A Microprocessor-Controlled Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer Gas Analyser System

A quadrupole mass spectrometer of 1–300 amu working range (Q300C) is used for analysing gases involved in the fermentation processes. A programmable peak selector (μPs-500) controls the main parameters of the QMS and the operation of the sampling system. The measured values are displayed on a monitor and can be transferred to a host computer. Exhaust gases and gases physically dissolved in the fermentation broth of more than one fermenter can be measured on-line with a fast two-step sampling system and membrane inlet probes, respectively. Non-volatile components can also be detected off-line after chemical/biological treatment. The analyser has two independent high vacuum systems with safeguard facilities.