New Application Note:
Critical Processes for Hydrogen & Oxygen Analysis in Refining and Petrochemical Operations
This Modcon article explains hydrogen oxygen analysis note and highlights its relevance for process analysis, industrial safety, product quality and optimization.
In refining and petrochemical operations, hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) analysis plays a critical role in optimizing process performance, protecting catalysts, maintaining product quality, controlling combustion, and supporting emissions compliance.
Our new application note, “Critical Processes for Hydrogen & Oxygen Analysis in Refining and Petrochemical Operations,” maps the key analyzer measurement points across five critical process applications. It explains why continuous online H₂ and O₂ analysis matters in each process and provides typical measuring ranges, supported by clear process diagrams that show exactly where analyzers are used.
Five Critical Process Applications for H₂ and O₂ Analysis
- Catalytic Reforming (CCR) – Monitoring net and recycle hydrogen purity helps optimize process conditions and support catalyst performance.
- Hydrocracking and Hydrotreating – Recycle and make-up hydrogen purity measurements help maintain stable operation and optimize hydrogen utilization.
- Hydrogen Production (SMR + PSA) – Continuous product purity monitoring supports hydrogen quality and reliable process performance.
- FCC Regenerator – O₂ and CO analysis in flue gas enables effective combustion control and supports safe, efficient catalyst regeneration.
- Sulfur Recovery Unit (Claus) – Incinerator flue gas O₂ measurement enables precise air-to-gas ratio control and O₂ trim, helping optimize sulfur recovery and emissions performance.
Why Continuous Online Analysis Matters
In these critical processes, H₂ and O₂ concentration is not simply a quality parameter measured after the fact. It is a process variable that can directly influence conversion efficiency, catalyst life, product value, process safety, and emissions compliance.
While laboratory analysis provides valuable information, delayed results can limit the ability to respond quickly to changing process conditions. Continuous online gas analysis delivers real-time process data, enabling faster decisions and tighter process control.
The new application note provides a practical overview of:
- Key H₂ and O₂ analyzer measurement points
- The role of hydrogen and oxygen analysis in each process
- Typical H₂ and O₂ measuring ranges
- Process diagrams illustrating analyzer locations
- How continuous online analysis can replace delayed laboratory feedback with real-time process insight and control
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