Pi’s Turbidity Meters, also called TurbSense® are designed to digitally measure the suspended solids and turbidity in water. The technology involves nephelometric measurement of scattered light in accordance with ISO 7027 standards. Using advanced LED optical technology, the TurbSense® sensor ensures highly stable, accurate performance with low maintenance needs.
The TurbSense® turbidity meter represents a breakthrough in measurement technology, automatically adjusting light output to measure turbidity independently of background light and electronic drift.
The system ranges from 0.01 NTU to 1000 NTU with a resolution in the 0-10 NTU range of 0.001 and offers
- Single-point calibration
- Great value for money
- Exceptional resolution
- The simplicity of a probe
- Autoclean, so very low maintenance
- Long-term reliability
Principle of Operation
Each probe has a light source, a reference detector to monitor light output, and a side detector to measure scattered light from the sample.
The light source is an infrared LED emitter with a long life. This configuration enables reliable and accurate measurements of suspended solids and turbidity. The system can be reliably calibrated with a single calibration without the need for “zero.”
The probes are made of stainless steel to withstand extreme operating conditions. TurbSense® can be integrated with an autoclean system to keep the optical surfaces clean, while minimizing maintenance.
The TurbSense® online turbidity meter is ideal for dip monitoring or installation in a debubbling flow cell.
Its patented operating principle uniquely processes incoming data to establish a zero point, perform calibration, and derive accurate NTU (FNU) values.
Key Benefits
- Single-point calibration – very easy to use
- Suitable for all potable, waste, and process waters between 0 NTU and 1000 NTU
- No zero required – enhanced accuracy at the low end
- AutoClean solid-state optical sensor – no moving components
- No calibration required – no drift
- Stable and reliable – superior process control
- Maintenance-free – low cost of ownership
- 0.001 resolution
- Up to 10 bar – for inline operation
- Automatic debubbling and bubble removal solutions – no interference from bubbles
The TurbSense® turbidity meter can be paired with different controllers, delivering the same high performance results while offering varied display, communication, and control options. The system meets users' requirements with advanced patented measurement technology, without the need for additional accessories.
The system has been applied globally, is seamless to use, and can be deployed in various digital turbidity monitoring and control applications.
Applications
The TurbSense® turbidity meter is typically employed in sectors where the measurement range is 0.01-1000 NTU (approx 0-2000 mg/l, application dependent).
Conventional applications include:
- Settled water turbidity
- Raw water inlet
- Wastewater effluent turbidity
- Final water turbidity
- Swimming pool clarity monitoring
- Fire hydrant monitoring
Small Water Treatment Plant for Chlorine, pH, and Turbidity
Small water treatment plants and secondary disinfection plants often face similar challenges worldwide, regardless of location. These include a lack of central DCS control infrastructure and SCADA communications infrastructure, driven by high installation costs and remote locations, as most water treatment plants are set up in difficult to access places.
Pi’s technology is an ideal, low-cost solution to overcome these challenges. The CRIUS®4.0 controller provides integrated small‑scale SCADA and full PID control capabilities. Its pH, chlorine, and turbidity sensors can operate reliably over time without manual oversight.
Options
Options for the TurbSense® include:
- Debubbler + flow cell
- Flow cell
- Dip mounting kit
- Pressure flow cell
- Solid secondary standard
The TurbSense® turbidity meter is designed for installation in a flow cell, with the choice of flow cell depending on factors such as the presence and type of bubbles in the sample, and whether the measured sample must be returned to the process.
The system can also be dip-mounted in an open tank. However, care must be taken to prevent stray light and bubbles. If the system is installed in clean water, a sunlight shield is required.
TurbSense® can also be connected with a solid secondary standard for calibration or verification of the turbidity meter.
Calibration
TurbSense® can be calibrated by comparing it with a handheld turbidity meter or another measurement device, by placing it in a sample with known turbidity, such as a suspension of latex spheres or a Formazin solution. The system can also be calibrated using a solid secondary calibration block.
Calibration is seamless and rapid compared to other turbidity meters, as the system does not require the user to “zero” the sensor, thanks to patented physics-based technology.
How to Monitor Turbidity using Pi's Turbidity Meter - Measurements - TurbSense
How to monitor turbidity using Pi's turbidity meter - measurements - TurbSense. Video Credit: Process Instruments (UK)
How to Use Turbidity Secondary Standards from Pi - Measurements - TurbSense
How to use turbidity secondary standards from Pi - measurements - TurbSense. Video Credit: Process Instruments (UK)