Process analytics technology leads to long-term optimized process management and control

102 years ago, Hellma saw the light of day as a manufacturer of, among other things, cuvettes/cells for UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence measurement. Since then, the collection of standard products has continued to expand while more and more customization to customer specifications is being provided. "The Hellma Analytics division focuses on various products such as process probes and process measurement cells. Hellma Solutions offers spectroscopic solutions where we focus on customer applications," says Marilena Pagano, Application Specialist for process spectroscopy at Hellma. She explains in this article why process analytical technology (PAT) is so important.

"Process Analytical Technologies (PAT) helps companies in various industries monitor production and quality control and improve plant performance. The key to success is an accurate, robust spectroscopic interface via optical immersion probes or measurement cells. With process spectroscopy, users can measure concentrations directly on-site (inline or offline), both qualitatively and quantitatively," begins Pageno. PAT can be used at all stages of the production cycle. "Information about individual processes can be displayed from a vessel, bypass or pipeline at long distances." The use of process analytics technology therefore offers several advantages. "It leads to long-term optimized process management and control, as well as improved production times, reduced energy input, higher product quality, higher output, less waste, increased process safety, better process understanding, acceleration of process analysis, cost savings, and so on."

Process probes

To accomplish this, it is necessary to use the right measurement cells. Pagano elaborates on process probes. "Inline measurements lead to immediate results that allow you to improve your product immediately and save time. Our process probes can be used for various applications to achieve process efficiency. With this we obtain a wide range: UV VIS, NIR, MIR and Raman Spectroscopy. We have a number of variants in this regard: the XP, HY and HD. XP stands for Xtremely Precise, is characterized by a monolithic, high-precision measuring head and is suitable in situations where accuracy and reproducibility of measurement results have the highest priority. HD probes - which stands for Heavy Duty - contain metal seals and are therefore very suitable in extreme process conditions such as esterification, for example. The probes can withstand high pressures and temperatures that can reach 400ºC." Finally, there are the HY probes where HY stands for HYgienic. "Probes in this category are especially suitable for use in production processes with high hygienic requirements. Some probes offer additional 3-A certification and are particularly suitable for use in the food industry, as well as in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industries."

Right combination

A probe alone won't get you there. "Customers also need a spectrometer and other instruments to achieve the right results. We therefore work with various technology partners. This allows us to offer the appropriate combination of hardware with our probes and measurement cells. The advantage for our customers is that they always have a single point of contact. We support them in finding what is needed in their specific situation so that all needs can be met. From timeline, temperature and pressure to hygienic regulations. In a conversation, we choose the right combination together. In the process, we can also conduct feasibility studies so that the customer never buys something that may or may not be appropriate. In other words, our goal is to completely unburden the customer and think along with him. Practice shows that often the most expensive or sophisticated equipment is not needed to achieve the desired measurement results. In short, PAT helps companies improve production and quality control and performance, and we help customers with our solutions and relationships with partners to achieve that."

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