Gas sample selector

Abstract

To provide a gas sample selector with reduced sample carryover, in a gas analyzer system.SOLUTION: A gas sample selector 102 comprises a multi-position selector valve 130, a flush valve 140 and a purge valve 150 that are connected to gas sample containers 101, 108. The flush valve 140 is switched to connect an outlet of the flush valve 140, and purge gas flows from a purge valve port 153 through the purge valve 150. The purge gas flows to an outlet 190 of the gas sample selector 102 and a vent port 143 of the flush valve 140, to remove sample gas from a flow path and reduce sample carryover.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - Reference to Related Applications] None.

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to a gas sample selector for a gas analyzer and a method of operating the gas sample selector to reduce sample carryover.

Background Art

[0003] A gas chromatograph (GC) can analyze a gas sample by separating the constituent substances (constituents) of the sample and generating a signal indicative of the relative amount and / or identity of the analytes within the sample. A known and / or reproducible volume of sample is injected or inserted into a flow path, and the sample is carried through a GC column that houses a stationary phase for separating analytes and is typically heated, and out through a detector that generates a signal indicative of the relative amount and / or identity of the analytes within the sample. A carrier gas moves the sample through the GC flow path. Typical carrier gases used in gas chromatography include helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, and mixtures of argon and methane.

[0004] Samples analyzed by a gas chromatograph can be provided in various types of containers. For example, samples can sometimes be within a pressurized gas cylinder (typically , 10 psig to 400 psig) or in a sample bag (typically, 0 psig to ​It is contained in the gas phase within 10 psig. The gas sample selector is used for GC analysis. To facilitate switching between multiple samples introduced into the instrument's flow path, a gas chromatograph is used. It has been used in conjunction with a gas sample selector. Existing gas sample selectors typically use a sample selector. It has selector inlets that can be connected to a container. This selector inlet has multiple Connected to a multi-position selector valve in a gas sample selector, which has multiple valve inlets for samples. To inject repeatable and / or known volume samples into the flow path, multiple units are used. The selector valve is connected to a sample loop in a 6-port two-way switching valve within the GC. Fluidically connected. The sample loop is typically of the exact length. A tubing of known volume having and / or diameter. The typical volume for this is between 0.025 ml and 10 ml. It is contained within a high-pressure gas cylinder. While filling the sample loop for the sample being sampled, the sample loop will be filled with the sample To receive it, at one end is the outlet of a multi-position selector valve It is attached to the sample loop outlet and discharged into the atmosphere. The restrictor is Typically, to enable repeatable filling of the sample loop, it is done from a high-pressure cylinder. To reduce the flow rate of incoming gas samples, a multi-stream selector valve is used. It is located between the tion valve and the sample loop. The sample is contained in a low-pressure gas bag. For existing gas sample selectors, the gas back is at a lower pressure than the cylinder or Since it is unnecessary to reduce the flow rate of these samples, a multiple-position selector valve and sample valve are used. Typically, there is no limiter in the gas sample selector flow path between the loop and the high pressure. There are limiters smaller than those used for cylinders. In the case of a pull selector, the outlet of the sample loop is attached to the pump, and the pump controls the sample It works to draw the sample into the sample loop. This is because the low pressure in the sample bag, without assistance. This is necessary because it is not sufficient to reliably and repeatedly fill the sample loop. After the sample loop is filled, the 6-port two-way valve controls the GC column flow through the sample loop. The carrier gas is switched to be positioned in alignment with the road, and the sample is routed for analysis. The sample contained within the container is pushed onto the GC column.

[0005] The requirements for filling the sample loop differ (i.e., flow from a high-pressure gas cylinder). A limiter to reduce this, and a pump to draw the sample from the low-pressure gas bag. Bags and gas cylinders cannot be analyzed on the same GC system, and gas samples Users who wish to use bags and gas sample cylinders will need to use two separate systems. It is necessary to use and maintain it.

[0006] One item that can cause problems in gas chromatography analysis. This is a carryover, meaning that a portion of one sample is carried over to the other sample. This is what remains after analysis. These analytes then remain in the detector during subsequent analysis. Passing through and out, the peaks, noise, and / or on the chromatogram for other samples This may manifest as an elevated baseline.

[0007] Techniques for reducing sample carry-over contamination in a gas sample selector during sample loading, selector switching, or sample injection, involve using the next sample to wash out old samples from a predetermined portion of the flow path, which can affect the analysis accuracy. One solution for reducing sample loading carry-over contamination was to use a flush valve within the gas sample selector. In an existing gas sample selector, to reduce carry-over from one sample to the next, the flush valve position is included within the flow path between a multi-position selector valve and a 6-port two-way gas sampling valve. When switching between samples using the multi-position selector valve, the flush valve, which is an on / off valve, is opened and a portion of the next sample is flowed through the flush valve and the sample loop flow path to push out any remaining previous samples from the flow path between the selector valve and the outlet of the sample loop. A long flushing time is required for the new sample to purge the previous sample from the flow path, and sometimes the previous sample may diffuse back into the new sample depending on any pressure difference between the samples. The time to purge and the amount of remaining sample that can cause carry-over depend on the volume of the flow path and the pressure of the gas. Further, using the sample to push out the previous sample wastes the sample and requires a large amount of sample to be collected for analysis. [[ID=?]] [[ID=?]]

[0008] [[ID=?]] Further, the flush valve replaces the sample container connected to the gas sample selector. ​It is used when... After attaching a gas source to the selector inlet (by means of a male-female quick connector, etc.), the enclosed contaminated gas is discharged For this purpose, the flush valve is opened, and after flushing the sample for several seconds, the flush valve is closed again. This process is manual and inconvenient, and the user may forget to close the flush valve, which will also result in the loss of the sample for further analysis Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] As one aspect of the present invention, a new gas sample selector is provided. As another aspect, a novel method for reducing carryover in a gas sample selector for a gas analyzer system is provided Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] These features and advantages of the apparatus and method, as well as other features and advantages, will become apparent from the following detailed description, together with the scope of the appended claims Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1A] It is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present gas sample selector for a plurality of high-pressure gas samples [Figure 1B] It is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present gas sample selector for a plurality of high-pressure gas samples [Figure 1C] It is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present gas sample selector for a plurality of high-pressure gas samples [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an embodiment of the present gas sample selector for a plurality of low-pressure gas samples [Figure 3A] ​​​​​This figure shows one embodiment of the gas sample selector that switches between multiple high-pressure gas samples and multiple low-pressure gas samples. [Figure 3B] This figure shows one embodiment of the gas sample selector that switches between multiple high-pressure gas samples and multiple low-pressure gas samples. [Figure 4] This is an exemplary workflow for reducing carryover in a gas sample selector. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] In the attached drawings, solid and dotted lines generally indicate the various flow paths available within the device. It is used in this manner. For some operations described herein, the solid lines indicate the flow path. It is used to indicate that gas is flowing or that a passage is open, while a dotted line indicates that gas is flowing. This indicates that no fluid is flowing or the flow path is blocked. The dotted line is always different from the solid line. It should be recognized that these do not necessarily exhibit different structures.

[0013] The features shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. This instruction is based on the attached drawings. The following detailed explanation is best understood when read in conjunction with [another context].

[0014] In consideration of this disclosure, devices and methods can be implemented in accordance with this teaching. It should be noted that various components, materials, structures, and parameters are merely examples. This is included as evidence and example, and not in a restrictive sense. Considering this disclosure, this instruction may be used in conjunction with other materials. It can be implemented in these applications, and the components, materials, structures, and The device can be determined while remaining within the scope of the attached patent claims.

[0015] Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C show the gas analyzer system 100 as part of this gas analyzer. An embodiment of the pull selector (GSS: gas sample selector) 102 is shown. The selector 102 is a multi-position selector valve 130, flush A squeegee valve 140 and a purge valve 150, and a flow path between them. It is equipped with a conduit. Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C show the gas sample being subjected to gas chromatography. Load into 104, and then purge the conduit of the gas sample selector. Therefore, how to use a gas sample selector to reduce carryover contamination. This indicates whether it can be used. The multiple position selector valve 130 is fluidly connected to the purge valve 150. The fluid is connected to the flush valve 140. This will be discussed in more detail below. The term "fluidically connected" is used herein. When used, the two components are in fluid communication, including direct and indirect connections. It means to do something.

