Technical article February 2011

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Author: Dr. Michael Wei

Perfect visibility process optimization with

in-line photometers
Photometry an old favorite
Even though the principles of photometry were discussed as far
back as the 18th century, photometers are still extremely
popular today. Thanks to their simple measuring principle, swift
response time, low maintenance and minimum cross-sensitivity
with other process parameters, photometers can be used in a
wide range of diverse applications. The simple measuring
principle is based on the interaction of the irradiated light with
the medium. Direct in-line measurement replaces timeconsuming, labor-intensive sampling as well as subsequent
laboratory analysis, making it ideal for optimizing process
control and product yield since operators can react quickly to
even the slightest changes. Modern photometers enable
accurate and reproducible concentration measurement by
determining UV absorption, color, NIR absorption, turbidity and
cell growth.
The sensor properties primarily determine the use and suitability of
photometry for a specific application, with factors such as installation
conditions, industrial directives, the required level of accuracy and service
and maintenance requirements playing a decisive role. With the
Memograph CVM40 transmitter and its associated sensors,
Endress+Hauser provides solutions for specific applications. For example,
in the sections below we will be presenting the OUSAF44 UV sensor, the
OUSBT66 cell growth sensor and the OUSAF11 sensor for applications in
the food industry.
Memograph CVM40 one transmitter, every parameter
Using the Memograph CVM40, all in-line photometers can be used for
continuous and accurate measurement of UV absorption, color, NIR
absorption, turbidity and cell growth. In addition to the many measured
value visualization options, the Memograph CVM40 also provides
information on the status of the photometric sensors and allows menuguided calibration of the measuring point. Furthermore, the Memograph

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CVM40 contains recording functions and thereby makes it possible to have

the measured value recording and data management together in one
device. The measuring values for absorption, color, or turbidity can also be
converted into concentrations, standards, or customer/application-specific
units with the help of linearization tables and the user-editable
mathematics functions, and then saved in the device. In the process, FDAcompliant user administration (21 CRF 11) guarantees the highest level of
data security along with a high level of functionality.
The measured data are output via two analog current outputs or via the
optional connection to fieldbuses via Profibus DP, Modbus RTU or Ethernet
Modbus TCP. The wide range of functions of the CVM40 enable its flexible
application in every industry, ranging from life sciences and the chemical
industry to the food industry, oil & gas and the environment.
OUSAF44 UV sensor the pharmaceutical specialist
The OUSAF44 sensor allows the precise, linear and reproducible
measurement of the level of UV absorption. Typical applications of the
sensor include the calculation of product concentrations, chromatography
control, concentration measurement of organic compounds and the
detection of aromatic compounds.
The installation of the OUSAF44 sensor in the pipe is done using the flow
assembly OUA260. The modular flow assembly design guarantees
optimum adaptation to the process conditions, and customers can choose
from a wide variety of wetted materials, process connections and nominal
diameters. The range extends from simple applications to processes with
the toughest hygiene requirements, such as surface roughness, traceable
and FDA-complaint as well as CIP/SIP-resistant materials.
The high level of accuracy and linearity is achieved thanks to the
optimized measurement filters at discreet wavelengths between 254 and
365 nm and the use of a reference channel. This results in a direct
correspondence with laboratory values.
An excellent feature of the OUSAF44 is the patented Easycal system,
which enables easy and traceable in-line verification and calibration
without liquid standards.
OUSBT66 NIR sensor the fermentation expert
The OUSBT66 sensor measures solids, cell growth and biomass through
the level of absorption in the NIR range and is used to control and monitor

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fermentation and crystallization processes. Its primary areas of application

