New VOC emissions monitor approved.

Signal Group has announced the launch of SOLAR CEMNEX, a continuous emissions monitoring (CEM) system with MCERTS approval for the measurement of total organic carbon concentration in sample gas. Designed for regulatory compliance and process control, employing a reference method flame ionisation detector (FID), the new analyser will be ideal for monitoring a wide variety of applications. These include incinerators, medium and large combustion plants, VOC abatement equipment, packaging, and solvent using processes such as paint, print, textiles and adhesives.

The SOLAR CEMNEX is a self-contained monitoring system with a rack mounted VOC analyser, a heated filter, heated sample lines, and an automated calibration system.

“We have been developing and manufacturing FID analysers for over 50 years, and the SOLAR CEMNEX is our most advanced system yet,” explains Signal MD, James Clements. “Customers can order these analysers very simply via the website – they just need to answer four yes/no questions, such as whether they want a detachable tablet/screen, and that’s it – they can place an order and a brand-new SOLAR CEMNEX will be delivered ready for immediate deployment.”

Following a rigorous program of tests at TÜV in Germany, MCERTS approval verifies that the complete monitoring system complies with the performance and uncertainty requirements specified in Britain’s Environment Agency Guidance: MCERTS for stack emissions monitoring equipment at industrial installations - Continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) Updated 28 August 2024, EN 15267-1:2023, EN15267-2:2023, EN 15267-3:2007 and QAL 1 as defined in EN 14181: 2014.

Certification for the SOLAR CEMNEX covers the complete system, including the SOLAR FID analyser, Signal’s heated line and sample probes, and Signal’s 363 SM heated sample filter. Consequently, systems integrators can deploy these items with other MCERTS approved equipment for regulatory compliance monitoring.

The SOLAR CEMNEX can be supplied with a detachable tablet/screen, which allows users to operate the analyser from up to 50 metres away, via inbuilt 802.11 Wi-Fi. In addition, each unit has its own IP address, and is compatible with 3G, 4G, 5G, GPRS, Bluetooth and satellite communications. This provides users with simple and secure access to their analysers at any time, from anywhere.

Summarizing, James Clements says: “In recent years we have ramped up the development of our gas analysers to enhance their accuracy, simplicity and connectivity, so we are delighted to now add MCERTS approval for those customers with a regulatory requirement.”

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@GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #Mcerts #AirQuality #PAuto

Flow compliance at sewage works.

Small wastewater treatment works (WwTWs) frequently present significant physical challenges for instrumentation and control engineers. However, a compliant flow measurement facility has been installed at a plant in Fowey, in Cornwall, by a partnership involving a water company, a contractor, an instrumentation provider and an inspection company. 

The flow monitor at Fowey WwTW needed to be replaced as part of a capital maintenance programme which was challenging due to the constrained nature of the site. Therefore, more innovative solutions were considered as an alternative to a like-for-like replacement. Engineers from Tecker, a MEICA* contractor for South West Water, therefore reviewed the available options. “The channel is in-between two aeration ditches, and there was insufficient room to extend or divert the channel,” explains Tecker Project Engineer Ben Finney. “We therefore considered repairing or replacing the flume, but an alternative suggestion was made that we contact Nivus to see if their cross-correlation flow meter might be able to deliver accurate flow measurements without the costs and problems associated with capital works.”

Background.
Accurate wastewater flow measurement enables the managers of treatment plants to operate efficiently – optimising treatment, minimising costs and protecting the environment. Consequently, through MCERTS, the Environment Agency places strict performance requirements on flow monitoring devices and structures at WwTWs in England. The MCERTS performance standard establishes the minimum requirements for the self-monitoring of flow.

The MCERTS standard applies where a site has a permit under the Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR) requiring the process operator to monitor liquid flow of sewage or trade effluent, and to collect and record the results. MCERTS specifies the minimum requirements for self-monitoring of flow where operators have installed meters to conform to the Environment Agency’s permit requirements. Natural Resources Wales permits may also specify that flow monitoring systems are certified against MCERTS.

Regulated flow measurement systems and structures are usually inspected annually, and non-compliance can be triggered by a number of factors such as ageing and eroded channels, or a failure to deliver the requisite levels of accuracy due to changing flow volumes. For example, growth in the local population combined with increasing rainfall intensity due to climate change, can result in flow structures ‘drowning out’.

