Top 3 Types and Application of Pressure Transmitter

by RLT Solutions | Aug 31, 2021 | Water Quality Monitoring System

India’s environmental sustainability initiatives leading to water treatment, RO plants, Waste-water & Effluent Treatment plant has broad prospects for development in the near future.

In the above industries, as well as, Water Distribution Networks, the role of pressure sensors is gradually increasing. This ensures that the system is reliable, stable, and high-performance. Pressure sensors in wastewater and water treatment processes help establish quality control and system protection. Pressure sensor is a measuring instrument that converts pressure into a standard (4 to 20Ma) signal output. Psi/Kgs per Sq cm /Bar is the most commonly used measurement standard for pressure in a gas and fluid processing Industry. The signal obtained from the instrument is also used to measure the liquid level of the static fluid, so it can also be used to measure the liquid level in the water treatment & storage process. The application areas of pressure sensors are urban water supply, drinking water treatment, industrial sites, dam water level monitoring, and sewage treatment. RLT Instrumentation has been focusing on the supply of pressure transmitters for about 25 years (last 10 years in-house manufacturing)without compromising quality and accuracy. In this blog, let’s discuss the application of a pressure transmitter and its types.

Other Application of Pressure Transmitter

1. DP Transmitter for flow measurement

In the process industry, pressure transmitters, especially differential pressure transmitters, are used to measure the flow of liquid or gas through pipelines. Measuring the pressure drop across the orifice plate installed in a pipe is the most commonly used flow measurement method. An orifice plate is just a plate with a hole of a known size in the center. When liquid or gas passes through the orifice, a pressure drop will occur from upstream to downstream on the orifice plate. This pressure drop is proportional to the flow rate (flow rate proportional to the square root of Delta P), allowing the transmitter to calculate the flow rate in the processing pipeline in real-time.  

2. Pressure Sensor for Liquid Level Measurement

Pressure sensors can also be used to calculate the fluid level or height of fluid in the process tank. This technique is often used to measure the liquid level in storage tanks, such as water towers or sumps. For most practical applications, the liquid level is directly proportional to pressure. The pressure level sensor is an external or submersible pressure sensor, which is suitable for measuring the level of any fluid in a storage or process tank/reservoir.

The level is indirectly measured by measuring the pressure at the bottom of the fluid in the tank.​​ In order to achieve the excellent performance of the pressure transmitter, it is important to use chemically compatible materials.                                 Also, it must be calibrated accurately for each application because each liquid has its own density/specific gravity.

 In addition, changes in process temperature can cause density/specific gravity to change, which should be taken into account when the pressure is converted to a level. These sensors can be designed to keep the diaphragm free from contamination or accumulation, thus ensuring correct operation and accurate hydrostatic pressure level measurement.

3. Water Pipeline Leakage Detection

To detect any leaks in the pipeline, there are many methods available, but we can also detect leaks in the pipeline through measuring the pressure. Pressure Reduction could point to pipe leakages. Fixed Pressure Transmitters mounted directly on the Pipeline at various intervals can pin-point the specific leakage point along any Pipe carrying any fluid/water.

In such situations, such leakage points could result in waste-water entry into potable water lines resulting in water contamination & health hazards.

Types of Pressure Transmitter

1. Fixed Transmitter

The fixed pressure transmitter (FPT )is a compact instrument mounted directly on the pipeline. The FPT is powered by 24 V DC & gives a 2-wire 4 to 20mA current output which can be connected to a Panel Mounted Digital Indicator for indication & alarming. RLT FPT also has an optional built-in display.

The fixed pressure transmitter allows measuring the pressure of gases and liquids, including corrosive types (with the proper material selection of the wetted/exposed parts. It is also used in the wastewater and water treatment industry, pharmaceutical production, chemistry, food industry, oil and gas industry, laboratory research.

2. Smart Pressure Transmitter

The smart pressure transmitter (SPT) has a digital display with key for configuration of range setting & other parameters. It’s generally a variable pressure transmitter (unlike a FPT).

For example, a 0 to10 bar SPT can be set for 0 to 5 bar (4mA at 0 bar & 20mA at 5 bar).This flexibility is generally desirable for process plant applications.

The Smartness also comes from the HART Module (optional), especially for process applications where operations demand remote range setting /configuration & various other smart sensor information.

3. Differential Pressure Transmitter

The differential pressure transmitter has become one of the rapidly developing and preferred pressure transmitters in the market. It is an instrument that uses two components to measure the pressure difference in a closed pipe. Differential pressure transmitter is also called Delta-P or DP, where Delta means “change in” and “P” means pressure. The DP transmitter consists of a primary component, a secondary component, and electronic housing. Low & High-Pressure Diaphragms to which the low & high pressure are subjected & the basic sensor (capacitance/inductance/strain gauge)which due to mechanical deflection provides proportional milli-volt change is converted by Smart Electronics to 4 to 20mA signal proportional to the Flow Rate.

