ATi EchoSmart sludge blanket measurement

In settling tanks, solids settle out of the water and form a sludge layer at the bottom. The position and thickness of this sludge blanket are key factors in determining the efficiency of the treatment process. Yet in many installations, sludge blanket measurement is still carried out manually: an operator takes spot samples at fixed intervals, without having continuous visibility of what is happening inside the tank.

With the ATi EchoSmart, you benefit from continuous, reliable sludge blanket measurement, enabling faster adjustments and better process control.

Continuous sludge blanket measurement using ultrasonic technology

The ATi EchoSmart employs acoustic measurement technology. The sensor transmits ultrasonic sound waves through the water and determines the location of the sludge blanket based on the echo reflection.

What sets EchoSmart apart is that the acoustic signal is generated and processed directly within the sensor itself. This ensures stable and reliable measurement even under fluctuating process conditions or with diffuse sludge layers.

EchoSmart additionally provides insight into the structure and density of the sludge layer. Even diffuse or less compact sludge blankets are reliably detected, giving operators a more accurate picture of what is actually occurring in the settling tank.

Suitable for various settling tanks

EchoSmart can be flexibly deployed in both circular and rectangular settling tanks. The technology works reliably with different types of sludge blankets, from clearly defined layers to more diffuse transitions.

Installation is also straightforward:

• one controller can operate multiple sensors
• both wired and wireless communication are possible
• integration into existing installations requires no major modifications

This minimises installation costs per tank whilst maintaining maximum flexibility within your process.

Greater control over the settling process

With continuous real-time data, operators gain insight into the behaviour of the settling tank.

This offers significant advantages:

• reduced need for manual measurements
• time savings for operators
• improved responsiveness to process changes
• lower risk of sludge loss
• better effluent quality
• more efficient process control

By measuring continuously rather than relying on spot samples, you obtain a much more comprehensive picture of the settling process and can control the installation with greater precision.

Would you like to learn more about the ATi EchoSmart or discuss how it could fit within your installation? Please contact us for technical advice or discussion of your project.