[0016] More specifically, the gas sample selector 102 has one or more gas sample containers (gas The sample container (for example, containers 101 and 108) is connected. The container is high voltage. It can accommodate gas samples. When used herein, it is used in this disclosure The term "high-pressure" is applied when the pressure comes from a pump or another source. Due to the applied pressure, etc., the gas flows through the gas sample selector's channel without assistance. This means sufficient pressure. In some embodiments, high pressure is used to control the flow of the gas sample selector. This is a pressure sufficient to produce a flow rate of 10 ml / min to 300 ml / min through the path. High-pressure gas samples generally have a pressure in the range of 10 psig to 400 psig. The container has a shut-off valve (e.g., shut-off valve 111) attached to the exit of the container. It can include, and the shut-off valve opens after the sample container is attached to the gas sample selector. Release it to allow the gas sample to exit the container. In Figure 1A, shut-off valve 11 1 is opened, and a gas sample from container 101 is taken to the gas chromatograph 104. Allows loading into the Ruru Loop 191. Shut-off valve for other containers. The valve (for example, the shut-off valve 118 for container 108) is also opened, allowing gas from other containers to enter. More specifically, the gas sample to the inlet of the multi-position selector valve 130, which leads to the sample selector 102. It enables a pull flow. The gas sample selector 102 receives multiple gas samples. It is equipped with a selector inlet (for example, selector inlet 121). The gas sample selector 102 is Multiple selections are made to determine which gas samples will flow through the GSS to the gas chromatograph 104. It also includes a multi-position selector valve 130. The selector inlet is a quick connector or a conduit for fluid flow. Other fittings suitable for connecting the gas sample connector to the gas sample selector It can be equipped with a connector to be attached to it. In some embodiments, mating connector A is used, the gas sample connector has a male connector, and the selector inlet has a female connector. It has a (and vice versa) connector. When the connector is physically connected, the female connector When the terminal is opened and the connector is disconnected, the female connector closes. In some embodiments... Furthermore, the sample container can be directly connected to the selector valve, in which case the selector inflow The opening is the selector valve inlet on the selector valve 130. In some embodiments, the selector valve This is a rotary valve, and the rotary valve has a stator containing multiple selector valve inlets and at least A selector valve outlet and a cutout that can be a groove or channel in the rotor. It is equipped with a changeable fluid path. By rotating the stator and / or rotor, the fluid path can be switched. Possible fluid paths include different selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet. The selector valve 130 has multiple selector valve inlets (for example, selector valve inlets 131, 1 32) and at least one selector valve outlet 133. In Figure 1A, container 1 The gas sample from 01 enters the gas sample selector through the selector inlet 121, and It passes through the loading conduit 123 and reaches the selector valve inlet 131. The loading conduit 123 is , optional, and as in some embodiments, the selector inlet is the selector valve inlet. It is directly connected to the selector valve 130, which allows the gas sample to flow to the selector valve outlet 133. Position such that gas samples from container 108 (and any other containers) are blocked. Yes. When the selector valve 130 moves to a different position, different selector valve inlets 132 are selected. The valve outlet 133 is connected to the fluid. In some embodiments, the multiple position selector valve is, for example For example, in order to provide a shut-off valve position, the selector valve inlet is not fluid-connected to the selector valve outlet. It has more than one position. In some embodiments, the selector 102 has multiple loads. It also includes loading conduits (for example, loading conduits 123, 124). The loading conduits are Connect the selector inlet to the selector valve inlet. The exemplary loading conduit is made of stainless steel or This includes tubing made from other inert materials.

[0017] The selected gas sample is discharged from the selector valve outlet 133 into the selector-flush conduit (sele A ctor-flush conduit) 139, with the other end being fluid-connected to a flush valve 140. The fluid flows into the selector-flush conduit 139. The flush valve 140 has at least two It has a flush valve position. One of the positions (the position shown in Figure 1A) is odor The flush valve 140 is located between the flush valve inlet 141 and the flush valve outlet 142. A flow path is provided, and the gas sample passes through the flash-purge conduit 149 to the purge valve 15. It makes it possible to reach 0.

[0018] The flush valve 140 flows between the flush valve inlet 141 and the flush valve outlet 142. The path, and at the second valve position, the flush valve outlet 142 and the flush valve ventpo A two-way valve can be provided that offers a flow path between it and the valve 143. Other implementations In terms of form, the flush valve inlet 141 and the flush valve vent port It is possible to provide different flow paths between port 143 and the flush valve outlet 142. It can be a 3-way valve. In some embodiments, the flush valve is sample 3, which provides the minimum dead volume to which it is confined and enables high-pressure operation. It can be a 4, 6, or 10-port rotary valve, or in other embodiments, a flare The flush valve can be a solenoid valve. The flush valve vent port 143 is gas In the surrounding area around the sample selector 102 (e.g., room, laboratory hood, etc.), or The exhaust gas can be discharged into a gas container for collection. In some embodiments, The flush valve vent port 143 can be connected to the flow limiter 144. A flow limiter is used to restrict the flow through the flush valve vent port. It can be a needle valve or tubing with adjustable inner diameter and length.

[0019] In other embodiments (not shown), the flush valve has two ports having an on / off position. It is a flush valve, and in the "ON" position, the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are fluid-connected. Therefore, in the off position, the two are not fluidly connected.

[0020] The purge valve 150 has at least two purge valve positions. At the purge valve position (the position shown in Figure 1A), the purge valve 150 has a purge valve inlet 151 A flow path is provided between the purge valve outlet 152 and the purge gas source without connecting the two to a purge gas source. The gas sample exits from the purge valve outlet 152 and flows into the purge-outlet conduit 154. A suitable valve example for the purge valve 150 includes a flow switching valve. Other examples include three A set of a tee connecting the purge valve port and a shut-off valve attached to the purge valve outlet. This includes the possibility of a larger dead body in the channel where the sample may be trapped. The volume is introduced. The alternative is to use purge gas at different purge valve positions with different GSS values. It is a 3-port 2-way or 3-way switching valve that supplies gas to a specific section. For example, it supplies gas to a sample channel. In one purge valve position, such as for loading into a loop, the purge valve inlet and outlet are in fluid contact. The purge valve position can then be switched to another position, and the purge gas will be released. It is connected to the outlet of the purging valve and purges the flow path after the purging valve (for example, the downstream portion of the GSS). Subsequently, the purge valve position is switched again, the purge gas and inlet are fluidly connected, and the purge valve Purge the flow path between the and the flush valve (e.g., the upstream portion of the GSS). High-pressure sample In this case, the purge-exit conduit 154 allows for the repeatability of the sample loop. To facilitate efficient and reliable filling, sample gas from the sample container through the flow path Includes a flow restrictor (not shown) made to a size that limits the flow. It is also intended that this may be possible. In some embodiments, this flow limiter may be It can be installed to limit the flow rate based on the pressure of the attached sample container. It is an adjustable needle valve. In other embodiments, the flow limiter is a known It can be used as a fixed limiter for tubes, etc., with an inner diameter and length. During sample loop filling Typical sample flow rates can range from 10 mL / min to 300 mL / min.

[0021] The selector 102 also includes a selector outlet 190, through which gas is discharged. The pull signal exits the selector 102 and goes to the gas chromatograph 104, more specifically, the gas chromatograph. It flows to the lorotherm inlet 197. In Figure 1A, the purge-outlet conduit 154 is The selector outlet 190 is connected to the purge valve outlet 152, but there is one or more selector outlets 190. The purge valve 150 can be indirectly connected to the fluid via other components, If the flow limiter is not included in the purge-outlet conduit, the purge valve outlet 152 is a selector. It is intended that it can also function as an outlet 190. The purge valve 150 is Although it is fluidly connected to the gas source, in Figure 1A, the purge valve is connected to the gas chromatograph's sun The purge gas is shut off from the gas selector while the sample is being loaded into the pull loop. Uni will be closed.

[0022] Figure 1A shows the sample loop being filled with a sample from the selected gas sample container. This shows the valve in the state shown. In many gas chromatographs, the sample loop is gas sample. The sample loop is filled with fluid, and then the gas sample from the sample loop is drawn into the GC column. Switched to load into the internal. The selected sample is connected to the sample controller. From the terminal, through the multiple-position selector valve 130, and through the flush valve 140 and the purge valve 150. The gas then flows into the gas sampling valve 193 in the gas chromatograph 104, where the sample The sample flows through one or more sample loops or channels, such as sample loop 191, and Fill the sample loop with the sample gas. Once the sample loop is filled, the sample loop The outlet can be discharged into the atmosphere in this configuration where the sample is a high-pressure gas cylinder. The time required to fill the sample loop depends on the gas flow rate and the volume of the sample loop. The sample loop is a 2-port 6-way sampling valve or a selector flow path as shown in Figure 1A or G It can be attached to other valves that allow the sample loop to be positioned in alignment with the C column flow path. This is possible. However, more than 6 or fewer ports and more than 2 or fewer ports One or more sampling valves having a different position, and other structures including one or more sample loops. This is also possible. In some embodiments, the sample loop is filled with a gas sample. After that, and before the sample loop is positioned in a fluid connection state with the GC column 195, The flush valve 140 connects the flush valve outlet to the flush valve vent port for fluid flow. Because it can be switched to this state, the pressure inside sample loop 191 can be in equilibrium with the surrounding area. Yes, this pressure equilibrium step can be performed over a period of approximately 3 to 10 seconds. After the sample loop 191 is fully filled with the sample, the 6-port bidirectional gas sump The ring valve 193 is switched to a second position (not shown), and the carrier from port 194 AGAS collects the contents of the sample loop onto GC column 195, and then the contents of the sample gas... The analyte is pushed through detector 196 to detect it. Typical sample flow rate is... When filling the loop, the flow rate ranges from 10 ml / min to 300 ml / min, and the fluid moves through the GC column. At that time, the flow rate ranges from 2 ml / min to 40 ml / min.

