Maximum Yield USA March 2018 | Page 56

autodosers EACH AUTODOSING SYSTEM IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT, but the most common set-up is a system that can handle four different solutions for injection.” WHAT IS AN AUTODOSER? An autodoser system is a network of equipment that helps maintain nutrient and pH levels in a hydroponic system or automated irrigation system. Autodosers measure the pH and/or the concentration of nutrients within the reservoir and automatically make adjustments to bring these concentrations to preset levels. An autodosing system ensures stable chemical levels, prevents overcorrecting and under- feeding, saves on labor, and avoids sudden changes in the nutrient solution parameters. Autodosers inject nutrients into the hydroponic system’s water reservoir or water feed lines, and they are designed to maintain precise parts per million (ppm) levels within the nutrient solution. Most autodosers include a controller or work in conjunction with a controller that monitors the concentration of chemicals in the solution and triggers the system to make adjustments when needed. There are m