POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL (PCB) TESTING

Powertech Labs has been helping industries meet regulations by providing accurate polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) analysis for over 30 years.

Although the manufacturing and sale of PCBs has been banned since 1977, these persistent organic pollutants are still found in many types of electrical equipment in service today. Due to the chemical stability of PCBs, they are known to accumulate in the environment and food chain. It is required by law to avoid and report release of PCBs into the environment. Powertech can help determine concentrations of PCBs before disposal of equipment or oil, after an accidental spill, or to help you meet in-service equipment regulations. With a team of experienced technicians, Powertech can perform PCB analysis on various sample types:

  • Soil
  • Water
  • Insulating Oil
  • Waste Oil
  • Electric Cables
  • Solid Materials

QUALITY ASSURANCE

With proven accuracy and reproducibility, Powertech’s PCB analysis methods for oil, soil, and water are accredited to ISO 17025:2017.  Powertech is routinely audited by external assessors under the Standards Council of Canada (SCC). Furthermore, our laboratory technicians complete ongoing proficiency testing through Proficiency Testing Canada (PTC).

ANALYTICAL METHODOLOGY

Powertech performs PCB testing in accordance with published, industry standard reference methods. Focusing on products historically sold in Canada, samples are typically analyzed for the most common PCB Aroclors: A1242, A1254, and A1260. Other Aroclors such as A1248 are available upon request. Using a gas chromatography system coupled with a micro-electron capture detector (GC-ECD), reporting limits for common matrices are as follows.

METHOD CONFIDENCE

The Canadian PCB Regulation (SOR/2008-273) requires action to be taken at two key concentration levels: 2 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg. Analytical uncertainties at these concentrations are listed in the table below.

APPLIED CHEMISTRY

Powertech’s Applied Chemistry laboratories have more than forty years’ experience in testing, consultation, and applied research in the chemistry of insulating liquids, gases, and solids used in electrical equipment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Stephen Varisco – 604.590.7462
Project Manager, Applied Chemistry
Substations Technology & Testing
Email

Weili Kang – 604.590.7402
Scientist, Applied Chemistry
Substations Technology & Testing
Email