In recent years, we have seen a notable surge in the adoption of sludge digestion methods. This involves harnessing sludge, primarily sourced from water treatment processes such as sewage treatment, to produce biogas. This biogas, rich in potential, can be utilized to power Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, or can be elevated to green gas standards for injection into the gas grid.
These cutting-edge techniques have transformed the perception of sludge, turning it from a costly liability into a valuable asset with significant economic and environmental advantages. A transformation that has not only reshaped the utility of sludge but has also led to observable changes in its physical characteristics, often resulting in a darker and more opaque appearance.
The challenges of assessing opaque sludge
Dark and more opaque sludge poses difficulties for online concentration sensors reliant on optical technology. This is due to light absorption and a limited optical path length.
Digested sludge is often darker and opaque, posing difficulties for optical online sensors.
These challenges result in reduced sensitivity, accuracy, and reliability while requiring a frequent maintenance rhythm.
Ultrasound: a solution to optical sensor measurement challenges
In addressing the constraints inherent in conventional light-based measurement methods, Olpas sensors us an innovative measurement technology leveraging ultrasound technology. This allows our sensors to provide a reliable measurement, even in non-transparant opaque sludge.
The OLPAS ultrasound pulse remains unaffected by optical constraints, ensuring dependable measurements even in fully opaque sludge. This feature also extends maintenance intervals significantly compared to optical sensors.
Want to test your challenging sludge measurement with an Olpas sensor ? Get in touch to learn more about the OLPAS Technology or the Olpas sensors for your concentration measurement.