Technology firm demos DO measurement

ABB will be demonstrating its latest technologies for water measurement and environmental monitoring at the WWEM exhibition. With tightening legislation around the quality of water discharged to the environment, the firms says it will show how its products and services can help utility and industrial operators minimise the financial and reputational risks arising from non-compliance.

The exhibition will provide the first public showcase for the firm’s new range of Aztec 400 digital sensors. Two sensors from the range will be on display – the ADS430 optical sensor for dissolved oxygen measurement and the ATS430 sensor for turbidity and total suspended solids (TSS).

The ADS430 uses Rugged Dissolved Oxygen (RDO®)* optical technology for measuring dissolved oxygen in the most demanding operating environments. The RDO technology, which has been approved by the U.S. EPA, uses the dynamic luminescence quenching technique.

The patented signal processing within the sensor enables it to respond to changes in process conditions up to five times faster than other optical systems, allowing maximum process savings through improved stability and accuracy.

The robust design of the sensor enables it to withstand the problems that can affect conventional membrane-based sensors, such as abrasion, fouling or poisoning.

The ATS430 provides ultra-stable and accurate measurement of turbidity and total suspended solids up to 4,000NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units) or 100,000 mg/l. Unlike conventional turbidity and TSS sensors, it requires no servicing throughout its operational life, enabling it to offer the lowest cost of ownership.

The ATS430 is suitable for use across a range of industries subject to regulatory effluent discharge consents, including municipal potable and wastewater treatment plants; pulp and paper; food and beverage; oil and gas; marine and mining.

Both sensors feature the firm’s EZLink technology, enabling them to be instantly connected to an ABB digital transmitter. With no need for wiring or complicated configuration, EZLink apparently eliminates the time and cost associated with installation, including the requirement for a specialised engineer to get the ATS430 up and running. Up to four sensors can be connected to a single transmitter, further saving costs and reducing the space needed for installation, according to the company.

ABB will also be highlighting its service capabilities for its instrumentation products, including its range of analytical hire panels. With options for measuring aluminium, iron, manganese, high and low level ammonia, phosphate and fluoride, the hire panels offer the ideal solution for short term, emergency or evaluation measurement purposes.

As well as analytical instrumentation, the stand will feature examples from ABB’s flow range, including the MCerts-approved WaterMaster flowmeter, providing accurate measurement of potable water and effluent wastewater. WaterMaster flowmeters set the standard for water, wastewater, sewage and effluent flow measurement and management. The WaterMaster has the world’s first on board verification system, providing users with the ability to perform in-situ verification across the complete range. The flowmeter is also proven to be robust and reliable, with unmatched diagnostic capabilities providing the right information to keep the process up and running.