How to Troubleshoot Common Problems with an Online Turbidity Meter

If you are utilizing an online turbidity meter in your water treatment process or monitoring system, you would know that this device is prone to face several issues that need troubleshooting. The most common problems that could arise include poor readings, fouled sensors, malfunctioning signal cables, and drifts. In this article, we will discuss some of the effective measures you can take to handle these issues.

1. Troubleshoot Reading Errors

An online turbidity meter typically displays the readings on a screen or sends it through some output signal to other devices. If you get obscure readings or no readings at all, you need to examine the cause of the errors and take the necessary corrective measures.

First, you should check if the device is power supplied and the cables or connections are not faulty. It would be best if you also checked if the zero set point calibration is functioning correctly. If none of these works, ensure your meter is close enough to the water source and you are using the correct range of the device. If it still fails to function, consider replacing the sensors.

2. Sensor Fouling

The online turbidity meter sensor may get dirty from time to time due to the accumulation of dirt, dust, and algae. The fouling of sensors may significantly increase drift and lead to incorrect readings.

One way of dealing with sensor fouling is by setting up a self-cleaning function that uses high-pressure water jets to get rid of any dirt or algae build-up. It would help if you also rinsed the sensors regularly with clean water to avoid fouling. If this method fails, you may want to consider replacing the sensor.

3. Signal Cable Problems

Weak or poor signal cables could lead to incorrect or misleading results being sent to your data logger or other remote devices. These issues could result from faulty or damaged cables, and they need to be addressed promptly.

To resolve this issue, first, check if the cables are connected correctly. Ensure that they are tight and fit snugly on the terminal connections. Additionally, look out for any breaks or cuts in the signal cables and replace them where necessary.

4. Calibration Drifts

Calibration drift is a common issue with online turbidity meters. Drifts occur when your calibration setup is not correct, or your instrument is not adequately aligned.

To resolve this issue, you should conduct regular calibration checks to confirm the set-point is correct. Ensure the meter is well-positioned and the sensors correctly aligned. If you detect drifts, you can adjust the calibration to remain accurate. However, if you continue to experience these issues over time, you may need to consider replacing your turbidity meter with a newer model.

5. Lowering Sensitivity

A lousy calibration reading could be caused by high sensitivity. You may want to lower the sensitivity to avoid getting hyperactive readings or poor results.

To do this, check the device manual and follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust the sensitivity level correctly. Do this gradually until you get the desired readings. Once you have arrived at the right sensitivity, carry out another calibration check to confirm the accuracy of your device.

In summary, an online turbidity meter is an essential device in any water treatment process, and it is essential to ensure it's functioning correctly. By implementing the steps discussed above, you can troubleshoot most of the common issues that may arise. However, if you find yourself struggling with the instrumentation and maintenance, consult a professional for further assistance.