The ZyNthAir represents a significant leap forward in cetane analysis, enabling precise combustion air by blending nitrogen with zero air using mass flow controllers (MFCs). This precise blending results in the production of combustion air tailored for the PAC Cetane CID 510 Analyzer, facilitating dependable, consistent cetane measurements.

Cetane analyzers measure the pressure changes during a combustion event of diesel or other fuels in a constant volume combustion chamber. Changes in pressure from the induction of the fuel into the chamber until the fuel ignites and fully combusts are used to calculate the cetane number. Controlling the combustion gas oxygen levels, along with temperature and pressure inside the chamber before the fuel is injected, is critical for precise, repeatable measurements of cetane.

Before the ZyNthAir, synthetic air was used as a combustion gas. Synthetic air, specified as 20% +/-0.5% oxygen, means that every time the synthetic air gas cylinder is changed, the combustion characterization changes with it. This necessitates recalibrating the cetane analyzer, costing time and expensive calibration materials.

ZyNthAir uses nitrogen and zero air to synthesize 20% oxygen, achieving reliable combustion at a fraction of the cost of synthetic air. This advanced gas mixer eliminates the necessity for frequent calibrations between gas changes, mitigating the uncertainties associated with ordering precise oxygen content in synthetic air. The result is enhanced measurement accuracy across the entire span of cetane measurements on the CID 510, delivering reliable and cost-effective cetane analysis solutions.

The ZyNthAir’s ability to uphold a consistent and precise combustion air composition sets a new industry standard, empowering researchers and refineries to achieve the most dependable and reproducible cetane measurements. By ensuring accurate combustion air generation, the ZyNthAir guarantees unparalleled reliability and ease of use for cetane analysis, revolutionizing the way fuel quality is assessed and optimized for diesel engines.

“We were very much focused on the user experience when we were developing the ZyNthAir,” said Connor Douglas, Head of Products/Product Management at PAC Process. “Removing the need for synthetic air provides tremendous cost savings and simplified maintenance requirements for the user. ZyNthAir doesn’t need cetane calibration on cylinder changes, and it’s backward compatible and plugand-play with existing CID systems. The benefits extend to better repeatability across the whole cetane measurement span while removing uncertainties of carrying out a good calibration.”

PAC is a leading global manufacturer of advanced analytical instruments, delivering solutions for the petrochemical, hydrocarbon, process, aviation, packaging, pharmaceutical, renewable fuel, and medical device industries since 1931. PAC is headquartered in Houston, Texas and is a subsidiary of Indicor, LLC.