What is water turbidity and why should it be measured?

Turbidity is an indicator of the amount of solid particles present in a solution that scatter or absorb light. The intensity of turbidity in water can affect its taste, odour and appearance, as well as its ability to conduct heat and electricity. In industry, turbidity can be an indicator of pollution, and excess turbidity can lead to equipment failure or reduced product quality.

Example - importance of turbidity measurements in the food industry

Many industries have specific regulations and standards for turbidity levels in liquids. An example is the food industry, which has strict standards for the turbidity of water, especially that used in food production. This is so important because high levels of turbidity in water used in the production process can negatively affect the taste, odour and texture of the final product.

How to measure turbidity? Modern measurement method

Various methods are used in industry to measure turbidity, depending on the type and nature of the material being tested. The most popular measurement methods include:

1. Turbidimetric measurement method - is used to measure the turbidity of a liquid by measuring the scattering of light on suspended particles.
2. Nephelometric measurement method - is based on the measurement of the intensity of light scattered by the suspended particles when incident on a photodetector.
3. Filter measurement method - is based on measuring the amount of filtered particles from a liquid through special filters of different porosities.
4. Visual measurement method - involves assessing the degree of turbidity by comparing the appearance of the liquid with reference standards.
5. Electrical resistance measurement method - used to measure turbidity in electrolyte liquids or solid electrolytes, and is based on the change in electrical resistance as a function of turbidity.

The choice of the appropriate measurement method depends on the specific material to be tested, the accuracy of the measurement and the conditions under which it will be carried out. One of the most modern and accurate ways of measuring turbidity is the nephelometric method. The JUMO ecoLine NTU optical turbidity probe works on this principle.

JUMO ecoLine NTU optical turbidity probe

The JUMO ecoLine NTU is an optical turbidity probe that enables fast and precise real-time turbidity measurement in the range from 0 to 4,000 NTU. The probe uses a nephelometric method (light scattered at an angle of 90° in the media to be measured) as well as infrared light measurement at a wavelength of 880 nm, which enables accurate turbidity measurement in different types of liquids.

JUMO ecoLine NTU turbidity probe - advantages

Slim and robust housing

The probe housing has a slim and aerodynamic shape, which allows the probe to be easily and seamlessly immersed into the medium to be sampled and minimises the effect of flux on measurement results. In addition, the housing is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring hygienic working conditions and minimising the risk of sample contamination.

Storage of calibration data

Another important advantage is that calibration data and history can be stored directly in the probe electronics, ensuring ease of use and process control.

Easy installation

Thanks to the availability of various mounting components, such as immersion, pendant and flow components, installation of the probe is easy and can be customised to suit individual application needs.

Simple operation

The operation of the JUMO ecoLine NTU probe is very simple and requires no special technical knowledge. The probe is ready for use as soon as it is unpacked and calibration is quick and easy.

JUMO ecoLine NTU digital turbidity probe - applications

Our ecoLine NTU optical turbidity measuring probe finds application in industries such as:

• Drinking water treatment
• Environmental protection
• Fish farms
• Municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants
• Paper industry
• Other industrial plants

Summary - The most effective turbidity measuring devices

In summary, turbidity measurement is crucial in many industries, and high turbidity levels can negatively affect product quality and production processes as well as the environment. The JUMO ecoLine NTU optical turbidity probe is an effective tool for accurate and reliable turbidity measurement in various industrial applications, thanks to its slim and robust housing, easy installation and operation, and wide measuring range.

There are many benefits to using the JUMO ecoLine NTU probe, such as precise measurements, the ability to store calibration and history data directly in the probe electronics and a wide range of mounting components. This will improve the quality of your products and the control of your production processes, while complying with regulations and standards for turbidity levels.