The OUSAF44 is an inline UV absorption sensor for monitoring product concentration in process liquids. Its optical measurement principle allows changes in UV absorption to be correlated with product concentration, making it suitable for continuous process monitoring and quality control.
Endress+Hauser specifies the sensor for protein concentration measurement, chromatography control, permeate and retentate monitoring, concentration measurement of organic compounds, aromatics detection and filter monitoring.
The sensor is designed to work with the OUA260 flow assembly for installation in a pipe. The complete measurement arrangement can therefore be configured according to the required optical path length, process connection and process conditions.
One of the main features of OUSAF44 is the optional Easycal™ system, which enables liquid-free online calibration with traceability to NIST. This can simplify routine verification and reduce the need for handling calibration liquids.
Key Features
- UV absorption measurement for inline product quantification
- Measuring range 0 to 2.5 AU
- Up to 0 to 50 OD, depending on optical path length
- Process temperature 0 to 90 °C continuously
- Maximum 130 °C for 2 hours
- Maximum process pressure 100 bar abs, depending on the flow assembly configuration
- 316 stainless steel sensor housing
- IP65 / NEMA 4 protection
- Optional Easycal™ liquid-free online calibration
- Easycal™ calibration traceable to NIST
- High linearity and measurement consistency with laboratory results
- Low-maintenance design for stable long-term operation
- Suitable for CIP and SIP
- ATEX and FM hazardous-area approvals
- FDA approval listed by Endress+Hauser
Suitable Applications
Protein Concentration Measurement
OUSAF44 can be used for inline monitoring of protein concentrations where continuous optical measurement is required for process control and product quality monitoring.
Chromatography Control
The sensor can monitor UV absorption during chromatography processes, providing continuous process information without relying exclusively on laboratory sampling.
Permeate and Retentate Monitoring
OUSAF44 is suitable for monitoring permeate and retentate streams, helping operators observe concentration changes during separation and filtration processes.
Organic Compound Concentration
The sensor can measure UV absorption associated with organic compounds and can therefore be applied to continuous concentration monitoring in suitable process liquids.
Aromatics Detection
OUSAF44 supports detection of aromatic compounds through UV absorption measurement.
Filter Monitoring
Changes in UV absorption can be used to monitor filtration processes and identify changes in process conditions.
Hygienic Process Applications
The sensor is suitable for CIP/SIP processes and can therefore be integrated into hygienic production environments where regular cleaning and sterilization are required.
Hazardous Areas
OUSAF44 is available with international explosion-protection approvals including ATEX and FM, allowing it to be used in applicable hazardous-area installations.
Selection Notes
The most important selection factor for OUSAF44 is the optical path length. The official measuring range is 0 to 2.5 AU, while the OD range can reach 0 to 50 OD depending on the selected optical path length. The optical path should therefore be selected according to the optical absorption characteristics and concentration range of the process medium.
OUSAF44 is designed for installation with a separate OUA260 flow assembly. The permissible process pressure depends on the material, pipe size and process connection of the selected flow assembly, with the official product page listing up to 100 bar absolute under the applicable configuration.
For hygienic applications, confirm the required process connection and complete flow assembly configuration. For hazardous-area installations, the applicable Ex certification must also be confirmed against the selected configuration.
If online verification without calibration liquid is important, consider the Easycal™ option. Endress+Hauser describes Easycal™ as a patented liquid-free online calibration system with traceability to NIST.
OUSAF44 should be selected for UV absorption and product concentration applications, rather than being described simply as a general-purpose color or turbidity sensor.
FAQ
What is the Endress+Hauser OUSAF44?
The OUSAF44 is a UV absorption sensor for inline product quantification in process liquids.
What does OUSAF44 measure?
It measures UV absorption and is used for protein concentration measurement, chromatography monitoring, permeate and retentate monitoring, organic compound concentration, aromatics detection and filter monitoring.
What is the measuring range of OUSAF44?
The official measuring range is 0 to 2.5 AU, with a range of 0 to 50 OD depending on optical path length.
What is the process temperature range?
The continuous process temperature range is 0 to 90 °C, with a maximum of 130 °C for 2 hours.
What is the maximum process pressure?
The official maximum is 100 bar absolute, with the actual permissible pressure depending on the material, pipe size and process connection of the flow assembly.
What material is used for the sensor housing?
The official specification lists 316 stainless steel for the sensor housing.
What is Easycal™?
Easycal™ is an optional liquid-free online calibration system for OUSAF44. Endress+Hauser states that it provides calibration traceability to NIST.
Can OUSAF44 be used in hygienic processes?
Yes. The sensor is suitable for CIP and SIP applications, and FDA approval is listed in the official specifications.
Can OUSAF44 be used in hazardous areas?
Yes. Endress+Hauser lists ATEX and FM hazardous-area approvals for OUSAF44. The exact approval should be confirmed for the selected configuration.
Does OUSAF44 include a flow assembly?
The sensor is designed for installation with a separate OUA260 flow assembly. The flow assembly and process connection should therefore be confirmed when specifying the complete measuring point.
Is OUSAF44 a turbidity sensor?
No. OUSAF44 is primarily a UV absorption sensor for product concentration measurement. Its documented applications include protein concentration, chromatography, organic compounds, aromatics and filter monitoring rather than conventional turbidity measurement.
