Laboratory Services

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Currently our lab processes gas samples in several ‘runs’ that analyze 43 separate components.  Our equipment is capable of more but is limited to the specific standard lab-grade gases we keep for calibrating the chromatographs.  Additional components can be added upon request.

We are currently using TRACE 1310 Analyzers made by ThermoFisher for both our Natural Gas and Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) samples.  Each has multiple channels and utilize Flame Ionization (FID) to produce a detailed hydrocarbon chromatogram report.  Total Sulfur is analyzed using a Flame Photometric Detector (FPD) on a separate channel.

Unless otherwise requested, we use the following analytical methods and values:

• Extended analysis and reporting performed following procedures outlined in GPA 2261-13: Analysis for Natural Gas and Similar Gaseous Mixtures by Gas Chromatography.
• Physical properties and values used in calculations were acquired from GPA 2145-16: Table of Physical Properties for Hydrocarbons and Other Compounds of Interest to Natural Gas and Natural Gas Liquids Industries.  Following GPA 2172-09 for analytical calculations.
• Sulfur compounds analysis and reporting performed by Gas Chromatography using a Flame Photometric detector following procedures outlined by ASTM D6228-10.
• Limit of Detection = 0.003 PPMV for Sulfur components and 0.00001 Mole Percent for Hydrocarbons.

All analysis include the report, with the full analysis cost also including additional spreadsheets and formats for uploads into other systems.  The raw data used to assemble the reports is also saved on the client’s data drive.  This includes the actual chromatographs and each separate run. 

Unless otherwise requested, we use 14.696 psia and 60.0 degF as our base pressure and temperature for calculations.  Calculations that are provided by default for C6+, C14, and Full Analysis reports:

• BTU/SCF (Dry) and BTU/SCF (Sat) 
• Z Factor (Dry) and Z factor (Sat) – also known as compression factor 
• Ethane Plus GPM 
• Ideal and Real Specific Gravity 
• Total Raw Mole % (Dry) and Total GPM 
• Wobbe Index 
• Total Molecular Weight (Dry)

We currently have 300cc - 500cc gas sample bottles and constant pressure piston bottles (500cc).  All our bottles are Sulfinert treated to maintain sulfur levels throughout the process.

All solid samples need to be completely dry prior to analysis.  Any time needed for the lab to prepare the sample is shown on the rate sheet, however, only the time the technician uses is billed.  For example, if the sample is dried in an oven for 6 hours, the oven time is not billable.

We use a Phenom XL SEM, upgraded with SED (secondary electron detector) and EDS (energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy) manufactured by NanoScience Instruments.  This allows samples of 100mm x 100mm to be viewed at 3 – 16x (Light) and 80 – 100,000x (Electron).

The EDS is an excellent tool to quickly identify and quantify individual elements within the solid sample.  Specific areas can be targeted or larger areas can be mapped and color coded. 

The SED collects low energy electrons from the top surface layer and reveals very detailed surface information.  This is excellent for topography and morphology of corrosion coupons.

Most samples can be processed within an hour after they are prepared, resulting in an average total cost of $250.00 for analysis.  The quick turnaround time and low cost makes EDS a viable alternative to X-Ray Diffraction.  Keep in mind EDS provides the elemental breakdown, while XRD provides compounds.  

Solid sample analysis includes the final report and pictures.  Additional pictures and raw data information are also saved on the client’s data drive. 

Generally, liquid and / or sludge samples require some preparation prior to analysis.  This may include serial dilution, filtration, separation, etc.  While there is a wide range of testing that can be completed, we typically categorize the analysis based on the client request.

Some items can be completed in the field and many more can be done in our lab:

- Presence of Water

- Temperature 

- pH

- Specific Gravity 

- Total Alkalinity

- Conductivity

- Dissolved CO2

- Dissolved H2S

- Sulfide

- Total Solids %

- Total Dissolved Solids 

- Total Suspended Solids

- Total Hardness & Calcium Hardness

- Langelier Saturation Index

- Carbonate & Bicarbonate

- Salinity

- Moisture %

We use an iCAP 7400 Duo Analyzer installed by ThermoFisher Scientific for ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry).  This has a wide range of applications and is used to determine the elemental breakdown of the sample with excellent detection limits.  Items commonly requested:

- Aluminum, Arsenic, Barium

- Cadmium, Calcium, Chromium

- Copper, Iron, Lead

- Magnesium, Manganese, Mercury

- Nickel, Phosphorus, Potassium

- Selenium, Silicon, Silver

- Sodium, Strontium, Sulfur

Ion Chromatography is done with Dionex Integrion HPIC Systems (ThermoFisher), with dedicated units set up specifically for Anions and Cations.  Common examples include:

- Anion –

• Fluoride 
• Bromide 
• Chloride 
• Nitrite
• Nitrate 
• Sulfate 
• Phosphate

- Cation – 

• Lithium 
• Sodium 
• Ammonium
• Potassium 
• Magnesium 
• Calcium

Bacteria inoculation is completed using serial dilution kits for SRBs (Sulfate Reducing Bacteria) and APBs (Acid Producing Bacteria).  Results typically take 4-5 weeks.  IOB (Iron Oxidizing Bacteria) can also be completed upon request.

The majority of corrosion coupons we process are weight loss coupons.  This is done in accordance with NACE SP0775 (latest version).

The coupons are photographed as received, chemically cleaned, and weighed to 0.00005g.  They are visually reviewed for noticeable pitting and photographed again.  Any coupons showing signs of pitting are further reviewed in our SEM to have the surface mapped and pit(s) measured. 

Final reports include the weight loss, average corrosion rate, as well as the pitting rate (if applicable). 

We are also capable of processing EM coupons, but this will require discussion and client direction on what constitutes an analysis.  Estimated pricing is provided on the rate sheet and this is adjusted based on the requirements.

Photographs, lab notes, and calculations are saved with the final report on the client’s data drive.