Online Oil in Water Analyzers: Measurement Ranges and Applications

Online oil in water analyzers are critical instruments for continuous monitoring in various industrial and environmental applications. Their primary function is to detect and quantify hydrocarbon content in water streams in real-time, ensuring process efficiency, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection.

The measurement range of these analyzers varies significantly depending on the technology used (e.g., ultraviolet fluorescence, infrared absorption, light scattering) and the specific model. Typically, ranges can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Low Range (Trace Detection): From 0-1 ppm (part per million) or even as low as 0-50 ppb (parts per billion). This is essential for monitoring final effluent discharge, potable water, or in high-purity process systems.

• Mid Range (Process Monitoring): From 0-10 ppm, 0-50 ppm, or 0-100 ppm. This is commonly used for separator outlet water, produced water treatment, and industrial wastewater monitoring.

• High Range (Influent/Source Monitoring): From 0-500 ppm, 0-1000 ppm, or even higher (e.g., 0-5000 ppm). These ranges are suitable for monitoring influent to treatment facilities, coolant water, or stormwater runoff.

Many modern analyzers offer multiple selectable ranges within one unit to adapt to changing conditions. The choice of range depends entirely on the application. For instance, offshore produced water discharge often requires monitoring in the 0-30 ppm range, while a refinery's cooling water might be monitored at a 0-100 ppm range.

In conclusion, understanding the required measurement range is crucial for selecting the appropriate online oil in water analyzer. By providing reliable, continuous data across these diverse ranges, these instruments play a vital role in safeguarding our water resources and optimizing industrial processes.