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Reduce Energy and Carbon Costs in Wastewater Treatment with a Real-Time UV Nitrate Sensor

  • Writer: Patrick Glackin
    Patrick Glackin
  • May 2
  • 2 min read

The Anaerobic-Anoxic-Oxic (AAO) process for biological nutrient removal is used across many wastewater treatment plants. But as operating costs rise, two major challenges are putting pressure on facilities:

  • High blower energy consumption in the oxic zone

  • Excessive carbon dosing costs in the anoxic zone


The solution? A real-time nitrate monitoring sensor—specifically a UV nitrate sensor—that gives operators the data they need to optimize treatment and reduce waste.


Why Real-Time Nitrate Monitoring Matters

Controlling nitrate levels is critical in the AAO process. Unfortunately, most wastewater treatment plants still rely on manual sampling or outdated systems. These methods often result in:

  • Overdosing carbon due to delayed lab results

  • Wasting energy on unnecessary aeration

  • Inconsistent effluent quality

A real-time nitrate monitoring sensor changes the game. With continuous, accurate data, operators can fine-tune both carbon dosing and blower operation based on actual process needs—without the guesswork.


What Makes a UV Nitrate Sensor Different?

Our advanced UV nitrate sensor offers several key benefits over traditional probes or lab testing:

  • Continuous real-time nitrate monitoring

  • Multi-wavelength correction for TSS and COD interference

  • No reagents or consumables

  • Automatic maintenance and cleaning

  • Long operational life

The multi-wavelength design compensates for solids and organic matter—common issues in any wastewater treatment plant. This means reliable performance even in high-load or variable conditions.


Where to Install a Nitrate Monitoring Sensor for Maximum Value

Proper placement of your nitrate monitoring sensor is essential for process control. Here's how to get it right in an AAO process:

✅ Primary Sensor Location: End of the Anoxic Zone

  • Why: This is where denitrification should be nearly complete.

  • Benefit: Real-time nitrate data allows precise carbon dosing—cutting unnecessary chemical use while ensuring nitrate removal.

✅ Secondary Sensor Location (Optional): Start of the Oxic Zone

  • Why: Measure nitrate entering the aeration tank.

  • Benefit: Adjust blower output to match loading and reduce energy costs.


Installation Tip: Use a clean, representative side-stream or flow cell to minimize fouling. Our UV nitrate sensor includes TSS and COD compensation, making it ideal for installation in variable flow conditions.

Results from Real-Time Nitrate Monitoring in Wastewater Plants

Implementing a real-time nitrate monitoring sensor can deliver measurable improvements:

  • 15–30% reduction in blower energy usage

  • 20–40% savings in carbon dosing

  • Improved effluent compliance and process stability

Facilities that install a UV nitrate sensor experience faster decision-making, more efficient chemical use, and significant operational savings.


Smarter Wastewater Treatment Starts with Smarter Monitoring

Every modern wastewater treatment plant is under pressure to cut costs and improve performance. With a real-time nitrate monitoring sensor, you can take control of nitrate levels, reduce chemical and energy consumption, and enhance overall plant reliability.


Ready to upgrade your process?

Learn more about our UV nitrate sensor and how it can transform your AAO process.

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