A liquid particle counter measures particles in a fluid sample under defined sensor and flow conditions. Sample preparation, bubbles, viscosity and fluid compatibility can affect the result. Select the measurement system around the liquid and method, rather than assuming one instrument will work equally well with water, oil and opaque process fluids.
Identify what the sensor will actually receive
Provide fluid composition, temperature, viscosity, expected concentration and any tendency to foam or separate. Confirm compatibility of all wetted parts, not only the sensor window. PAMAS's particle-counting guidance explains limitations associated with strongly turbid, dark or multiphase liquids. A generic optical counter is not automatically appropriate for every sample.
Distinguish particles from bubbles and other optical interference when establishing the method. Sample treatment must follow an approved procedure appropriate to the fluid; it should not unintentionally remove the particles being measured or introduce contamination.
Choose the sampling arrangement
| Arrangement | Practical focus |
|---|---|
| Bottle sample in a laboratory | Container cleanliness, representative sampling, preparation and repeatable delivery to the sensor. |
| Portable measurement | Connection cleanliness, pressure and flow compatibility, flushing and transport between locations. |
| Online monitoring | Stable sampling conditions, process connection, maintenance access and interpretation of changing process states. |
Flow through the sensor and concentration limits are part of its measurement basis. An overloaded sensor or an unsuitable flow arrangement can compromise counting. Compare instruments using the intended method and calibration basis rather than minimum particle size alone.
Make results comparable
Record size thresholds, cumulative or differential format, volume basis and calibration information. A hydraulic cleanliness code and a pharmaceutical particle-counting method serve different applications; choose reporting that matches the required method.
Include blank checks, cleaning between samples and carryover assessment in the operating procedure. A large change between samples may reflect the sampling path as well as the process, so preserve enough context to investigate it.
Review liquid particle counters. Send the fluid, sampling route, expected particle range and reporting method to shengtongjh for a compatible measurement arrangement.