What is Chlorine?
Chlorine (Cl) is a chemical element with the atomic number 17, positioned in group 17 of the periodic table, known as the halogens. It is characterised by its greenish-yellow colour and pungent odour. At room temperature, chlorine exists as a diatomic gas (Cl2), making it highly reactive and capable of combining with nearly all other elements. Chlorine is not found free in nature due to its reactivity but is commonly present in compounds, such as sodium chloride (table salt). It plays a crucial role in various applications, including water purification, disinfection, and the production of a wide range of organic and inorganic chemicals. Due to its potent oxidising properties, chlorine is also used in bleaching and the manufacture of pesticides and pharmaceuticals.
Monitoring Chlorine in Water
Monitoring chlorine levels in water supplies is a critical aspect of ensuring public health and safety. Chlorine, widely used as a disinfectant, plays a vital role in water treatment by eliminating harmful pathogens that can cause waterborne diseases. To maintain optimal water quality, it is essential to measure and record chlorine residuals regularly.
Public water systems, especially those serving large populations or utilising surface water sources, are often required to conduct continuous monitoring of residual chlorine to comply with regulatory standards. This not only helps in adjusting dosages for effective disinfection but also in preventing the formation of potentially harmful disinfection by-products. The importance of accurate chlorine monitoring is underscored by its direct impact on the distribution system’s optimisation program, where chlorine residual levels serve as a key indicator of water quality integrity. As technology evolves, new and improved methods for monitoring chlorine in water are being developed, enhancing the ability to safeguard drinking water from contamination and ensure its safety for public consumption.
Types of Online Chlorine Analyser
- Bound Chlorine Analysers
- Chlorine Dioxide Analysers
- Disinfectant Analysers
- Free Chlorine Analysers
- Total Chlorine Analysers
- Renal Dialysis Total Chlorine Monitor
Chlorine Analyser FAQs
What is an industrial chlorine analyser?
An industrial chlorine analyser is an online instrument designed to continuously measure free chlorine or total chlorine in water treatment and process systems.
These analysers are used in drinking water treatment plants, wastewater facilities and industrial process systems where maintaining precise chlorine dosing is critical for effective disinfection, regulatory compliance and operational reliability.
Swan chlorine analysers are engineered for continuous operation in demanding municipal and industrial environments, delivering accurate and stable chlorine measurement.
Why does chlorine monitoring matter?
Chlorine monitoring is essential to ensure effective water disinfection while maintaining regulatory compliance and public safety.
In drinking water and wastewater systems, chlorine is used to control harmful microorganisms. Maintaining the correct chlorine concentration is critical because:
- Insufficient chlorine may result in inadequate disinfection
- Excess chlorine can cause taste and odour issues
- Overdosing increases chemical costs
- High chlorine levels may contribute to disinfection by-product formation
An online chlorine analyser provides continuous, real-time measurement of free or total chlorine, allowing operators to maintain optimal dosing and respond immediately to changes in water quality.
Swan chlorine analysers support reliable, automated chlorine monitoring in municipal and industrial water systems, helping ensure consistent treatment performance and compliance with water quality standards.
Where are Swan chlorine analysers used?
Swan chlorine analysers are commonly deployed in:
- Drinking water distribution networks
- Wastewater treatment plants
- Industrial process water systems
- Cooling water systems
- Recreational water treatment
- Healthcare water systems
They provide continuous chlorine monitoring in demanding environments where water quality must be maintained around the clock.
How do I choose the right chlorine analyser?
Choosing the right analyser depends on:
- Whether you need free chlorine, total chlorine or both
- Application type (drinking water, wastewater, industrial)
- Required measurement range
- Installation environment
- Integration with plant control systems
Swan Analytical Australia can assist in selecting the appropriate online chlorine analyser for your specific application.
What’s the difference between handheld chlorine testers and online analysers?
Handheld chlorine testers are used for occasional spot checks and sampling.
Online chlorine analysers provide continuous, automatic monitoring and integration with control systems for real-time water quality management.
Swan Online Chlorine Analysers
