Why Do pH Sensors Need to Be Replaced?
pH electrodes are sensors that are used to measure the pH of a solution. They consist of a glass bulb that is filled with a reference electrolyte and an electrical reference conductor.
The pH sensor works by measuring the voltage between the reference electrode and a separate electrode that is in contact with the solution being measured. The voltage is proportional to the pH of the solution, and by measuring the voltage, the pH of the solution can be determined.
pH electrodes are used in a wide range of applications, including water treatment, chemical manufacturing, and food processing.
pH sensors are essential for ensuring the accuracy and consistency of pH measurements, which are critical for many industrial and laboratory processes.
There are several reasons why pH electrodes need to be replaced:
One of the most common reasons for on-going pH sensor replacement is due to the suitability of the pH sensor for industrial applications.
Many sensor technologies today are dated; manufacturers providing industry with outdated products. No innovation whatsoever.
1: Daily Wear and tear: Like all mechanical and electronic components, pH electrodes are subjected to wear and tear from regular use. Over time, this can cause the electrode to become damaged or less accurate.
2: Sensor Age: All pH electrodes have a limited lifespan, and eventually, they will need to be replaced. This is due to factors such as the degradation of the reference electrolyte or the deterioration of the electrical conductors in the electrode.
3: Exposure to harsh chemicals: Certain chemicals, such as strong acids or bases, can damage or degrade pH electrodes. If an electrode is exposed to these chemicals, it may need to be replaced.
4: Improper storage: If a pH electrode is not stored properly, it can become damaged or lose its accuracy. For example, if an electrode is left in a dry environment for an extended period of time, the reference electrolyte in the electrode may become dried out, rendering the electrode useless.
5: On-going Calibration drift: Many of the commodity pH sensors are poorly constructed. Even if a pH electrode is not subjected to any of the above factors, it will still need to be replaced eventually due to calibration drift.
Lab or commercial sensors used in industrial applications are bound to fail
pH sensors suffer from premature drift, also known as calibration drift. It is the gradual loss of accuracy of a pH electrode over time, even if it is not being used. This is due to changes in the reference electrolyte or other factors that can affect the accuracy of the electrode.
Overall, pH electrodes need to be replaced when they become damaged, are no longer accurate, or have reached the end of their lifespan. Regular calibration and maintenance can help extend the life of a pH electrode, but eventually, it will need to be replaced to ensure accurate pH measurements.
The ProCon® P14C pH sensor with the solid Nexus® junction has been designed to outperform all other industrial pH sensor types.
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