SOP for Sterile Processing Service--NIHCS.docx

1.0 Policy

It is the policy of this Medical Center to provide proper cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of all Reusable Medical Equipment (RME), ensuring compliance standards for infection prevention and control and patient safety. The colorimetric dipsticks and Ultrameter II will be used to test the quality of utility water and critical water used in the Sterile Processing Service area. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Northern Indiana VA Healthcare System will be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions of the products listed below and the Associate Advancement of Medical Instrumentation Technical Information Report 34: 2017 (R). This SOP is appropriate for using the following equipment:

Vendor:

Fort Wayne - Serial # 6270974

2.0 Procedure

Procedure

NOTE: Critical and utility water that is used in the Sterile Processing Service (SPS) will be tested and recorded daily and weekly by SPS technicians, according to AAMI recommendations and specifications. If any parameter is out of range, the technician will immediately notify the SPS Supervisor/Chief, who will contact Facility Management Service (FMS) to investigate.

SPECIAL NOTES for the Ultrameter II: The vendor will be responsible for calibrating the device monthly and recording the process/results in the computer on the website where water quality results are recorded.

A. SPS Responsibility – Using the Ultrameter II

· Turning the Ultrameter on/off

1. To activate the unit, push any of the following keys on the meter: COND, RES, TDS, ORP and pH. After 15 seconds of inactivity the meter will automatically shut off. Fr Chl

2. The device takes 1 9-Volt battery and a notification will present on the screen when it needs changed.

NOTE: The Ultrameter II is waterproof and can be fully immersed under water and is considered to be accurate ±1%.

· Operation of the Keys

1. COND key is utilized for conductivity. Rinse the cell on the left 3x with the testing solution and then fill the cell with solution/water to test. Press the COND button for the result.

2. pH key is utilized for pH monitoring. Remove the protective cap from the right well and rinse 3x with the testing solution. Press the pH button for the result. NOTE: After use, the pH well must be refilled with Myron K Storage Solution and the cap placed securely.

B. SPS Responsibility – Water Quality Testing (Daily)

· Collecting a sample

1. Run the water for at least 60 seconds before collecting a sample of either utility (tap) water or critical water.

· Utility (tap) water must be a mixture of cold and hot water from the sink on the far-left end (where cleaning occurs and tap water mixes with detergent).

· Critical water is collected from the RO spicket.

2. Collect at least 100-300cc of the sample water into a glass beaker (sample cannot be collected with anything made of polypropylene).

· Color (Critical and Utility Tap Water)

1. Inspect that the utility (tap) water and critical water (RO) are colorless, clear, and contain no residues.

2. Record results in computer. See ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

· Conductivity (Critical Water and Utility Tap Water)

1. Rinse the left cell on the Ultrameter II (the one that does not have a cap) 3 times with the sample solution. Ensure the pH protective cap is secure to avoid contamination.

2. After 3 rinses, fill the cell completely with sample. Press COND. A pass conductivity result for critical water is less than 10 µS/cm. A pass conductivity result for utility water is less than 500 µS/cm.

3. Record results in computer. See section ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

4. After use, rinse the meter with clean water and dry with a lint-free towel dampened with alcohol.

· Temperature Monitoring (Reprocessing Sink, Ultrasonic, Cart Washer, Washer/Disinfector and Automatic Endoscope Reprocessor [AER])

1. At the reprocessing sinks, use the Acu-SinQ to monitor and record that the temperature of the water is between 90-130°F when mixing with Prolystica 2X Concentrate Enzymatic or Neutral Detergent.

2. In the ultrasonic, use the infrared thermometer to monitor and record the temperature of the detergent solution in the ultrasonic is between 90-130°F when using the Prolystica 2X Concentrate Neutral Detergent.

3. For the automatic washer, use the temperature reading from the mechanical readout of the ‘All-Clean’ test. Use the temperature reading from Wash 1 and wash one, stage 2. See attachment C for soap temperature parameters. See highlighted mechanical printout example in attachment C.

