The Different Types of Dissolved Oxygen Meters and Their Uses

Dissolved oxygen meters are used to measure the amount of oxygen present in water. They are used by various industries such as aquaculture, wastewater treatment, and environmental monitoring. There are different types of dissolved oxygen meters in the market and each has its unique use. This article will outline the different types of dissolved oxygen meters and their uses.

1. Clark electrode dissolved oxygen meter

The Clark electrode dissolved oxygen meter was one of the first oxygen meters to be developed. It works by measuring the amount of oxygen that diffuses through a plastic membrane and reacts with an electrolyte solution. The reaction generates a current which is proportional to the amount of oxygen present.

This dissolved oxygen meter is commonly used in research labs for conducting experiments due to its accuracy. It is not ideal for fieldwork as it requires frequent calibration and maintenance.

2. Optical dissolved oxygen meter

The optical dissolved oxygen meter is gaining popularity due to its ease of use and accuracy. It works by using a luminescent material that emits light in response to oxygen concentration. The intensity of the light emitted is proportional to the amount of oxygen present.

This dissolved oxygen meter is commonly used in aquaculture to monitor the oxygen levels in fish ponds. It is also used in wastewater treatment plants to monitor the oxygen levels in aeration basins.

3. Membrane-based dissolved oxygen meter

The membrane-based dissolved oxygen meter works by using a permeable membrane that separates the oxygen-rich water from the oxygen-poor water. The oxygen diffuses across the membrane and is detected by a sensor on the other side.

This dissolved oxygen meter is commonly used in the environmental monitoring industry. It is portable and can be used to measure dissolved oxygen levels in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

4. Polarographic dissolved oxygen meter

The polarographic dissolved oxygen meter uses a polarographic sensor that detects the oxygen level by measuring the current produced by the reduction of oxygen at a cathode. The sensor needs to be polarized to generate the required voltage.

This dissolved oxygen meter is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry to measure dissolved oxygen levels in pharmaceuticals production. They are also used in the food and beverage industry, breweries, and wineries.

5. Galvanic dissolved oxygen meter

The galvanic dissolved oxygen meter works by using two electrodes made of different metals. Oxygen is reduced at the cathode, and the resulting current is measured against a reference electrode.

This dissolved oxygen meter is commonly used in water treatment plants to monitor the oxygen levels in the aeration basin. They are also used in the aquaculture industry to monitor the oxygen levels in fish tanks.

Conclusion

Dissolved oxygen meters have become essential tools for various industries that rely on accurate measurements to ensure efficient processes and quality products. The type of dissolved oxygen meter used depends on the application and the environment it is used in. The Clark electrode dissolved oxygen meter, optical dissolved oxygen meter, membrane-based dissolved oxygen meter, polarographic dissolved oxygen meter, and the galvanic dissolved oxygen meter are some of the widely used dissolved oxygen meters. It is important to choose the right dissolved oxygen meter for your application to ensure accurate results.