Flow monitoring at Fowey WwTW.
Following Tecker’s request, engineers from Nivus visited the site and specified the instrumentation requirements, based on the Nivus NF750 transmitter, a cross-correlation velocity sensor combined with ultrasonic level measurement. “The popularity of this technology has grown enormously in recent years,” says Rob Rhyder from Nivus. “This is frequently because the flow meter can be quickly and easily retro-fitted to damaged or ageing channels, without having to implement significant capital works.”

Explaining the advantages of this solution, Ben Finney says: “The cross-correlation flow meter was delivered within a month of the order and installation took less than a week. In contrast, work to repair or replace the flume would have taken much longer to organise and implement; it would have cost a great deal more; normal operations of the plant would have been impacted, and there would have been no guarantee of MCERTS compliance. We were therefore delighted that the Nivus solution was implemented so quickly, and that it passed the MCERTS inspection.”

Cross-correlation flow measurement.
Nivus has developed a unique ultrasonic cross-correlation method, in which individual velocities are measured continuously at different levels within the flow section. This area velocity flow measurement technique provides a 3-dimensional flow profile that is calculated in real-time to provide reproducible and verifiable flow readings.

The flow velocity measurement method is based on the principle of ultrasonic reflection. Reflectors such as particles, minerals or gas bubbles within the wastewater are scanned using an ultrasonic impulse with a defined angle. The resulting echoes are saved as images or echo patterns, and a second scan is conducted a few milliseconds later. The resulting echo patterns are saved, and by correlating/comparing the saved signals, the positions of unambiguously identifiable reflectors can be identified. The reflectors can be identified at varying positions within the images since they have moved with the water.

By utilising the beam angle it is possible to compute the particle velocity and hence the wastewater flow velocity from the temporal shift of the reflectors. This technology produces highly accurate readings without the need to perform additional calibration measurements.

Designed for operation in channels or pipes, the technology is able to operate effectively in the most demanding, heavily polluted applications. Influencing factors such as flume shape, discharge behaviour and wall roughness are all accommodated within the flow computation.

The Nivus cross-correlation technology is able to conduct flow velocity measurements in levels as low as 3 cm, with additional velocity sensors (maximum 9) deployed in larger flows, measuring flow velocity in up to 4 metres of depth. As a consequence of this flexibility, the technology is applicable to a wide variety of flow structures.

The inlet channel at Fowey is 300mm wide so just a single wedge sensor was required, and Nivus provided bespoke bracketry so that it could be deployed quickly under any process conditions.

Summary.
Following the installation of the Nivus NF750 transmitter, the flow measurement facility was tested and passed MCERTS, without any impacts on the plant’s treatment processes. Looking forward, Ben Finney says: “It is likely that we will utilise area velocity flow meters in more applications because they are sufficiently flexible to be able to accommodate a wide variety of hydraulic systems. In addition to the reduced costs and faster installation times, one of the most important advantages is the minimised requirements for process impact.” Emphasising the importance of a partnership approach, Ben adds: “Obviously, we were keen to ensure that the flow installation received MCERTS approval, so it was highly beneficial to accommodate the views of all stakeholders from the beginning, including the MCERTS inspector.”

Dave Curtis, South West Water MEICA Specialist, said: “More demanding requirements from the regulator combined with challenging process scenarios mean that the need to consider alternative technologies is essential. The Nivus technology has been recognised by South West Water for some time and features on approved equipment lists. The technique offers a valuable tool in our armoury where the application does not suit other closed pipe or noncontact methods.”

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* MEICA : Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control and Automation scoping programme of British Government.

@_Enviro_News  #Nivus  #MCERTS #Wastewater #Environmemt

Air quality monitors certified.

An MCERTS certificate has been awarded for the ‘Airly Air Quality Sensor PM+Gas’ systems. This means that the Airly particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) sensors have been independently verified for qualitative and quantitative measurements, and comply with the British Environment Agency’s MCERTS Performance Standards for Indicative Ambient Particulate Monitors.

Explaining the value of MCERTS accreditation, Airly CEO Wiktor Warchalowski says: “Air quality data is used to inform extremely important decisions, so it is vitally important that measurements are accurate and reliable. Third-party verification through schemes such as MCERTS, therefore allows local authorities, consultants and researchers to choose technology with independently proven levels of performance.

“We already have thousands of sensors operating in the field, but the award of this MCERTS certificate is particularly important because it adds a further layer of credibility to Airly’s products and services.”

In order to achieve the MCERT requirements, Airly’s sensors were tested in a laboratory and in the field. Assessors also visited Airly’s manufacturing facility to verify the robustness of the company’s quality management systems.