4. For the cart washer, use the temperature reading from the mechanical readout of the daily “Tempa-Check” test. Use the temperature reading from the ‘heated wash’ section. See attachment C for soap temperature parameters. See highlighted mechanical printout example in attachment C.

5. For the AER, use the temperature reading from the first load of the day on the mechanical readout under ‘detergent’ and ‘basin temperature.’ See attachment C for soap temperature parameters. See highlighted mechanical printout example in attachment C.

6. See section ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

· Filter Pressures (AER)

1. Pressures across the membranes of the filters used in the AER must be recorded daily. If water pressure drops below 40 PSI or the difference between the gauges is greater than 5 PSI, notify Biomed as this means the corresponding filter needs to be replaced.

2. The pressures gauges to be recorded daily are as follows:

· Inlet pressure gaugeInlet Pressure Gauge 0.4-micron filter

· 1-micron filter outlet pressure gauge1-micron filter outlet pressure Gauge

· 0.4-micron filter outlet pressure gauge

3. See section ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

C. SPS Responsibility – Water Quality Testing (Weekly)

· pH (Utility Tap and Critical Water-Weekly, First day of the week)

1. Remove protective cap of the pH cell on the Ultrameter II by rotating while grasping and pulling up.

2. Rinse the pH cell 3 times with the sample solution. Shake out each sample to remove any residual liquid.

3. After 3 rinses, fill the cell completely with the sample and press pH.

4. Record results in computer. See section ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

A pH pass result is the following parameters:

· Utility (Tap) water = 6 - 9

· Critical water = 5 - 7

5. After use, rinse the meter and cell cup with clean water and dry with a lint-free towel dampened with alcohol. After drying, fill the pH cell (on the right) with the Myron pH/ORP sensor storage solution. Replace the black cap. The pH cell must ALWAYS be stored with the storage solution when not in use.

· Hardness (Utility Tap and Critical Water-Weekly, First day of the week)

1. Dip a Sofchek Total Hardness Test Strip into the water for 1 second. Remove. Shake off excess water gently.

2. Hold the strip level, with pad side up, for 15 seconds. Compare the color of the test pad to the color chart on the bottle.

3. A total hardness pass result is for the following parameters:

· Utility (Tap) water = < 150 ppm (as CaCO3)

· Critical water = < 1 ppm (as CaCO3)

4. Record results in computer. See section ENTERING WATER QUALITY RESULTS below.

NOTE: When opening a new bottle of the Sofchek Total Hardness Test Strips, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) must be printed. A COA request must be emailed to etscoareq@hach.com. In the subject line enter COA REQUEST. For the request verbiage type Needing COA for Catalog # 2745250 and lot number on the bottom of the bottle. The company will email the certificate which needs to be printed and placed in labeled binder that is stored in the decontamination area.

D. SPS Responsibility – Entering Water Quality Results on the Website

NOTE: All SPS technicians are responsible for entering the results of the daily and weekly critical water and utility water testing into the computer. All results will be reviewed daily and reported by the Chief of SPS to the RME Committee monthly. If any parameter is out of range, SPS will contact Facility Management Service (FMS) to investigate.

1. To document water results, go to the following website:

· Go to www.weasreports.com and enter user ID and password (must use Google Chrome).

2. Once on the WEAS reporting website:

· Under Select Facility, choose the correct facility (Marion or FTW).

· Under Select System, choose SPS.

3. Under REPORTS, click on CREATE REPORT drop down menu, and choose OPERATOR.

4. Enter results of the testing completed in the corresponding name location on the report. A failed result will turn red when entered into the computer. A pass result will turn green. In the event of a failed result (red), notify SPS supervisor immediately.

5. Final Results:

· Save as a DRAFT. Supervisor will review and submit as FINAL.

E. Facility Management Service Responsibility – Utility and Critical Water Testing

NOTE: FMS is responsible for monitoring water quality for the reprocessing of medical devices wherever reprocessing occurs throughout the facility according to guidelines in AAMI TIR 34:2014 and ANSI/AAMI ST 79:2017. FMS will report the results of the monitoring/testing to the Reusable Medical Equipment (RME) Committee through the Chief of SPS. In addition, FMS will ensure the parameters recommended by the AAMI TIR 34:2017 are met.

