Lab Grade Probes

[NaH2O]

Does anyone know if lab grade probes are worth the extra money compared to standard grade probes? I've been looking at controllers, and see the standard vs. lab grade probes. My initial instinct is the lab grade would be much better quality, but I don't know how much or if it is even necessary in the hobby. Anyone know the differences?

 

[Beckmola24]

I too was wondering this and found a quote on RC from one of their sponsors.

The lab grade probes have these advantages:
- Higher quality junction which results in a longer probe lifetime.
- Epoxy seal on the tip of the probe. This seals makes the probe presure rated so that it can be mounted into in-line fittings.
They are a special compression fitting w/ an o-ring. The inline fittings usually fit into a 3/4" PVC tee (has standard threads).

He also goes on to mention that lab grade probes last 18-24 months in a saltwater tank. Hope this helps!

 

[NaH2O]

Becky - thanks for the helpful info!

 

[Boomer]

Nikki for us no, the cheapos are just fine. So what is the dif ? More accurate, flatter response curves, quicker readings, less drift ( down to .002 pH units /day and some measure pH down to .001 pH units). And when you go all the way $250 -350 a pop. There are some out that that would be nice for us, called ISFET but you need the meter with it...and...pricey :lol:. These are not your normal galls electrodes but an IC chip called a ISFET imbedded in the tip, so there are not all the problems associated with glass probes and ref. junctions ( the big issue on glass probes). And they don't break like glass electrode One of my old friends is director of research and development at Sensorex ( for 3 decades) and he will tell you a $ 60-100 or so probe is good enough for us. Matter of fact most of the probes in this hobby are his There is in all normal glass electrodes something called a ref solution, which in times can/will go bad. There are probes that have a built in ref "tube" that allow you to flush the ref junction when ever you want, as the newer the ref solution the better the probe is. Some probes you can take apart and change the ref solution also. Despite all this other than ISFET, it is SOP in labs to change probes a least every 2 years and in most cases every year.