The field tests were conducted over a 3-month period with two candidate Airly PM+Gas sensor systems, collocated with a reference PM monitor in Birmingham.

Additional testing was undertaken using two Airly Air Quality PM sensor systems and two Airly Air Quality PM+Gas sensor systems. The two variants were found to agree well, with R2 = 0.998 and slopes close to 1 for both PM2.5 and PM10. The test data report was submitted by Bureau Veritas to CSA Group, the MCERTS certification body.

Commenting on the results of the tests, Warchalowski says: “Our sensors have been tested extensively before, but these evaluations, coupled with the MCERTS award, provide Airly customers with the confidence that they are using one of the best performing small sensors in the world.

“It was interesting to note, for example, that the results from the Airly sensors in the Birmingham (GB) evaluation did not require any correction factors. Airly customers will also be pleased to learn that the MCERTS certificate applies to both PM2.5 and PM10 over an extremely wide range, 0-1,000 µg/m3. This is important, because it means that the sensors can be used at low levels for assessment against hourly, daily and yearly limit values, as well as for monitoring dust levels near development projects, waste management facilities, materials handling sites, industrial processes etc.

“The world is beginning to recognise the enormous air quality opportunity presented by small sensors, and new players are entering the market with increasing frequency, we therefore urge customers to include MCERTS in their specifications to ensure they achieve the levels of performance that companies like Airly are able to deliver.”

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@airlyorg @cleanairdayuk #Environment #Britain

VOC Analysers for certification.

Signal Group has submitted both portable and fixed VOC analysers for MCERTS certification.

The 3010 MINIFID rugged, portable, heated FID VOC analyser has been designed to demonstrate compliance by hydrocarbon emissions measurements from multiple stacks or sites. The S4 SOLAR heated FID VOC analyser is a rack-mounted instrument for continuous monitoring, offering the accuracy and reliability that Signal customers expect, but with the additional benefits of a detachable tablet and software for RS232 or Ethernet connectivity.

The company’s stand (D11) at AQE 2022 will feature both instruments. Visitors will also be able to see the new S4 SOLAR XPLORE portable heated FID, and anyone with an interest in QAL2 audits will be able to see the 821s Gas Divider and the NOXGEN NOx converter efficiency tester. They will see first-hand, how an innovative detachable tablet makes emissions monitoring easier and safer – putting data where it matters… in the customer's hands!

@GasAnalysers @IET_online @_Enviro_News #PAuto #Environment

Ensuring audit on time!

Alkali Environmental has been awarded UKAS and MCERTS accreditation for its emissions testing services. However, just three weeks before the MCERTS audit, a vital piece of the company’s in-house instrumentation required urgent service and repair, so the company faced the very real prospect of having to defer the audit.

Ready for action!

“UKAS and MCERTS accreditation are pre-requisites in many of our target markets in regulated processes and combustion plants,” explains Alkali Director Paul Adamczyk. “So, we were anxious to demonstrate full technical compliance for the key pollutant species and their calibration, during the audit. Conscious of current lead times for spare parts and service work, we were therefore extremely nervous. The instrument was a Signal Group 821S Gas Divider, which is an essential tool in our calibration work, so we made an urgent, and somewhat nervous, call to Signal.

“Happily, they completely understood our predicament, and promised to turn the repair around as quickly as possible. We therefore drove the instrument from Leeds to Signal’s factory in Surrey, and were absolutely delighted to have it returned to us within 22 hours!

“The gas divider had previously provided over three years of problem-free operation, so we were already very happy with Signal Group, but we were incredibly impressed with their rapid response to our request, and we are now looking to invest in more Signal equipment, such as their NOXGEN 3 NOx Converter Efficiency Tester.”

The Cert on time!

Alkali Environmental is one of Britain’s fastest growing stack testing companies. Paul says: “Our success is built on the experience and expertise of our staff, coupled with a comprehensive fleet of analytical equipment. In fact, we have more analysers than people!

“As an independent company, we are able to deliver a fast, reliable service and with a revolutionary cloud-based data management and reporting system, we are able to set new standards in response times and data quality. However, this high level of service can only be achieved with a comprehensive instrumentation capability, so we are fastidious in our selection of partners.”

@_Enviro_News @AlkaliLimited #Environment #Testing

VOC emissions analyser for standard.

As a developer and manufacturer of gas analysers, Signal Group follows the emergence of international Standards very closely. This is because Standards ensure that monitors are fit for purpose, and also because regulators require operators to employ suitably certified equipment.

