Measurement principles and field workflow
How the Royce Aqua 22 works.
The Aqua 22 combines infrared suspended-solids measurement with hydrostatic depth sensing in one portable platform. It gives operators immediate tank-side information for MLSS, total suspended solids and sludge blanket depth without carrying separate instruments.
Two measurements. One portable system.
Select the measurement required for the process check. The handheld analyser interprets the connected sensor signal and presents the result directly in the field.
01 / TSS MODE
Infrared absorption measures suspended solids
The sensor passes infrared energy through the process liquid. Suspended particles reduce the detected signal; the calibrated sensor response is converted into a concentration reading in mg/L. This supports routine TSS measurement and MLSS checks from 0 to 20,000 mg/L.
- Immediate concentration reading at the tank side
- Suitable for mixed liquor and suspended-solids process checks
- Approximately ±5% accuracy with 1% repeatability
02 / LEVEL MODE
Hydrostatic pressure measures interface depth
Water pressure increases as the sensor is lowered below the surface. The hydrostatic element converts that pressure into depth, allowing an operator to establish the position of the sludge interface and report sludge blanket depth from 0 to 10 metres.
- Depth is referenced to the liquid surface
- Supports clarifier, settlement tank and sludge-holding checks
- 10 metre polyurethane sensor cable supplied as standard
A REPEATABLE TANK-SIDE ROUTINE
From sensor to useful process information.
Good field data starts with a safe, representative sampling point and a consistent operating technique. The following workflow helps make routine checks comparable.
01.
Prepare
Inspect the sensor and cable, connect the appropriate smart sensor, power the analyser and select the required measurement mode and stored location.
02.
Position
Use a safe, representative position. Return to the same sampling point whenever possible so that changes reflect the process rather than the location.
03.
Lower
Lower the IP68 sensor steadily into the liquid. Keep the handheld analyser dry and above the tank; its IP65 enclosure is not designed for immersion.
04.
Read
Allow the reading to settle. In TSS mode, note the concentration in mg/L. In level mode, use the depth response to establish the sludge interface position.
05.
Record
Store the result against one of nine internal locations. Date and time stamping helps operators compare checks and build a traceable field record.
06.
Rinse
After measurement, withdraw and rinse the wetted sensor in line with site procedures. Regular inspection and calibration support dependable field performance.
SMART SERIALISED SENSOR TECHNOLOGY
Calibration stays with the sensor.
Each compatible Aqua 22 sensor carries its own serialised calibration information. When a sensor is connected, the handheld analyser uses that stored data to interpret the measurement correctly.
- Interchangeable setup: compatible sensors can be moved between handheld analysers without recalibrating the meter.
- Traceable configuration: the sensor identity and calibration data remain together.
- Simpler servicing: a replacement or serviced sensor can be introduced without rebuilding the complete instrument setup.
Calibration frequency should follow the process, site quality system and PMA service recommendations.
Designed for real treatment works.
The instrument is built around practical tank-side use: a lightweight pistol grip, controls within thumb reach and a high-clarity display intended for bright outdoor conditions. The screen remains readable with or without polarised safety glasses.
320 g
Approximate handheld weight for practical one-handed operation.
IP65 / IP68
Protected handheld enclosure and submersible sensor.
10 m cable
Polyurethane cable supplied as standard for tank access.
9 locations
Internal storage locations with date and time stamping.
Technical specifications.
Core instrument and sensor information for specification and application review.
| Specification | Royce Aqua 22 |
|---|---|
| Suspended-solids range | 0–20,000 mg/L |
| Sludge blanket depth range | 0–10 m |
| TSS / MLSS principle | Infrared absorption |
| Depth principle | Hydrostatic level sensing |
| Accuracy | Approximately ±5% |
| Repeatability | 1% |
| Handheld protection | IP65 |
| Sensor protection | IP68 |
| Handheld dimensions | 110 mm wide × 240 mm long |
| Handheld weight | Approximately 320 g |
| Sensor dimensions | 60 mm diameter × 180 mm long |
| Sensor weight | Approximately 450 g |
| Handheld construction | ABS / polycarbonate / acrylic |
| Sensor construction | UPVC / nylon |
| Standard cable | 10 m polyurethane |
| Data organisation | 9 locations with date/time stamping |
Specifications are based on the current PMA Royce Aqua 22 brochure and may be subject to product development. Confirm critical requirements with PMA before specification. For a broader overview of the measurement approach, visit PMA’s handheld sludge blanket level monitor & meter guide. Compare the ranges and applications in our Aqua 22 measurement parameters guide.
What the readings tell you.
Aqua 22 measurements give operators a repeatable view of solids concentration and interface position. Used as part of a routine monitoring programme, they help reveal how conditions are changing across tanks, process stages and time.
Aeration basins
MLSS readings support routine activated-sludge process checks and comparison between lanes or operating periods.
Clarifiers and settlement tanks
Sludge blanket depth readings show where settled solids are accumulating and help teams monitor movement of the interface before carryover occurs.
SBR and sludge return
TSS concentration checks and interface measurements support comparison through treatment cycles and routine monitoring of return activated sludge.
Operational measurement, not a replacement for required laboratory analysis.
The Aqua 22 provides immediate field readings to support day-to-day process decisions. Compliance sampling, regulatory testing and any required laboratory analysis should still be completed in accordance with the procedures that apply to the site.
Discuss your tank, process and measurement range with PMA.
Our UK team can help with application review, instrument selection, operator guidance, service and calibration for the Royce Aqua 22.