Residual Chlorine Meters: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Clean and safe water is a requirement for a healthy life. All municipalities and authorities must ensure the quality of water available for human consumption. An important factor in water quality is the control of chlorine levels.Let me get into the background. Chlorine is used as a disinfectant in water treatment processes. Though it is helpful, the rules can pose risks. So, it is important to monitor its concentration to avoid harmful health hazards. This is done through residual chlorine meters. In this article, we will explain what are residual chlorine meters and how they work. What Are Residual Chlorine Meters?Residual chlorine meters are devices used to measure the concentration of chlorine remaining in water after it has been treated. In the modern era, these devices have become a requirement in water treatment plants and many other laboratories. It is done to guarantee that chlorine levels stay within safe limits.There are many options available in the market for chlorine meters, and each of them has a different function. Yet the priority remains the same - to check if the water is safe for consumption by humans. How Do Residual Chlorine Meters Work?Residual chlorine meters work by detecting the concentration of chlorine in the water. Different meters operate using different techniques, but most rely on calorimetry and electrochemical analysis. Let's discuss this in detail.Colorimetric MethodThe calorimetric method is one of the most common techniques used in residual chlorine meters. It is based on the reaction between chlorine and a reagent that brings a color change. The intensity of color changes increases if the concentration of chlorine is high.A sample of water is taken and mixed with a reagent. DPD (N, N Diethyl-p-phenylalanine) is typically used. Chlorine reacts with the reagent to produce a pink or red color. Residual chlorine entry measures the intensity of the color using optical sensors. It compares it to a standard chart to know the exact charge levels. It's a simple and widely used method. The tools used are portable and convenient. Yet the use of chemicals may not be ideal for frequent use. Amperometric MethodIt's an advanced type of chlorine meter that is used for frequent inspection in industrial settings. These devices measure the electric current produced by a chemical reaction involving chlorine. It is directly proportional to the chlorine concentration.The sensor has two electrodes made of platinum and silver. When water comes in contact with the sensor, chlorine is reduced at the electrode. It gives a small current. The current produced is higher if the amount of chlorine is high. The meter shows a value for chlorine concentration based on this current. It's highly accurate, yet it requires frequent maintenance. Electrochemical MethodThe electrochemical method works similarly to amperometric methods but it measures the changes in electrical properties of water, such as its voltage or conductivity. Their properties are affected by the presence of chlorine.Like the above methods, the sensor is placed in a water sample. Chlorine interacts with the sensors to cause changes in the electrical conductivity or the voltage of water. The meter records these changes and converts them to a concentration reading.Elcetrocmechial meters are a versatile choice to measure both free and combined chlorine. They have diverse uses but are more expensive than the other two meters. Types of Residual Chlorine MetersWith the advancement in technology, many different types of chlorine meters are available in the market; each of them has the same working but is used in different ways. Here are the main types;Portable Residual Chlorine Meters● Handheld and easy to use for spot checks in any location● Commonly used by field technicians and inspectors to measure chlorine levels in swimming pools and drinking water● Portable meters use calorimetric methods due to their simplicityBenchtop Residual Chlorine Meters● A large version that is used in industries or large water treatment facilities● Uses calorimetric, electrochemical, or amperometric methods for accurate readings● Give more detailed results than other metersOnline Residual Chlorine Analyzers● Advanced devices for continuous monitoring of chlorine elves in water treatment plants● Inserted directly into the water pipeline. They provide real-time data using amperometric methods● Online analyzers guarantee constant water quality and prevent over-chlorination Bottom Line!Residual chlorine meters are vital in many industries to provide safe water for humans and laboratory testing. They accurately measure the concentration of chlorine to maintain proper disinfection levels. It prevents over- or under-chlorination. With these devices, it's possible to follow the health and safety regulations easily. Boqu Instrument is a professional residual chlorine meters supplier in China, with more than 10 years of manufacturing experience. If you are looking for a manufacturer, we will be a good choice for you, welcome to contact us!
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