Conclusion

Hence, these are all about the application of a pressure transmitter and its types. RLT Instrumentation, with its 25 years of technical expertise in the field of instrumentation, manufactures highly accurate different types of pressure transmitters in an advanced manufacturing facility and supplies & provides services all over India.  

Hope you find this blog useful and informative. Let me know what you think in the comment section below

“Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and services”. Let’s help you prevent pollution & add value to global sustainability!.                   

FAQS

1. What is the role of pressure transmitters in the water industry?

This ensures that the system is reliable, stable, and high-performance. Pressure sensors in wastewater and water treatment processes help establish quality control and system protection. 

2. What is a pressure sensor?

The pressure sensor is a measuring instrument that converts pressure into a standard (4 to 20Ma) signal output. Psi/Kgs per Sq cm /Bar are the most commonly used measurement standard for pressure in a gas and fluid processing Industry.

3. What are the most commonly used measurement standard for pressure in an Industry.?

Psi/Kgs per Sq cm /Bar is the most commonly used measurement standard for pressure in a gas and fluid processing Industry.

4. What are the application areas of pressure transmitters?

The application areas of pressure sensors are urban water supply, drinking water treatment, industrial sites, dam water level monitoring, and sewage treatment. 

5. What is a Fixed Pressure Transmitter?

The fixed pressure transmitter (FPT )is a compact instrument mounted directly on the pipeline. The FPT is powered by 24 V DC & gives a 2-wire 4 to 20mA current output which can be connected to a Panel Mounted Digital Indicator for indication & alarming. RLT FPT also has an optional built-in display.

6. What are the other applications of Pressure Transmitter?

• Flow Measurement
• Level Measurement
• Detection of pipe leaks

7. What are the types of pressure transmitters?

• Fixed Pressure Transmitter 
• Smart Pressure Transmitter
• Differential Pressure Transmitter

8. What are the application of fixed pressure transmitters?

 Fixed Pressure Transmitter allows measuring the pressure of gases and liquids, including corrosive types (with the proper material selection of the wetted/exposed parts. It is also used in the wastewater and water treatment industry, pharmaceutical production, chemistry, food industry, oil and gas industry, laboratory research.

9. What is called a smart pressure transmitter?

The smart pressure transmitter (SPT) has a digital display with a key for the configuration of range settings & other parameters. It’s generally a variable pressure transmitter (unlike an FPT).

10. What is a differential pressure transmitter?

The differential pressure transmitter has become one of the rapidly developing and preferred pressure transmitters in the market. It is an instrument that uses two components to measure the pressure difference in a closed pipe. Differential pressure transmitter is also called Delta-P or DP, where Delta means “change in” and “P” means pressure.

Working Principle of Level Transmitter & Level Measurement – Where & Why used?

by RLT Solutions | Aug 12, 2021 | Water Quality Monitoring System

Level Measurement is essentially measuring the level of fluid or solids in a tank (above or below ground) or silo (mostly for solids).

Discontinuous or Point Level Measurement

This measurement can be discontinuous like sensing when the level is at some value(point level) in the tank or silo. This is done by Level Switches for point level detection. Generally, the switches are designed to generate an open or closed contact when a point Level is reached which can be used for indication & alarming (locally or remotely).

Continuous Level Measurement

More widely used are continuous level measurements which can also provide variable point level detection or alarms.

Continuous Level measurement examples could Large Elevated Storage Reservoirs for continuous water supply to a township or community or industry. Here water needs to be continuously measured controlling the optimum head pressure in the tank for proper water discharge pressure & flow to the consumers.

Continuous Level Measurements are also important for storage tanks & silos in industry & power plants to know the inventory & control the same.

Such measurements are also important for Process/Mixing Tanks/Reactors to satisfy process operational requirements, which determine the product quality & reliability.

To ensure the safety and profitability of the process, accurate level measurement is mandatory. In every process industry, a level transmitter is an important instrument that can be used to prevent overflow or any undesirable condition in the reactor and other vessels.

Based on the process media and process condition, different types of level transmitters are used.  Level transmitters are used widely in Water Distribution & Storage, in multiple industrial sectors such as the petrochemical industry, chemical making & refinery units, etc.

RLT Instrumentation manufactures online digital Level Transmitters using time-proven & latest technologies.

