New turbidity analyser with highly intelligent optical sensor and optional multi-channel controller

With its next-generation highly intelligent plug-and-play optical sensor combined with a dual- or optional multi-channel controller, the new TR82 turbidity analyser from Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD) offers process and plant engineers a versatile, cost-effective solution to accurate, dependable water quality measurement.

The Triton TR82 analyser’s advanced nephelometric sensor relies on proven optical technology that determines turbidity with a light beam directed into the sample where it is scattered by suspended particles in the water. The amount of scattering is proportional to the wavelength of the light source and the size and composition of the suspended particles. The Triton TR82’s near-infrared (IR) LED light source operates using the 90-degree scattered light method, which is in accordance with ISO 7027 / EN 27027 to assure accuracy under standard conditions.

The precision TR82 optical sensor’s response depends on the size, shape and composition of the suspended particles. For this reason, the TR82 sensor’s mg/L, ppm and %-solids measurements are calibrated with actual user water samples. Turbidity measurements (NTU, FNU) are calibrated with calibration standards, such as formazine, StablCal or SDVB beads.

The Triton TR82’s nephelometric sensor is suitable for a wide range of municipal and industrial water treatment applications. Clear water sensing applications include control of rinse water, filter rupture or backwash, wastewater discharge, wastewater effluent and surface water monitoring. Suspended solids applications include wastewater activated sludge, return and digested sludge, filtrate in pulp/paper, blending/mixing and environmental effluent run-off.

The Triton TR82 sensor features a preventative maintenance self-cleaning design with an optional jet sprayer that periodically cleans the lens. The sensors are available in multiple standard measurement ranges and factory custom calibrated ranges. The standard turbidity ranges available are: <30 NTU, 0-1000 NTU, 0-4000 NTU, 0-5000 mg/l, 5000-10,000 mg/l (mud) and 50,000-100,000 mg/l (sand).

The TR82’s intelligent sensor technology stores the user’s chosen standard or factory custom calibration range, including self-diagnostics to alert technicians when adjustments or maintenance are necessary. These plug-and-play sensors connect seamlessly with either ECD’s T80 Universal Transmitter or LQ800 Multi-Channel Controller. They are both available with a choice of MODBUS, HART, 4 to 20 mA and/or relay outputs for multiple connection options to local programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and/or distributed control systems.

The T80 Transmitter is a single or dual channel transmitter with one or two 4-20 mA outputs with MODBUS RTU and optional three alarm relays or HART 7 communication. The T80 Transmitter allows the turbidity or suspended solids measurement to be combined with other measurements using the ECD S80 pH, ORP, pIon, conductivity or DO82 dissolved oxygen sensors and other ECD sensors. The LQ800 is an eight-channel controller that interfaces with all ECD analytical sensors and analysers and other process sensors such as level, flow or pressure.

Installation of the TR82 turbidity analyser is simple and straightforward with a choice of configurations available. Basic installation requires a 1-inch stand pipe for immersion service, or PVC flow cell for an in-line, flow-through application, valve retractable, or a de-bubbler for micro air bubble applications. Typically, applications requiring the <30 NTU range use a flow cell or de-bubbler assembly and must be calibrated as an assembly with the sensor for best accuracy.