inFact in collaboration with Lincoln Agritech Ltd (LAL) scientists and commercialisation team, developed a low cost, a heavy-duty industrial-grade optical sensor capable of measuring in real-time the level of nitrate-nitrogen concentrations in groundwater. The miniaturisation of the system was essential to allow the device to fit within monitoring wells.
LAL’s scientists identified that lower cost nitrate sensors would improve the quality of groundwater measurements by enabling increased densification of data points, as current approaches are principally based on theoretical modelling rather than on direct measurement.
Farmers are using the GW50 sensors to monitor their nitrate discharges into the environment.
The HydroMetrics GW50 sensors are now available for sale and deployment worldwide.
A sensor for ground water nitrate monitoring
HydroMetrics GW50
by Lincoln Agritech
I purchased the HydroMetrics Nitrate GW50 Groundwater Optical Nitrate Sensor last year. I have found the HydroMetrics equipment extremely easy to use - plus it records consistent and accurate results in real-time. The mobile kit is fit for purpose and suits my needs.
Val McMillan // McMillan Drilling // Source: hydrometrics.co.nz
The Project
The project team works side-by-side with the client to ensure product functionality, marketability and usability are resolved through proof of concept prototypes. These are tested and refined to ensure all aspects of the solution are understood, key risks are identified and project goals are achieved.
THINK
inFact worked with LAL to define and understand the processes for setting up and use of the nitrate sensor and developed a specification including technical, user and commercial requirements.
inFact engineers researched, innovated and experimented with a variety of new technology challenges including precise stainless steel machining to ensure critical alignment of the optical components used for the measurements. Miniaturisation and shielding of the electronic components to reduce noise was a size optimisation challenge.
LISTEN
Currently, monitoring is mostly based on modelling, rather than direct measurement of nitrate levels as conventional sampling methods are too expensive to be scalable.
Lincoln Agritech Ltd engaged inFact to translate their sensor technology into a low cost functionally accurate sensor product which has a bespoke profile to fit in small diameter monitoring wells.
OUTCOME
inFact developed a robust, competitively priced sensor that fits into narrow wells for real-time monitoring of ground water nitrate levels.
