Active Acoustic Spectroscopy
Acospector Acoustic Chemometer is based on the patented technology Active Acoustic
Spectroscopy. It’s a non-invasive measuring method where the instrument is never in
contact with the analysed fluid. The uniqueness of the method is that instead of passive
listening it actively emits and controls acoustic signals through the process fluid. The
innovation makes it possible to emphasize unique spectral characteristics of the fluids,
offering more accurate and reliable process fluid analysis in a continuous and non-invasive
way.
The technology originates from research at ABB, a global leader in automation technology.
Today the method is patented and the rights for deploying Active Acoustic Spectroscopy
are fully owned by Acosense, which makes the instrument unique in the market.
Sending and receiving acoustic signals.
Active Acoustic Spectroscopy is a method of sending and receiving acoustic signals through
a fluid or gas, thus measuring physical properties for detection and analysis. Unlike passive
acoustic spectroscopy an active controlled sound source is used. A spectrum of acoustic
signals is sent from an emitter, through the fluid, to one or more receivers. The emitter
and receivers are mounted on the outside of the pipe/container and is never in contact with
the actual fluid/gas. As the sound travels through a medium some of the energy is absorbed
and the sound wave changes. The changes that occur can be used to characterize the
medium and its properties.
Analysis is made through comparing the received signal with the sent. Through the use of
multivariate analysis it’s possible to separate information and exclude noise that is
unimportant or unrelated to the process. As the acoustic waves can travel through any
medium it is possible to measure properties in fluids that are otherwise difficult such as:
opaque, corrosive, viscous or slow-moving fluids.
It is also possible to measure many things at once. Thus you can get simultaneous
information on a multitude of properties at the same time from the same measuring point.
Acoustic waves are environmentally friendly and can be used on any fluid/gas and pipe
material. It can be used during full production and measures continuously. For the process
industry Active Acoustic Spectroscopy can be used for real time auditing of processes
which in turn can lead to waste reduction but also enhanced product quality and reduced
environmental impact.