[0023] Figure 1B shows gas samples from a portion of the conduit of the gas sample selector 102, and optional selections. Specifically, it is desired to purge gas chromatograph 104, particularly sample loop 191. This shows the operation of the gas sample selector 102 when a sample is taken from container 101. More specifically, from container 101 After the gas sample has flowed, the positions of the purge valve 150 and the flush valve 140 are set to allow residual gas to flow. Pull gas (i.e., gas sample not loaded into the GC flow path including the column) The sample loop 191 is switched to be removed from the flow path, and the carryover This is prevented. The purge valve 150 receives purge gas from the purge valve port 153. Opened, the flush valve 140 connects to the flush valve outlet 142 and the purge valve vent port 14 It is switched to a position that provides a flow path between 3 and 3. In another embodiment, two-way flat The purging valve is switched to the off position. The flush valve is switched simultaneously or before the purge valve opens. It can be switched to. The purge valve 150 and / or the flush valve 140 can be operated manually or ( Preferably, it can be switched automatically. In this purge valve position, purge valve 15 0 means that the purge gas flows to the purge valve inlet 151 and the purge valve outlet 152. Allows the flow of purge gas from valve port 153. The flush valve is in the off position. In another embodiment, which is a two-way valve, the purge valve 150 receives air from the purge valve port 153. It can be switched to a position that allows the flow of purge gas up to the purge valve outlet 152. The purge valve port 153 is for chemically inert gases (e.g., nitrogen, argon, or helium). It is fluidly connected to a purge gas source such as (or air). In some embodiments, the purge The gas is the same type of gas used as a carrier gas for GC. In this process, the purge gas flows into the purge-outlet conduit 154 and the residual gas downstream of the purge valve. Remove sample gas and prevent carryover. Limiters, they are adjustable or fixed. However, in order to limit the total flow rate of purge gas into the gas sample selector, A fluid can be connected to valve port 153. Typical purge flow rates are 100 mL / min. It can be set to 1000 mL / min. The gas sampling valve 193 in GC104 is The sample loop 191 is the gas path through which the gas exits the gas sample selector via the selector outlet 190. It is positioned to be inside, and also allows sample loop 191 to be purged. The purge gas then exits through chromatograph exit 198 into the environment. The purge gas flows to, or in some embodiments, to the selector return port. It is possible to return to the gas sample selector 102 via 192. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1B Then, the purge gas also passes through the flash-purge conduit 149 and the flash valve vent. The gas flows out through port 143, removing any remaining sample gas downstream of the flash valve. This prevents carryover contamination by residual sample gas. Flow limiter 1 44 is provided to control the flow rate of purge gas discharged into the atmosphere. The example flow rates include approximately 100 mL / min to approximately 1000 mL / min, and the example part The purging time includes approximately 0.1 minutes to approximately 5 minutes. In some embodiments, the purging time is This is essentially the same as the time required to perform gas sample analysis in analyzer 104. The interval depends on the volume of the flow path, the type of sample, and the flow rate of the purge gas. Flow limiter 1 44 is a flow path downstream of the purge valve, including a conduit, sample loop, and / or sampler The flow path has inherent limitations based on the purge valve, and the purge flow rate between the flow path upstream of the purge valve This allows for virtually equal division. The amount of limitation is between the purge valve and the outlet of the sample loop. The flow rate of purge gas through the inlet and outlet of the purge valve is specified based on existing limitations between them. This balances the flow and allows for sufficient sweeping of the upstream and downstream passages of the purge valve. The flow limiter is a needle valve, a tubing having a specified inner diameter and length, or a fluid flow limiter. It can be replaced with other devices that can reduce the noise.

[0024] Figure 1C shows the gas sample selector 102 from a further conduit, i.e., the flush valve 1 Gas sample selector 10 when it is desired to purge the upstream gas sample 40 The operation of step 2 is shown. In Figure 1C, the gas sample container is connected to the gas sample selector 102. It has been removed, and the flush valve 140 has a flush valve inlet 141 and a flush valve outlet Port 142 is switched to the position where fluid is connected, and the selector valve 130 (outlet 133 and inlet 1 (Through 31), a loading conduit 123, and a purge valve 15 passing through the selector inlet 121 Provides a flow path from zero. Optionally, the user can remove the gas sample container after it has been removed. If the selector inlet does not open automatically, select the reciprocal connector. It can be intentionally opened by inserting it into the selector inlet, etc. Purge valve port The purge gas introduced by 153 is delivered to the loading conduit 123, selector-flush. A sample is taken from one or more of the conduit 139, the multi-position selector valve 130, and the selector inlet 121. Remove the gas. In some embodiments, part or all of the gas sample container is The gas sample is removed from the gas sample selector 102, and the selector valve 130 is closed so that the residual sample is not removed from the other Rohde. It is switched between positions so that it is removed from part or all of the piping conduit. The gas also passes through the purge outlet conduit 154 and exits through the selector outlet 190, and then the gas is released. The purge gas flows through the lorotherm, and then through sample loop 191. In this procedure, which can be called sweeping, the residual sample is gas-saturated. The flow path includes the sample selector 102 and the sample loop 191 in the gas chromatograph 104. It is removed, thereby preventing or reducing carryover.

[0025] In the system shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C, a gas cylinder (or further auxiliary A container with sufficient internal pressure to fill the sample loop without assistance is selected from the inlet 1. It is attached to 01-108. This disclosure also allows switching between different gas sample containers. To provide an automated method, these different gas samples are processed using gas chromatography. The gas sample selector 102 can efficiently and reliably supply the rough 104. External devices (gas chromatograph, computer with RS-232, or other type) New sample position signals from gas analyzers, etc., when a new sample is low When it receives a signal indicating that it will be analyzed, the multiple position selector valve 130 will select different positions. It can be switched to different positions corresponding to the pull container. Simultaneously (or almost simultaneously), The flush valve 140 connects the flush valve inlet 141 and the flush valve outlet 142 with fluid. To open up the dead space between the port of the multi-position selector valve 130 and the flush valve 140 The previous sample sealed inside the volume is discharged, and then the new sample is used. It is then washed away. After a short time, the flush valve 140 closes again (i.e., flush (The flush valve inlet 141 is not fluid-connected to the flush valve outlet 142) so new sample It is held in the gas sample selector 102. This mechanism is pulled by selector switching. Minimize the carryover contamination that occurs.

[0026] Figure 2 shows the configuration for multiple low-pressure gas samples (e.g., gas bags 201, 208). An embodiment of the gas sample selector is shown. When used in this disclosure, "low The term "low-pressure" refers to the flow path of a gas sample selector at a desired flow rate without assistance. This means insufficient pressure for gas to flow through. In some embodiments, desired The flow rate can be 10 mL / min to 300 mL / min. Such gas is desired. Pressure added by a pump or another source is required for the flow through the channel at a certain flow rate. Assistance such as the above will likely be needed. For example, when the pressure is approximately 0 psig to 10 psig The gas sample will likely require assistance. The valve condition shown in Figure 2 is for G analysis. The channel is configured so that the sample loop is filled with the sample that will be inserted into the C channel later. The sample selector 202 includes a multi-position selector valve 230, a flush valve 240, and a purge valve. It comprises valves 250, and conduits 239, 249 that provide a flow path between them. The pull selector 202 is part of the gas analyzer system 200 and the gas chromatograph 20 4, and a container for multiple gas bags (e.g., 201, 208) or low-pressure gas samples. The container is fluidly connected to other containers. The container is shut off at the container's exit. It may include a valve, and a shut-off valve to allow the gas sample to leave the container. After attaching the sample to the gas sample selector, release it. Gas from container 201 The sample passes through the selector inlet 221 and the loading conduit 223 to the selector valve inlet 23. Loaded into 1. The multiple-position selector valve 230 has a selector valve inlet 231 and a selector valve outlet 23 3 is fluid-connected, and gas samples from container 208 (and any other containers) are shielded. It is in a position where it will be interrupted. The selector valve 230 is for selecting different gas samples for analysis. It can move to a different position (for example, the selector valve inlet 232).

[0027] The selected gas sample is discharged from the selector valve outlet 233 to the selector-flush conduit 239. And at the other end, the selector-flush conduit is fluidly connected to the flush valve 240. It flows to 239. At the flush valve position shown in Figure 2, the flush valve 240 is flush A flow path is provided between the flush valve inlet 241 and the flush valve outlet 242, and the gas sample is flush This allows the rush to pass through the purge conduit 249 and reach the purge valve 250. Valve 250 provides a flow path between the purge valve inlet 251 and the purge valve outlet 252, The valve port 253 closes off the flow of purge gas into the system. Gas sample It exits from the purge valve outlet 252 and flows into the purge-outlet conduit 254, and then exits the purge-outlet conduit The conduit 254 is fluidly connected to the selector outlet 290 at the other end (however, the selector outlet 290 is indirectly connected to the purge valve 250 via one or more components. (It is intended that this will be possible.)

[0028] The embodiment of this gas sample selector shown in Figure 2 is configured for multiple low-pressure gas samples. In this embodiment, the gas sample selector 202 is connected to the gas sample pump 28 2, and optionally, positioned downstream of the sample loop during sample loop filling. It is equipped with a pump valve 280 attached to the outlet of the GC gas sampling valve. Examples of sample pumps include diaphragm pumps and vacuum pumps. Pump 282 discharges a low-pressure gas sample into the atmosphere without propulsion, It is provided to prevent the pull loop from being properly filled. Therefore, pump valve 28 2 pumps the gas sample through the flow path including the sample loop to vent 281. It has a position that allows it to be pulled out.

[0029] Pump 282 is fluidly connected to the conduit of the gas sample selector 202, so it selects the gas. To extract the gas so that it comes out of the container, and optionally, so that it comes out of the gas chromatograph. This is possible. In Figure 2, the pump has a selector outlet 290 and a gas chromatograph 204. The sample loop 291, selector return port 292, and return valve conduit 257 The fluid is connected to the flow path provided. The gas chromatograph 204 uses the gas sampling valve 293. Including the gas sampling valve 293, the sample gas is taken from the sample loop to the GC column 29 The position where it flows up to 5, and where the sample gas flows through the sample loop and / or the sample The system can be switched between multiple positions, such as the location where the lupus is filled and the excess is discharged. The gas chromatograph 204 is used to push the sample gas through the GC column. A carrier gas port 294 receives rear gas, and detects analytes in the sample gas. It may also include a detector 296. The selector return port 292 is for the sample loop 2 The fluid is connected to 91, and when filling the sample loop or purging the flow path, the gas is Allows for the return of gas samples from the lorograph 204 to the gas sample selector 202. The return valve conduit 257 connects the selector return port 292 to the pump valve 280. To be continued.

[0030] The flash valve 240 and purge valve 250 in Figure 2 are connected to the gas sample selector 202 and To purge the sample gas from the sample loop 291, the flash valve 140 and The valve 150 is operated in almost the same way as described above in Figures 1B and 1C. It can be made. However, in embodiments in which a low-pressure sample gas is used, During purging, valve 280 is switched to vent 283 because the purge gas However, this is because the pressure is generally higher than that of the sample gas, and therefore pump 282 is not required. .