Signal Group confirms that the latest version of its portable FID analyser, the 3010 MINIFID PURE is being submitted to TÜV for QAL1 testing. This is a procedure to demonstrate that the instrument is suitable for its intended purpose, and meets required performance standards and the uncertainty allowances specified in EU Directives.

Previous versions of this instrument were certified in Britain according to the MCERTS requirements. However, performance requirements have since been unified in Europe, and at the same time product development work has enhanced the capabilities of this product line, so the time has come for us to seek certification to the latest Standards.

Which Standards apply to the discontinuous measurement of TOC emissions?
There are two European standards that apply to the use of portable FID analysers. BS EN 15267-4:2017 specifies the performance levels and test procedures for automated measuring systems used for discontinuous (periodic) measurements of stationary source emissions. It applies to testing based on techniques specified by a standard reference method (SRM) or an alternative method.

BS EN 12619:2013 specifies the flame ionisation detector (FID) method, and is intended for use as a SRM for the measurement of the mass concentration of gaseous and vaporous organic substances in stationary source emissions up to 1,000 mg/m³. This Standard specifies the requirements for a FID instrument with results expressed in mg/m³ as total carbon (TVOC).

Why monitor the emissions of organic compounds?
A wide variety of industrial processes produce emissions that contain organic carbon. For example, volatile organic carbon compounds (VOCs) are a common constituent in the emissions of processes that involve petrochemicals, paints, coatings, adhesives and cleaning chemicals. In many of these processes, solvents play a major role and the release of VOCs represents a risk to health and the environment. Similarly, combustion processes give rise to VOC emissions, particularly where combustion involves the use of an organic fuel. This includes fossil fuels such as petrol, diesel and oil, as well as wastes and biofuels. Organic carbon can exist in emissions as a gas or a vapour; the latter being characterised as a substance that is a mixture of two phases - gaseous and liquid.

By monitoring total organic carbon (TOC) concentration in emissions, process operators can demonstrate compliance with relevant legislation, as well as provide insights for process optimisation, because the presence of organic compounds is an indicator of incomplete combustion. In addition, it is common practice to monitor TOC in order to measure the effectiveness of abatement processes.

Transportable Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (T-CEMs) are generally employed for regulatory monitoring; verifying and calibrating installed CEMs, according to the requirements of BS EN 14181, and for providing temporary back-up when permanent CEMs are not operating.

How to monitor TOC emissions
As a Standard Reference Method, TOC measurement with a FID is generally preferred. However, where there is a potential for the emission of particularly toxic VOCs, the site permit may include a requirement for the monitoring of individual organic compounds, which means that a monitoring technology capable of speciation will be necessary. Alternatively, it may be necessary for the monitoring activity to distinguish between methane and non-methane VOCs. Where speciation is required, technology such as Gas Chromatography, FTIR or Mass Spectrometry may be necessary. However, if speciation is required, a continuous emissions monitoring system (CEMS) will almost always be necessary.

Choosing the right instrument
If monitoring is being undertaken for compliance purposes, the environmental permit will indicate the certification required for the emissions monitoring equipment. This will limit the number of suitable suppliers, but a number of other issues will need to be addressed when choosing the most appropriate instrument.

If a transportable instrument is required: is it suitably robust? and has it been designed for portability? Keep in mind that it may be necessary to transport the equipment from site to site, and to carry the instrument up ladders in potentially inclement weather.

Price is of course a major consideration, but it is best to compare lifetime costs that take operational costs into account as well as the purchase price. So, issues such as calibration and service requirements will need to be addressed. It is also advisable to examine the supplier’s reputation – do they have support capability? do they have longstanding experience in the supply of portable FIDs? and what has been the experience of previous users?

With over 40 years of experience in the development and manufacture of FIDs, Signal Group can claim to score very highly in such comparisons with the well proven and competitively priced Model 3010 MiniFid. Once this transportable FID has passed through the QAL1 process, Signal’s SOLAR Series IV permanently installed FID will also be submitted for certification.

The prospect of the latest FID technology with TÜV certification for QAL 1 of EN 14181 will be of major interest to stack testers and process operators with a requirement to monitor TOC emissions.

 @GasAnalysers @_Enviro_News #Environment 

Approval for particulate monitors.

The TSI Environmental DustTrak™ Aerosol Monitors in Ashtead Technologies' fleet of particulate matter (PM) monitors have achieved MCERTS* approval.

"As evidence of the health effects associated with PM10 and PM2.5 exposure continues to mount, this certification provides assurance that monitoring data is accurate and reliable,” says Ashtead’s Josh Thomas. "An MCERTS certificate demonstrates compliance with the performance requirements of the Environment Agency, which means that these instruments will be ideal for monitoring PM from construction projects, traffic and industrial sources."

