Calibrating Conductivity in High Purity Water

Essentially, the measure of conductivity refers to how well a particular sample of water can transfer or conduct electricity. When water is completely devoid of chemical impurities and minerals, a state called pure water, the conductivity of the sample is actually very low. This is due to the lack of ionized particles for the transfer of electrical charge. 

Although the theory behind this process is incredibly straightforward, stakeholders across various industries rely on highly specific conductivity readings to ensure the safety of their facilities or natural surroundings. In order to achieve this highly specific monitoring, these companies need to make use of high-quality conductivity measurement analyzers. 

Measuring the conductivity of a water sample requires that the user has an analytical device that is calibrated and designed specifically for measurement at certain temperatures. The thermal energy within a sample is one of the important variables for determining how easily a charge is passed throughout the electrolytes.

Because each electrolytic contaminant has different temperature-dependent properties, analysts can change the temperature of a sample to alter the reactivity of the ions. Exposure to open air and gases like carbon dioxide is another complicating fact, as these interactions can also alter the conductivity of a sample. 

For industry professionals that need a highly reliable reading, the use of closed-system online conductivity analyzers is necessary. These machines can account for ionic contaminants, adjust sample temperatures, and even alter other variables like pH and air exposure. 

Conductivity analyzers need to have a standardized cable capacitance and resistance, a closed system sample environment, and the ability to account for conductivity changes from contaminants and temperature alteration. The best way to get a reliable reading from these machines is to choose one that is designed to compare live readings against a temperature-compensated, standardized value.

Each industry use case will necessitate that the analyzer compensates for different temperature values, pH levels, and ionic contaminants. For instance, water treatment facilities and industrial boilers both generate a significant amount of ionic contaminants at various different temperatures. By developing a standardized reading from their online conductivity analyzers in each use case, companies can better identify when their samples are reaching unsafe levels. 

To learn more about our industry-leading conductivity analyzers and how they can benefit engineers in a variety of different use cases, reach out to the professionals today!

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