[0031] Figures 3A and 3B show the gas chromatograph 304 and 16 gas sample containers. This gas sample selector 302 is part of the gas sample analyzer system 300. An embodiment is shown. The gas sample selector 302 selects multiple gas samples (for example, gas bags). It is connected to the gas cylinder 301 and gas cylinder 316). For example, multiple gas samples are connected to 8 It has several bags and eight cylinders, but four of each are visible. This is a low-pressure sun Because the gas sample selector can accept both pull and high-pressure samples, many It is more advantageous than other gas sample selectors.

[0032] The selector 302 receives gas samples from multiple sample containers via multiple selector streams. It is equipped with an inlet (for example, a selector inlet 321). The selector 302 also has multiple selector valve inlets. Multiple position selector valve having an outlet (e.g., inlet 331) and at least one selector valve outlet 333 It is equipped with a selector valve 330. The selector valve 330 has a selector valve inlet 331 and a selector valve outlet 333. It is located in a position where fluid is connected. In Figures 3A and 3B, the multiple position selector valve has 16 As shown with the selector valve inlet, (as discussed above), the selector valve is more or It can have fewer inlets. For example, a multi-position selector valve can have 2, 3, or 4 inlets. , 6, 8, 10, 12, 20, 24, 32, 36, 40, or more selector valve inlets It may have multiple position selector valves, also shown together with one selector valve outlet 333. However, the intention is that the multiple-position selector valve can have two or more outlets. The selector 302 also optionally selects a plurality of loading conduits (e.g., loading conduits) The loading conduit is equipped with pipe 323) and the selector inlet is connected to one of the selector valve inlets. The selector inlet leading to the loading conduit is a quick connector or hose connector, etc. It may have a mounting device that facilitates connecting and disconnecting the sample container. Alternatively, the selector inlet may be constructed from a material such as soft plastic or rubber tubing. It is possible.

[0033] The selector 302 includes a flush valve 340 having at least two flush valve positions. At the position shown in Figure 3A, the flush valve 340 is connected to the flush valve inlet 341. A fluid path is provided between the rush valve outlet 342 and, in some embodiments, another position In the configuration (not shown), the flush valve 340 is connected to the flush valve vent port 343. A fluid path is provided between the rush valve outlet 342 and the outlet. In some embodiments, The flush valve can be a three-way valve. The flush valve vent port 343 is for flow limiting. Fluid can be connected to the device 344. The selector 302 also flushes the selector valve outlet. It includes a selector-flush conduit 339 connected to the valve inlet 341.

[0034] The selector 302 also includes a purge valve 350 having at least two purge valve positions. At one of the purge valve positions, the purge valve 350 has a purge valve inlet 351 and a purge valve outlet Provides a closed or bidirectional flow path between 352 and another purge valve position (not shown). The purge valve 350 provides a multidirectional flow path or intersection including the purge valve port 353. Therefore, purge gas can be supplied to the purge valve inlet and purge valve outlet. Port 353 is fluidly connected to the purge gas source. Flash-purge conduit 349 is flush Connect the flush valve 340 to the purge valve 350. Flush valve 340 and purge valve 250 The appropriate materials and operation are described above in relation to Figures 1A to 1C. Valves 340 and 350 are advantageous, but the flush valve and / or purge valve can be omitted. The various embodiments also allow switching between sample containers with different pressures. It should be recognized that both options are optional, as they offer significant advantages in this regard.

[0035] In the embodiments shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the gas sample selector 302 also purges A multi-port system connected to valve 350, with multiple ports that serve as valve inlets and valve outlets. It is equipped with a multi-port valve 360. In embodiments without a purge valve, the multi-port valve 360 ​​is In the case of the flush valve 340, or if the flush valve 340 is also omitted, selector valve 33 It can be connected to 0 fluid. In Figures 3A and 3B, the multi-port valve has 10 ports. This is a two-way valve, but other valve types are also intended. In these figures, the solid line represents the open valve. Used to show that gas flows through the discharge channel, while dotted lines indicate the entire channel. The various valve positions indicate whether it is closed. The multi-port valve 360 ​​is a sample. Depending on whether the supply source is high-pressure or low-pressure gas, different flow rates apply to the gas sample. It is configured to provide a path. The multi-port valve 360 ​​is configured to provide a path to the selected sample container. Depending on the pressure, the sample gas is directed to different components.

[0036] In Figure 3A, the multi-port valve 360 ​​is a high-pressure gas sample (i.e., shut-off valve 317) It is located in a position to receive a sample from gas cylinder 316 when it is open. (Figure 3) The valve state shown in A loads a high-pressure sample into the sample loop of the GSS and GC. This makes it possible. The gas sample is received at valve port 361, and valve 360 ​​is at valve port 3 A flow path (internal channel, etc.) is provided for 62. The gas sample exits valve 360, flow rate It passes through a conduit with a limiter 370. From here, the gas sample is valved at a reduced pressure. The gas sample flows to port 363, where it provides a flow path to port 364 via multiple ports. The gas sample re-enters valve 360. The gas sample exits valve 360 ​​and passes through valve-outlet conduit 356. The gas sample then reaches the selector outlet 390. The gas sample is then passed through the gas sampling valve 393. The gas flows to gas chromatograph 304 and then into its sample loop 391. At one position of the ring valve 393, the sample loop 391 is the selector return port The fluid is connected to 392, and the gas sample passes through the return valve conduit 357 to the vent 37. Port 3 of a multi-port valve 360 ​​provides a flow path (having one or more conduits) to 1. The flow rate increases to 65. A flow limiter 370, which is connected to one of the outlets of a multi-port valve, is connected to a high-pressure gas. As long as the flow rate of the sample is limited, a needle valve or other design (such as a fixed limiter in the form of a tube) is used. This can be done. In some embodiments, the flow limiter 370 controls the sample flow rate. Alternatively, between 10 mL / min and 300 mL / min, 20 mL / min and 200 mL / min could be used. It is limited to between. At another position of the gas sampling valve 393, the sample gas is The gas flows from the simple loop 391 to the GC column 395. The gas chromatograph 304 is... Mix with sample gas and use carrier to push the sample gas through GC column 395 A carrier gas port 394 receives the a gas, and detects the analytes in the sample gas. It may also include detector 396.

[0037] The multi-port valve 360, selected by the selector 302, controls the pump and flow rate according to the pressure of the gas sample. This allows switching the gas sample flow path between the limiter and the other. In Figure 3B, select The selector 302 receives a low-pressure gas sample from the container 301 (e.g., a gas bag). It is located in that position. The gas sample enters the selector inlet 322 and passes through the loading conduit 324. The gas flows to the selector valve 330. The loading conduit 324 is connected to the valve inlet 332 and the gas tank. The fluid is connected to the pull valve outlet 333. In some embodiments, the gas sample valve outlet 333 is directly fluid-connected to the multi-port valve 360, between the high-pressure sample and the low-pressure sample. This provides the advantage of allowing users to easily switch between modes. In other embodiments, The gas sample selector 302 also offers the additional benefit of facilitating the removal of carryover contamination. To provide this, a flush valve 340 and / or a purge valve 350 are included. The embodiment shown in Figure 3B In its configuration, the flush valve 340 and the purge valve 350 are flush valves 140 and 240. The method described above applies to the purge valves 150 and 250 for purging the sample gas. It can operate in almost the same way. As mentioned above, the flush valve and / or Embodiments without a purge valve are also advantageous.

[0038] In Figure 3B, the multiple port valve 360 ​​is used to supply low-pressure gas samples (i.e., gas bags 3) It is located in a position to receive samples from 01. Pump 382 and pump valve 380 are multiple A fluid is connected to one of the port valve outlets 366. The gas sample pump 380 is connected to the vent 38 It can be a diaphragm pump that pumps gas through 1. In Figure 3B, The multi-port valve 360 ​​opens after the shut-off valve 311 opens, allowing a low-pressure gas sample (i.e., a bag) to be taken out. It is located to receive the sample from 301. The gas sample is received at valve port 361. The valve 360 ​​provides a flow path (through its internal channel) to the valve port 364. The sample exits valve 360, passes through valve-outlet conduit 356, and reaches selector outlet 390. The gas sample flows to gas chromatograph 304 and operates as described above. It enters the sample loop 391. At one position of the sampling valve 393, the sample The loop 391 is fluid-connected to the selector return port 392, and the gas sample is returned to the return port. The fluid flows through valve conduit 357 to port 365. The multi-port valve 360 ​​is a pump valve. A fluid flow path (internal channel, etc.) between ports 365 and 366, which is connected to port 380. The pump valve 380 provides, in one position, the pump 382 and the pump vent 38 Connect to 1, and at another location, connect port 366 to vent 383. In this way, Pump 382 consists of a valve-outlet conduit 356, a selector outlet 390, and a gas chromatograph 3 Sample loop 391, selector return port 392, and return valve conduit 357 It is possible to provide intake pressure to a flow path equipped with the following: The valve state shown in Figure 3B is gas Fill the sample loop 391 in GC304 with the sample gas from bag 301. This makes it possible.

[0039] The gas sample selector 302 is described in relation to the steps discussed in relation to Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C. This can be used to reduce carryover. Gas sample selection The device 302 is equipped with a purge source 350 which is fluidly connected to the purge gas source, and the purge valve is gas The simple selector is selectively controlled to purge. The purge gas source is connected to the gas analyzer. The carrier gas source that provides the carrier gas, or another gas such as nitrogen or air. This is possible. During purging, the multi-port valve 360 ​​is in the same position as it was in the previous gas sample. Because it can be in the same position, any previous residual gas sample will carry over It will be removed in an attempt to reduce it.

