Microwave Transmission Measurement

Microwave Transmission Measurement

Microwave transmission measurement is an inline technique for determining total solids concentration in slurries and complex mixtures. It is widely applied where traditional optical or sampling-based methods struggle with color, turbidity, or high solids loadings, and where real-time control of solids content is economically significant.

The method evaluates how microwaves propagate through a medium - specifically changes in attenuation and time-of-flight that reflect the medium’s dielectric properties (permittivity). Because the relationship is driven by electromagnetic interaction rather than light scattering, the measurement is largely independent of mixture color or turbidity and is capable of covering broad total solids ranges.

Continuous measurement improves process control by eliminating delays inherent to lab sampling and drying methods. Stable inline feedback supports faster corrective action, tighter chemical conditioning control, and more consistent downstream performance, particularly where solids variability drives dewatering, digestion stability, or polymer demand.

Wastewater sludge processing is a primary use case, including clarification, digestion, and dewatering stages where solids content directly impacts mass balance and equipment loading. Similar benefits apply in pulp and paper and certain food and beverage processes where total solids trend control reduces variability and supports yield optimization.

Installation typically focuses on correct inline placement, verification against reference methods during commissioning, and ensuring stable flow conditions representative of the process stream. The resulting signal can be integrated directly into advanced control strategies to stabilize solids handling performance across changing feed conditions.

Engineered Equipment Company, a leading supplier of specialized industrial equipment.