EPA Method 15 Instrumentation Guide

EPA Method 15 is an established analytical procedure used to measure hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), carbonyl sulfide (COS), and carbon disulfide (CS₂) emissions from stationary sources. These sulfur-containing gases are regulated pollutants, commonly emitted from petroleum refineries, chemical production facilities, and wastewater treatment plants. Method 15 utilizes gas chromatography (GC) with a flame photometric detector (FPD) for the specific quantification of sulfur compounds in gas-phase samples collected via direct injection or Tedlar bags. Its sensitivity and selectivity are vital for environmental compliance and industrial emissions control.

A photo of a refurbished AGILENT GC system for EPA METHOD 15 that links to a catalog of gas chromatography equipment.

To meet the requirements of EPA Method 15, laboratories must use GC systems equipped with FPDs configured for sulfur detection, gas sampling valves or loops, and stable pneumatic controls for consistent gas flow. Dual FPD configurations offer enhanced selectivity and detection limits, while integrated software improves calibration, QA/QC routines, and regulatory reporting. Below, we highlight one compliant GC-FPD system from each leading brand—including Agilent, Shimadzu, Thermo Fisher, PerkinElmer, Bruker, and Scion Instruments—each capable of accurate, repeatable sulfur analysis in accordance with EPA Method 15.

Please click here to learn more about Method 15.

Agilent 8890 GC with Dual FPD for EPA Method 15

The Agilent 8890 GC System, configured with dual flame photometric detectors (FPD), is an advanced solution for sulfur compound monitoring in compliance with EPA Method 15. Its intelligent diagnostic tools and precise electronic pneumatic control (EPC) maintain system performance and minimize downtime. The dual FPD setup improves detection accuracy for hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide, and carbon disulfide, with minimal background interference across complex industrial air samples.

The 8890 includes configurable gas sampling valves for direct air sample introduction, with optional heated lines to prevent analyte loss. Agilent’s OpenLab CDS simplifies calibration workflows, compliance tracking, and method reporting. Built for automation and high-throughput environments, the 8890 offers labs reliable sulfur detection with low detection limits and robust daily operation.

Shimadzu GC-2030 with FPD for EPA Method 15

The Shimadzu GC-2030, fitted with a sulfur-selective flame photometric detector, is engineered for precise sulfur compound detection under EPA Method 15. The system’s Advanced Flow Technology (AFT) enables high-efficiency chromatographic separation and minimizes co-elution of sulfur gases. With exceptional detector stability, the GC-2030 ensures low-level detection of H₂S, COS, and CS₂ in gaseous emissions from industrial sources.

The GC-2030 supports gas sampling loop configurations and automated valve switching for unattended operation. Its large touchscreen interface and LabSolutions software allow easy method setup and regulatory compliance documentation. This platform is ideal for environmental labs requiring consistent, high-precision sulfur analysis with minimal user intervention.

Thermo Scientific TRACE 1310 GC with FPD for EPA Method 15

The Thermo Scientific TRACE 1310 GC, equipped with a flame photometric detector, provides high-performance sulfur analysis in accordance with EPA Method 15. The system’s modular injector and detector options make it easy to configure for dual-FPD operation, while its advanced temperature and flow controls ensure peak stability and resolution for trace-level sulfur compounds.

With gas sampling valve support and full Chromeleon CDS integration, the TRACE 1310 automates method setup, batch calibration, and regulatory data output. Its rugged design and detector sensitivity make it a trusted solution for industrial laboratories monitoring air emissions for compliance with Clean Air Act standards.

PerkinElmer Clarus 690 GC with FPD for EPA Method 15

The PerkinElmer Clarus 690 GC paired with a flame photometric detector is a cost-effective and robust instrument for routine sulfur compound detection using EPA Method 15. Designed for durability, the system features consistent temperature control and fast cycle times, enabling sharp peak resolution for H₂S, COS, and CS₂ in industrial gas samples.

The Clarus 690 supports configurable gas sample introduction systems, including gas sampling loops and valves. Integrated with TotalChrom software, it simplifies EPA compliance by automating data acquisition and validation. This platform is ideal for laboratories seeking dependable sulfur analysis at a lower cost without compromising regulatory accuracy.

Bruker SCION 436-GC with FPD for EPA Method 15

The Bruker SCION 436-GC, configured with a sulfur-specific FPD, offers precision and speed for sulfur compound monitoring in EPA Method 15 workflows. Its compact footprint, fast oven cycling, and precise gas control enable consistent sulfur detection across a wide dynamic range, making it well-suited for industrial air testing environments.

Bruker’s Compass CDS software allows method customization, multi-level calibration, and automated QA/QC flagging. The SCION 436-GC supports gas-phase sample introduction via loops or bag injection and offers long-term detector stability with low maintenance. It’s a strong choice for environmental labs focused on compliance and throughput efficiency.

Scion Instruments 8500 GC with FPD for EPA Method 15

The Scion Instruments 8500 GC system equipped with a flame photometric detector provides a flexible and performance-driven platform for EPA Method 15 sulfur analysis. Designed for rugged industrial applications, the 8500 features high-temperature zones, dual-column capacity, and configurable injection systems for accurate sulfur compound separation and detection.

The 8500 supports both gas sample loops and bag injection workflows, with Scion’s ChromSync software delivering compliance-ready reports and calibration tracking. The system’s consistent sulfur sensitivity and modular design make it a practical option for air monitoring programs requiring flexibility and reliability under EPA regulatory guidelines.

Choosing the Right GC-FPD Instrument for EPA Method 15

  • For advanced automation and diagnostics: The Agilent 8890 GC offers intelligent control and high-throughput sulfur monitoring.
  • For precision and efficient method setup: Shimadzu GC-2030 and Thermo TRACE 1310 deliver stability and ease of operation.
  • For cost-effective reliability: PerkinElmer Clarus 690 and Bruker SCION 436-GC offer accurate results at lower ownership costs.
  • For rugged industrial flexibility: The Scion 8500 GC supports multiple configurations for EPA-compliant sulfur detection.

EPA Method 15 requires accurate detection of sulfur emissions using GC systems configured with flame photometric detection and gas sampling capabilities. The instruments featured above are fully compatible with method requirements and provide laboratories with dependable, high-sensitivity performance. As a trusted refurbisher of analytical instruments, we offer professionally tested, certified GC-FPD systems tailored for sulfur monitoring and environmental compliance. Contact us today to find the right solution for your EPA Method 15 application.