Putting all my streams through one analyzer looks like the most cost-effective option. Is there a downside?
<p>Yes, and it could be significant. First, let's assume that all streams are analyzed as intended. Cycling around each stream takes time and the frequency of measurement is therefore lower than with a dedicated analyzer. Each additional stream means a longer time between measurements. For some applications, this isn't a problem, a measurement every 15 mins may be sufficient. However, for greater process control and benefit from real-time continuous measurement, the Thermo Scientific AnStat-330 Sampling and Analysis Station combines representative sampling and elemental analysis into one product. However, the second challenge comes from routing several streams to a single location. In a sizeable plant, this often involves large pumps, pumping slurry through long sections of pipes, creating risks such as pipe blockage or pump failure. Analyzers measuring 20 streams could be reduced to 4 or 5 streams only after a few months of operation because of the reduced availability of each lines from blockages. Slurry density and viscosity often makes it difficult to transport and sample representatively. Using dedicated analyzers on critical streams and then strategically placing multi-stream analyzers to measure between 3 and 12 streams typically provides a good balance between cost, analysis intervals, and uptime. </p>
