How Do Molecular Analyzers Fit Into Digitalization and Closed-Loop Process Control?

In the below video clip, Janam Pandya, Product Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, address closed-loop process control and digitalization in the oil and gas value chain, highlighting how a real-time molecular analyzer can be integrated in these processes.

Spectroscopy: How does a real-time molecular analyzer fit into digitalization and closed-loop process control?

Janam Pandya: When you look at process analytical techniques and process monitoring, the value is not just in real-time measurement, but the real value is in real-time control.

It's equally important to act on the data in real time, as it is to get the data in real time. For example, in a gasoline blending operation, an operator may analyze key process parameters, such as octane, in real time. If the octane values begin to drift out of specification, the real value lies in how quickly the operator can make the necessary adjustments to get the product specification right.

So, when it comes to process Raman analyzers, such as the Thermo Scientific MarqMetrix All-In-One Process Raman Analyzer, the data that you get in real time is only part of the equation. Equally important is how you act on that data, use it to automate the feedback control, and apply the correction in real time, optimizing the process.

This is where these PAT technologies must connect to a central process control system. The Raman analyzer collects the spectral data, which is converted into quantitative process measurements. Those measurements are sent to a central process control system. Based on how this data looks, whether it's within specification or not, that process control system can automatically actuate the mechanical systems to dose in more octane to make corrections and complete the control loop.

Historically, especially in oil and gas, communication between analyzers relied on 420 milliamp hardwire signals or Modbus-based analog connections. Today, many facilities are now transitioning to OPC UA-based digital connectivity. And so, it's incredibly important for process analytical techniques and process Raman analyzers to support OPC UA connectivity or communication interface, along with the legacy methods. This integration creates the full digitalization of the data being transferred and a true closed-loop process control.

This clip is the third part of a five-part interview series with Pandya. In the next video, Pandya will give his perspective on how the Raman, infrared (IR), and mid-infrared (MIR) market will evolve competitively in the next five years.

References

1. Pandya, J.; Wetzel, W. Where is Raman Spectroscopy Delivering the Most Value for Real-Time Chemical Analysis in Oil and Gas? Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/where-is-raman-spectroscopy-delivering-the-most-value-for-real-time-chemical-analysis-in-oil-and-gas- (Accessed June 4, 2026)
2. Pandya, J. Wetzel, W. What Does Field-Deployable Instrumentation Look Like in Harsh Environments? Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/what-does-field-deployable-instrumentation-look-like-in-harsh-environments- (Accessed June 4, 2026).