About pH Meters

The potential hydrogen level or commonly known as pH, of any material or substance is defined by the acidity or alkalinity of that substance and is represented on a scale of 0 to 14; 7pH being neutral, 0 pH acidic, and 14pH alkaline. This factor can affect many parameters in nearly all types of processes or production.

 

 

pH Applications

These analytical meters can be used in many areas, for example:

• Food production
• Water quality
• Process industry
• Laboratories
• Fish farming
• Agriculture

 

Maintaining your pH Meter

If you do not look after your pH meter, you will experience incorrect measurements of pH levels. As a minimum, you must always wash the pH electrode (the measuring part of the instrument) in clean water. Do not touch the pH electrode unless using a damp tissue or cloth for cleaning and then only using extreme care.

When not in use, ensure the pH meter electrode is kept moist in either a storage solution or a pH 4 solution. If the sensor is allowed to dry out completely, the instrument’s performance will be affected and its warranty invalidated.

If an electrode has been allowed to dry out or becomes slow to respond, it may be rejuvenated by soaking the electrode overnight in a storage solution. After overnight soaking, rinse the electrode and then soak in a 4 pH buffer solution before giving the electrode a final rinse. The electrode should then be ready for use.

 

Calibrating your pH Meter

To ensure accurate measurements, it is necessary to calibrate pH meters on a regular basis. For this you will require pH buffer solutions. These standard, inexpensive solutions are used to check that the pH reading is correct. If it is not, it can be easily corrected following the procedure for the specific instrument.

Generally pH electrodes have a limited working life, dependent on the frequency of use.