Simulated Distillation (SimDis) Gas Chromatography in the Petrochemical Industry
An technical overview of simulated distillation (SimDis) gas chromatography for boiling point distribution analysis in petroleum refineries.
Simulated Distillation (SimDis) Gas Chromatography in the Petrochemical Industry Abstract Simulated distillation (SimDis) gas chromatography is an indispensable analytical technique in petroleum refining, replacing traditional physical distillation with rapid, high-temperature gas chromatographic boiling point distribution analysis. Introduction Refineries and petrochemical laboratories rely on boiling point distribution data to monitor crude oil fractions, diesel fuels, and lubricants. SimDis GC adheres to strict ASTM standards (e.g., ASTM D2887, D7169) to determine boiling ranges [1]. ROWELL supplies specialized high-temperature GC capillary columns engineered for rigorous SimDis applications. Technical Requirements for SimDis GC | Parameter | Requirement | Analytical Significance | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Column Phase | 100% Dimethyl polysiloxane (non-polar metal capillary or thick-film fused silica) | Withstands temperatures up to 450°C without excessive bleed. | | Inlet System | High-temperature on-column or programmable temperature vaporization (PTV) | Ensures quantitative transfer of heavy hydrocarbon fractions. | | Calibration | Reference boiling point calibration mixtures (n-paraffins) | Correlates retention time accurately to boiling points. | 1. High-Temperature Column Stability SimDis applications subject columns to severe thermal stress during high-temperature programming up to 430°C or higher. Specialized aluminum-clad or metal capillary columns prevent phase degradation. 2. Quantitative Elution of Heavy Fractions Maintaining inertness and low bleed at extreme temperatures ensures that high-boiling wax fractions elute without adsorption or tailing. Practical Recommendations - Routine Maintenance : Frequently inspect high-temperature ferrules and inlet sea