TOC, COD & SAC Analyzers

TOC, COD & SAC Analyzers

TOC, COD, and SAC analyzers provide continuous measurement of widely used “sum parameters” that characterize organic loading in wastewater. The category is positioned for high-precision sum parameter analysis in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment, enabling near real-time visibility into load changes that would otherwise be delayed by laboratory turnaround time. These measurements are particularly valuable for early spill detection, treatment optimization, and compliance assurance where short-duration excursions can be missed by periodic sampling.

Methods in this category include optical techniques and colorimetric approaches depending on the parameter and application. SAC (spectral absorption coefficient) is often derived from optical absorbance, while COD and TOC measurement strategies can involve analyzer methods that correlate or quantify organic content. Product families referenced for this category include Liquiline and Memosens ecosystems, supporting standardized integration, diagnostics, and connectivity across multiple parameters and installation styles.

Benefits include faster response and more stable process control. Continuous load measurement can drive proactive aeration and chemical control rather than reactive adjustments after lab results arrive. Real-time trending supports early warning for toxic discharges or shock loads that threaten biological treatment stability. It also improves operational decision-making for equalization strategies, blending, and diversion, reducing the probability of permit exceedances and downstream equipment upset.

Common applications include influent and effluent monitoring at municipal wastewater plants, industrial pretreatment discharge oversight, and internal process monitoring where organic load affects treatment steps. In industrial operations, online sum-parameter measurement supports rapid verification of treatment performance during production changes and enables fast investigation of abnormal discharge events. In reuse-water programs, continuous organic monitoring supports consistent downstream polishing performance and improved confidence in water quality stability.

Implementation considerations focus on representative sampling, fouling control, and correlation to required reporting metrics. Optical methods benefit from stable hydraulics and cleaning strategies to maintain window clarity, while analyzer methods may require defined maintenance procedures and periodic verification against lab references. Integration typically supports standard outputs and industrial protocols for control, alarming, and historian trending, enabling continuous load visibility to become an actionable operational tool rather than a standalone measurement.

Field Instruments & Controls, Inc. an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.