[0040] In the apparatus shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B, low-pressure gas sample containers 301 to 308 (example) For example, the gas bag is attached to the selector inlet, and the high-pressure gas sample container 309~ 316 (e.g., a gas cylinder) is attached to the selector inlet. Several embodiments In this process, the gas sample selector 302 controls the sample according to the detected sample position. Determine the tenter type. In some embodiments, the selector inlet is of a specific type. It is configured to simply connect to the container. Alternatively, the selector inlet can be any It can be configured to connect to the container of the type. The GSS pressures the selector inlet. By having sensors, or by enabling the user to identify the type of container, By providing a user interface, etc., the container type can be detected. It can be configured. The GSS then passes the high-pressure sample gas through the flow limiter 370. Multiple port valve 3 for flowing or for flowing low-pressure sample gas through pump 382 Determine appropriate action regarding the cylinder or bag, such as switching position 60. More specifically, one gas sample (gas sample) requires a limiter 370 to limit the flow rate. From Linda 316, etc., another pressure gas sample (gas bar) that requires the assistance of pump 382. When the gas sample selector 302 receives a signal to switch to the bag 301, etc., multiple positions The selector valve 330 can be switched to different positions, and the flush valve 340 is a multi-position selector. Previous samples inside the dead volume between the port of valve 330 and the flush valve 340 are discharged. Then, it is released so that it is washed away by a new sample. A short time later, The 140 valve is closed again. This procedure is performed to transfer the high-pressure gas sample from the low-pressure gas sample. This is caused by switching from a low-pressure gas sample to a high-pressure gas sample. Minimize carryover contamination.

[0041] This apparatus (as shown in the embodiments described herein) is for gas sample selection. As part of the instrument, or as an external device in communication with the gas sample selector, the controller It may also be equipped with a processor and memory. The controller typically includes a processor and memory. The controller controls selector valves, flush valves, purge valves, multi-port valves, pumps, and / Or it is in telecommunication with the pump valve and receives data from it, and / or commands it Send the message.

[0042] Figure 4 shows an exemplary workflow for reducing carryover in a gas sample selector. A diagram is provided. As the first step, the gas sample container is a gas sample selector. It is attached and the "load" mode begins. The gas sample container is attached to its outlet. If a shut-off valve is attached, this shut-off valve is opened. In load mode, multiple The position selector valve has a valve inlet port that flows to the valve outlet at the position where the sample container is connected. It is positioned so that it is connected to the body. The flush valve is between the selector inlet and the selector outlet. When removing and reinserting the sample sealed inside the intervening volume, the previous sample that entered Gas samples, purge gas, or possibly air may pass through the selector outlet or vent. The gas sample is then discharged from the gas sample selector, and a new gas sample is then refilled. Furthermore, the flush valve inlet is positioned to connect to the flush valve outlet. In these embodiments, which include multi-port valves (such as the multi-port valve 360 ​​shown in Figure 3A), A multi-port valve provides a desired flow path (e.g., a flow limiter or) based on the pressure of the gas sample. It is switched to a position that provides a flow path equipped with a pump. After a preset time, The flush valve connects the flush valve vent and flush valve outlet to the fluid, and / or flush valve. It can be switched to a position that prevents fluid connection between the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet. In some embodiments, the flush valve is automatically switched between valve positions. This procedure minimizes carryover contamination caused by sample loading. The purge gas source is then fluid-connected to the purge valve inlet and purge valve outlet, and the purge gas The system is flushed from the purge valve to the flush valve vent and then to the selector outlet. If the selector outlet is fluid-connected to the GC and sample loop, the sample loop will also be flushed. The selector valve is closed when the flush valve inlet is closed (i.e., the flush valve outlet While not connected to the fluid, it can be switched to another position, and the above procedure is performed on the gas sample Until all of these are loaded onto the loading conduit and the selector valve inlet of the gas sample selector. It can be repeated. In some embodiments, the gas sump in the sample container Some or all of the loadings are required before continuing the workflow. It is loaded into the conduit. In some embodiments, one of the gas samples The gas sample is loaded into the loading conduit, and the workflow for that gas sample is completed. - Load another gas sample from the gas sample into each of the loading conduits. Before proceeding, continue (as explained below).

[0043] Next, in the workflow for gas samples, the signal is (from the controller or The gas sample is provided (by the user pressing the "Inject" key, etc.) and (optional) (After performing the "Load" mode step for the gas sample to be injected) "Note It can be introduced into the gas analyzer in "ON" mode. In the initial state, the flush valve is flush The flush valve vent and the flush valve outlet are in a "standby" state, in a position where they are fluidly connected. The GSS enters the "PreRun" state via a signal (from an external device or When it receives a pre-operation start signal (such as a key pressed by the user), it enters the pre-operation state. In that state, the gas passes through the GSS and reaches the gas analyzer (for example, the sample loop). To provide a flow path for gas samples, the flush valve flushes the flush valve inlet. It can be switched to a position that connects to the valve outlet. The gas sample selector is for high-pressure gas samples and low-pressure gas samples. In some embodiments of this method, which has the ability to switch between a pressurized gas sample and a compressed gas sample, A multi-port valve is used to switch between a flow path containing a limiter and a flow path containing a pump, or vice versa. By switching, etc., signals are also provided to switch the flow path within the GSS. The signals are, It can be provided automatically or manually, and the signal is generally from the gas sample container. Based on the pressure of a specific gas sample provided. The pre-operational condition is determined by the GSS's "pre-operational This is maintained until the "stop" signal is received. The pre-operation state or flushing time is user This can be selected by, typically 0.4 to 4 minutes, or alternatively, 0.9 to 1 minute. It lasts for 0.9 minutes. After that, the system enters a "Run" state, and in that state... And the flush valve is located at the position where the flush valve vent is connected to the flush valve outlet ( Alternatively, move to a position that prevents fluid connection between the valve inlet and valve outlet, and the gas analyzer will then... Before entering, ensure the sample pressure in the sample loop is equal to the surrounding area (typically at atmospheric pressure) and A few seconds are given to allow the balance to be reached. This action allows for good repeatability. It was found that during injection, the sample loop is positioned in alignment with the GC column flow path. The sample is then injected onto the column for analysis. After a predetermined time (or (In response to the signal), the gas sample selector enters a "PostRun" state. Entering this state, in that state, the gas sampling valve controls the sample in the gas chromatograph. The loop is positioned at the outlet of the gas sample selector and in a fluid connection state, and the flush valve is flush Connect the flush valve vent and the flush valve outlet (or the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet) The purge valve is positioned to close the fluid connection between the port and the flush valve, and the selector is located in a position that closes the fluid connection between the port and the flush valve. Gassun between the outlet or the outlet of the sample loop in the GC or the pump outlet in the GSS The system is switched to a position where purge gas flows into the pull selector, and the sample flow downstream of the flush valve The path is washed for the next sample injection, so that the next sample can be used with the previous sample. It helps reduce the time required to flush out of the flow path. If a sample is present, the multiple-position selector valve can switch to the next sample position. Then, repeat the process from standby to post-operation state for the remaining samples. It is possible.

[0044] After all samples have been analyzed, the sample flow path is used to completely remove any sample residue. It can also be washed. The sample container can be physically removed by the user from the gas sample selector. It can be easily separated, and the selector inlet can be simply separated from the sample container. If required based on the type of connector used for the selector inlet, By connecting a fitting to open the selector inlet to the atmosphere, It is possible. The gas sample selector is set to "Sweep" mode, and In this mode, the flush valve is positioned to connect the flush valve inlet to the flush valve outlet. Move to the purge valve, between the purge valve and the selector inlet, and between the purge valve and the selector flow The outlet or the outlet of the sample loop in the GC or the outlet of the pump in the gas sample selector The gas sample selector is switched to a position that allows the flow of purge gas into the flow path between the gas sample selectors. Therefore, the multi-position selector valve is positioned in various positions so that residual gas is removed from the loading conduit. It switches automatically between the two states. The entire sample flow path of the GSS is thoroughly cleaned, and the sample compartment This means the new set of the tanker is ready to be installed. (This gas sample selector) By using this workflow, the sources of contamination that contribute to carryover can be identified. The issue will be addressed, and the carryover will be minimized.

[0045] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and may be used in a manner that is not limited to a specific embodiment. It is understood that it is not intended to be restrictive. The terms defined are the terms defined. In addition to its technical and scientific significance, this instruction is generally understood and accepted within the technical field of this teaching. It's like that.

[0046] The term "valve" generally refers to any structure that is designed to enter into a structure. To change the flow path so that it exits the structure and / or passes through the structure (by switching or It can be adjusted (by turning it on or off, etc.) any structure To include. Generally, valves are substantially liquid-tight (flui) to prevent the loss of fluid from the flow path. (d-tight) Appropriate valve (e.g., selector valve, flush valve, and / or multi-port) An example of a valve is a rotary valve, such as a rotary valve that includes a stator and a rotor. A rotary valve comprises a stator and a rotor, and one or both of the stator and rotor are different rotary valves. It is rotatable to the position. The stator and rotor have adjacent surfaces to each other, and one or both One is configured to rotate relative to the other. The valve inlet and outlet (there may be more than one) are In this embodiment, it is a passage or through hole within the stator. The rotor has grooves on its surface. It has a switchable fluid path that can be used to rotate the stator and / or rotor. By doing so, the fluid path connects different valve inlets to valve outlets. An example of a suitable valve is... Examples of valves suitable as purge valves in this device include flow switching valves, 3 Includes directional solenoid valves, 2-position 3 / 4 / 6 / 8 or 10-port rotary / diaphragm valves, etc. Typical valve materials include metallic materials that are inert or can be made inert. The valve should ideally be kept in a short flash time state to avoid trapping the sample. It has a low dead volume. In some embodiments, the flush valve has an on / off position. It is a two-way valve.