1. Facility Management Service (FMS) will ensure the following parameters are met:

(Flushing/Washing/Rinsing) Critical Water (HLD Rinse/Final Rinse/Steam)

Total Organic Carbon

< 1 mg/mL

Bacteria

< 10 cfu/mL

Endotoxins

< 10 EU/mL

2. FMS will work with an outside, contracted vendor to ensure the above parameters are met and maintained with required monthly and yearly water quality testing per attachment A. SPS will monitor and test water quality daily and weekly per Attachment B & C. If any parameter is out of range, SPS Supervisor/Chief will contact Facility Management Service (FMS) to investigate. Attachment A, B and C indicates what will be tested, the type of test conducted, the sample site where the test will be taken, and the frequency of the testing.

3. To maintain steam purity and minimize the presence of potential contaminants in the steam, FMS should:

· Treat the feedwater with boiler additives and/or feedwater conditioners so that its condition and/or chemistry do not damage the boiler or steam lines.

· Monitor boiler additives and feedwater conditioners.

· Use only additives and conditioners approved for use in the food and drug industries (21 CFR 173.310 and 21 CFR 200.11)

· Install in-line filters that are as close to the sterilizer as possible and include a drip leg or trap for condensate material.

· Develop procedures to monitor steam purity and provide corrective action.

4. Facilities should NOT:

· User boiler additives and feedwater conditioners on a batch basis.

· Add boiler additives or feedwater conditioners to the steam in the steam distribution system.

· Use amines for conditioning steam lines (as opposed to the use of amines in feedwater treatment)

5. FMS must provide for the preventive maintenance, repair, and monitoring of boilers and steam distribution lines that provide steam for sterile processing and for the documentation of corrective actions. The monitoring and testing program for boilers should generally include determination of

· Incoming water hardness, pH, Iron content, and alkalinity (daily)

· Boiler water alkalinity and pH

· Condensate return alkalinity, conductivity, sulfites, and pH.

3.0 Appendices

4.0 References

5.0 Revision History

VA Northern Indiana Health Care System (610)

Rev 2

Final

Document Number:

VHA-V11-610-SPS-SOP-SPS-00001

02/10/2022 Approval Date:

02/11/2021 Page:

This document is uncontrolled when printed. Refer to document owner for controlled document version.

Bacteria

Heterotrophic Plate Count

Monthly

Endotoxins

LAL Test

RO spicket in reprocessing area. Storage tanks (if used), immediately downstream of water treatment process

Ionic Contaminants

Quarterly until a years’ worth of readings within range; Then Annually

Chloride

Iron

Copper

Manganese

pH

Water Hardness (Determination of ppm CaCO3 )

Conductivity Meter

Ultrameter II/Vendor Testing Site

µS/cm

Color and Turbidity

Visual Inspection

NOTE: Per facility, the designated vendor will be responsible to perform monthly calibration on the Myron L meter. The completion of this task will be documented in the notes/comments section in the monthly vendor water testing results.

Attachment A Facilities Management Services/Vendor Responsibilities for Utility and Critical Water Quality Monitoring and Testing Guidelines

Water Hardness (Determination of ppm CaCO3 )

NOTE: When opening a new bottle of the Sofchek Total Hardness Test Strips, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) must be printed. A COA request must be emailed to etscoareq@hach.com. In the subject line enter COA REQUEST. For the request verbiage type Needing COA for Catalog # 2745250 and lot number on the bottom of the bottle. The company will email the certificate which needs to be printed and placed in labeled binder.