With a ‘cloud’ based data management system, the Environmental DustTrak provides users with easy access to real-time data on dust levels, with the optional addition of other sensors. Alarm conditions can be set by users so that text and email alerts are issued when threshold levels arise.

Available in three configurations, these MCERTS-certified models are capable of monitoring PM Total, PM10, PM2.5 and PM1.0 mass fractions simultaneously. The latest version is equipped with a heated inlet, enabling longer run times, increased accuracy and the ability to measure in a wider variety of temperatures and humidity.

Summarising, Josh says: “Environmental DustTrak units are quick and easy to set up and run, with remote web-enabled access helping to lower operating costs, and MCERTS approval providing confidence in the data.”

* MCERTS is the British Environment Agency’s Monitoring Certification Scheme.

@ashteadtech #PAuto #MCERTS @_Enviro_News

Emissions monitoring certification awarded.

The Gasmet Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS II e) and the portable (DX4000) FTIR analysers have been awarded an MCERTS certificate (Sira MC030014/08) demonstrating compliance with the MCERTS Performance Standards EN15267-3 & QAL 1 as defined in EN 14181. The certificate demonstrates enhanced performance across an extended range of gases.

The MCERTS certificate confirms the performance of Gasmet’s FTIR analysers for the measurement of CO, NO, SO2, NO2, N2O, HCl, NH3, H2O, HF, CO2, O2, CH4 and CHOH. However, Quantitech MD Ken Roberts says: “Customers will be particularly interested in this certificate because of the exceptionally good figures for Hydrogen Fluoride, and the data for Nitrogen Oxide and Formaldehyde are also very significant because no other FTIR is certified down to 150 mg/m3 NO in 40 vol-% water and no other instrument is approved for Formaldehyde at all.”

FTIR is an extremely popular multiparameter emissions monitoring technology; able to monitor almost any gaseous compound. This means for example, that the Gasmet CEMS II e and the DX4000 are able to provide monitoring data for up to 50 compounds simultaneously.

The technology in all of Gasmet’s FTIR analysers is essentially the same and benefits from continual product development. It is this work that has enabled the dramatic improvements that are demonstrated by the MCERTS award.

• More about MCERTS

See also Quantitech acquired by Gasmet Technologies (April 2016)

@Quantitech #PAuto #FTIR #MCERTS #Gasmet

Certification for enhanced FTIR emissions analyser.

The CEMS II e continuous emissions monitoring system from Gasmet has successfully completed EN 15267-3 testing using FTIR technology for the analysis of low range HF, low range NO, CH4 and Formaldehyde.

“This means that it meets the performance specifications in European directives and also the more stringent specifications in the type approval standard EN 15267-3 for a larger number of components than any other FTIR in this market,” comments Gasmet’s Antti Heikkilä.

Expressing his delight with the data he continued: “The results for Hydrogen Fluoride were as good as or better than other FTIR manufacturers, but the data for Nitrogen Oxide and Formaldehyde are also very significant, because no other FTIR is certified down to 150 mg/m3 NO, and no other instrument is approved for Formaldehyde at all!”

The performance tests, which involved laboratory and climate chamber tests, and a field test of six months, were undertaken by TÜV Rheinland, the internationally renowned independent test, inspection and auditing organisation. “While the field test was successfully completed in 2015, an extended field test is still ongoing, and this will extend the maintenance interval of 3 months up to 6 months after a year of faultless operation,” adds Heikkilä.

The technology in all of Gasmet’s FTIR analyzers is essentially the same, and benefits from continual investment in product development. It is this work that has enabled the dramatic improvements that have been highlighted by the TÜV tests.

Rami Vuorinen manages Gasmet’s development work. He says: “During 2014, we were able to reduce the baseline noise level significantly, improving sensitivity by a factor of two. However, we did not publish this information, pending the results of the TÜV tests, so it is very pleasing to be able to provide third party evidence that supports our own findings.”

The newly certified CEM system has been denoted ‘CEMS II e‘ to highlight the extended range of certified components and the enhanced analytical performance. The same improvements also apply to all Gasmet portable FTIR analyzers. German Type Approval and a QAL1 certificate from TÜV are pending for the CEMS II e system, and an update to the British MCERTS certificate is also being sought.

#Gasmet #PAuto #FTIR #MCERTS

Unique analyser certification claim vindicated!

