What is turbidity?

Turbidity is a measure of cloudiness in liquids caused by suspended solid particles and it is an indicator of water quality. Some treatment systems, such as sediments, coagulators and gravel prefilters are designed to remove turbidity. It is important for operators of both large and small treatment systems to know how well these systems are working.

What a turbidity meter is?

Measuring the turbidity of the water before and after each part of the system purification system can tell the operator where maintenance or cleaning is needed. Turbidity meters (turbidimeter) quickly measure the turbidity of water.

How does a turbidity meter work?

Turbidity meter is an optical instrument which measures the amount of light is scattered according to an angle (usually 90°), and this process depends on the size of the particle. The incident light source is usually a LED or laser diode. To compensate for the differences in the particles, there are specifications called “ratio” or “non-ratio”. The use of turbidity meters is crucial to check if the filtration systems are performing properly.

Invention of Turbidimeter

The first turbidimeter was designed by Whipple and Jackson in 1900 and it was based on a candle flame.

Methods to measure turbidity

Turbidity can be measured using either an electronic turbidity meter or a turbidity tube. Turbidity is usually measured in nephelometric turbidity units (NTU) or Jackson turbidity units (JTLJ), depending on the method used for measurement. The two units are roughly equal.

Types of turbidimeters

Turbidimeters can be categorized into two groups:

1.  Absorptiometers: which measure the absorption of light.

2. Nephelometers: which measure the portion of light scattered ar angle 90°

Use of the turbidimeter

A turbidimeter is used in many process applications related to water quality, for example in the industrial, pharmaceutical, and pulp/paper industries. This is considered to be one of the most accurate water analysis technique. However, depending on the models there is a difference in readings, air bubbles affect the projection of life and this instrument cannot measure the size of particles.

To find out more information about the turbidity meters, please follow this link. HERE