Turbidity Sensors and Transmitters

Turbidity Sensors and Transmitters

Turbidity measurement systems quantify the optical effects of suspended particles in liquids to provide real-time visibility into clarity, filtration performance, and solids concentration. Depending on the process objective, the product category often spans turbidity meters as well as total solids and suspended solids sensors, integrated with transmitters for scaling, diagnostics, and outputs.

Sensor selection follows the expected turbidity range and variability. Nephelometric sensors are used for low-turbidity media such as potable water and measure scattered light at defined geometry consistent with common standards. For higher turbidity and solids-rich streams, back-scatter methods support total/suspended solids measurement, while absorption-based sensors provide more unambiguous results in applications with extremely fluctuating turbidity where scatter responses can become nonlinear or ambiguous.

Operational benefits include improved quality assurance in drinking water production, early warning of filter breakthrough, tighter control of sludge concentration in wastewater processing, and protection of downstream assets in desalination seawater intakes. In process industries, turbidity monitoring can also detect product loss events and support yield protection where clarity changes correlate with leaks or phase carryover.

Applications commonly include potable water filtration and distribution monitoring, wastewater effluent tracking, sludge and mixed liquor concentration measurement, and intake monitoring for desalination projects. Food and beverage processes can use turbidity signals to confirm separation performance and to detect unintended product discharge during transitions.

Measuring point engineering focuses on correct method selection, installation location that avoids air entrainment, and maintenance strategies such as cleaning or wipers where fouling is expected. Transmitters can present turbidity in multiple industry units and support verification using solid-state references that reduce dependence on liquid calibration standards.

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