The Hach sensION+ pH31 is a versatile meter designed for measuring various parameters in water, specifically pH, ORP (mV), and temperature. It is suitable for both laboratory and field use, offering a range of features for accurate and reliable measurements.
Function Description
The sensION+ pH31 operates by connecting to a probe, which is then immersed in the sample to take measurements. It can measure pH with a high degree of precision, as well as Oxidation-Reduction Potential (ORP) in millivolts and temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit. The meter is designed for continuous measurement, with stability and time-based options for display lock. Measurement data can be stored internally and transferred to a printer or PC for further analysis and record-keeping. The device supports various calibration types, including technical buffers, DIN19266 buffers, user-defined buffers, and calibration to a specific X value, ensuring accuracy across different applications. It also features a calibration reminder to help maintain measurement integrity over time.
Usage Features
The sensION+ pH31 offers a user-friendly interface with a clear liquid crystal, backlit display (128 x 64 dots) and a PET-protected keypad. Navigation is intuitive, utilizing dedicated keys for returning to previous menus, confirming selections, scrolling through options, changing values, and adjusting measuring units. The display provides comprehensive information, including concentration, units, temperature, calibration status, operator ID, sample ID, date, and time.
Key usage features include:
- Language Selection: The display language can be easily selected upon initial power-on.
- Data Output Management: Users can choose to deactivate data output, or connect to a printer (dot matrix or thermal) or PC (via Terminal, LabCom, or LabCom Easy software) for data transfer. This allows for efficient record-keeping and integration with laboratory information systems.
- Sample ID: The meter supports assigning a sample ID to readings, which helps associate data with specific sample locations and improves data organization. This ID can be entered manually via a keyboard or barcode scanner, or automatically assigned as a consecutive number.
- Date and Time Adjustment: The date and time can be easily changed through the system menu.
- Display Contrast Adjustment: The display contrast can be adjusted to optimize visibility in different lighting conditions.
- Temperature Adjustment: The temperature measurement can be fine-tuned at 25 °C (77 °F) and/or 85 °C (185 °F) to enhance accuracy, allowing users to compensate for minor discrepancies with a reference thermometer.
- Stirring Control: The integrated magnetic stirrer can be turned on or off, and its speed adjusted, which is crucial for ensuring homogeneous samples during calibration and measurement.
- Temperature Unit Selection: Users can switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit for temperature readings.
- Data Logger: The meter includes a data logger that automatically stores measurement data, electrode reports, and calibration data. This log can hold up to 400 data points, with older points being overwritten as new data is added. Stored data can be viewed on the display or sent to a printer or PC.
- Data Deletion: The entire measurement data or electrode report log can be deleted, which is useful after data has been successfully transferred to an external device.
- Report Output Types: When connected to a printer or PC, various report output types are available, including reduced, standard, and GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) formats. These reports can include user names, company headers, and sensor identification (model and serial number), providing comprehensive documentation.
- Calibration Procedure: The meter guides users through a straightforward calibration process using liquid calibration solutions. It prompts for operator ID, ensures proper probe rinsing, and confirms measurement stability before proceeding to the next calibration solution. Calibration results are briefly displayed, and if a printer is connected, a print menu opens for immediate output.
- Calibration Settings: Users can configure calibration parameters such as stability criteria (Fast, Standard, Strict), calibration frequency (with a reminder), and options to display mV values.
- Measurement Settings: The meter allows for adjustment of resolution, stability criteria for continuous or time-based measurements, and setting upper and lower limits for measurements, with an acoustic warning for out-of-limit readings.
Maintenance Features
The sensION+ pH31 is designed for ease of maintenance, with clear instructions for cleaning and troubleshooting.
- Instrument Cleaning: The exterior of the instrument should be cleaned with a moist cloth and a mild soap solution. Users are advised against using harsh cleaning agents like turpentine, acetone, or similar products to protect the display and accessories.
- Probe Cleaning: The probe should be cleaned as needed, with specific cleaning agents recommended for different types of contamination:
- Proteins: Pepsin cleaning solution
- Grease, oils, fats: Electrode cleaning solution
- Limescale: 0.1 N HCl solution
- Magnetic Stirrer Replacement: Instructions are provided for replacing the magnetic stirrer if it fails to start, ensuring continuous functionality of the device.
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual includes detailed tables for common problem messages, symptoms, possible causes, and corrective actions for both calibration warnings/errors and measurement warnings/errors. This allows users to quickly diagnose and resolve issues such as asymmetry, poor buffer/electrode conditions, unstable readings, and out-of-range pH or temperature.
- Preventive Maintenance: The calibration reminder feature helps users adhere to a regular calibration schedule, ensuring the long-term accuracy and reliability of measurements.
Overall, the Hach sensION+ pH31 is a robust and user-friendly meter with comprehensive features for accurate pH, ORP, and temperature measurements, supported by practical usage and maintenance guidelines.