From source to use: Rotarex in the lab | Rotarex

The so-called specialty gases support countless applications, from chromatography through spectroscopy to ELSDs (evaporative light scattering detector) or even sample preparation and calibration of laboratory equipment. In gas chromatography, for example, substances are dissolved in the gas to separate them and determine their chemical components.

No matter the application, laboratory professionals count on the gas flow to be steady, clean and precise. Before the gas reaches its point of use, it first must be distributed through a whole network and the pressure has to be reduced. To achieve this, a number of Rotarex products come into play from the source to the use.

Rotarex at the source

The gas starts its journey in a gas cylinder, where it first encounters a Rotarex product. Gas cylinders are indeed fitted with HP (high-purity) cylinder valves. From here, the gas cylinders are connected to a fixed distribution system. They are linked to a switchover board with hoses or pigtails. The switchover board will reduce the cylinder pressure from 200 or 300 bar to an appointed secondary pressure. It will also guaranty a continuous supply of gas by switching from a primary source to a back-up source held in reserve when one supply bank starts running low. Pressure sensors, contact gauges and alarm boxes can be added as options to notify gas shortage.

Distribution and regulation

Once the gas has been reduced to its secondary pressure it can enter the pipelines and head toward its destination in the lab. A series of line pressure regulators can be utilized to reduce the pressure further, and line valves can be placed along the way to isolate one part of the gas network for maintenance purposes.

Ready for use

Finally, the gas reaches its point of use at the very end of the gas line. It is now flowing at a precise rate and a very low, specific pressure. Regular point of uses can be integrated into a service spine or service duct to supply lab workbenches and devices; while compact point of uses are ideally suited for fume hoods. Point of uses are either equipped with shut off or needle valves to cut or adjust the pressure as needed. Several material are available: plastic, aluminium, chrome plated brass or stainless steel.

Mobile solutions

On the other hand, when it comes to small, transportable gas cylinders, pressure can be directly reduced through a cylinder regulator. Rotarex offers single and dual stage technologies. Keep in mind that dual stage cylinder regulator will provide you a better outlet pressure stability.

Rotarex helps you choose the right body material together with the best o-ring material to ensure gas compatibility. At every step in the gas' journey, you can depend on the expertise of Rotarex to ensure your gas is kept pure (up to 6.0) and is controlled precisely as you need it.