New inline turbidity monitoring sensor for efficient and reliable industrial and municipal water monitoring applications

GF has recently launched the new Type 4170 inline turbidity sensor, developed to provide efficient and reliable monitoring for both industrial and municipal water applications. When combined with GF’s Type 8640 Transmitter, the system provides a comprehensive solution for precise measurement, simplified maintenance, and user-friendly operation.

Turbidity is one of the most important performance indicators in water treatment, essential for regulatory compliance, equipment protection, and quality assurance. Conventional online (bypass) systems, while widely used, can endure sampling delays, increased maintenance, and added complexity. In contrast, the inline design of the Type 4170 delivers real-time monitoring, minimises bubble formation, and avoids sediment buildup, ensuring consistent and dependable results.

The sensor’s slanted optical head incorporates a stable near-infrared (NIR) light source and a PPSU light absorber, thereby reducing cleaning requirements and maintaining accuracy even with seasonal colour changes in the water. Its compact design facilitates flexible installation in restricted spaces, while the streamlined engineering eliminates the need for flow cells, lamps, or intricate tubing, lowering both maintenance requirements and total cost of ownership. Factory multi-point calibration further ensures precise measurement across the full range, from ultra-clear through to heavily turbid water.

Luca Barz, Global Product Manager at GF, commented, “The Type 4170 inline turbidity sensor is ideally suited for water treatment and process control thanks to a compact and rugged design, proven optical performance, and compliance with ISO 7027. Combined with the 8640 Transmitter, we provide water treatment professionals with a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and high-accuracy measurement system - ready to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s regulatory standards.”

The Type 8640 Transmitter completes the solution, offering a colour touchscreen with real-time display and straightforward configuration. Optional, field-upgradable communication modules, including Modbus RTU, Profibus DP, and ProfiNet IO, add further flexibility for integration into existing process networks.