A method and apparatus for monitoring microbial contaminants in an industrial process

摘要

In an aspect, multiple satellite units 202 sample liquid from multiple locations. Each satellite unit performs impedance analysis of number and size of particles passing through an orifice. If a criterion is not met, main analysis unit 206 performs combined impedance and electromagnetic emission (e.g. fluorescence) analysis of a liquid sample. In an aspect, a metering assembly in satellite unit 202 meters a predetermined amount of liquid at fluid take-off (208, Fig. 2), and a dilution assembly (216, Fig. 2) dilutes part of this amount to form an analysis sample. An analysis unit (214, Fig. 2) determines number and size of particles passing through an orifice, storing results in memory (215, Fig. 2). In an aspect, biocide is added to a sample. Combined impedance and fluorescence analysis is performed on the sample to determine microbial activity. The results are compared to predetermined data to determine the efficacy of the biocide.