PAC ISL OptiPMD mini-distillation analyser

PAC has introduced OptiPMD, the latest version of ISL’s robust and portable micro-distillation analyser. A user-friendly solution that is said to reduce the need for training, OptiPMD follows ASTM D7345, which is approved in more than 10 fuel specifications, including petrol with up to 20% ethanol, diesel, jet fuel, kerosene and biodiesels.

The product performs a physical atmospheric distillation in 10 min using only 10 mL of sample, allowing users to make fast decisions for process optimisation. It is claimed to save between 25 to 35 min per distillation, compared to D86 analysers.

The analyser is designed to be a ‘one-push-button’ solution with a fully automated test sequence, allowing minimal operator attendance. Simply prepare the sample and load into the analyser; type in a sample ID, select it from the pre-loaded options or scan it with the barcode reader; and press START to run the sample. The results can be stored, printed or shared via Ethernet, LIMS or with a USB drive.

Its robust design and compact size make the analyser suitable for mobile lab applications. It also has high safety standards due to its optical flame detector, built-in fire suppression system and quality control functions, which allow users to enter specification limits by product.

The product is compliant with ASTM D7345, IP 596 and in correlation to ASTM D86, D1160 (biodiesel B100), ISO 3405 and IP123. It is also included in 10 ASTM fuel specifications as an alternative to D86 for product certification and compliant with international fuel specs in Canada, Mexico, Chile and India, as well as Def Stan 91-091 for jet fuel.