LimsPulse
Petroleum testing

Sulphur Analyser (XRF / UV Fluorescence)

Measures total sulphur in fuels and oils, either by X-ray fluorescence (fast, non-destructive, from tens of mg/kg to several per cent) or by combustion and ultraviolet fluorescence (very low levels, down to about 1 mg/kg).

  • Petroleum refining
  • Fuel terminals
  • Marine fuel testing
  • Regulatory and customs labs
  • Biofuel production
  • Independent testing laboratories
Photo of a Sulphur Analyser (XRF / UV Fluorescence)
Photo: Elemental analysis, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Daily

  • Run a QC check standard
  • Check gas pressures (UVF) or helium supply (XRF)
  • Inspect for leaks or spilled sample

Weekly

  • Clean the XRF sample chamber and protective window
  • Inspect UVF syringe, septum and combustion tube for soot

Monthly / per SOP

  • Replace UVF septum and check membrane dryer
  • Full calibration or calibration check at several levels
  • Review control chart trends

Annual

  • X-ray radiation leakage survey as required by the regulator
  • Replace UVF quartz tube if devitrified
  • Preventive maintenance by the supplier
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the Sulphur analyser
  • XRF analysers contain an X-ray tube. Never defeat interlocks; follow the national radiation regulator's registration and survey requirements.
  • UVF furnaces run at about 1000–1100 °C. Keep flammable samples and solvents away from the hot zone and let parts cool before maintenance.
  • Oxygen supports combustion strongly. Keep oil and grease away from oxygen regulators and fittings.
  • Handle gas cylinders securely chained and use correct regulators.
  • Fuels and solvents (toluene, isooctane, xylene) are flammable and harmful; prepare standards in a fume hood and keep containers closed.
  • A leaking XRF sample cup can spill fuel inside the instrument; check film integrity before loading.
  • Wear safety glasses, gloves and a lab coat; dispose of used cups, films and solvents as flammable hazardous waste.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every Sulphur analyser in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how