[0047] The term "conduit" generally refers to a point in which a fluid flows (for example, the entrance to a conduit). A component configured to define a flow path that moves from one point to another (for example, the outlet of a conduit). While encompassing the structure of a conduit, it can also deliver fluid to an intermediate point. Conduits are multi It can be soft, hard, or both in small or some parts. The conduit is one A flow path from one component (e.g., a gas source) to another component (e.g., a vent). As long as it is provided, it can be relatively long or short and / or linear or nonlinear. Example For example, a conduit is a long tube, a short fitting, or multiple entrances and / or The conduit can be a manifold having an exit. Typically, the conduit has an inlet and Although it has an outlet, in some embodiments the conduit has two or more inlets. When pipes merge or connect to a single outlet, or when there are two or more conduits with a single inlet. When branching or splitting the outlet, etc., it is possible to have multiple inlets and / or outlets. The conduit can be used to calculate the volume of the conduit, based on its length and inner diameter (i Often described by .d. (inner diameter). For example, an exemplary conduit is 10 It has a length between 50 cm and 50 cm and an inner diameter of 0.02 inches. Such a conduit is 0 This will result in a volume of 0.02 mL to 0.10 mL. Of course, other lengths, inner diameters, and Volumetric conduits are also considered. The geometry of the conduits can vary widely, from circular to rectangular. The conduit may have various geometric shapes (e.g., square, D-shaped, trapezoidal, or other polygonal cross-sections). (It has a rectangular cross-section in one section and a trapezoidal cross-section in another section.) It is possible. In the case of conduits in the sample flow path, stainless steel or other metal tubing can be used. Often preferred to avoid contamination, but plastics, fused silica, and other metals Other materials such as the above can be used. The conduits and valves may optionally be coated with an inactivating coating. It can be coated with materials that improve inertness, such as coatings.

[0048] The term "connected" refers to two components being fluidly connected. It also means being physically connected or both. The term refers to a state where two components are in fluid communication, and there is direct communication between the two components. Connection, and indirect connections between two components within a flow path where one or more other components are present. This means including connections. For example, the first component and the second component are The exit from the first component is physically connected to the inlet of the second component. In cases where, or when the conduit connects the first component and the second component, This occurs when the fluid flows from the first component to the second component or vice versa. One or more intervening components, such as valves, pumps, or other structures, are connected to two components. When located between components, they are connected by fluid. The components use ferrules. It is possible to physically connect in any suitable way, such as by attachment and other approaches. Yes, it is possible. Generally, a physical connection that is liquid-tight and / or minimizes dead volume is necessary for this device. It is desired.

[0049] In this disclosure, the terms “substantial” or “effectively” are used in a manner that would be acceptable to a person skilled in the art. It means being within a possible range or degree. The terms "approximately" and "about" are used by those skilled in the art. This means within an acceptable range or quantity. The term "approximately" generally indicates It refers to plus or minus 15% of the given number. For example, "approximately 10" means between 8.5 and 11.5. It can indicate a range. For example, "approximately the same" means that the items being compared are the same as those of a person skilled in the art. This means that it is assumed to exist. When a range of values ​​is stated in this disclosure, the exact range of values It should be understood that both approximate values ​​are disclosed: smaller and larger. It should also be understood that any arbitrary value can be combined to form a range. be.

[0050] Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein are defined in this Specification. The disclosure has the same meaning as that generally understood by those skilled in the art in which the disclosure pertains. Any method and materials similar to or equivalent to those described in the detailed instructions may be used when implementing or testing this instruction. While it may be used in other ways, several exemplary methods and materials are described below. All patents and publications herein expressly constitute part of this specification by reference. Let's assume that.

[0051] As used in this specification and the appended claims, “one (a, an)” or “a certain The terms "(a, an)" and "the" are used unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. This includes both single and multiple objects. Therefore, for example, "a certain conduit ( A conduit includes one or more conduits. Unless otherwise indicated, "the first conduit" refers to a single conduit or multiple conduits. The terms "of," "second of," "third of," and other ordinal numbers refer to differences in this device and method. The terms used herein to distinguish between elements and intended to provide quantitative limits. It is not possible. The reference to the first valve position and the second valve position is that the device has two valve positions. It should not be interpreted as meaning that it merely has the first element and the second element. The apparatus may also include third, fourth, fifth, etc., unless otherwise specified.

[0052] Exemplary Embodiments Exemplary embodiments provided herein include, but are not limited to, the following: It is not limited to them.

[0053] 1. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet. Therefore, at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets flow to at least one selector valve outlet. A multi-position selector valve is connected to the body, A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein one flush At the valve position, the flush valve has a flow path between the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet. In addition to providing a different flush valve position, the flush valve has a flush valve vent port and A flush valve that provides a flow path between the flush valve inlet and / or the flush valve outlet. and Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet for fluid flow. A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position The purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and purge valve outlet. At a different purge valve position, the purge valve will purge the purge valve inlet or purge valve outlet. Equipped with a purge valve to prevent gas flow, The flush valve outlet is connected to the purge valve inlet for fluid flow. Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is fluid-connected to the purge valve outlet, allowing selection of gases from multiple gas samples. Sample selector.

[0054] 2. The flush valve vent port is connected to the surrounding area for fluid flow, as described in Embodiment 1. Sample selector.

[0055] 3. A pump connected to the purge valve outlet, A flow limiter connected to the purge valve outlet and The gas sample selection according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 further comprises either or both of the above. Selector.

[0056] 4. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet. Therefore, at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets lead to at least one selector valve outlet. A multi-position selector valve is connected to the body, A multi-port valve having multiple valve ports, wherein at least one of the valve ports is at least A multi-port valve, which is fluid-connected to a single selector valve outlet, A pump is connected to one of the valve ports, A flow limiter connected to one or more valve ports and Equipped with, A multi-port valve has at least two valve positions, and at one valve position, the multi-port valve This creates a fluid connection between a multi-position selector valve and a pump, and allows for different valve positions. Therefore, a multi-port valve creates a fluid connection between a multi-position selector valve and a flow limiter, A gas sample selector that selects from a range of gas samples.

[0057] 5. A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein one flush valve position At the flush valve position, the flush valve controls the flow between the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet. To provide a pathway, at a different flush valve position, the flush valve vent port A flush valve provides a flow path between the flush valve inlet and / or flush valve outlet. The valve and Selector-flush valve with at least one selector valve outlet fluid connection to the flush valve inlet. conduits and The gas sample selector according to Embodiment 4, further comprising the following:

[0058] 6. A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein one flush valve position At the flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and another flush valve At the flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are not connected to the fluid. a flush valve, and a selector-flush conduit fluidly connecting at least one selector valve outlet to the flush valve inlet and the gas sample selector according to Embodiment 4, further comprising the same.

[0059] 7. A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve enables the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet or the purge valve outlet, a purge valve, and a purge valve conduit fluidly connecting the purge valve to the flush valve outlet and the gas sample selector according to Embodiment 5 or Embodiment according to 6, further comprising the same.

[0060] 8. The gas sample selector according to Embodiment 4, wherein the flow restrictor is a needle valve.

[0061] 9. The gas sample selector according to Embodiment 4, wherein the multi-port valve is a rotary valve having 6, 8, 10, or more ports.

[0062] 10. The purge valve of the gas sample selector according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 4, which is fluidly connected to a purge gas source, such as air, helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, and a mixture of argon and methane.

[0063] 11. The gas sample selector according to Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 4, further comprising a controller in signal communication with one or more of the multi-position selector valve, the flush valve, and / or the purge valve. .

[0064] 12. A gas chromatograph having a chromatograph inlet, and The gas sample selector described in Embodiment 1 and A gas analyzer system equipped with a selector outlet that is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet. .

[0065] 13. A gas chromatograph equipped with a chromatograph inlet, The gas sample selector described in Embodiment 5 and A gas analyzer system equipped with a selector outlet that is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet. .

[0066] 14. Multiple gas sample containers connected to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector Furthermore, it is equipped with one or more gas sample containers, and the gas One or more of the sample containers are low-pressure gas sample containers, Embodiment 12 or The gas analyzer system described in the implementation form 13.

[0067] 15. The gas chromatograph is equipped with a selector outlet and a sample loop in fluid communication. , the gas analyzer system according to Embodiment 12 or Embodiment 13.

[0068] 16. The gas sample selector is further equipped with a selector return port, and the gas chromatograph is It is equipped with a chromatograph outlet, and the selector return port is fluid-connected to the chromatograph outlet. A gas analyzer system according to Embodiment 12 or Embodiment 13.

[0069] 17. The chromatograph includes a sample loop, and the fluid enters the selector outlet of the sample loop. A gas analyzer system according to Embodiment 12 or Embodiment 13, which is connected to the gas analyzer system.

[0070] 18. The flush valve is positioned so that the flush valve inlet connects to the flush valve outlet, The purge valve is positioned to prevent the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and purge valve outlet. The procedure involves flowing the sample gas from the selector inlet to the selector outlet while the device is in this state. A method for operating the gas sample selector described in Embodiment 1. By this method, the sample gas is selected The sample can be loaded into the sample loop, from which the sample gas is supplied to the column. After the column is loaded, remove any remaining sample gas from the gas sample selector. Therefore, it is desirable to do so, namely, A step of switching the flush valve, thereby switching the flush valve vent and flush Connect the rush valve outlet, disconnect the flush valve inlet from the flush valve outlet, and so The switching step prevents the flow of sample gas downstream of the flash valve, The step of flowing purge gas through the purge valve port, thereby the purge gas The fluid flows to the selector outlet and the flush valve vent, between the flush valve and the selector outlet. The steps to remove the sample gas from the intermediate flow path and to flush it out. This can be implemented.

