Introduction to combustion analyzers

Combustion analyzers are instruments designed to measure and evaluate the composition of gases generated during combustion processes. These devices allow the detection and quantification of gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), oxygen (O2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), among others, that result from the burning of fossil fuels or biomass. Its use is essential to guarantee energy efficiency, safety and environmental compliance in different industrial sectors.

These analyzers are used both in industrial applications and in domestic heating systems, thermal power plants, electricity generation plants, and in the control of polluting emissions. By accurately measuring combustion gases, it is possible to optimize processes, reduce fuel consumption and minimize the environmental impact derived from incomplete combustion or excessive emissions.

Chemical and physical foundations of combustion

Combustion is a chemical reaction between a fuel and an oxidizer, usually oxygen, that releases energy in the form of heat and produces combustion gases. The analysis of these gases provides information on the efficiency of the process and the presence of contaminants. The main products of combustion include carbon dioxide, water vapor, residual oxygen and polluting gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.

The balance and proportion of these gases allow us to determine whether combustion is complete or incomplete, as well as the amount of oxygen available. These aspects are key to process control and the reduction of harmful emissions. Combustion analyzers are based on physical and chemical principles to detect and measure the concentration of these gases.

Types of sensors used

Combustion analyzers use various types of sensors to measure gases, among the most common are electrochemical, infrared (NDIR), catalytic and paramagnetic sensors. Electrochemical sensors detect reactive gases through internal chemical reactions that generate an electrical signal proportional to the concentration of the gas.