Overview
IEC 60746-3:2002 - "Expression of performance of electrochemical analyzers - Part 3: Electrolytic conductivity" specifies terminology, definitions and manufacturer statement requirements for electrolytic conductivity analyzers, sensor units and electronic units. It establishes performance tests, calibration and verification procedures, and supporting documents intended to underpin quality assurance for conductivity measurement of aqueous solutions. This part is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60746-1: General.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Terminology and definitions: clear definitions for electrolytic conductance, electrolytic conductivity (κ), cell constant (K), polarization, temperature coefficient, cell capacitance and leakage currents.
- Sensor and electronic unit specification: requirements for stating cell type (flow‑through, dip, inductive/capacitive), cell constant and tolerance, temperature compensator type, measuring frequency(ies), and cell constant adjustment range.
- Performance tests and verification: procedures for calibration, recommended test solutions, simulation of sensors (resistor simulators), and verification of values for specific sensor–electronics combinations.
- Temperature effects and compensation: guidance on temperature coefficients and sample temperature compensation techniques for accurate conductivity reporting.
- Response time and dynamic tests: alternative procedures for measuring response times (delay, rise/fall and 90% times) are provided (Annex C).
- Reference data and annexes: Annex A (KCl calibration solutions and pure water conductivity), Annex B (NaCl solution conductivities), Annex D (conductivity cell descriptions) supply reference values and practical guidance.
Practical applications
IEC 60746-3 is designed to ensure consistent, traceable and comparable expression of performance for conductivity measurement equipment. Typical uses include:
- Calibration and metrology laboratories performing conductivity analyzer verification and calibration.
- Manufacturers of conductivity sensors, conductivity meters and electrochemical analyzers preparing product datasheets and performance statements.
- Quality assurance and procurement teams specifying minimum performance criteria for process and laboratory monitoring.
- Process control, water treatment, ultrapure water monitoring, chemical, pharmaceutical and environmental monitoring where reliable conductivity measurement and temperature compensation are critical.
Who should use this standard
- Instrument and sensor manufacturers (to define performance claims and test methods)
- Calibration labs and testing houses (to perform verification and report results)
- OEMs and system integrators (to specify compatible sensor–electronics combinations)
- QA/Regulatory personnel and procurement specialists (to assess product conformity and suitability)
Related standards
- IEC 60746-1:2003 - General requirements and procedures that must be read alongside IEC 60746-3 for complete guidance on expression of performance of electrochemical analyzers.
Keywords: IEC 60746-3, electrolytic conductivity, electrochemical analyzers, conductivity sensors, cell constant, temperature compensation, calibration, performance tests, conductivity measurement.