Conductivity

Ultrameter II

Daily

Inspection

Temperature

Acu-sinQ

Sinks - Detergent temperature

See attachment C for all soap temperature parameters

· Cart Washer

· Instrument Washer

· Ultrasonic

· AER

· AquSinQ

Infrared Thermometer

Ultrasonic - Detergent Temperature

Mechanical Printout

Equipment that monitors the water temperature for detergent:

· Cart Washer

· Instrument Washer

· AER

Filters AER Filter x3/medivator

· Inlet pressure gaugeInlet Pressure Gauge

· 1-micron filter outlet pressure gauge

· 0.4-micron filter outlet pressure gauge 0.4-micron filter

If water pressure drops below 40 PSI or the difference between the gauges is greater than 5 PSI the corresponding filter needs to be replaced

Inlet Pressure Gauge 1-micron filter

Attachment B Sterile Processing Service Responsibilities for Water Quality and Testing Guidelines

Instrument Washer (Results from ‘All Clean’ Test)

Cart Washer (Results ‘Cart Wash Check’ Test)

Ultrasonic (SonoCheck)

Aqu-SinQ (First water of the day)

Automatic Endoscope Reprocessor (AER) (first load of day)

20 ͦ C -35 ͦ C Mechanical Printout - basin temperature under ‘detergent’

Instrument Washer Receipt Cart Washer Receipt AER Receipt

Attachment C Temperature Parameters for Soap

Specification

Water Hardness (Determination of ppm CaCO3 )

Conductivity

Ultrameter II

Inspection

Acu-sinQ

Sinks - Detergent temperature

See soap testing parameters on back

Infrared Thermometer

Ultrasonic - Detergent Temperature

Mechanical Printout

Equipment that monitors water temperature for detergent:

AER, instrument washer and cart washer

Filters AER Filter (x3)/medivator

Pressure across membrane

· Inlet pressure gauge

· 1-micron filter outlet pressure gauge

· 0.4-micron filter outlet pressure gauge See picture on attachment B of Water Testing SOP;

VHA-V11-610-SPS-SOP-SPS-00001

If water pressure drops below 40 PSI or the difference between the gauges is greater than 5 PSI the corresponding filter needs to be replaced

Water/Soap Temperature Parameters

Automatic Endoscope Reprocessor (AER)

20 C -35 ͦ C Mechanical Printout under

- Detergent

- Basin temperature

Daily/Weekly Water Testing Parameters for SPSDaily Quality Assurance Monitoring on Daily/Weekly Water Testing for SPS

All critical water testing results/out of range results for reprocessing activities must be reported to the VISN SPS Management Board, through the Facility RME Committee.

image3.jpeg image4.png image5.emf

Myron L Company Ultrameter II (7-20-2020).pdf

18 February 16

Operation Manual

MODELS 6PFCE & 4P

ULTRAMETER ™

BUFFER

°CRATIO % /

ORP RES TDSpHCOND

22nov11

Reference Junction under Glass pH Bulb

These Measurement keys will:

• Turn instrument on

• Measure parameter

• Exit any function

(Built-in Electrodes)

Preprogrammed variable conductivity/ TDS ratios

Parameters

Wrist/neck strap slot (user supplied) pH/ORP Sensor Protective Cap

This key for:

• Calibration

• Memory Clear

• Solution Selection

• Confirmation

Up key/Memory Store

Down key/Memory Recall

Conductivity Cell

USER mode for programming special temperature compensation factor and conductivity/TDS ratio

Displayed here:

• Temperature readout

• USER temperature compensation or conductivity/TDS ratio

• Memory Storage/ Recall

• pH Calibration

ORP

Electrode pH Glass

Electrode pH/ORP Sensor (Replaceable)

For detailed explanations see Table of Contents

Instrument Illustration

Sensor

MODEL 6PFCE

Shown with bluDock™ option installed

Time & Date displayed here

TEST Value bluDock Enabled i ii

I. INTRODUCTION

Thank you for selecting the feature-packed Ultrameter II™, one of the Myron L® Company’s latest in an increasing line of instruments utilizing advanced microprocessor-based circuitry and SMT manufacturing processes. This circuitry makes the instrument extremely accurate, reliable and very easy to use.

Model 6PIIFCE includes Myron L® Company’s exclusive Free Chlorine Equivalent (FCE) feature for making ORP-based free chlorine measurements. Both Ultrameter IIs now also feature optional Bluetooth® wireless data transfer. Other features include a clock with time and date, memory of up to 100 locations with time and date stamp, the ability of the user to adjust the timeout “Auto oFF”, and enhanced performance.

