Polaris FID in the European Market: A Revolution in Portable FID Analyzers
Introduction to Polaris FID
In 2012, Pollution S.r.l. introduced the Polaris FID to the European market. This is a self-contained heated portable FID analyzer. Since its launch, several functionality optimizations have led to the current model: Polaris FID-SE. FID stands for the Flame Ionisation Detector technique, the method applied for measuring gas emissions of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in accordance with EN 12619:2013. SE stands for Smart Edition; this version can be directly connected via an App and Bluetooth connection.
Functionality of Polaris FID-SE
Through a heated probe and sampling line, the sample is delivered to the Flame Ionisation Detector. To stay above the dew point, the entire system from probe to detector must be heated to at least 180 ⁰C, as required by the standard. The required power depends partly on the hose length. For mobile use, we apply a self-regulating sampling probe and line operating at 230Vac. Sampling hoses of 3 or 5 meters are commonly used in mobile applications. To minimize the loss of heavier components, it is recommended to keep the hose as short as possible. This hose can be connected to the Polaris FID-SE without cold spots.
Battery Life and H2 Supply
The Polaris FID-SE operates on two NiMH batteries and/or an external power adapter. A major advantage is that the measuring cell can be preheated and remains at temperature while moving to the next measuring point. Operation on batteries is possible, but the runtime is limited (1–2 hours). For the H2 flame supply, a rechargeable metal hydride cartridge is typically used, contributing to the device’s compactness!
Setup and Use of Polaris FID-SE
Setting up the Polaris FID-SE is very simple. Upon purchase, the unit is already configured with several setups. You can immediately select the correct one for your measurement and get started. If the calibration gas concentration needs adjustment, this can be entered directly via the menu. It's also easy to add new configurations using the supplied software. A configuration typically includes: unit of measurement, range, cycle duration, calibration and zero gas data. New configurations can be uploaded to the Polaris FID-SE using a USB stick.
The internal memory holds data for at least 20 days with an 8-second measurement cycle. The maximum cycle time can be set to 30 seconds. Reading out data is straightforward: export directly to a USB stick. The data can then be imported into software like Excel. Alternatively, the Bluetooth connection enables real-time monitoring (graphical and tabular) on a PC, smartphone, or tablet, and the data can be processed or emailed directly.
Certification and Compact Design
The Polaris FID-SE is equipped with connections for external gas cylinders, but the housing also accommodates small disposable cylinders for span gas and balanced air. This keeps the FID extremely compact in the field! The Polaris FID is TÜV certified according to EN 12619:1999 and EN 13526:2002 (certificate no. 0000039773_06) and complies with the current EN 12619:2013 standard.