New Continuous Mercury Gas Emissions Analyser

In anticipation of tighter regulations for mercury emissions, SICK (UK) has developed the new MERCEM300Z mercury measuring system, a high-accuracy continuous-flow gas analyser for emissions down to the 0 – 45µg/m3 range from a wide range of combustion sources.

The patented gas spectrum of the MERCEM300Z rapid monitoring system offers superior performance with better long term, drift-free accuracy and lower running costs. The system requires minimal maintenance, is self adjusting and uses no chemical consumables. “Awareness of the pollution caused by mercury and its compounds in combustion emissions is increasing in the UK and Europe,” explains John Exford, Process Automation Division Manager, SICK (UK).

“From power generation, cement kilns and hospital waste to crematoriums, the need to tighten up on mercury will be very important in 2013, when the EU will be following the United Nations lead in a world-wide treaty.

“A particular new source of mercury is in the increasing adoption of waste incineration for heat and power. Accidental inclusion of mercury-rich waste such as old batteries, electronics and fluorescent lamps can be significant.”

Accurate total mercury values are generated by the patented high-temperature thermal converter at the heart of the SICK MERCEM300Z mercury analyser, which continuously compares the spectrum of the emissions sample with the reference mercury discharge lamp. Different sensitivity ranges are available, and the MERCEM300Z self calibrates itself automatically against a stable reference wavelength to correct sensor drift, unlike the periodic adjustment required from other systems.

Additionally remote operation and diagnostics ensure total long-term reassurance for monitoring emissions and responding pollution incidents. Without moving parts or the need to replenish reagents, the SICK analyser offers long term reliability, as well as very low operating costs.