Conductivity Sensors & Transmitters

Conductivity Sensors & Transmitters

Conductivity measurement is a foundational liquid-analysis parameter used to quantify ionic content and infer concentration, purity, and process consistency. Conductivity sensors and transmitters are deployed for high-precision measurement across industries, from high-purity water to aggressive chemical service. Because conductivity responds quickly to changes in dissolved salts and acids/bases, it is frequently used as an early indicator for contamination, mixing errors, and rinse endpoint verification.

The category includes conductive (electrode-based) sensors as well as toroidal/inductive sensors for challenging services where coating, polarization, or high conductivity can degrade traditional electrodes. Transmitters provide temperature compensation, linearization, diagnostics, and standard outputs, and can be configured as single- or multi-channel devices depending on the measurement architecture. Product families include Memosens and Liquiline offerings with broad support for common industrial communications and network integration.

Benefits are strongest where stable measurement enables tighter control and faster decision-making. Continuous conductivity supports real-time concentration control, verification of cleaning and rinsing cycles, and detection of leaks or carryover between process stages. In ultrapure and demineralized systems, it provides immediate feedback on ion-exchanger health and membrane performance. In industrial service, inductive technologies help maintain reliable measurement in applications that would otherwise require frequent cleaning or electrode replacement.

Typical applications include boiler feedwater and condensate return, reverse osmosis and demineralizer trains, CIP skids, and process-water distribution loops. In chemical and mining operations, conductivity can be used for dosing control, neutralization trending, and quality confirmation of brines, acids, and caustics. Food and beverage and life sciences commonly use conductivity for product quality checks, separation verification, and documentation of rinse validation and water utility performance.

Proper selection emphasizes measurement range, sensor style, and installation geometry. Cell constant, temperature range, and material compatibility must be matched to the fluid and expected fouling behavior. Installation options include immersion, flow-through, and insertion assemblies, with attention to avoiding air entrapment and ensuring representative mixing. Transmitter requirements typically include analog outputs and/or digital protocols to standardize integration across PLC/SCADA environments.

Field Instruments & Controls, Inc. an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.