Laboratory Equipment & Services Information System by Centralized Laboratory Management Office (CeLMO)

A colorimeter is a device used to measure the intensity of color in a solution. In the context of water analysis, colorimeters are often used to determine the concentration of certain substances in water samples by measuring the intensity of color produced through chemical reactions. Hach colorimeters are widely used in environmental monitoring, water quality testing, and industrial water treatment processes. These instruments are designed to provide accurate and reliable measurements of parameters such as: Chlorine: Used for measuring free and total chlorine concentrations, essential for disinfection in water treatment. Nitrate: Measures nitrate concentration, which is important for assessing nutrient pollution in water bodies. Phosphate: Measures phosphate concentration, which can indicate pollution from detergents and fertilizers. Iron: Determines iron levels, which can affect water quality and treatment processes. Ammonia: Measures ammonia concentration, which is a key parameter in assessing water quality and pollution.

Hach colorimeters are widely used in environmental monitoring, water treatment facilities, industrial processes, research laboratories, and educational institutions for assessing water quality and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Using a colorimeter manufactured by Hach typically involves the following steps: Preparation: Ensure that the colorimeter is clean and calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions. Calibration ensures accurate measurements. Sample Preparation: Prepare the water sample to be tested according to the specific test procedure. This may involve adding reagents or following sample preparation protocols provided with the colorimeter test kit. Instrument Setup: Turn on the colorimeter and allow it to warm up if necessary. Select the appropriate test method on the instrument, which corresponds to the parameter you are measuring (e.g., chlorine, nitrate, phosphate). Blank Reading: Perform a blank reading with a sample of distilled water or a blank solution provided in the test kit. This establishes a baseline for the colorimeter and compensates for any color contributed by the reagents or sample matrix. Sample Measurement: Add the prepared water sample to a cuvette or sample cell provided with the colorimeter. Insert the cuvette into the colorimeter chamber. Reading: Follow the instructions provided by the colorimeter to initiate the measurement. The colorimeter will typically emit light of a specific wavelength through the sample and measure the intensity of the transmitted or reflected light. Recording Results: Once the measurement is complete, the colorimeter will display the concentration of the target parameter in the sample. Record this value for further analysis or reporting. Cleanup: Dispose of the sample properly and clean the cuvette and any other accessories used in the test according to the manufacturer's instructions. Proper cleaning prevents contamination and ensures accurate results for future tests. Calibration Check: Periodically check the calibration of the colorimeter according to the manufacturer's recommendations to maintain accuracy. It's important to follow the specific instructions provided with your Hach colorimeter and test kit, as procedures may vary depending on the parameter being measured and the model of the instrument. Always handle chemicals and samples with care and follow safety precautions outlined in the user manual.