See Features and Specifications on pages 2 & 3.

The most exciting new feature is data logging with the ability to download the memory or stored test data wirelessly with its corresponding time, date and unit name. This feature allows the user to create spreadsheets and graphs with ease and quickly and accurately manipulate data more effectively. The optional bluDock™ and accompanying U2CI software is compatible with most computers using either Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, or 7™ or Macintosh OSX™. The data may be imported into a variety of spreadsheet formats like Microsoft Excel CSV™.

Please Note: Although the Myron L® Company has performed extensive testing, we cannot guarantee compatibility of all applications and formats.

We suggest testing your application and format for compatibility before relying on it.

For your convenience, a brief set of instructions is provided on the bottom side of your Ultrameter II. A waterproof pocket-sized card with abbreviated instructions is also included with the instrument.

Special note ... Conductivity, resistivity, and TDS require mathematical correction to 25°C values (ref. Temperature Compensation, pg. 39). On the left of the Ultrameter II’s liquid crystal display is shown an indicator of the salt solution characteristic used to model temperature compensation of conductivity and its TDS conversion. The indicator may be KCl, NaCl, 442™ or User. Selection affects the temperature correction of conductivity, and the calculation of TDS from compensated conductivity (ref. Conductivity Conversion to Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pg. 41). The selection can affect the reported conductivity of hot or cold solutions, and will change the reported TDS of a solution. Generally, using KCl for conductivity, NaCl for resistivity, and 442 (Natural Water characteristic) for TDS will reflect present industry practice for standardization. This is how your instrument, as shipped from the factory, is set to operate. For use in sea water desalination for example, both the conductivity and TDS may easily be changed to NaCl.

II. FEATURES and SPECIFICATIONS A. Features

• ORP-based FCE free chlorine measurement, displayed as ppm concentration (6PFCE)

• Superior resolution 4 digit LCD displays full 9999 µS/ppm

• Cond/TDS accuracy of ±1% of ReADINg in a handheld instrument ±0.1% at calibration point

• All electrodes are internal for maximum protection

• Improved 4 electrode sensor technology

• Waterproof to 1 meter/3 feet

• Autoranging conductivity/TDS/resistivity

• Prompts for easy pH calibration (6PFCE)

• Factory calibrations stored in microprocessor

• 3 conductivity/TDS solution conversions preprogrammed into microprocessor

• User mode feature allows:

Programming your own cond/TDS conversion factor Programming your own temperature compensation factor Disabling temperature compensation

• Real Time Clock with Time and Date

• Data Logging with TIMe and DATe in memory

• Memory stores 100 readings

• User adjustable timeout “Auto oFF”

• Bluetooth® wireless download capability with optional bluDock™ B. General Specifications Display 4 Digit LCD Dimensions (LxWxH) 196 x 68 x 64 mm/

7.7 x 2.7 x 2.5 in.

Weight 352 g/12.4 oz.

Case Material VALOX* Cond/Res/TDS Cell Material VALOX* Cond/TDS electrodes (4) 316 Stainless Steel Cond/Res/TDS Cell Capacity 5 ml/0.2 oz.

pH/ORP Sensor Well Capacity 1,2 ml/0.04 oz. (6PFCE) Power 9V Alkaline Battery Battery Life >100 Hours/5000 Readings Operating/Storage Temperature 0-55°C/32-132°F Protection Ratings IP67/NeMA 6 (waterproof to 1 meter/3 feet) eMI/eMC Ratings eN61326-1: 2006 + Annex A: 2008 (hand-held devices) (Conformité Européenne) CISPR 11: 2003

IeC 61000-4-2: 2001 and, IeC 61000-4-3: 2002* ™ SABIC Innovative Plastics IP BV

Additional information is available on our website:

www.myronl.com

MADe IN USA

C. Specification Chart

*EM Susceptibility: When Measuring 10.0 pH Reference Solution ±0.2 pH in the presence of RF �elds ≥ 3 V/m.

±0.37 pH in the presence of RF �elds at 300 MHz (±30MHz) **If either ORP or pH is outside the speci�ed limits, the instrument will display "-Or-".

