On-line alkalinity – A novel approach

The removal of nonsugars by the 1st carbonatation is a key stage in beet sugar manufacture. A novel approach for controlling this process step based on alkalinity measurements using robust process hardware is described which is simple to install, use and maintain. The report of an installation at a British Sugar factory gives an insight into the effectiveness of the control system, its user acceptability and highlights the benefits in terms of product quality and potential cost savings.