Cu-100 Copper Ion-Selective Electrode

Overview

The Cu-100 is a precision ion-selective electrode specifically designed for measuring copper (Cu²⁺) concentration in water. Copper monitoring is critical for drinking water safety, electroplating process control, mining operations, and environmental compliance. This sensor provides fast, accurate measurements essential for protecting public health and meeting regulatory requirements.

Key Features

• High Selectivity: Specifically designed for copper ion detection
• Wide Range: Measures from 0.06 to 6,400 mg/L (ppm)
• Dual Output Options: Supports both RS485 Modbus RTU and 4-20mA current output
• Fast Response: Results within 30 seconds
• Automatic Temperature Compensation: Integrated PT1000 sensor for accurate readings
• Direct Connection: Connect directly to computer or PLC without additional instrumentation
• High Protection: IP68 waterproof rating ensures reliable operation

Applications

• Drinking water quality monitoring
• Electroplating bath control
• Metal finishing processes
• Mining wastewater treatment
• Industrial effluent monitoring
• Environmental compliance testing
• Corrosion control monitoring
• Agricultural water testing
• Aquaculture water quality
• Research and laboratory analysis

Technical Specifications

The Cu-100 delivers precise copper measurements from 0.06 to 6,400 mg/L with automatic temperature compensation via the integrated PT1000 sensor. The ion-selective membrane provides exceptional selectivity for copper ions, making it ideal for trace metal detection in drinking water and environmental samples.

Understanding Copper in Water

Copper in water has both beneficial and harmful aspects:

Health Effects

• Essential Nutrient: Required in trace amounts (< 1 mg/day)
• Drinking Water: EPA action level is 1.3 mg/L
• Taste/Odor: Metallic taste at > 1 mg/L
• Toxicity: Gastrointestinal distress at high levels
• Aquatic Life: Very toxic to fish and invertebrates

Sources of Copper

• Plumbing: Copper pipes and fittings
• Corrosion: Acidic water dissolving copper
• Industrial: Electroplating, mining, manufacturing
• Agricultural: Algicides, fungicides, pesticides
• Natural: Mineral deposits and weathering

Regulatory Limits

• EPA Drinking Water: 1.3 mg/L action level
• Aquatic Life: 0.013 mg/L (freshwater chronic)
• Industrial Discharge: Varies by permit
• Swimming Pools: 1.0 mg/L maximum

Industrial Applications

Electroplating

• Bath Monitoring: Maintaining optimal copper concentration
• Process Control: Ensuring consistent plating quality
• Waste Treatment: Monitoring copper removal efficiency

Mining Operations

• Leaching Solutions: Tracking copper extraction
• Wastewater: Meeting discharge limits
• Process Optimization: Maximizing recovery

Typical Copper Levels

• Drinking water: < 1.0 mg/L
• Corrosive water: 1.0-3.0 mg/L
• Electroplating baths: 50-200 mg/L
• Mining wastewater: Variable, often elevated
• Industrial discharge limit: Typically < 1.0 mg/L
• Aquaculture (toxic): > 0.1 mg/L

Connectivity and Integration

With its RS485 Modbus RTU interface, the Cu-100 seamlessly integrates into modern SCADA systems, industrial process controllers, and environmental monitoring networks. The 4-20mA current output option ensures compatibility with traditional controllers and alarm systems.

Installation and Maintenance

The Cu-100 requires regular calibration with standard copper solutions for optimal accuracy. The sensor should be cleaned periodically and stored properly when not in use. The robust IP68-rated construction allows for continuous immersion in industrial and environmental monitoring systems.

Corrosion Control

Copper monitoring helps identify corrosive water conditions:

• High copper indicates pipe corrosion
• pH and alkalinity adjustments can reduce corrosion
• Critical for protecting plumbing infrastructure
• Prevents copper contamination of water supply