Analyzers for Hardness, Iron & More

Analyzers for Hardness, Iron & More

Metal and wet-chemistry analyzers for hardness, iron, and related parameters provide continuous or near‑continuous measurement of dissolved constituents that strongly influence scaling, corrosion, and process efficiency. These systems typically combine controlled sampling, reagent handling, and an analytical method (for example, colorimetric or titration-based approaches) to deliver stable, repeatable results in real time. Designs often include temperature compensation, automatic calibration routines, and configurable alarm limits to support tight control strategies.

The primary benefit is early detection and rapid correction of water chemistry deviations before they damage assets or disrupt product quality. Online hardness and iron measurement supports proactive dosing of softening chemicals, corrosion inhibitors, sequestrants, and filtration/backwash cycles. Continuous trends also help diagnose root causes - such as breakthrough from ion exchange, resin exhaustion, upstream oxidation changes, or shifts in source water composition - rather than relying solely on periodic grab samples.

Typical applications include boiler feedwater and condensate return monitoring, cooling tower makeup and blowdown control, reverse osmosis pretreatment verification, and general utility water quality assurance in industrial plants. In municipal and industrial water treatment, iron monitoring supports oxidation/filtration performance tracking and distribution system control. Hardness analytics are also valuable for protecting membrane systems, heat exchangers, and high‑pressure equipment where scaling margins are narrow.

Implementation success depends on representative sampling and stable hydraulics. Sample conditioning (pressure reduction, cooling, filtration, and degassing when needed) prevents measurement bias and minimizes analyzer maintenance. Reagent logistics and waste handling should be engineered with secondary containment, ventilation, and service access in mind, especially where reagent consumption varies with measurement frequency and concentration range.

Operationally, analyzers add value when diagnostics and verification are part of routine practice. Automated standard checks, drift tracking, and event logs improve data confidence and simplify audits. When paired with digital communications and a compatible transmitter/PLC interface, these analyzers can drive closed‑loop control, optimize chemical use, and reduce unplanned shutdown risk while maintaining compliance targets.

Forberg Smith, an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.