Abstract: The present invention relates to an absorption gas analyzer for measuring a concentration of at least a component gas in a sample gas. The absorption gas analyzer comprises a main absorption cell for containing the sample gas for measurement therein. At least a narrow band emitter emits electromagnetic radiation in at least a predetermined narrow wavelength band which is transmitted through the main absorption cell. A reflecting device is disposed for reflecting the electromagnetic radiation after transmission through the main absorption cell such that the electromagnetic radiation is transmitted again therethrough. At least a detector detect the electromagnetic radiation and provide at least an intensity signal in dependence upon the concentration of the at least a component gas. The absorption gas analyzer enables simultaneous determination of concentration of a plurality of individual component gases with a high level of accuracy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi cell thermal processing unit. The thermal processing unit comprises an air tight common chamber containing an atmosphere other than ambient air. A loading cell is linked to the common chamber via a gas tight door for providing to and receiving from the common chamber a workpiece. Further, a preheating cell is linked to the common chamber via a heat insulating door. The preheating cell provides a substantially fixed temperature for activating the workpiece. Thermochemical processing of the workpiece is provided by a first and a second thermochemical processing cell each linked to the common chamber via a heat insulating door. The first thermochemical processing cell provides substantially fixed first thermochemical processing conditions for nitriding the workpiece. The second thermochemical processing cell provides substantially fixed second thermochemical processing conditions for post nitriding treatment of the workpiece.

Abstract: Disclosed is a moveable heat exchanger for use with a high temperature chamber, such as for instance a nitriding furnace. The heat exchanger is between a first position external to the furnace, and a second position in which the heat exchanger projects substantially into the furnace through an opening in a wall surface of the furnace. In use, the heat exchanger is in the first position during a high temperature portion of a process and is in the second position during a cooling portion subsequent to the high temperature portion of the process. The heat exchanger sealingly engages the wall surface about its periphery to prevent the exchange of atmospheric components in either direction between the interior of the furnace and the outside.