D. Warranty/Service The Myron L Ultrameter II, excluding the pH/ORP sensor (6PFCE), has a Two (2) Year Limited Warranty. The pH/ORP sensor (6PFCE) has a Six (6) Month Limited Warranty for materials and workmanship. If an instrument fails to operate properly, see Troubleshooting Chart, pg. 36.

The battery and pH/ORP sensor are user-replaceable. For other service, return the instrument prepaid to the Myron L® Company.

MyRON L® COMPANy 2450 Impala Drive

Carlsbad, CA 92010-7226 USA +1-760-438-2021

E-Mail: info@myronl.com techquestions@myronl.com www.myronl.com

If, in the opinion of the factory, failure was due to materials or workmanship, repair or replacement will be made without charge. A reasonable service charge will be made for diagnosis or repairs due to normal wear, abuse or tampering. This warranty is limited to the repair or replacement of the Ultrameter II only. The Myron L® Company assumes no other responsibility or liability.

E. Ultrameter II Models

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Instrument Illustration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

I. INTRODUCTION

II. FeATUReS and SPeCIFICATIONS A. Features B. general Specifications C. Specification Chart D. Warranty/Service E. Ultrameter II Models III. RULeS of OPeRATION A. Operation B. Characteristics of the Keys C. Operation of the Keys

1. Measurement Keys in General

2. COND, ReS and TDS Keys

3. pH and ORP/Fr Chl Keys (6PFCE)

4. CAL/MCLR Key

5. UP or DOWN Keys IV. AFTeR USINg THe ULTRAMeTeR II A. Maintenance of the Conductivity Cell B. Maintenance of the pH/ORP Sensor (6PFCE) V. SPeCIFIC ReCOMMeNDeD MeASURINg

PROCEDURES

A. Measuring Conductivity & Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) B. Measuring Resistivity C. Measuring pH (6PFCE) D. Measuring ORP (6PFCE)

1. ORP/FCE Mode Selection

2. Measuring ORP E. Measuring Free Chlorine Using FCE

1. Prepare for FCE Measurement

2. FCE Flow Method

3. FCE Immersion Method

4. FCE Best Practices VI. SOLUTION SeLeCTION A. Why Solution Selection is Available B. The 4 Solution Types C. Calibration of Each Solution Type D. Procedure to Select a Solution E. Application of User Solution Type

1. User Programmable Temperature Compensation (Tempco)

2. Disabling Temperature Compensation . . . 15

3. User Programmable Conductivity to TDS Ratio

VII. CALIBRATION

A. Calibration Intervals B. Rules for Calibration of the Ultrameter II

1. Calibration Steps

2. Calibration Limits C. Calibration Procedures

1. Conductivity or TDS Calibration

2. User Calibration Conductivity/TDS

3. Resistivity Calibration

4. Reloading Factory Calibration (Cond or TDS)

5. pH Calibration (6PFCE)

6. ORP Calibration (6PFCE)

7. Temperature Calibration VIII. CALIBRATION INTeRVALS A. Suggested Intervals B. Calibration Tracking Records C. Conductivity, RES, TDS Practices D. pH and ORP Practices (6PFCE) IX. MeMORY A. Memory Storage B. Memory Recall C. Clearing a Record/Memory Clear X. TIMe and DATe A. Setting TIMe B. Setting DATE C. DATe FORMAT “US & International (Int)” XI. TeMPeRATURe FORMAT “Centigrade & Fahrenheit” XII. TOTAL ReTURN to FACTORY SeTTINgS XIII. CeLL CHeCK

XIV. AUTO OFF

XV. USER Mode CALIBRATION LINC™ FUNCTION A. Calibration of Ultrameter II for use in User mode B. Setting User mode Calibration “Linc” C. Canceling User mode Calibration “Linc” XVI. bluDock™ Wireless Data Transfer Instructions A. Software Installation B. Hardware Setup C. Memory Stack Download XVII. CARe and MAINTeNANCe