In this post, we will give an overview of different Continuous Level Measurement Technologies

& dwell more on the relevant technologies of interest today & in the future.    

Different types of level transmitter

There are so many different types of level transmitters available for level measurement in the market, each with its own advantages and limitations. Based on the application area and process media, level transmitters are suggested.

Ultrasonic level transmitter working principle

Ultrasonic level transmitter working principle is based on the principle of time of flight. It is a non-contact type level transmitter that is installed on the top of the tank above the process media in the tank. Audible Sound Frequency is up to 20kHz.  Above 20kHz is Ultrasonic sound which is used to measure the level. Ultrasonic Level detection operates by the resonance ring time of an ultrasound signal transmitted from and received by the same sensor mounted on the top of the tank.

It’s a simple matter of the digital electronics to calculate the level of the process fluid or solid know the speed of the signal & the time of flight . This happens on a continuous basis. The ULT can provide a local display and/or give an output conforming to standard instrumentation signals(like 4 to 20mA, etc).

An important USP of the RLT ULT is it uses an IR Temperature Detector against conventional RTD temperature elements.

The User benefits are

1. Measures the actual process temperature at the surface of the process media providing more accurate & faster resposne.
2. It’s more rugged as compared to RLT element .Once this fails ,the instrument cannot be repaired & has to be replaced.
3. Ultrasonic LT can measure up to 30 M in liquids.

Working principle of radar level transmitter

This is again a non-contact type of LT using Radio Waves in the Microwave Range.

The Microwave signal reflects from the top of the process surface & the same time of flight principle applies here too.

The amount of microwave reflected depends upon the dielectric constant of the process media.

The advantage of Microwave Technology is these signals are relatively un effected by changes in pressure & temperature in the process & very accurate.

Hence Radar LT is used for larger Vessels & measurement heights up to 100 meters or so.

For certain specific applications, say for instance Measurement of Solid Powders, the GuidedWave Radar has a better performance. Of course, here the Radar signals travel along guide wires while the same principle of time of flight applies here too.

Working principle of hydrostatic level transmitter

The hydrostatic level transmitter works based on pressure measurement. The working principle of hydrostatic level transmitter pressure at the bottom of a vertical vessel containing materials is directly proportional to the height of the vessel. This principle allows us to measure the level (height) of liquid in a vessel. Hydrostatic level transmitters are loop-powered and cost-effective transmitters that measure the liquid level accurately. As the hydrostatic level transmitter is in compact size it fits perfectly with smaller size pipes. Due to its high reliability and robustness, it is highly popular among industries.

Same is widely used for Borewells & Tubewells. This is mandatory now as per Ground Water Authority Rules.

There are some other technologies used for very special applications. These are Electromechanical Type (used in volatile organic storage tanks ), Capacitance Level for Food Processing applications, Magneto-restrictive LT’s for again volatile fluids, etc.

General Selection Criterion of Level Transmitters for common applications

Level Transmitter Application

1.Level measurement in softdrink industry in India

During the manufacturing process, some raw materials should be maintained at a certain level for smooth maintenance of the process and quality of the product. For example, In the soft drink industry, to attain their standard product quality, the calculated amount of ingredients in processing should be followed. Thus a level transmitter is used in the storage tank for proper monitoring of ingredient levels in the soft drink manufacturing process.

2.Inventory Management

In inventory management to keep track of inventory in terms of volume or weight level transmitters are used. In custody transfer, accurate measurement of materials is necessary as minute errors would cost more in terms of volume. Based on the type of transfer either commercial or legal, the device would vary.

3.Cement silo level measurement

Accurate level measurement increases efficiency. For example, In Cement Industry, level transmitters are especially used in cement silos to monitor the level of process materials used for the manufacturing of cement and other building materials. Cement silos are the warehouses where cement and other concrete materials are stored. Thus it improves the process efficiency.

Conclusions

These are all about the working principle of the level transmitter. RLT Instrumentation, with its 25 years of technical expertise in the field of instrumentation,  manufactures highly accurate different types of level transmitters in an advanced manufacturing facility and supplies all over India.

Hope you find this blog useful and informative. Let me know what you think in the comment section below

“Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and services”. Let’s help you prevent pollution & add value to global sustainability!.

FAQ

What is level measurement ?

Level measurement is all about determining the position of a surface inside a reactor, or vessel containing materials.

What is called a Level Transmitter ?

 A Level transmitter is an instrument to measure an accurate liquid / solid level in the process container. It involves interaction between the product or material inside a container and a sensing system, device, or element.

What are the Different types of level transmitter ?

• Capacitance type level transmitter
• Hydrostatic level transmitter
• Magnetostrictive level transmitter
• Radar level transmitter
• Electromechanical level transmitter
• Ultrasonic level transmitter

Working principle of capacitance type level transmitter ?

