What types of pH Meters are there?
The measurement of pH is used across a wide range of applications from testing of home swimming pools to environmental studies as well as in large scale food production facilities. With so many different types of pH meters on the market, how do you select the best to suit your needs?
The article will break down pH meters into three main types while explaining the benefits and some example applications for each type.
What are pH meters
pH is the measurement of acidity or alkalinity of a substance or product. This measurement has a wide variety of applications across many industries. There can be serious ramifications if pH is not measured correctly.
Given the broad use of pH measurements in so many different situations, it is easy to see why there are so many different pH meters on the market. The most useful way to categorise pH meters is into three main group or types. These are pen testers, handheld/portable meters and benchtop meters.
To help you narrow-down your selection process this article will delve into the three types of pH meters, giving product examples and suggested applications for each type.
What is each type of pH meter used for?
Pen Testers
Pen testers are pocket-sized instruments and usually the cheapest type of pH meter on the market. Designed with the pH meter, display and electrode all-in-one, the small design makes them exceptionally easy to transport and use on the go.
There are many applications for Pen Testers in the construction, hydroponics, food manufacturing and pool or spa maintenance industries.
Handheld Meters
With a slightly larger design to pen testers, handheld meters typically sport a more rugged design. This type is built with the electrode separate from the meter. Handheld meters usually have electrodes you can interchange, depending on your pH measuring needs. For example, spear-tipped electrodes are used for medium-to-firm objects.
Handheld meters are built for field use. You’ll find them used by environmental officers, in field studies, aquaculture, agriculture and water treatment.
Benchtop pH Meters
Benchtop meters are the largest of the three types of pH meters. They can be desk or wall-mounted.Generally, they have the highest degree of accuracy of all the types of pH meters, which makes them well-suited to professional and laboratory use.
Benchtop pH meters are commonly used in food processing facilities, quality assurance laboratories, water testing facilities and environmental testing laboratories.
Examples of pH meters
Below is a selection of Instrument Choice Scientists’ favourite pH meters, along with a rundown of the features and common applications of each model.
Pen Testers
pH 22 LAQUAtwin Compact pH Meter - pH-22
One of the most popular pH meters, is the ultra-portable pH22. It features a unique flat sensor that makes the measurement of liquids or semi-solids easy.
This device is designed for testing pH in soil, food and water.
Waterproof Multi-Purpose Meter - EC-PCSTestr35
With the power of five different sensors in a pocket-sized device, this all-in-one portable and waterproof pen meter measures pH as well as Conductivity, Salinity and TDS.
It’s perfect for measuring pools, spas, hydroponics and aquariums.
Handheld Meters
Vision Plus pH/mV/Temp Meter with Electrode - IC-6810KA
IP67 rated and with a shockproof rubber case, the IC-6810KA is ready to measure pH in even the toughest field conditions.
Built for water monitoring, environmental monitoring, agriculture and water treatment.
Waterproof PC 450-meter kit - EC-PCWP450-04K
Durable and IP67 rated this is a professional-grade pH meter for measuring all aspects of water quality. Not only does it measure pH, it calculates mV, Conductivity, TDS and Salinity.
Recommended for use in aquaculture, aquariums and hydroponics.
Benchtop pH Meters
Benchtop Water Quality Meter - IC860033
Rugged housing and complete with an attached electrode arm, you can measure pH in the lab with ease using the IC860033.
Great for food processing facilities, QA laboratories and university laboratories.
Starter 3000 pH and ORP Bench Meter. ORP Electrode available separately - IC-Starter3100F
This benchtop meter excels where precision accuracy is required for high-level experiments. The standalone electrode holder enhances the flexibility and practicality of the device. Connect to printers or computers to simply document data.
Suited for pharmaceutical, university, and food quality laboratories.
Conclusion
Depending on whether you want your pH meter to be portable, durable, or very accurate you’ll find a pH meter to suit your needs.Each type of pH meter has been designed to meet a specific range of criteria, so Instrument Choice recommends that when you look for a pH meter, the first place to start is to select a type – either pen testers, handheld/portable meters or benchtop meters.
Know your type but need a hand selecting the best pH meter for your needs? Have some questions on pH meters? Contact one of our knowledgeable scientists on 1300 737 871 or email us at [email protected].
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