The SICK 3006 is the only portable FID with MCERTS approval for using either hydrogen or hydrogen/helium fuel gas. This was a claim made recently by Quantitech. This claim was challenged, but Sira Certification has confirmed that the 3006 passed the MCERTS performance requirements for both gas options.

So, why is that important? Quantitech Director Dominic Duggan explains: “The hydrogen/helium fuel gas mixture is at least three times the cost of hydrogen gas, so one might assume that all FIDs would run on hydrogen. However, some FID manufacturers are unable to achieve the MCERTS performance requirements whilst running on hydrogen and have to resort to the more expensive mixture.

“The MCERTS field tests for the SICK 3006 were conducted with both fuel gas options, but Hydrogen is by far the preferable option. So this is uncomfortable news for our competitors because some of their instruments require a fuel gas flow rate of 9 times that of the SICK 3006, which runs at just 20cc/min. This means that our instrument is able to operate for a full working week from one small 1 litre bottle of hydrogen; at less than 5% of the running costs of some of our competitors.

“Furthermore, high flow rates necessitate a large supply of gas which can create logistical problems and safety issues when transporting heavy bottles in the field up and down stacks.”

• The 3006 FID instrument will feature on Quantitech’s stands (44 & 51) at AQE 2015 at Telford (GB), 22nd to 23rd April.

Approved flowmeters

Krohne can now offer an MCERTS approved flowmetering solution for even the toughest applications on wastewater. MCERTS was set up by the British Environment Agency and sets minimum requirements for the quality, installation and control of self-monitoring of effluent flow. It puts the responsibility on the process operator to measure, collect and collate monitoring data.

Following a stringent testing programme, Krohne’s WATERFLUX 3100, 3300 and 3070 electromagnetic water meters and the OPTIFLUX 2100 and 2300 electromagnetic flowmeters have been approved for use on MCERTS continuous water monitoring flow applications.

The WATERFLUX is ideal for wastewater applications. It eliminates the need for strainers, filters and rectifiers through its unique flow sensor design that has a rectangular cross section, allowing for extremely short inlet and outlet pipe runs. It also has an extremely rugged metal flow tube with a Rilsan® coating that ensures highly precise measurement even at very low flow rates.

The WATERFLUX 3070 is ideal for remote locations in the water industry where no power connection is available thanks to its battery powered electromagnetic signal converter. It provides a battery life of up to 15 years and remote data transmission via a GSM module.

The OPTIFLUX 2000 electromagnetic flowmeter has been designed to meet the demands of all wastewater applications. When combined with either the IFC100 or IFC300 electromagnetic signal converters it provides an MCERTS approved measurement solution with long term reliability and durability, making it an ideal meter for wastewater measurement tasks. The OPTIFLUX 2000 can be installed without filters and straighteners. Even grounding rings are not required with the patented Virtual Reference option when used with the IFC 300 converter.

Multible awards at water event

During a glittering MCERTS awards ceremony at WWEM 2012, HACH LANGE was presented with no less than four certificates, demonstrating a massive commitment to the scheme which evaluates the performance of monitoring instruments against stringent MCERTS specifications. Key to HACH LANGE’s success was the effort from their teams across UK, Germany and America.

Dr Andrew Thornton, Matthew Dillon,  Darin Stell,  Dr Patsy Rigby, Dr Geoff King, Tristan Mann

MCERTS is the Environment Agency’s monitoring certification scheme and the certificates were presented by the Agency’s Head of Monitoring and Analytical Services, Malcolm Lythgo, who congratulated HACH LANGE on this achievement adding: “We appreciate that submitting instruments for MCERTS evaluation is a significant investment in both time and money. But customers do appreciate the additional reassurance of the quality of data from products having MCERTS, as well as meeting the Agency’s permit requirement for all new and replacement equipment to have MCERTS, where available.”

Following receipt of these certificates HACH LANGE now possesses a comprehensive suite of MCERTS certificates covering: automatic samplers; online process monitoring sensors and controllers including pH, turbidity and dissolved oxygen; the BioTector online TOC analyser; and portable water quality monitoring instruments for conductivity and pH.

In the past, the Environment Agency conducted a large amount of industrial environmental monitoring, but in recent years this responsibility has shifted to the process operators themselves and the MCERTS scheme is helping to ensure that the quality of monitoring remains high. Nevertheless, Matthew Dillon, UK & Ireland Sales Director at HACH LANGE, says “As a manufacturer we invest heavily in the development of instruments and analysers that are robust, reliable, accurate and simple to use. However, it is extremely important that the recommended maintenance and calibration procedures are followed assiduously (our service team can help with that, if necessary) because failure to do so would threaten the quality of data and would not be acceptable to the Agency.”