A capacitance level transmitter is used for a wide variety of liquids, solids, semisolids, and slurries. The working principle of capacitance type level transmitter is based on the change in electrical capacitance of a capacitor formed by the sensor, the dielectric material, and the vessel wall. It can sense material with a dielectric constant from 1.1(low) up to 88(high). The vessel wall and sensor both act as electrodes and the material being measured acts as dielectric capacitors. Capacitance directly depends on the liquid level. 

Working principle of hydrostatic level transmitter

The hydrostatic level transmitter works based on pressure measurement. The working principle of hydrostatic level transmitter pressure at the bottom of a vertical vessel containing materials is directly proportional to the height of the vessel. This principle allows us to measure the level (height) of liquid in a vessel. Hydrostatic level transmitters are loop-powered and cost-effective transmitters that measure the liquid level accurately. As the hydrostatic level transmitter is in compact size it fits perfectly with smaller size pipes. Due to its high reliability and robustness, it is highly popular among industries.

Working principle of magnetostrictive level transmitter

It has a setup consisting of an auxiliary rod surrounded by a float,  a magnet inside the float imparts a magnetic field over the rod. The auxiliary rod discharge electric current at regular time intervals that pass through the auxiliary rod creates a stationary static magnetic field around the float in return it creates torsional stress on the metal rod now that stress move as a stress wave in both directions from the location of the magnet at the free end there’s a dampener that dampens out that torsional vibration so it doesn’t reflect back but on the other end no such dampener over thus it travels over the rod and torsional vibration is detected by an electronic circuit. Thus for highly accurate measurement, Magnetostrictive Level Transmitters are used in fuel depots, chemical injection tanks, wet scrubbers, and storage tanks.

Working principle of radar level transmitter

Radar level transmitters use radio wave emission for detecting the level of liquid/solids in the vessel. These transmitters are fitted on the top of reactor vessels, emit radio signals that hit the process material and reflect back to the sensor. Using the time taken by the wave to emit and reflect the level of material calculated. Radar-level transmitters can be advisable for extreme process conditions. It is also a non-contact level transmitter like ultrasonics, with a fundamental difference in the type of wave used.  

Working principle of electromechanical level transmitter

In this electromechanical level transmitter, a sensor weight is lowered into the vessel containing the process material.  When the sensor weight hits the material, the tensile force of the weight is reduced which triggers a change in rotation of the motor, which brings the sensor back to the upper stop position. Thus level is measured electronically while the weight is lowered. The obtained measurements are processed by microprocessors then converted into a volumetric output signal. It can be used in undesirable or extreme conditions as it is not affected by sound waves, dust, static electricity, humidity, dielectric etc.

Ultrasonic level transmitter working principle

Ultrasonic level transmitter working principle is based on the principle of time of flight. It is a non-contact type level transmitter that does not need to touch the material to measure. Sonic is the sound frequency of 20kHz, which is human hearable.  Above 20kHz is Ultrasonic sound which is used to measure the level.  The sensor fitted on the top of the vessel creates a sound wave that hits the process material and reflects back to the sensor. Thus the time taken to hit and reflect is used to calculate the level of the material. It can be used to measure acid and also base.

Top 15 Industrial Applications Of Flow Meter Everyone Should Know

by RLT Solutions | Jul 12, 2021 | Water Quality Monitoring System

Flow meter is a measuring instrument used to measure the volume & mass flow rate of a liquid or a gas. A common application of such Flow meters is for measuring Volume Flow Rate of Water in pipes. Flow can be defined as the volume or mass of fluid flowing through the pipe per unit of time.  Measurement of flow either in a liquid or gas (including water/waste-water/effluent), an important parameter in many industrial & water infra processes.

To maintain the performance of industrial equipment and operations, it requires specific flow rates. Flow meter is also needed for studying water balance in networks, load management, custody transfer & revenue generation. Moreover in many process applications, maintaining the quality of the product requires accurate flow measurements.

Thus the Flow meter is a good investment that helps in industrial & infra processes management, and to provide a safer environment and security for personnel and processes. Flow meter have a wide range of applications ; they can measure the flow of liquids, pastes, and slurries in water/waste-water, dairy, agricultural, pharmaceutical, beverage, chemical, industries, fertilizer, medical, petrochemical, iron, steel, paper, mining, food, etc.

What are the factors to be considered while choosing the type of Flow meter? 

