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The value of controlling pH in bioethanol production
Tight pH control in bioethanol production offers significant benefits. If enzymatical processes are involved in converting starch from different feedstock crops into sugars, tight control of pH can result in higher yields. The same is true for yeast fermentation processes in which sugar is converted to alcohol as well as for other alcohol producing fermentations. In addition, the continuous data from in-line sensors is important for quality assurance and batch traceability.
Critical sensor characteristics
As discussed in this white paper, requirements for in-line pH measurement systems for the bioethanol industry can be divided into two categories: measurement performance, and usability and maintenance.
In the first category, accuracy, repeatability and integrity of the measurement value are important characteristics. Additionally, long sensor lifetime and tolerance to Cleaning / Sterilization-in-Place cycles are also central.
Usability and maintenance relate to simple installation and commissioning, and ease of calibration and maintenance.
Modern sensor technology offers value in all these aspects.
The many advantages of digital sensor technology
Intelligent Sensor Management (ISM®) is a technology platform based on sensors with embedded microprocessors. Critical information such as calibration data, time in operation and process environment exposure are all stored in the sensor. The data is utilized to continuously monitor process and sensor conditions and recommend appropriate maintenance based on actual sensor "health". This predictive diagnostic information leads to lower maintenance, and reduces downtime and plant operating costs.
ISM's Plug and Measure feature allows sensor calibration away from the process in any convenient location. As the calibration data is stored on the sensor, once it is attached to an ISM transmitter the data is uploaded to the transmitter which configures itself appropriately. Measurement point start-up is therefore fast and error-free.
In addition, ISM sensors output a digital signal, which has high integrity over long cable runs and is unaffected by interference from surrounding equipment.
This white paper discusses the various benefits when pH in-line control with ISM is implemented for bioethanol production processes.
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