A. Temperature Extremes B. Battery Replacement C. pH/ORP Sensor Replacement (6PFCE) D. Cleaning Sensors XVIII. TROUBLeSHOOTINg CHART XIX. ACCeSSORIeS A. Conductivity/TDS Standard Solutions B. pH Buffer Solutions (6PFCE) C. pH Sensor Storage Solution (6PFCE) D. ORP Sensor Conditioner Solution (6PFCE) E. Soft Protective Carry Cases F. Hard Protective Carry Cases

g. Replacement pH/ORP Sensor (6PFCE) H. bluDock™ Wireless Data Transfer Accessory Package XX. TeMPeRATURe COMPeNSATION (Tempco) of Aqueous Solutions A. Standardized to 25°C B. Tempco Variation C. An example of 2 different solution selections and the resulting compensation D. A Chart of Comparative Error E. Other Solutions XXI. CONDUCTIVITY CONVeRSION to TOTAL DISSOLVeD SOLIDS (TDS) A. How it’s Done B. Solution Characteristics C. When does it make a lot of difference?

XXII. TeMPeRATURe COMPeNSATION (Tempco) and TDS DeRIVATION A. Conductivity Characteristics B. Finding the Tempco of an Unknown Solution . . . 43 C. Finding the TDS Ratio of an Unknown Solution XXIII. pH and ORP (6PFCE) A. pH (6PFCE) B. ORP/Oxidation-Reduction Potential/

REDOX (6PFCE)

C. Free Chlorine Equivalent

1. FCE as an Indicator of Sanitizing Strength

2. FCE Units XXIV. SOFTWARe VeRSION

XXV. GLOSSARY

III. RULES of OPERATION A. Operation Using the instrument is simple:

• Individual or multiple parameter readings may be obtained by filling individual sensors or entire cell cup area.

• Rinse the conductivity cell or pH/ORP sensor (6PFCE) well with test solution 3 times and refill. Temperature and/or measurement extremes will require additional rinses for maximum accuracy.

• Press the desired measurement key to start measurement.

Pressing the key again restarts the 15 second “Auto oFF” timer.

• Note the value displayed or press the MS key to store the reading (ref. Memory Storage, pg. 23). It’s that simple!

B. Characteristics of the Keys

• Though your Ultrameter II has a variety of sophisticated options, it is designed to provide quick, easy, accurate measurements by simply pressing one key.

• All functions are performed one key at a time.

• There is no “off” key. After 15 seconds of inactivity the instrument turns itself off (60 seconds in CAL mode). User adjustable up to 75 seconds (ref. Auto oFF, pg. 28).

• Rarely is it necessary to press and hold a key (as in Procedure to Select a Solution, pg. 14; or Conductivity or TDS Calibration,

pg. 18).

C. Operation of the Keys (See Instrument Illustration, pg. i)

1. Measurement Keys in General Any of the 5 measurement keys in the upper part of the keypad turns on the instrument in the mode selected. The mode is shown at the bottom of the display, and the measurement units appear at the right. Pressing a measurement key does this even if you are in a calibration sequence and also serves to cancel a change (ref. Leaving Calibration, pg. 17).

2. COND, RES and TDS Keys These 3 keys are used with solution in the Conductivity Cell.

Precautions:

• While filling cell cup ensure no air bubbles cling on the cell wall.

• If the proper solution is not selected (KCl, NaCl, 442 or User), refer to Why Solution Selection is Available, pg. 14 and Procedure to Select a Solution, pg. 14.

a. COND Key Solution to be tested is introduced into the conductivity cell and a press of displays conductivity with units on the right. On the left is shown the solution type selected for conductivity.

b. RES Key A press of displays resistivity with units on the right. On the left is shown solution type selected for resistivity (ref. Solution Selection, pg.

14). The range of display of resistivity is limited to between 10 kilohms (KΩ) and 30 megohms (MΩ). A solution outside that range will only show [- - - -] in the display.

c. TDS Key A press of displays Total Dissolved Solids with units on the right.

This is a display of the concentration of material calculated from compensated conductivity using the characteristics of a known material.

On the left is shown solution type selected for TDS (ref. Solution Selection, pg. 14).