To further support the quality of monitoring, HACH LANGE regularly runs training workshops and can provide personal competence training for key staff so that users are able to obtain optimal performance from their HACH LANGE instruments.

From a strategic perspective Matthew Dillon says “One of our key goals is to ensure that customers are able to generate the highest quality data and we see the MCERTS scheme as an important contributor to that goal. More HACH LANGE products will receive MCERTS in the near future and I would like to acknowledge the work of Dr Patsy Rigby from our technical team in helping to make this process such a success.”

Registration now open!

Visitors to WWEM 2012 (Telford, GB, 7th/8th Nov) the Water Wastewater & Environmental Monitoring event, can now register for no charge.

Pre-registered visitors will receive free parking, refreshments and lunch, in addition to complimentary access to all Workshops and the International Exhibition. Non-registered visitors will be charged £20/day.

Two conferences (Laboratory and Process Monitoring) will take place during the event and will be repeated on both days – the cost for these will be £55 per day or £100 for both days.

This year’s event is the fifth since its inception in 2005, and continues to grow in popularity with over 120 exhibitors, 80 workshops and a gala MCERTS presentation dinner in addition to the two major conferences.

2013 environment show almost full

With nearly a year to go before the doors open at  Air Quality and Emissions 2013 (AQE 2013) the organisers tell us that 75% of the exhibition stands have already been sold as companies jostle for the best positions. Participants in the Conferences, Exhibition and Workshops already include many of the sector’s leading names including organisations such as the Environment Agency, UKAS, NPL and the STA, and leading companies including Horiba, Siemens, Sick and Quantitech.

AQE 2013 will take place at the Telford International Centre (GB) on 13th and 14th March and will be the seventh in a series of specialist air monitoring events, previously known as MCERTS; the new name is a reflection of the fact that the format has been considerably expanded.

European leaders are aiming to make 2013 the “Year of Air” to highlight the problems of pollution and air quality, so AQE 2013 presents an ideal opportunity for everyone with an interest in air quality to come together, exchange ideas and learn about the latest technologies, standards and regulations relating to air quality and emissions monitoring.

The AQE2013 exhibition will provide visitors with a great opportunity to inspect the latest testing and monitoring equipment and a large new demonstration area has been created to facilitate this

Environmental organisation on board!

Environmental Protection UK (EPUK) has agreed to support AQE 2013 by running a major conference on air quality alongside the show in Telford (GB) (13-14 March 2013)

EPUK is a membership based organisation working to develop and influence environmental policy at national, local and European levels.

Previous MCERTS events have focused on the emissions of major industrial processes regulated by the Environment Agency, however, the inclusion of EPUK will ensure that AQE 2013 appeals to everyone with a professional interest in air quality and/or emissions.

AQE 2013 will include an exhibition featuring most of the world's major participants in the air quality market, so it will be of interest to international visitors. In addition, the subjects addressed by the AQE 2013 conferences and workshops will be of interest to almost every industry sector.

Not just hot air!

A new old show for 2013!

Actually, it’s not really a ‘new’ show; it’s a greatly expanded version of the MCERTS (for air) events with which you will be familiar.

The event will still focus on air emissions, but it will now also focus on a wide range of closely related subjects such as workplace monitoring, confined space, ambient monitoring, leak detection, fugitive emissions, fenceline monitoring, abatement etc. As a result it will appeal to specific people within almost every industry.

One of the major differences is that AQE 2013 will address the many thousands of industrial emissions that are controlled by Local Authorities.

It’s still in Telford (GB) and there will still be a Conference, an Exhibition and a large number of Workshops.

Basically it may be said that AQE 2013 is a specialist event for anyone with a professional or academic interest in air quality.

See our Events Page for exhibitions and other events of interest to the automation professional.

Money for click registrations!

The instrumentation company Air Monitors received a £500stg (€570) cheque at MCERTS 2011 (March '11) for attracting the highest number of visitor registrations via their website to this year’s event at the Telford International Centre.

Managing Director Jim Mills accepted the cheque on behalf of the firm after MCERTS 2011 organisers encouraged exhibitors to promote the air monitoring exhibition in the build-up to the event.

Following the presentation, exhibition organiser Marcus Pattison said: “There is no substitute for face to face meetings and hands-on experience, so we market the MCERTS events heavily to encourage maximum participation. However, it is very important for exhibitors to publicise themselves and to let prospective visitors know the benefits of attendance. I was therefore delighted to present Jim with a cheque in recognition of his company's success.”

