ZebraTech Hydro-Wiper – Automatic cleaning for underwater sensors
The ZebraTech Hydro-Wiper is a mechanical cleaning system designed to keep optical sensors and underwater instruments free from fouling during long-term deployments. By using a controlled and gentle brushing mechanism, contamination such as biofouling, algae and sediment is effectively removed.
This ensures consistent measurement accuracy while significantly reducing the need for manual cleaning and costly maintenance visits.
Key Features
Effective anti-fouling solution
Prevents contamination of optical surfaces caused by biofouling, sediment and deposits
Gentle and safe cleaning
Specially designed brush protects sensitive sensor surfaces from damage
Automatic operation
Configurable cleaning intervals or control via datalogger
Reliable long-term data
Maintains measurement accuracy during extended deployments
Robust design
Suitable for both freshwater and marine environments
Flexible integration
Compatible with a wide range of sensors and monitoring systems
Operation
The Hydro-Wiper uses a mechanical brush that periodically sweeps across the optical surface of the sensor. This prevents the buildup of fouling and ensures a clean measurement window.
Cleaning can be:
- performed automatically at preset intervals
- or synchronized with measurement cycles via a datalogger
This synchronization ensures consistent and reliable data throughout the deployment period.
Versions
Standalone version
- Battery powered
- Adjustable cleaning intervals (e.g. 15 minutes to 12 hours)
- Ideal for remote or off-grid locations
Datalogger-controlled version
- Controlled via external systems
- Synchronization with measurement events
- Optimized data quality and control
Why Automatic Cleaning is Essential
During long-term water monitoring, sensor fouling is inevitable and leads to:
- measurement drift
- reduced accuracy
- unreliable data
The Hydro-Wiper prevents these issues and ensures:
- stable and accurate measurements
- reduced maintenance and operational costs
- longer deployment periods
Applications
The Hydro-Wiper is ideal for:
Water quality monitoring
Research and development (R&D)
Offshore and marine applications
Environmental monitoring
Aquaculture
Hydrological monitoring networks
Compatible with:
PAR sensors
Turbidity sensors
Fluorometers
Dissolved oxygen sensors
Underwater cameras
Integration & Flexibility
The Hydro-Wiper can be easily integrated into existing monitoring setups thanks to:
- custom mounting options
- multiple power configurations
- multi-wiper configurations for multiple sensors
- application-specific customization
Technical specifications
Technical Specifications
Construction
Housing: stainless steel and acetal
Brush: PVC base with replaceable nylon bristles
Power supply (standalone version)
6 × AA alkaline batteries
Consumption: approx. 0.02 mA standby / ±80 mA during cleaning
Power supply (datalogger version)
8 – 24 V DC
Consumption: approx. 0.06 mA standby / ±90 mA during cleaning
Cleaning interval
Adjustable from 15 minutes to 12 hours
Depth rating
Standard up to 30 meters
Optional up to 100–200 meters