Let’s Dive into Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN is a specialized piece of laboratory equipment designed for precise measurement of calcium ion activity in fluid samples. Manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, a well-respected name in scientific instruments, this electrode promises reliable and accurate readings. Its plastic membrane construction and replaceable sensing modules make it a seemingly robust and user-friendly tool for various scientific applications.
My work in environmental monitoring often requires assessing calcium levels in water samples. Traditional methods are time-consuming and prone to errors. This electrode promised a quicker, more direct, and accurate method for calcium ion measurement.
The electrode arrived securely packaged. My initial impression was that it was a well-built piece of equipment, though the epoxy body felt somewhat lighter than I expected.
I considered cheaper calcium ion electrodes from lesser-known brands. Ultimately, I chose the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN for the Thermo Fisher Scientific reputation and the promise of superior accuracy and reliability. It was a significant investment, but the potential for improved data quality justified the cost.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the Thermo Fisher Scientific name and lived up to its $2859.00 price tag.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN in my lab, using a series of calcium standard solutions. The initial calibration process was straightforward, thanks to the clear instructions. However, I found the response time to be a bit slower than expected, requiring a few minutes to stabilize for each reading.
Performance in controlled lab conditions was generally good. The readings were consistent and reproducible. I did notice that temperature fluctuations seemed to have a noticeable impact on the readings, highlighting the importance of maintaining a stable temperature environment.
The electrode was relatively easy to use, but I did need to consult the manual a few times to understand all the settings and calibration procedures. The BNC connector made it easy to interface with my existing pH meter. After a bit of practice, I felt comfortable using it.
My first surprise was the sensitivity to temperature changes. This required me to implement stricter temperature control measures in my lab. I had also wished the electrode would include some sample solutions to get started, but it was just the electrode and the sensing modules.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN has proven to be fairly reliable. It consistently provides accurate readings, assuming proper calibration and temperature control.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the epoxy body. However, I have noticed a slight decrease in response time after prolonged use, suggesting the plastic membrane might be degrading slightly.
Maintenance involves rinsing the electrode with deionized water after each use and occasionally replacing the sensing module. The replaceable module is a convenient feature that helps extend the life of the electrode, but you have to buy the modules separately. This is a big consideration since the electrode is already $2859.00.
Compared to my previous method of calcium analysis (titration), the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN is a significant improvement in terms of speed and ease of use. It does, however, require more careful calibration and temperature control.
Breaking Down the Features of Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN
Specifications
- Ion Concentration Range: 40,100 to 0.02 ppm, 1.0 to 5 x 10-7 M. This wide range allows for measurement of calcium in diverse samples, from highly concentrated to trace levels.
- Temperature Range: 0 to 40°C. The operating temperature range is fairly limited and needs to be considered when using this electrode.
- Body Material: Epoxy. The epoxy body provides durability and chemical resistance in typical laboratory settings.
- Lead Length: 1 m. The one-meter lead length offers adequate reach for most lab setups.
- Connector: BNC. The BNC connector is a standard interface for pH meters, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of instruments.
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific No.: 9320BN. This is Thermo Fisher Scientific’s product number for easy identification and ordering.
- Unit: Each. The product is sold as a single unit.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the scope of applications for which the electrode is suitable. The wide concentration range is especially valuable, but the limited temperature range requires careful monitoring and control. The BNC connector ensures easy integration with existing lab equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN performs its primary function – measuring calcium ion activity – with reasonable accuracy and reliability. However, it requires meticulous calibration and temperature control to achieve optimal results.
The electrode’s greatest strength is its ability to provide direct, real-time measurements of calcium ion activity. The primary weakness is the slow response time and sensitivity to temperature fluctuations. To improve, the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN could benefit from faster response times, and an integrated temperature sensor for automatic correction.
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN mostly meets expectations, though it would be ideal for a faster response time. The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN does allow for Calcium readings directly without the need for titrations that I was previously having to use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN features a simple, functional design. The epoxy body is lightweight and easy to handle.
The electrode is user-friendly, but it does require some familiarity with electrochemical principles and calibration procedures. The manual is clear and well-written, but some users may benefit from additional training.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN should last for several years. The epoxy body is resistant to most common laboratory chemicals.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving rinsing and occasional replacement of the sensing module. Replacing the module is easy and cost-effective compared to replacing the entire electrode, if you don’t mind buying the modules separately.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN comes with two sensing modules. There aren’t many customization options for this device, but the BNC connector ensures compatibility with various pH meters and data loggers.
While there are no direct accessories, the electrode is compatible with any reference electrode that has a compatible connector (reference electrode 34107-923 is suggested). The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN can also use any standard calcium calibration solutions.
Pros and Cons of Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN
Pros
- Direct measurement of calcium ion activity saves time compared to traditional titration methods.
- Wide ion concentration range allows for versatile applications.
- Replaceable sensing module extends the life of the electrode.
- BNC connector ensures compatibility with most pH meters.
- Reliable performance with proper calibration and temperature control.
Cons
- The cost of $2859 is substantial, making it inaccessible for some labs.
- Slow response time can be a limiting factor for high-throughput analyses.
- Sensitivity to temperature fluctuations requires meticulous environmental control.
Who Should Buy Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN?
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN is perfect for environmental monitoring labs, research institutions, and quality control facilities that require accurate and reliable measurements of calcium ion activity. It would greatly benefit researchers conducting soil analysis, water quality testing, and biological studies.
This product may not be ideal for budget-conscious labs or applications where rapid, high-throughput analyses are critical. Additionally, it is not the best choice for environments where temperature control is difficult to maintain.
A must-have accessory is a reliable temperature control system. It is also important to get a compatible reference electrode.
Conclusion on Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN
The Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN is a valuable tool for labs requiring accurate calcium ion activity measurements. It offers a significant improvement over traditional methods, especially in terms of ease of use and direct measurement.
The high price tag is a major consideration, but the reliability and replaceable sensing module help justify the cost over the long term. It is certainly a consideration since each electrode module has to be purchased separately.
I would recommend the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN to labs that prioritize accuracy and reliability over speed and cost. If you are working in an environment that requires meticulous calcium analysis, then the Thermo Fisher Scientific ORION Calcium Ion Activity Electrode, Plastic Membrane, Thermo Fisher Scientific Scientific 9320BN is a good product to purchase.