What detectors are available for Ellutia gas chromatographs?
Ellutia GCs are single-channel instruments, meaning each instrument is configured with one detector at the time of order. The detector you choose depends on the compounds you need to measure.
Flame Ionisation Detector (FID)
The FID is the most widely used GC detector. It responds to organic compounds containing carbon-hydrogen bonds. It is used for ABV testing, flavour profiling, cannabinoid and terpene analysis, FAME analysis, residual solvent testing, LPG composition, and general organic compound analysis. It offers a wide linear range (10⁵) and good sensitivity.
Available on the 200 Series and 500 Series.
Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD)
The TCD measures differences in thermal conductivity between the carrier gas and the sample components. It is a universal detector, meaning it responds to any compound that differs in thermal conductivity from the carrier gas. It is used for permanent gas analysis (nitrogen, CO₂, oxygen) and is often paired with an FID in a dual-detector configuration for natural gas composition analysis.
Available on the 200 Seriess.
Electron Capture Detector (ECD)
The ECD is highly sensitive to compounds containing electronegative groups, particularly halogens. It is used for pesticide residue analysis, environmental contaminant testing, and halogenated compound detection. The ECD contains a Ni-63 radioactive source, which means it is subject to radiation safety regulations including periodic wipe testing and licensed disposal.
Available on the 200 Series and 500 Series.
Flame Photometric Detector (FPD)
The FPD detects sulphur and phosphorous compounds. It is used in petrochemical, environmental, and agricultural applications where these elements are the target analytes.
Available on the 200 Series.
Thermal Energy Analyser (TEA)
The TEA is a nitrogen chemiluminescence detector with near-infinite selectivity for nitrogen-containing compounds. It is the instrument of choice for nitrosamine analysis, trace explosives detection, and melamine testing. It operates in nitroso/nitro mode for nitrosamine-specific detection or nitrogen mode for total nitrogen compound detection.
Available on the 200 Series and 500 Series, and also as a standalone detector (800 Series TEA) that connects to third-party GCs.
How to choose
The right detector depends on what you need to measure. If you are unsure, get in touch with your compound list or method details and we can recommend the right configuration.