include cell growth control in bacterial fermentation and applications in
mammalian cell cultures.
The 12mm design with standardised PG13.5 screw thread allows the
sensor to be installed in the bioreactor either directly through the end
plate or with the aid of standard assemblies. The OUSBT66 is available in
several lengths and optical path lengths to suit diverse installation
conditions and a wide range of cell types and cell concentrations.
Featuring sapphire windows, the stainless steel hygienic design does not
have any seals or crevices, which makes it possible to easily clean,
sterilize and even autoclave the sensor.
A long-life LED is the light source in the OUSBT66 sensor, providing colorindependent accurate measurement over a wide measuring range .
Furthermore, certified clip-on filters make traceable sensor verification and
calibration quick and easy.
OUSAF11 non-glass absorption sensor the food pro
The OUSAF11 measures solids and turbidity on the basis of absorption in
the visible and NIR range of the optical spectrum. It is primarily used in
applications in the food industry, such as phase separation, milk detection
in CIP solutions and product loss detection.
Thanks to its modular design, the sensor can be used as both a
submersible sensor in open tanks and basins, and as an insertion sensor
for hygienic applications in pipes and containers. The FEP-sheathed sensor
head withstands the harsh conditions in CIP and SIP environments and, as
it does not contain any glass, it also meets the demands of the food
industry for non-glass sensors. This low-maintenance sensor provides fast,
reliable and precise measurement results. Coupled with the ability to
operate two OUSAF11 sensors with one CVM40 transmitter, the user can
enjoy a high level of process safety and short payback periods.
Info box
Photometer measuring principle
In photometric absorption measurement, the decrease of light intensity
while passing through the medium is measured. In accordance with the
Lambert-Beer law, there is a linear relationship between the absorption of
the light and the concentration of the absorbing substance. A light source

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emits light through the medium to the detector side. After passing through
a filter for wavelength selection, the light intensity is converted into a
corresponding photocurrent with the help of a photodiode. The
photocurrents are subsequently converted to absorption units (AU, OD) or
customer-specific units in the associated transmitter.

Picture specification:
Fig. 1: Schematic drawing Photometric absorption measurement (for info
box)
Fig. 2: CVM40 display Process image
Fig. 3: CVM40 display Instrument display
Fig. 4:
OUSAF44 UV sensor with integrated OUA260 flow assembly
Fig. 5:
OUSBT66 NIR absorption sensor
Fig. 6:
OUSBT66 Various versions for different installation
conditions, cell types and cell concentrations
Fig. 7:
OUSAF11 non-glass absorption sensor
Fig. 8:
Easy operation of the Memograph CVM40
Fig. 9:
Calibration with Easycal without liquid standards
Fig. 10: Typical application in the pharmaceutical industry

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Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG, Gerlingen, Germany

Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG is one of the worlds leading specialists in liquid
analysis. Established in 1970, the company joined the Endress+Hauser Group in 1977.
The companys innovative products and state-of-the-art manufacturing plants are
evidence of its high level of expertise. Endress+Hauser Conducta employs more than 500
staff at locations in Gerlingen and Waldheim, Germany, Anaheim, California/USA, and
Suzhou, China.

The Endress+Hauser Group

Endress+Hauser is a global leader in measurement instrumentation, services and
solutions for industrial process engineering. With over 8,400 employees worldwide, the
Group generates annual net sales of more than 1.2 billion euros.
Structure
Company-owned sales centers and a network of partners guarantee competent worldwide
support. Production centers in eleven countries meet customers needs and requirements
quickly and effectively. As a successful family-owned business, Endress+Hauser is set for
continued independence and self-reliance in the future.
Products
Endress+Hauser provides sensors, instruments, systems and services for level, flow,
pressure and temperature measurement as well as liquid analysis and data acquisition.
The company supports customers with solutions and services in automation engineering,
logistics and information technology. Our products set standards in quality and
technology.
Industries
Customers are primarily from the chemicals/petrochemicals, food & beverage,
water/wastewater, life science,
oil & gas, power & energy, renewable energies, primaries & metal, pulp & paper and
shipbuilding industries. Endress+Hauser supports its customers to optimize their process
engineering procedures while taking into consideration reliability, safety, economic
efficiency and environmental protection.
History
Founded in 1953 by Georg H Endress (1924 2008) and Ludwig Hauser (1895 1975),
Endress+Hauser has been solely owned by the Endress family since 1975. The company
group, headed by Klaus Endress since 1995, has developed from being a specialist in
level measurement to a provider of complete solutions for industrial measuring
technology and automation, with constant expansion into new territories and markets.
For further information, please visit www.press.endress.com or www.endress.com

Kontakt
Anja Krump
Communication Manager

E-Mail anja.krump@conducta.endress.com
Phone +49 (0) 7156 20 92 28

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Endress+Hauser Conducta GmbH+Co. KG

Dieselstr. 24
70893 Gerlingen
Germany

Fax

+49 (0) 7156 20 92 66