• Fluid/Gas Properties (i.e.conductivity)
• Process Specs & Condition (Line Size, Line above ground/below ground, Flow Range,  Line Pressure, Temperature, etc).
• Ruggedity of Construction
• Field Provenness
• Advanced Features
• User Friendliness & Supplier Support(Spares availability & Responsive Field Services, High MTBF)

Above factors will decide which type of flow meter to be considered, amongst Electromagnetic / Ultrasonic or Vortex or Coriolis or Thermal Mass Flow Meter or even Open Channel Flow meter (using Ultrasonic Level Transmitter & Convertor for conversion from level to flow).

RL Technologies Pvt Ltd, with its 25 years of technical expertise & over a decade of manufacturing and supply of flow meters and other instruments all over India, supported by the Pan-India Sales & Service Organization, is able to measure up to all the user’s strategic driving purchase factors as stated above.

Flow meter in Water Distribution Networks

The transportation of potable water involves the use of pipelines.  As it runs through densely populated areas, across rivers and other obstructions. The flow rate will be affected during the travel from its source to its destination.

While choosing a flowmeter for a water distribution network, accuracy is an important criterion, because the flow rate of potable water is already affected by different geographical conditions.

Another challenge associated with some remote water distribution networks is unavailability of Electricity; thus a Lithium battery-powered flow meter is the solution.

RL Technologies offers electromagnetic & ultrasonic flow meter with high accuracy and powered by lithium batteries(where required). It offers opportunities for water utilities to improve revenues even with reduced flow rates. RLT flow meter can measure down to 0.1 m/sec velocity & are specially calibrated to maintain flat accuracy over the entire flow range .

RLT Instrumentation’s world-class production facility has a ‘ Flow Validation & Calibration Centre ‘which can calibrate/validate any Flow meter from 10 mm to 3000 mm. This makes RLT unique in Asia.

Monitoring Water Leakage

Large size water pipe Applications for Revenue Water face a unique problem of revenue loss due to leakages from valves & fittings. Generally, water from ESR (Elevated Water Reservoir)flows to distribution/consumption points based on gravity flow. So, even when the flow valve is closed, due to leakage around worn-out valves, water continues to trickle into the collection area. If these flows are below 0.3 m/sec it’s generally not measurable with most Mags available in the market, which results in revenue loss.

RLT’s Magmeter has this UUB (Unique User Benefit ) that it can measure very low water flows down to o.1 m/sec. For Pipes as large as 500 mm & above, over a period of time, this is a huge saving in revenue for the Water Authority & ROI of 3 months, maybe!

Wastewater Treatment Process

Depending on the extraction point, the quality of raw water can vary. Pressure filter tanks are used in the process of water treatment which consists of layers of filters to remove one or several contaminants. These tanks are filled with quartz chips, filter the contaminated water and provide clean water.

The Electromagnetic Flow meter is used along with the pressure filter during the water treatment. It can be installed at multiple locations, such as, the inlet and outlet of the pressure filter for water flow measurement during water treatment. Thus flow meter add tremendous value to efficient monitoring & controlling of the Water Treatment Process.

Flow meter in Disinfection Dosing

In wastewater treatment, the untreated water from all the vertical wells is collected in deep containers during waterworks. To decrease the pH value of untreated water, soda ash neutralizing compound is used in the chemical treatment of water. Flow meters are used here too.

In every household, chemical compound monophosphates are used to protect the installed pipeline network from corrosion.

In drinking water, to eliminate the microbiological effects chlorine bleaching systems are dosed.

Thus to control the dosing level highly accurate flow meters are used.

RL Technologies’s electromagnetic flow meter is used widely in all applications as described above with selectable liners & electrodes to prevent corrosion & erosion .

Wastewater Treatment

In the wastewater treatment process, the untreated water flows through a series of treatment stages.  First, it enters into automatic screening equipment which removes objects such as wood pieces, rags, grease, and plastics.

Next, it enters the grit removal stage where the heavy but fine material such as gravel, other mineral solids, and sand is removed.

Then the water enters the pre-purification stage consisting of four rectangular settling basins. This is followed by a series of water purification processes.

An electromagnetic flow meter is installed in the untreated water inlet of the pre-purification system along with either PTFE liners, a thin layer bonded to other polymers through a thermal lamination which guarantees a high degree of resistance to abrasive media and solids.

Whereas, on the Outlet of the STP/Waste-water Treatment/Effluent Water Treatment, an Electromagnetic Flow meter is used with the HR liner ( as for potable water applications).

Open Water Channel Flow meter Installation     

Usually, the water purification plant involves two-stage biological purification system that eliminates phosphate and nitrogen settled downstream of the wastewater filters. A water purification plant is also installed with a sludge treatment system and sludge digestion.

