vary. Thus, in any bulk container, the product may be stratified into zones of variable properties. In gas and Hquid systems, particulates segregate and concentrate in specific locations in the container as the result of sedimentation (qv) or flotation (qv) processes. 

Sampling systems for multiple-stage sample reduc tion incorporating components such as crushing units, interstage feeders, reject handling, and others range up to several hundred thousand dollars in cost. A requirement would be rarely encountered in fine-powder applications. 

Quality control elements required by the instrumental analyzer method include analyzer calibration error ( 2 percent of instrument span allowed) verifying the absence of bias introduced by the sampling system (less than 5 percent of span for zero and upscale cah-bration gases) and verification of zero and calibration drift over the test period (less than 3 percent of span of the period of each rim). 

The sampling system consists of a condensate trap, flow-control system, and sample tank (Fig. 25-38). The analytical system consists of two major subsystems an oxidation system for the recovery and conditioning of the condensate-trap contents and an NMO analyzer. The NMO analyzer is a gas chromatograph with backflush capabihty for NMO analysis and is equipped with an oxidation catalyst, a reduction catalyst, and an FID. The system for the recovery and conditioning of the organics captured in the condensate trap consists of a heat source, an oxidation catalyst, a nondispersive infrared (NDIR) analyzer, and an intermediate collec tion vessel. 

FIA). Figure 25-39 presents a schematic of the sampling system. Results are reported as volume concentration equivalents of the cah-bration gas or as carbon equivalents. 

The principal requirement of a sampling system is to obtain a sample that is representative of the atmosphere at a particular place and time and that can be evaluated as a mass or volume concentration. Remote monitoring techniques are discussed in Chapter 15. The sampling system should not alter the chemical or physical characteristics of the sample in an undesirable manner. The major components of most sampling systems are an inlet manifold, an air mover, a collection medium, and a flow measurement device. 

Regardless of the configuration or the specific material sampled, several characteristics are important for all ambient air sampling systems. These are collection efficiency, sample stability, recovery, minimal interference, and an understanding of the mechanism of collection. Ideally, the first three would be 100% and there would be no interference or change in the material when collected. 

Fig. 13-1. Schematic diagram of various types of sampling systems.

Special techniques are employed to sample for gases and particulate matter simultaneously (3). Sampling systems have been developed which permit the removal of gas-phase molecules from a moving airstream by diffusion to a coated surface and permit the passage of particulate matter... 

Static sampling systems are defined as those that do not have an active air-moving component, such as the pump, to pull a sample to the collection medium. This type of sampling system has been used for over 100 years. Examples include the lead peroxide candle used to detect the presence of SO2 in the atmosphere and the dust-fall bucket and trays or slides coated with a viscous material used to detect particulate matter. This type of system suffers from inability to quantify the amount of pollutant present over a short period of time, i.e., less than 1 week. The potentially desirable characteristics of a static sampling system have led to further developments in this type of technology to provide quantitative information on pollutant concentrations over a fked period of time. Static sampling systems have been developed for use in the occupational environment and are also used to measure the exposure levels in the general community, e.g., radon gas in residences. 

The advantages of static sampling systems are their portability, convenience, reliability, and low cost. The systems are lightweight and can be attached directly to individuals. Nonstatic sampling systems can, of course, also be attached to individuals, but are less convenient because the person must carry a battery-powered pump and its batteries. Static sampling systems are very reliable, and the materials used limit the costs to acceptable levels. 

Care should be exercised when sampling for aerosols that are condensable. Some separating systems, such as wet impingers, may remove the condensables from the gas stream, whereas others, such as electrostatic precipitators, will not. Of equal concern should be possible reactions in the sampling system to form precipitates or aerosols which are not normally found when the stack gases are exhausted directly to the atmosphere. SO-,... 

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