Introduction
In wastewater treatment, clarity isn’t just about the water — it’s about knowing exactly what’s happening inside your settlement tanks and clarifiers. Sludge blanket detection plays a critical role in process efficiency, compliance, and cost control. Without accurate detection, operators risk poor effluent quality, excessive sludge carryover, and unnecessary maintenance costs.
What is Sludge Blanket Detection?
In settlement tanks, solids settle to form a layer of sludge at the bottom. The sludge blanket is the interface between this settled sludge and the clearer water above.
Monitoring this layer’s depth is essential because:
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Too shallow and solids can escape into the final effluent, risking compliance breaches.
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Too deep and tanks can become overloaded, leading to reduced efficiency and increased wear on equipment.
Why Accuracy is Crucial
Manual methods, such as using “sludge judge” sampling tubes or visual checks, are time-consuming, subjective, and prone to error. Even a few centimetres of inaccuracy can mean unnecessary sludge wasting or, worse, untreated solids in your discharge.
Automated detection provides continuous, reliable data — enabling operators to respond before issues escalate.
Introducing the Partech 715 Sludge Blanket Monitor
For plants that want dependable, real-time sludge monitoring, the Partech 715 is an industry leader. Here’s why:
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Highly Accurate Measurement
Uses advanced infrared light attenuation to pinpoint sludge blanket depth, even in varying light and temperature conditions. -
Low Maintenance Design
Rugged build with no moving parts reduces downtime and service costs. -
Easy Integration
Works seamlessly with existing SCADA systems, providing instant data for process control. -
Flexible Application
Suitable for primary settlement tanks, secondary clarifiers, and other sedimentation processes in both municipal and industrial plants.
The Bottom Line
Sludge blanket detection is not a “nice to have” — it’s a process-critical measurement that safeguards compliance, optimises treatment efficiency, and reduces costs. With its proven accuracy, durability, and ease of integration, the Partech 715 gives operators the confidence that they’re making the right decisions, backed by reliable data.
Want to see how the Partech 715 could improve your plant’s performance?
Contact us today for a demo or quote.