Choosing an Online Water Analyser
Choose the measurement around the parameter, sample matrix, range, process location, utilities and support requirement, then confirm the final method against the real application.
Choose the analytical question first
The right online analyser starts with the decision the measurement must support. Define the parameter, reporting basis, expected range, sample conditions and required response before selecting the instrument.
3S-CL
Colorimetric wet chemistry
Designed around parameter-specific colour-development methods and the selected analytical range.
- Confirm chemistry and range
- Review sample colour and solids
- Match output to the control objective
3S-NA
Sodium analysis
A distinct analyser configuration for online sodium measurement. Do not treat sodium selection as interchangeable with a colorimetric method.
- State concentration basis
- Confirm sample matrix
- Review utilities and integration
A practical eight-step selection pathway
Work through the application in this order. Each decision narrows the suitable analyser configuration and identifies what must be verified before procurement.
01.
Parameter and reporting basis
State exactly what must be measured and how the result must be expressed.
02.
Sample matrix
Describe the water, process stream, solids, colour and known chemicals.
03.
Evidence-based range
Use normal, low and upset values rather than specifying the widest available range.
04.
Sample point and conditioning
Select a representative take-off and decide whether a reservoir, fast loop or filtration is required.
05.
Measurement frequency
Match analysis frequency to the process response and the decision being made.
06.
Utilities and integration
Confirm power, environment, outputs, communications, drain and service access.
07.
Maintenance model
Plan reagent replacement, calibration, validation, cleaning and safe waste handling.
08.
How the result will be used
Define trending, alarms, compliance support or process-control actions before commissioning.
Confirm the practical installation envelope
The analyser configuration, utilities and sample arrangement must be confirmed for the selected chemistry and application.
| Power | 110–230 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Operating temperature | 5–45°C |
| Protection grade | IP54 |
| Analogue outputs | 2 × 4–20 mA |
| Communications | Modbus according to configuration |
Before finalising an installation, read Choosing a representative sample point to define the water and operational decision the analyser should represent.
Information to include with an enquiry
Providing this information at the start allows PMA to assess the analytical method, range, sample presentation and integration requirements together.
PROCESS
Measurement objective
Parameter, reporting basis, normal and upset range, response time and intended use.
- Trending or alarms
- Compliance support
- Process control
SAMPLE
Application conditions
Sample source, matrix, temperature, pressure, flow, solids, colour and known interferents.
- Representative take-off
- Conditioning requirement
- Safe drain route
SITE
Utilities and integration
Power, communications, analogue outputs, environmental conditions and installation location.
- 110–230 VAC
- 4–20 mA / Modbus
- 5–45°C environment
SUPPORT
Operation and maintenance
Reagent access, cleaning, calibration, validation, waste handling and service expectations.
- Operator responsibilities
- Consumables plan
- Planned maintenance
Turn the application into a clear analyser specification
Send PMA the parameter, range, sample matrix, site conditions and intended use. We will review the selection basis with you.