The untreated water flows into various collectors and then flows into the inlet of the plant. Thus flow measurement must be done with both a level measuring and flow measuring instrument. RL Technologies’s ultrasonic flow meter combined with a level transmitter with convertor is best suited for open channel liquid sludge measurement.

Flow meter in Water Distribution Channels

Throughout the water utility networks, partially filled water channels are used to distribute water. During storms to avoid any breakage, these large pipes and water channels are also partially filled to allow the unused volume, to avoid any flooding in its surroundings.

Thus to monitor the increase and decrease of water level throughout the year in open channels both velocity and level measuring instruments to be installed. RLT ultrasonic flow meter combined with a converter is also best suited for such channel volume flow measurement.

Flow meter in Sludge Monitoring

The sludge treatment process involves biological stabilization of the sewage sludge. In order to keep the sludge smell at a minimum, effective sludge digestions are required. The thickening of the main sludge undergoes in the main sludge thickener and before digestion, it is temporarily stored in sludge storage containers. In both main sludge thickener and pre-thickener, RLT magnetic flow meter can be used for accurate measurements of sludge.

Flow meter in Methanol Measurement

The reduced nitrogen compounds remain in the form of ammonia in the wastewater during light-duty aeration. The poisonous substance ammonia is converted into nitrate through the nitrification process and then further converted into nitrogen.

During the purification process, the methanol is injected to accelerate the process. In calculating the efficiency of ammonia purification the mass flow of liquid methanol is critical to plant managers.

RL Technologies’s Coriolis mass flow meter in homogeneous mixtures are practically made for this application to determine density, temperature, volume, volume concentration, and  percentage of solids accurately.

Flow meter in Aeration process

Heavy-duty aeration systems are used to supply oxygen to biological tanks in order to speed up the process of decomposition of sludge waste.

For the optimal growth of bacteria, compressed air is mandatory in aeration basins, and dissolved oxygen mass is also measured. To provide a constant 24/7 oxygen supply to the microorganisms in the water large compressors are used.

RL Technologies’s thermal mass flow meter are not affected by changes such as temperature so they can be used to obtain accurate measurements of compressed air.

Flow meter in Bio gas Measurement

Bacteria break down the sludge particles in the condition of both aerobic digestion (i.e presence of oxygen) and anaerobic digestion (i.e absence of oxygen) which releases bio gas. About 50% of bio gas contains methane and the rest will be carbon dioxide. Both methane and carbon dioxide are expensive and require accurate measurement.

RL Technologies’s thermal mass flow meters can measure extremely low velocities directly without the need to monitor temperature and pressure to infer mass flow. Treating water for water purification or RO Water (for Hospitals, Commercial Institutions, Pharma, Power (for thermal boilers) also involves flow meters.

Old Water Pipelines Flow Monitoring

Sometimes, Water Authorities need to measure Water in Pipelines, where there are operational limitations to cut the pipe, so in such situations, RLT provides External Insertion Type Ultrasonic Flow meter mounted on small tank nozzles welded on small pin-holes on the pipe.

The Pipes can be any size, even as high as 6000mm!

Sometimes, Operational limitations do not allow any puncture in the PipeLine (High-Pressure Water Networks).

In such cases, RL Technologies provides a solution with Clamp-on Type Ultrasonic Flow meter, where the sensors are permanently clamped to the outside of the Pipe & with Flow Reading on Transmitters connected to the sensors.

Flow meter in RO Plant         

In such plants, normal potable water is further purified using an RO process for other safer uses including medicinal, pharmaceutical, etc.

Depending upon the level of purity, the conductivity of water could be below 5 micro-mho/cm.  Electromagnetic Meter is unsuitable here.

Hence, in such applications, Ultrasonic In-line Flow Meter or even Vortex may be used.

RLT has vast experience in such applications with our Ultrasonic & Vortex flow meter.

 On-Site Validation of Flow in Water Distribution & Plant Fluid Networks

Instrument Plant Technicians are often faced with Operational issues,  like :

A Plant Operator reports that a Flowmeter is reading inaccurately due to their knowledge of plant conditions & experience or even theoretical calculations like Pump Speed etc(sometimes not considering actual pump efficiency). 

RLT Provides 2 unique solutions :

• RLT Electromagnetic Flow (EMF) meter provides a proactive in-line, in-built diagnostic tool in software & available on a transmitter display called the ‘Coil Strength ‘ in mV to the User. This measurement when compared with the threshold value (also available) confirms, in the unlikely event, whether the instrument is old ( or any other process reason) is in its active life mode or the sensor needs replacement.
• If the EMF is still in its active life cycle, then whether the Flow meter is out-of-calibration. Here, one can use RLT’s Portable Ultrasonic Clamp-on Flow meter to temporarily mount the clamp-on sensor near the EMF & check for the actual flow & validate whether the EMF is showing correctly & is still in good calibration mode

This validation by Portable Clamp-on Flow meter is also applicable as per ISO guidelines.

