In the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries, accurate sulfur measurement is critical for product quality, environmental compliance, and equipment protection. While tape-based sulfur analyzers have long been used for continuous gas monitoring, the Blue Dragon Model 800TS Total Sulfur Analyzer offers expanded capabilities, including UV fluorescence detection and liquid-phase sample analysis.
How the Technologies Compare
| Feature | Model 800TS | Tape Analyzer |
|---|---|---|
| Detection Principle | UV Fluorescence after catalytic combustion | Chemiluminescence or infrared tape |
| Sample Types | Gas and liquid hydrocarbons | Gas only |
| Cycle Time | ≤ 5 minutes | Continuous real-time |
| Multi-Stream Capability | Up to 6 flow paths | Typically single-stream |
| Explosion Protection | Ex d IIB T4, IP65 rated | Usually Ex-rated, varies by model |
When to Choose the Blue Dragon Model 800TS
1. Liquid Fuel Quality Control
Refineries and fuel blending terminals often need to measure sulfur in diesel, gasoline, and naphtha. The Model 800TS handles both liquid and gas streams—something tape analyzers cannot do.
2. Petrochemical Feed and Product Monitoring
Petrochemical plants must control sulfur content in feedstocks and products. The Model 800TS offers high-accuracy UV fluorescence detection across multiple sample types.
3. Natural Gas Condensate Processing
Condensates contain sulfur in liquid form. Tape analyzers can’t measure these, while the Model 800TS handles light liquids efficiently with precision combustion and drying systems.
4. Catalyst Protection
Hydrogen and reforming units need accurate sulfur tracking to prevent catalyst poisoning. The Model 800TS offers ±1% full-scale repeatability with low detection limits.
5. Environmental Compliance
For applications involving both liquid and gas effluents, the Model 800TS provides superior total sulfur analysis for air and water discharge compliance.
When Tape Analyzers Are Still a Good Choice
1. Upstream Gas-Only Monitoring
Tape analyzers are ideal for remote wellheads, pipelines, and compressor stations due to their simplicity, low power needs, and continuous gas-only measurement.
2. Flare Gas and Vent Stack Applications
In combustion exhaust or emergency vent monitoring, the real-time speed of a tape system makes it suitable for detecting rapid H₂S changes.
3. Budget-Conscious Single Stream Installations
Where only one gas line needs to be measured and liquid sulfur is not a concern, tape analyzers may offer sufficient performance at a lower cost.
Choosing the Right Sulfur Analyzer for Your Plant
| Decision Factor | Model 800TS | Tape Analyzer |
|---|---|---|
| Measures Liquid Sulfur? | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Handles Multiple Streams? | ✔ Yes (up to 6) | ✘ No |
| Ultra-Precise UV Fluorescence? | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
| Fast Real-Time Response? | ✘ No (5-minute cycle) | ✔ Yes |
| Lower CapEx/Remote Friendly? | ✘ Higher CapEx | ✔ Yes |
About Blue Dragon Technology
The Model 800TS Total Sulfur Analyzer is proudly designed and manufactured by Blue Dragon Technology, delivering advanced UV fluorescence technology for high-accuracy sulfur analysis across both gas and liquid hydrocarbons.
In addition to our flagship analyzer, we also distribute a range of tape-based total sulfur analyzers through trusted international partners. Whether you require full-featured multi-phase analysis or rugged single-gas monitoring, our team will help you choose the right tool for your process.
Contact us today for a consultation.