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Automatic Composite Sampler |
Versatile |
Refrigerated, Dipper-Style |
THINKING OF BUYING AN AUTOMATIC WASTEWATER SAMPLER?
MORE IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER!
Before the advent of discharge permits, sampling wastewater was rather casual. A can on a stick was used to collect a sample whenever it was convenient or when the boss said it had to be done. Although some cities and industries used automatic samplers for process control in the 1930s, it was not until sewer use charges became a revenue producer in the late 1950s that automatic sampling became popular. When collection of 24 hour composites became a discharge permit requirement, calling for more frequent or flow proportioned composites, a large number of new commercial automatic samplers were developed. As a result, competing manufacturers have tried to outdo each other by adding new features and complex programming. In many instances automatic sampler technology has advanced far beyond the needs and budget of the average user. Few sampling situations, for example require special features such as delayed start, asymmetrical programs or built in event recorders.
The smart operator will choose a sampler that meets his or her needs without the expense of special features that will never be used. For example to collect a sample four times an hour for a simple 24 hour composite, you do not need a complex program or elaborate key pad entry and interrogations systems. For most sampling programs the most important features of a portable sampler are light weight, rugged design and ease of set-up. The simpler the sampler, the fewer the set up errors and operating problems in the field.