Conductivity Sensors

Conductivity sensors are devices designed to measure the ability of a solution to conduct electricity, which is directly related to the concentration of ions present in water or other liquid solutions. This measurement is essential in various industries to ensure the quality and safety of processes that depend on the purity and chemical composition of liquids.

General Features:

• Working Principle:
  • Conductivity sensors operate by applying an alternating electric current through two electrodes immersed in the solution. The resistance to the passage of this current is measured and converted into a conductivity reading. Alternating current is preferred in most conductivity sensors due to its ability to avoid polarization of the electrodes, ensuring more accurate and stable measurements.
• Sensor Types:
  • Contact Sensors: They use electrodes in direct contact with the solution. They are ideal for applications where the solution is homogeneous and does not contain suspended particles that could clog the electrodes.
  • Inductive Sensors (Toroidal): They employ a measurement principle without direct contact with the solution, using a magnetic field to induce a current in the solution. They are suitable for liquids with high viscosity, high concentration of suspended solids or corrosive liquids.

• Measuring Ranges:
  • Conductivity sensors are available in a wide range of capacities, from high purity solutions with very low conductivities (less than 1 µS/cm) to concentrated solutions with conductivities greater than 1 S/cm. Selection of the appropriate sensor depends on the specific application and the expected concentration of ions in the solution.
• Temperature Compensation:
  • The conductivity of a solution varies with temperature. Many sensors incorporate automatic temperature compensation to adjust measurements and maintain accuracy over a wide temperature range.

• Maintenance and Calibration:
  • Regular calibration is essential to maintain measurement accuracy over time. Many conductivity sensors are equipped with automatic or semi-automatic calibration functions, simplifying the process for the user and ensuring reliable results. Periodic calibration ensures that the sensor is correctly adjusted for the specific measurement conditions, optimizing its performance and reliability.

In summary, conductivity sensors are fundamental tools for monitoring and controlling the quality of liquid solutions in various industrial and scientific applications. Their correct selection and maintenance are essential to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.