The above-stated real-life process measurement issue is universal & RLT is proud of the fact that we are one of the few Instrumentation Co’s which has a time-tested solution for the same.

Process Plants (Non-Hazardous Type )

All RLT Flow meter can also be used for in-plant process applications like Power ( Thermal & Hydro ), Sugar, Distillery, Brewery, Milk & Food Production, Pharma, Chemical Factories, Cement & Metal Industries, etc. Here, the process fluids could be water, chemicals & gases.

Conclusion

Thus flow meter have a wide range of industrial applications in many industrial areas. RL Technologies Pvt Ltd, with its 25 years of technical expertise & over a decade of manufacturing and supply of flow meter and other instruments all over India; supported by the Pan-India Sales & Service Organization is ever ready to support the Flow Metering Needs of all Customers in India & Overseas !

Hope you find this blog useful and informative. Let me know what you think in the comment section below

“Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and services”. Let’s help you prevent pollution & add value to global sustainability!.

FAQ

How to choose the type of flowmeter?

• Fluid/Gas Properties (i.e.conductivity)
• Process Specs & Condition (Line Size, Line above ground/below ground, Flow Range, Line Pressure, Temperature, etc)
• Ruggedity of Construction
• Field Provenness 
• Advanced Features
• User Friendliness & Supplier Support(Spares availability & Responsive Field Services, High MTBF

What is flowmeter?

Flow meter is a water flow measuring instrument used to measure the volume & mass flow rate of a liquid or a gas.

What is the importance of flow measurement in industries?

To maintain the ideal performance of industrial equipment and operations require specific flow rates. Estimation of cost for many gases and liquids are based on the flow measurement, making it necessary to accurately measure and control the flow rate. 

What are industrial areas used ?

 Flowmeter has a wide range of application, it can measure the flow of liquids, pastes, and slurries in water, dairy, agricultural, pharmaceutical, wastewater, beverage, chemical, industries, fertilizer, medical, petrochemical, iron, steel, paper, mining, food, etc.

What is the use of flowmeters in open channels?

Thus to monitor the increase and decrease of water level throughout the year in open channels both velocity and level measuring instruments to be installed. RLT Solution’s ultrasonic flow meter combined with a controller is best suited for channel volume flow measurement.

What is the use of flowmeters in wastewater treatment?

The Electromagnetic Flowmeter is used along with the pressure filter during the water treatment. It can be installed at multiple locations such as the inlet and outlet of the pressure filter for water flow measurement during water treatment.

What is use of flow meter in  water distribution channel?

The transportation of potable water involves the use of pipelines.  As it runs through densely populated areas, across rivers and other obstructions. The flow rate will be affected during the travel from its source to its destination.

While choosing a flowmeter for a water distribution network, accuracy is an important criterion, because the flow rate of potable water is already affected by different geographical conditions, thus it strictly needs an accurate measurement device.

How Badly Increased Turbidity Can Affect The Ecosystem and How To Measure It?

by RLT Solutions | Jul 2, 2021 | Water Quality Monitoring System

Turbidity can be defined as the measure of the clarity of an aqueous solution. It shows the optical characteristic of water.  When light is passed through water, the amount of light that is scattered by the material is the measure of turbidity. The higher turbidity is indicated by the higher intensity of scattered light. The main factors which cause turbidity are plankton, clay, slit, very tiny organic matter, algae, and other microbes. When the water body is still, the water remains generally clear less than 10 NTU, but when there is a rainstorm this water becomes muddy brown as dust particles from the environment are washed into the river, which indicates higher turbidity.  Due to high in-flows, settled material in the stream bed is stirred up, causing high Turbidity.

Filtration measures need to be taken to reduce turbidity to bring to safe levels for human consumption.

Hence Turbidity is an important water quality attribute that is measured to improve water quality.

Higher turbidity in water also affects the entire ecosystem including plants, animals, and aquatic organisms which indicates the necessity for monitoring of turbidity. To support the Water Industry,              

RLT Solutions provides a Hi-Tech Turbidity Analyzer that has the ability to Effectively Monitor Turbidity Accurately Online.

Environment Issues

Increased turbidity in water causes environmental consequences such as reduction in ecological productivity, habitat quality, faster filling of lakes and affects the colour of the water. The particles make the water absorb heat from the sunlight, resulting in the reduction of oxygen concentration in the water. 