[0071] 19. One of the selector inlets is attached directly or indirectly to the sample container. and Disconnect the sample container from the selector inlet, The flush valve is switched off so that the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are connected to the fluid. To change, Purge gas is supplied from the purge valve, through the selector inlet and / or through the multi-position selector valve. And to flush The method according to Embodiment 18, further comprising the following:

[0072] 20. Stop the flow of purge gas and detach the sample container from the selector inlet. and connecting a new sample container to the inlet of the selector, while the flash valve inlet is fluidly connected to the flash valve outlet, flowing a new sample from the inlet of the selector through the multi-position selector valve and out of the selector outlet and further comprising the method according to embodiment 18.

[0073] 21. The connecting step further comprises connecting two or more new gas samples to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector, and the method comprises switching the multi-position selector valve to the position where the first gas sample is selected in the gas sample selector, positioning the flash valve such that the flash valve inlet and the flash valve outlet are fluidly connected, positioning the purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, loading by flowing the first gas sample from the selector inlet to the selector outlet of the gas sample selector, after loading the first gas sample, switching the flash valve to disconnect the flash valve inlet from the flash valve outlet and optionally to connect the flash valve vent and the flash valve outlet, switching the purge valve to connect the purge valve port to the purge valve outlet and optionally to the purge valve inlet, purging by flowing purge gas from the purge valve to the selector outlet and optionally to the flash valve vent to remove the remaining first gas sample, switching the multi-position selector valve to the position where the second gas sample is selected in the gas sample selector, ​​​​​​​​​​​​Switching to the position where the valve is selected, and the flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are fluid Position the flush valve so that it is connected and to prevent the flow of purge gas. To position the purge valve, and to send the second gas sample from the selector inlet to the gas sump Loading is done by flowing the liquid to the selector outlet of the selector. The method according to Embodiment 20, further comprising:

[0074] 22. A multi-port valve having two or more positions between the purge valve outlet and the selector outlet. Before the step of positioning and flowing the gas sample from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, connect The sample gas in the sample container should flow through a pump or fluid limiter. This further includes determining whether or not to do so, and switching the valve position of multiple port valves based on the determination. A multi-port valve has at least two valve positions, and at one of the valve positions, multiple Port valves create a fluid connection between the multi-position selector valve and the pump, and the valve position is different from the other valve position. In this configuration, a multi-port valve creates a fluid connection between a multi-position selector valve and a flow limiter. The method described in Embodiment 18.

[0075] 23. The gas sample selector includes a gas chromatograph with a sample loop. The gas sample selector outlet is fluid-connected to the analyzer system and is connected to the gas chromatograph. The fluid is connected to the inlet, and the method involves selecting the sample gas and / or purge gas. This includes flowing the sample through the sample loop into the gas chromatograph from the selector outlet. The method described in Embodiment 18.

[0076] 24. After the sample gas is flowed from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, the sample loop is The gas chromatography column is fluid-connected, and then the gas sample selector is fluid-connected. The method according to embodiment 23, which can be switched to return to the continuous state.

[0077] 25. After the sample gas has filled the sample loop, the flush valve will exit. The opening is switched to connect to the flush valve vent, thereby allowing the sample loop to be used. The method according to embodiment 23, which allows the pressure to be in equilibrium with the surrounding area.

[0078] 26. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet. Therefore, at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets lead to at least one selector valve outlet. A multi-position selector valve is connected to the body, A flush valve having two flush valve positions, wherein at one of the valve positions The flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and at one valve position, The flush valve inlet and flush valve outlet are not connected to the fluid, and the flush valve and Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet for fluid flow. A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position The purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or purge valve outlet. Furthermore, at a different purge valve position, the purge valve is relative to the purge valve inlet or purge valve outlet. Equipped with a purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, The flush valve outlet is fluid-connected to the purge valve inlet. Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is fluid-connected to the purge valve outlet, allowing selection of gases from multiple gas samples. Sample selector.

[0079] The above description of exemplary or preferred embodiments should be construed as illustrative and not as limiting the invention as defined by the embodiments. For ease of understanding, numerous variations and combinations of the features described above can be used without departing from the invention as described in the embodiments. Such variations will not be considered a departure from the scope of the invention, and all such variations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended embodiments. All references cited herein constitute, by reference, an entire part of this specification. The original claims of the parent application are as follows: Claim 1: Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein in one flush valve position the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve inlet and a flush valve outlet, and in another flush valve position the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve vent port and the flush valve inlet and / or the flush valve outlet. Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet or the purge valve outlet, The flush valve outlet is connected to the purge valve inlet, Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is a gas sample selector that selects from a plurality of gas samples, and is fluidly connected to the purge valve outlet. Claim 2: The gas sample selector according to claim 1, wherein the flush valve vent port is fluid-connected to the surrounding area. Claim 3: A pump is connected to the outlet of the purge valve, A flow limiter is connected to the purge valve outlet and A gas sample selector according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising either or both of the above. Claim 4: Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A multiport valve having multiple valve ports, wherein at least one of the valve ports is fluidly connected to the outlet of at least one selector valve, A pump is connected to one of the valve ports, A flow limiter connected to one or more of the valve ports and Equipped with, A gas sample selector that selects from multiple gas samples, wherein the multiport valve has at least two valve positions, and at one valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the pump, and at another valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the flow limiter. Claim 5: A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein at one flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve inlet and a flush valve outlet, and at another flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve vent port and the flush valve inlet and / or the flush valve outlet, A selector-flush conduit that fluidly connects the at least one selector valve outlet to the flush valve inlet. The gas sample selector according to claim 4, further comprising the following: Claim 6: A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein in one flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and in another flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are not fluid-connected, A selector-flush conduit that fluidly connects the at least one selector valve outlet to the flush valve inlet. The gas sample selector according to claim 4, further comprising the following: Claim 7: A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position, the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position, the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet or the purge valve outlet. A purge valve conduit that fluidly connects the purge valve to the outlet of the flush valve, A gas sample selector according to claim 5 or 6, further comprising the following: Claim 8: The gas sample selector according to claim 4, wherein the flow limiter is a needle valve. Claim 9: The gas sample selector according to claim 4, wherein the multiple-port valve is a rotary valve having 6, 8, 10, or more ports. Claim 10: The gas sample selector according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the purge valve is fluidly connected to a purge gas source. Claim 11: The gas sample selector according to claim 1 or 4, further comprising a controller for signal communication status with one or more of the multiple position selector valves, the flush valve, and / or the purge valve. Claim 12: A gas chromatograph equipped with a chromatograph inlet, The gas sample selector according to claim 1 and Equipped with, A gas analyzer system in which the selector outlet is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet. Claim 13: A gas chromatograph equipped with a chromatograph inlet, The gas sample selector according to claim 5 and Equipped with, A gas analyzer system in which the selector outlet is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet. Claim 14: The gas analyzer system according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a plurality of gas sample containers fluidly connected to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector, wherein one or more of the gas sample containers are high-pressure gas sample containers and one or more of the gas sample containers are low-pressure gas sample containers. Claim 15: The gas analyzer system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the gas chromatograph comprises a sample loop in fluid communication with the selector outlet. Claim 16: The gas analyzer system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the gas sample selector further comprises a selector return port, the gas chromatograph comprises a chromatograph outlet, and the selector return port is fluidly connected to the chromatograph outlet. Claim 17: The gas analyzer system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the chromatograph includes a sample loop, and the sample loop is fluidly connected to the selector outlet. Claim 18: With the flash valve positioned to connect the flash valve inlet to the flash valve outlet, and the purge valve positioned to prevent the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, sample gas is flowed from the selector inlet to the selector outlet. Switching the aforementioned flash valve, thereby connecting the flash valve vent and the flash valve outlet, and disconnecting the flash valve inlet from the flash valve outlet, thereby preventing the flow of sample gas downstream of the flash valve, The method involves flowing purge gas through the purge valve port, thereby causing the purge gas to flow to the selector outlet and the flush valve vent, and removing the sample gas from the flow path between the flush valve and the selector outlet. A method for operating the gas sample selector according to claim 1, including the following: Claim 19: One of the selector inlets is attached directly or indirectly to the sample container, and the method is Disconnecting the sample container from the selector inlet, Switching the flush valve so that the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluidly connected, The purge gas is flowed from the purge valve through the selector inlet and / or through the multi-position selector valve. The method according to claim 18, further comprising: Claim 20: The flow of the purge gas is stopped, and the sample container is separated from the selector inlet. Connecting the new sample container to the inlet of the selector, While the flush valve inlet is fluidly connected to the flush valve outlet, the new sample is flowed from the inlet of the selector, through the multiple position selector valve, and out of the selector outlet. The method according to claim 18, further comprising: Claim 21: The connecting step further includes connecting two or more new gas samples to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector, Loading the first gas sample into the gas sample selector involves switching the multiple position selector valve to the position where the first gas sample is selected, positioning the flash valve so that the flash valve inlet and the flash valve outlet are fluidly connected, positioning the purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, and allowing the first gas sample to flow from the selector inlet to the selector outlet of the gas sample selector. Switching the flash valve to disconnect the flash valve inlet from the flash valve outlet and optionally connect the flash valve vent and the flash valve outlet; switching the purge valve to connect the purge valve port to the purge valve outlet and optionally connect the purge valve inlet; and purging the remaining first gas sample after the loading of the first gas sample by flowing purge gas from the purge valve to the selector outlet and optionally to the flash valve vent in order to remove the remaining first gas sample. Loading the second gas sample into the gas sample selector involves switching the multiple position selector valve to the position where the second gas sample is selected, positioning the flash valve so that the flash valve inlet and the flash valve outlet are fluidly connected, positioning the purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, and allowing the second gas sample to flow from the selector inlet to the selector outlet of the gas sample selector. The method according to claim 20, further comprising: Claim 22: A multiport valve having two or more positions is located between the purge valve outlet and the selector outlet, and the method further includes determining whether the sample gas in the connected sample container should flow through a pump or fluid limiter before the step of flowing the sample gas from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, and switching the multiport valve to a valve position based on the determination. The method according to claim 18, wherein the multiple-port valve has at least two valve positions, and at one of the valve positions, the multiple-port valve creates a fluid connection between the multiple-position selector valve and a pump, and at another valve position, the multiple-port valve creates a fluid connection between the multiple-position selector valve and a flow limiter. Claim 23: The gas sample selector is fluidly connected to a gas analyzer system including a gas chromatograph having a sample loop, and the outlet of the gas sample selector is fluidly connected to the inlet of the gas chromatograph. The method according to claim 18, wherein the method comprises flowing the sample gas and / or the purge gas from the outlet of the gas sample selector into the gas chromatograph through the sample loop. Claim 24: The method according to claim 23, wherein after the sample gas is flowed from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, the sample loop is fluidly connected to a gas chromatography column, and then switched back to a fluid connection state with the gas sample selector. Claim 25: The method according to claim 23, wherein after the sample gas has filled the sample loop, the flash valve is switched to connect the flash valve outlet to the flash valve vent, thereby allowing the pressure in the sample loop to be in equilibrium with the surrounding area. Claim 26: Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A flush valve having two flush valve positions, wherein at one of the valve positions, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and at the other valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are not fluid-connected. Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein at one purge valve position, the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or the purge valve outlet, and at another purge valve position, the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet or the purge valve outlet. The flush valve outlet is fluid-connected to the purge valve inlet. Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is a gas sample selector that selects from a plurality of gas samples, and is fluidly connected to the purge valve outlet.

