The HF scientific MicroTSCM Streaming Current Monitor is a device designed for optimizing and controlling the dosing of coagulants used in water clarification processes. It measures the electrokinetic charge of a solution, displaying the units in either Streaming Current Units (SCU) or Ion Charge Units (ICu), with 1 ICu being approximately equal to 1 SCU. The monitor helps maintain water quality by adjusting coagulant dosage based on real-time charge analysis.
Function Description
The MicroTSCM operates by continuously sampling water and directing it into an annulus where a displacement piston oscillates vertically at a fixed frequency. This action causes the liquid to move between two stainless steel electrodes. Suspended particles in the water are absorbed onto the walls, and as the sample moves rapidly back and forth, mobile counter ions surrounding the colloids are sheared near the surface of the walls and moved past the electrodes. The resulting A.C. signal, or Streaming Current, is proportional to the charge density and is electronically processed and displayed. This measurement allows for the determination of the optimum coagulant dosage to achieve charge neutralization and promote flocculation, leading to the settling of suspended particles.
The device can be integrated into an existing control scheme using its 4-20 mA or serial outputs. An optional Proportional Integral (PI) control feature allows the MicroTSCM analyzer to automatically adjust coagulant dosing. When in automatic control, the instrument monitors the process value (PV) for changes in charge and adjusts the dosage to maintain a predetermined set point (SP). This closed-loop control system mimics an operator's actions, constantly monitoring and making adjustments to keep the process reading at the set point.
Important Technical Specifications
- Measurement Range: ± 10.0 SCU or ICu
- Accuracy: ± 1% of Full Scale
- Repeatability: 1%
- Linearity: ± 1%
- Resolution: 0.01 SCU or ICu
- Response Time: 1 second
- Analyzer Display: Backlit Graphical LCD with trending
- Alarms: Two Programmable, One Sensor, 120-240VAC 2A Form C Relay
- Analog Output: Powered 4-20 mA, 1000 Ω drive
- Communications Port: Optional RS-232 or RS-485
- Flow Rate: 6.0 – 9.5 L/min. (1.5 - 2.5 gpm)
- Flow Alarm: Optional Float Switch
- Operating Temperature: 0°C – 50°C (32°F – 122°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C ~ 60°C (-4°F – 140°F)
- Wetted Materials: HDPE, PTFE, Stainless Steel, Neoprene, ABS
- Standard Cable Length: 7.62m (25 feet)
- Max. Sensor to Analyzer Distance: 76.25 m (250 feet); consult factory for lengths over 50 feet
- Power Source: 120 or 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 40VA
- SCM Sensor Case: Designed to meet IP 66/NEMA 4X
- Analyzer Regulatory Compliance And Certifications: CE Approved, ETL listed to UL 3111-1 & ETL Certified to CSA 22.2 No. 1010-1-92
- Shipping Weight: Instrument: 9.5 kg (21 lbs.); Calibration kit: 5.5 kg (12 lbs.)
- Shipping Dimensions: Instrument: 61 cm X 46cm X 35cm (24“ Х 18 “ Х 14”); Calibration kit: 41cm X 41 cm X 38 cm (16” X 16" X 15")
- Warranty: 1 Year from date of shipment
Usage Features
The MicroTSCM system consists of three main components: the Sensor, the Sample Chamber, and the Analyzer.
- Sample Point: Critical for accurate monitoring, the sample point should be at least 10 pipe diameters away from the coagulant dosing point to ensure ample mixing. A lag time not exceeding 10 minutes from dosage change to sensor detection is recommended for effective control.
- Flow Rate: Requires a minimum flow of 6 L/min (1.5 gpm) and can handle up to 10 L/min (2.5 gpm). The sample flow must be free of large debris to prevent clogging or damage to the sensor; a 40 mesh screen strainer is recommended. Drains must flow freely to an open drain and not reintroduce water into the process stream.
- Sensor Mounting & Plumbing: The sensor should be located as close to the sampling point as possible, protected from elements like sun and rain. It sits on top of the sample chamber, which is designed for ¼” diameter bolt mounting. A light shield is included to prevent algae growth.
- Analyzer Mounting: The analyzer is not weather-tight and should be mounted in a location that allows for easy viewing and keypad access. It can be flipped on its mount to access electrical connections.
- Electrical Connections: All connections are made at the termination area on the back of the analyzer. Power requirements are 40VA at 120 or 240 VAC, selectable via a rotatable fuse cartridge. The analyzer can output either voltage or 4-20 mA, selected in the DISPLAY PARAMETERS menu. Twisted pair shielded cable (22AWG-14 AWG) is recommended for outputs, with the shield tied at the recorder end only.
- Alarm Contacts: Connections can be made to two user-settable alarms and a sensor alarm. These are fail-safe and revert to an alarm condition if power is lost. Maximum contact ratings are 250VAC @ 5.0A.
- Sensor Gain Switch: Located on the side of the sensor housing, this toggle switch increases the magnitude of the sensor's response for applications with low response to coagulant dosing changes. Always set to OFF (center position) during calibration.
- Remote Panel Meter (Optional): Allows for remote indication of SCU readings, powered by the 4-20 mA loop of the MicroTSCM.
- Optional Flow Switch: A float level switch that alerts operators to a lack of flow, indicating a low flow condition on screen, sending the 4-20 mA signal to ground, and closing alarm contacts.
Maintenance Features
- Routine Cleaning: Keeping the sensor clean is crucial for accurate readings. Cleaning intervals of 30 days or less are recommended.
- Chemical Cleaning (Preferred Method): Immerse the lower half of the probe body in SCM-1 cleaning solution (Catalog # 19402) for approximately 10 minutes, then run in clean water for 10 minutes. For organic debris, use a 5% chlorine solution.
- Manual Cleaning: For extreme conditions, remove the bottom cap, carefully pull out the cell, and clean the inside of the cell with a stiff toothbrush and an abrasive pad (e.g., Scotch-Brite®) to remove debris and polish stainless steel surfaces. Rinse thoroughly. Loosen the shaft-retaining nut, remove the probe, and polish it with an abrasive pad. Reinstall the probe, adjusting it to miss the cell bottom by 1-2 mm, then snug the retaining nut (do not overtighten). Ensure the probe rotates freely to prevent premature motor wear.
- Calibration: The MicroTSCM is factory-calibrated, but recalibration every three months is recommended due to potential long-term drift. A calibration kit (Part # 19922) is supplied.
- Calibration Procedure: Place the sensor in the +5.30 SCU Cationic Standard solution for about 15 minutes, ensuring the gain switch is OFF. Set Offset Level to 0.00 and signal averaging to OFF on the analyzer. Initiate calibration from the Analyzer's Sensor Setup → Extended Setup → Full Scale Cal. menu. The process takes 60 seconds. An acceptable reading is +5.10 to +5.50 SCU.
- EEPROM Programming Correction: If calibration does not achieve the correct reading, the EEPROM may need reprogramming. This involves removing the sensor cover, flipping DIP switch SW4 slider 3 up, adjusting the value to +5.30 SCU using SW2 (UP) and SW3 (DOWN) push buttons, and then flipping the slider down to store the adjustment.
- Analyzer Fuse: Located in a cartridge on the cord receptacle at the back of the instrument. To access, remove the four access cover screws and power cord, then pry out the cartridge with a flat-bladed screwdriver. Ensure the desired voltage matches the indication arrow when reinserting.