The aquatic organisms are generally adapted to the naturally available turbidity found in the specific water body they inhabit. But due to higher sedimentation and siltation, it affects the habitat areas of aquatic life. Algae is the primary source of food for macro invertebrates and certain fish, which is reduced by turbidity. The particles decrease the photosynthetic activity of plants and algae, through the scattering of light, thus which contributes to lowering the oxygen concentration even more. These Particles also become a carrier for other pollutants such as metals and bacteria. Thus turbidity contributes majorly to the pollution in water.

Turbidity in Drinking Water

Turbidity is the aesthetic & quality parameter of water. Drinking water is termed turbid, when turbidity in the presence of pathogens turbidity of water is above 4 (NTU ). It appears cloudy as visible to the eye and not considered as water fit for drinking. 

According to WHO the drinking should be below 1 NTU ideally & not above 4 NTU.

Human Effects

Excessive turbidity directly threatens human health. Turbidity acts as a shield for disease-causing pathogens. If not treated well, it leads to waterborne disease, which can cause intestinal sickness. High turbidity in drinking water makes the chlorine treatment less effective at water treatment plants as it shields the bacteria and other organisms.

Research shows that there exists a strong relation between turbidity and protozoa. These pathogens can cause symptoms such as cramps, headaches, and nausea. The toxic pollutants from urban and industrial discharges are being absorbed by particles. Thus it also changes the taste and odor of water. 

Measuring Turbidity

Turbidity is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). There are different types of measuring methods that are used in turbidity measurement. Each measurement differs with the cost of implementation, accuracy, life of the instrument, and efficiency.

Secchi Disk

In this method, a disk called the Secchi disk is submerged into the water and it is continuously observed from the top, and when the disk is no longer visible the length of the cable is measured. Again the procedure is repeated by hauling the disk the cable length is measured. The average of measurements is taken as Secchi depth. This shows the level of transparency.

Jackson Candle Turbidimeter

The Jackson Candle Turbidimeter instrument consists of a flat-bottomed glass tube. Under the glass tube, a candle is placed. Water is poured into the glass tube until the candle’s visual image is observed clearly. This is the procedure followed in the Jackson candle turbidimeter.

Turbidity Analyzer

In this method, turbidity can be measured using a turbidity analyzer which is the latest technology to provide an accurate measure of turbidity. These turbidity sensors are used in many applications such as effluent measurements, control instrumentation for ponds, sediment transport research, river gaging, and laboratory.

 Conclusion

The best way to manage turbidity is to monitor its source and reduce the waste off. A turbidity analyzer is an instrument used to analyze turbidity and provide accurate data through which we can form control measures. RLT Instrumentation provides a premium turbidity analysis with a touch of world-class manufacturing quality. RLT provides services and support all over India.

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FAQS

What is Turbidity?

Turbidity can be defined as the measure of the clarity of an aqueous solution. It shows the optical characteristics of water.

What are the main factors of turbidity?

The main factors which cause turbidity are plankton, clay, slit, very tiny organic matter, algae, and other microbes.

How does turbidity affect the environment?

Increased turbidity in water causes environmental consequences such as reduction in ecological productivity, habitat quality, faster filling of lakes, and light penetration into the water.

What is the recommended level of turbidity in drinking water?

Turbidity is the aesthetic parameter of water, drinking water should be turbid, as turbidity indicates the presence of pathogens when the turbidity of water is above 4 (NTU ) appears cloudy, being visible to the eye and affecting the appearance, not good for drinking water. According to WHO the drinking should be below  1 NTU and at the maximum, it can be 4 NTU.

How Increased turbidity affects human health?

Excessive turbidity indirectly threatens human health. Because turbidity provides shields for disease-causing pathogens. If not treated well it leads to waterborne disease, which can cause intestinal sickness.

How increased turbidity promotes pathogen growth in water?

Research shows that there exists a strong relation between turbidity and protozoa. These pathogens can cause symptoms such as cramps, headaches, and nausea

What is the measuring unit of turbidity?

Turbidity is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU).

How is turbidity measured using the Secchi Disk method?

In this method, a disk called the Secchi disk is submerged into the water and it is continuously observed from the top, and when the disk is no longer visible the length of the cable is measured. Again the procedure is repeated by hauling the disk the cable length is measured. The average of measurements is taken as Secchi depth.

How is turbidity measured using Jackson candle turbidimeter?

The Jackson Candle Turbidimeter instrument consists of a flat-bottomed glass tube. Under the glass tube, a candle is placed. Water is poured into the glass tube until the candle’s visual image is observed clearly. This is the procedure followed in the Jackson candle turbidimeter.