Claims

1. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein at one flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve inlet and a flush valve outlet, and at another flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve vent port and the flush valve inlet and / or the flush valve outlet. Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and allows the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet to be fluidly connected, The flush valve outlet is connected to the purge valve inlet, Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is a gas sample selector that selects from a plurality of gas samples, and is fluidly connected to the purge valve outlet.

2. The gas sample selector according to claim 1, wherein the flush valve vent port is fluid-connected to the surrounding area.

3. A pump is connected to the outlet of the purge valve, A flow limiter is connected to the purge valve outlet and A gas sample selector according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising either or both of the above.

4. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A multi-port valve having multiple valve ports, A pump is connected to one of the valve ports, A flow limiter connected to one or more of the valve ports and Equipped with, The multiport valve has at least two valve positions, and at one valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the pump, and at the other valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the flow limiter. A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein at one flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve inlet and a flush valve outlet, and at another flush valve position, the flush valve provides a flow path between a flush valve vent port and the flush valve inlet and / or the flush valve outlet, A selector-flush conduit that fluidly connects the outlet of at least one selector valve to the inlet of the flush valve, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and allows the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet to be fluidly connected, A purge valve conduit that fluidly connects the purge valve to the outlet of the flush valve, Furthermore, A gas sample selector for selecting from a plurality of gas samples, wherein at least one of the valve ports is fluidly connected to the outlet of the purge valve.

5. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A multi-port valve having multiple valve ports, A pump is connected to one of the valve ports, A flow limiter connected to one or more of the valve ports and Equipped with, The multiport valve has at least two valve positions, and at one valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the pump, and at the other valve position, the multiport valve creates a fluid connection between the multiport selector valve and the flow limiter. A flush valve having at least two flush valve positions, wherein in one flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and in another flush valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are not fluid-connected, A selector-flush conduit that fluidly connects the outlet of at least one selector valve to the inlet of the flush valve, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and allows the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet to be fluidly connected, A purge valve conduit that fluidly connects the purge valve to the outlet of the flush valve, Furthermore, A gas sample selector for selecting from a plurality of gas samples, wherein at least one of the valve ports is fluidly connected to the outlet of the purge valve.

6. The gas sample selector according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the flow limiter is a needle valve.

7. The gas sample selector according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the multiple-port valve is a rotary valve having 6, 8, 10, or more ports.

8. The gas sample selector according to any one of claims 1, 4, or 5, wherein the purge valve is fluidly connected to a purge gas source.

9. The gas sample selector according to any one of claims 1, 4, or 5, further comprising a controller for signal communication status with one or more of the multiple position selector valves, the flush valve, and / or the purge valve.

10. A gas chromatograph equipped with a chromatograph inlet, The gas sample selector according to claim 1 and Equipped with, A gas analyzer system in which the selector outlet is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet.

11. A gas chromatograph equipped with a chromatograph inlet, The gas sample selector according to claim 4 and Equipped with, A gas analyzer system in which the selector outlet is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet.

12. The gas analyzer system according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a plurality of gas sample containers fluidly connected to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector, wherein one or more of the gas sample containers are high-pressure gas sample containers and one or more of the gas sample containers are low-pressure gas sample containers.

13. The gas analyzer system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the gas chromatograph comprises a sample loop in fluid communication with the selector outlet.

14. The gas analyzer system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the gas sample selector further comprises a selector return port, the gas chromatograph comprises a chromatograph outlet, and the selector return port is fluidly connected to the chromatograph outlet.

15. The gas analyzer system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the gas chromatograph includes a sample loop, and the sample loop is fluidly connected to the selector outlet.

16. With the flash valve positioned to connect the flash valve inlet to the flash valve outlet, and the purge valve positioned to prevent the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, a gas sample is flowed from the selector inlet to the selector outlet. Switching the aforementioned flush valve, thereby connecting the flush valve vent port and the flush valve outlet, and disconnecting the flush valve inlet from the flush valve outlet, thereby preventing the flow of the gas sample downstream of the flush valve, The purge gas is flowed through the purge valve port, thereby flowing to the selector outlet and the flush valve vent port, removing the gas sample from the flow path between the flush valve and the selector outlet. A method for operating the gas sample selector according to claim 1, including the following:

17. One of the selector inlets is directly or indirectly connected to a gas sample container containing a gas sample, and the method is Disconnecting the gas sample container from the selector inlet, Switching the flush valve so that the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluidly connected, The purge gas is flowed from the purge valve through the selector inlet and / or through the multi-position selector valve. The method according to claim 16, further comprising:

18. The flow of the purge gas is stopped, and the gas sample container is disconnected from the selector inlet. Connecting the new gas sample container to the selector inlet, While the flush valve inlet is fluidly connected to the flush valve outlet, a new gas sample is flowed from the selector inlet, through the multi-position selector valve, and out of the selector outlet. The method according to claim 17, further comprising:

19. The connecting step further includes connecting two or more new gas samples to the selector inlet of the gas sample selector, Loading the first gas sample into the gas sample selector involves switching the multiple position selector valve to the position where the first gas sample is selected, positioning the flash valve so that the flash valve inlet and the flash valve outlet are fluidly connected, positioning the purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, and allowing the first gas sample to flow from the selector inlet to the selector outlet of the gas sample selector. Switching the flash valve in order to disconnect the flash valve inlet from the flash valve outlet and optionally connect the flash valve vent port and the flash valve outlet; switching the purge valve in order to connect the purge valve port to the purge valve outlet and optionally connect the purge valve inlet; and purging the remaining first gas sample after loading the first gas sample by flowing purge gas from the purge valve to the selector outlet and optionally to the flash valve vent port in order to remove the remaining first gas sample. Loading the second gas sample into the gas sample selector involves switching the multiple position selector valve to the position where the second gas sample is selected, positioning the flash valve so that the flash valve inlet and the flash valve outlet are fluidly connected, positioning the purge valve to prevent the flow of purge gas, and allowing the second gas sample to flow from the selector inlet to the selector outlet of the gas sample selector. The method according to claim 18, further comprising:

20. A multiport valve having two or more valve positions is located between the purge valve outlet and the selector outlet, and the method further includes determining whether the gas sample in the connected gas sample container should flow through a pump or fluid limiter before the step of flowing the gas sample from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, and switching the multiport valve to the valve position based on the determination. The method according to claim 17, wherein the multiple-port valve has at least two valve positions, and at one of the valve positions, the multiple-port valve creates a fluid connection between the multiple-position selector valve and a pump, and at another valve position, the multiple-port valve creates a fluid connection between the multiple-position selector valve and a flow limiter.

21. The gas sample selector is fluidly connected to a gas analyzer system including a gas chromatograph having a sample loop, and the selector outlet of the gas sample selector is fluidly connected to the chromatograph inlet. The method according to claim 16, wherein the method comprises flowing the gas sample and / or the purge gas from the selector outlet of the gas sample selector into the gas chromatograph through the sample loop.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein after the gas sample is flowed from the selector inlet to the selector outlet, the sample loop is fluidly connected to a gas chromatography column, and then switched back to a fluidly connected state with the gas sample selector.

23. The method according to claim 21, wherein after the gas sample has filled the sample loop, the flush valve is switched to connect the flush valve outlet to the flush valve vent port, thereby allowing the pressure in the sample loop to equilibrium with the surrounding area.

24. Multiple selector inlets for receiving gas samples, A multi-position selector valve having multiple selector valve inlets and at least one selector valve outlet, wherein at different valve positions, different selector valve inlets are fluidly connected to the at least one selector valve outlet, A flush valve having two flush valve positions, wherein at one of the valve positions, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are fluid-connected, and at the other valve position, the flush valve inlet and the flush valve outlet are not fluid-connected. Equipped with, The selector valve outlet is connected to the flush valve inlet, A purge valve having at least two purge valve positions, wherein in one purge valve position the purge valve allows the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and / or purge valve outlet, and in another purge valve position the purge valve prevents the flow of purge gas to the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet, and allows the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet to be fluidly connected, The flush valve outlet is fluid-connected to the purge valve inlet. Equipped with a selector outlet that provides a gas sample to the analyzer, The selector outlet is a gas sample selector that selects from a plurality of gas samples, and is fluidly connected to the purge valve outlet.

Images