The parameter at a glance.
Supernatant clarity adds context to the settled result by indicating the solids remaining in the liquid above the sludge layer.
mg/L
Unit or result
30 minutes
Test timing
Operational indication
S3A scope
Understanding Supernatant Clarity.
Supernatant clarity adds context to the settled result by indicating the solids remaining in the liquid above the sludge layer.
Look above the sludge
The supernatant is the liquid remaining above the settled sludge after the test has completed.
Add separation context
A compact sludge layer does not necessarily mean the liquid above it is clear, so clarity should be reviewed with SSL, SVI and MLSS.
Not final-effluent monitoring
This is an operational activated-sludge check. The S3A is not a final-effluent monitor and does not replace required compliance testing.
One sample. A complete settlement picture.
The S3A measures MLSS rapidly, then continues the unattended 30-minute settlement test for SVI, SSL, supernatant clarity and floating sludge. The optional stirrer is required for SSVI and SSSL.
01 / MLSS
Rapid MLSS measurement
A result in approximately 10 seconds from a compact 210 ml sample, within the specified 50 to 6,500 mg/L range.
02 / Settlement test
Unattended settlement analysis
The analyser continues the 30-minute cycle and stores the completed result after the test has finished.
Designed for routine activated-sludge checks.
The S3A uses a compact 210 ml representative sample in a safe-area wastewater-treatment environment. The 30-minute settlement cycle runs unattended, allowing the operator to continue with other work.
Completed results can be stored for each of three locations, with date and time information.
Explore related S3A parameters.
See how the S3A measurements work together within one repeatable settlement-analysis workflow.
MLSS
Measure mixed liquor suspended solids from a compact 210 ml sample in approximately 10 seconds.
SSL
Record the volume occupied by activated sludge after the 30-minute settlement cycle.
Floating Sludge
Record an indication of sludge floating or rising during the settlement cycle.