Jim Mills added: “Naturally, we were very pleased to receive the cheque, but we were even more delighted with the number of visitors to our stand and to the Workshops that we ran on the latest technology in ambient air monitoring. For example, we launched the world's first handheld ambient air quality monitor, the DUVAS, and this was demonstrated 'live' at the event."

MCERTS 2011, which was comprised of a conference, workshops and an exhibition, provided the latest help and advice on regulations such as the recently published Industrial Emissions Directive (IED), and on monitoring techniques and standards such as EN 14181 and EN 15267. This year was the first time MCERTS has been held at the Telford International Centre.

This event is next scheduled for 2013.

Emissions monitor first at GB's NPL

NPL first to deploy new version of Horiba emissions monitor

Kevin Blakley NPL

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is the Britain's national measurement institute and is a world-leading centre of excellence in developing and applying the most accurate measurement standards, science and technology available. With a keen interest in technological developments, NPL was the first British organisation to take delivery of the new Horiba PG250 SRM.

NPL's staff provide expert advice on emissions monitor installation, calibration and quality assurance. The organisation's emissions monitoring teams are MCERTS certified and UKAS accredited, which means that they are able to provide services such as the quantification of emissions in accordance with EU Directives, validation of routine continuous emission monitors to BS EN 14181, turbine and burner optimisation, and validation of emission abatement techniques.

The PG250 SRM, from Quantitech, has been used for emissions monitoring work. Employing Standard Reference Methods, it is an upgrade from one of the most popular portable multiparameter continuous emissions monitors in the world.

Kevin Blakley, Project Manager for Emissions Monitoring at NPL, was one of the first to use the PG250 SRM. He says, "The new version includes a Paramagnetic analyser for Oxygen, which is particularly useful because we occasionally use the instrument purely as an Oxygen analyser.

"It also has a tighter measurement range for Carbon Monoxide (0 – 75mg/m3) which has improved accuracy and resolution. NPL has employed the PG250 SRM in a range of emissions monitoring applications, including petrochemical refineries and Kevin says, “We have been very impressed with the flexibility and improved performance of the instrument.”

In March 2011, the monitor was also awarded an MCERTS certificate, verifying that the instrument analyses CO, NOx, SO2, CO2 and O2 to the high standards required by the local Environment Agency.

Highly successful event

With emissions monitoring as the central theme, MCERTS 2011, held at the end of March. event proved extremely successful for Quantitech. Sales Director Dominic Duggan reported a high level of participation in the company's workshops on Dioxins sampling and FTIR emissions monitoring, and added, "The launch of the new Horiba PG250 SRM drew a lot of attention and we were delighted that so many of our customers and prospects took time to visit our exhibition stand and workshops."
The first Quantitech workshop on long term continuous Dioxin sampling systems was given by Gilles Campagnola from TCR Tecora. Commenting on the high level of interest, Gilles said he was delighted with the number of attendees because whilst his company has sold many long term sampling systems (DECS) in mainland Europe, none has yet been installed in the UK. "We hope that the interest shown in the Workshop will translate into a need for the improved accuracy that long term Dioxins sampling can deliver," he added.

Quantitech’s second Workshop on FTIR, delivered by Dominic Duggan, was also well attended. “We took the opportunity to highlight applications that are beyond the standard WID and LCPD monitoring systems, such as carbon capture and emissions from anaerobic digestion plants.” Dominic also invited attendees to register for a free one day seminar on FTIR monitoring that Quantitech will run in June.

Copies of the presentation entitled Results from the EN1948-5 validation tests of a Dioxin continuous, long term sampling system will be available by request.

Emissions monitor is certified!

Quantitech has announced that the new improved HORIBA PG 250 SRM has been awarded an MCERTS certificate, verifying that the instrument employs Standard Reference Methods to analyse CO, NOx, SO2, CO2 and O2 to the high standards required by the British Environment Agency.

The PG250 SRM is an upgrade from one of the most popular portable continuous emissions monitors in the world. The new version includes a Paramagnetic analyser for Oxygen and offers improved measuring ranges for Carbon Monoxide.

The new analyser will be on show for the first time on stand 37 and 38 at MCERTS 2011 in Telford 30th and 31st March and Quantitech Managing Director Keith Golding says he is “delighted that the PG250 SRM has achieved MCERTS because a large number of customers have been holding back their purchases pending the arrival of the new certified instrument.”