3. pH and ORP/Fr Chl Keys (6PFCE) Measurements are made on solution held in the pH/ORP sensor well (ref. pH and ORP, pg. 44). The protective cap is removed and the sensor well is filled and rinsed with the sample enough times to completely replace the storage solution.

After use, the pH/ORP sensor well must be refilled with Myron L Storage Solution, and the protective cap reinstalled securely (ref. Maintenance of the pH/ORP Sensor, pg. 9 and Cleaning Sensors, 2. pH/ORP, pg. 34).

a. pH Key (6PFCE) A press of displays pH readings. No units are displayed on the right.

b. ORP/Fr Chl Key (6PFCE)

In ORP mode, a press of ORP Fr Chl displays Oxidation-Reduction

Potential/ReDOX reading in millivolts; “mV” is displayed.

When the FCE mode is activated, a press of ORP Fr Chl displays the Free

Chlorine Equivalent reading in “ppm” alternating with the FCE predictive ORP reading in “mV”.

4. CAL/MCLR Key A press of allows you to enter the calibration mode while measuring conductivity, TDS or pH. Once in CAL mode, a press of this key accepts the new value. If no more calibration options follow, the instrument returns to measuring (ref. Leaving Calibration, pg. 17).

If is held down for about 3 seconds when the ORP or FCE functions are active, CAL mode is not entered. Instead either “OrP” or “Chl” will appear depending on which mode is active. Change modes by pressing the Up or Down buttons. Press any parameter key to exit ORP unit preference selection or let the unit time out. ORP unit preference will be saved.

If is held down for about 3 seconds at any other time, CAL mode but “SEL” appears to allow Solution Selection (ref. pg. 14) with the Up or is not entered, Down keys. As in calibration, the CAL key is now an “accept” key.

While reviewing stored records, the MCLR side of the key is active to allow clearing records (ref. Clearing a Record/Memory Clear, pg. 24).

5. UP or DOWN Keys While measuring in any parameter, the or keys activate the Memory Store and Memory Recall functions.

While in CAL mode, the keys step or scroll the displayed value up or down. A single press steps the display and holding either key scrolls the value rapidly.

While in Memory Recall, the keys scroll the display up and down through the stack of records (ref. Memory Recall, pg. 23).

IV. AFTER USING ThE ULTRAMETER II A. Maintenance of the Conductivity Cell Rinse out the cell cup with clean water. Do not scrub the cell. For oily films, squirt in a foaming non-abrasive cleaner and rinse (ref. Cleaning Sensors, pg. 34). even if a very active chemical discolors the electrodes, this does not affect the accuracy; leave it alone.

B. Maintenance of the pH/ORP Sensor (6PFCE) The sensor well must be kept wet with a saline solution. Before replacing the rubber cap, rinse and fill the sensor well with Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution. If unavailable, use an almost saturated KCl solution, pH 4 buffer or a saturated solution of table salt and tap water (ref.

pH and ORP Practices to Maintain Calibration, pg. 23). NEVER USE DISTILLeD WATeR.

V. SPECIFIC RECOMMENDED MEASURING PROCEDURES

If the proper solution is not selected (KCl, NaCl, 442 or User), see Solution Selection, pg. 14.

NOTE: After sampling high concentration solutions or temperature extremes, more rinsing may be required. When sampling low conductivity solutions, be sure the pH cap is well seated so that no solution washes into the conductivity cell from around the pH cap.

A. Measuring Conductivity & Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

1. Rinse cell cup 3 times with sample to be measured. (This conditions the temperature compensation network and prepares the cell.)

2. Refill cell cup with sample.

3. Press or .

4. Take reading. A display of [- - - -] indicates an overrange condition.

B. Measuring Resistivity Resistivity is for low conductivity solutions. In a cell cup the value may drift from trace contaminants or absorption from atmospheric gasses, so measuring a flowing sample is recommended.

1. ensure pH protective cap is secure to avoid contamination.

2. Hold instrument at 30° angle (cup sloping downward).

3. Let sample flow continuously into conductivity cell with no aeration.

4. Press key; use best reading.

NOTE: If reading is lower than 10 kilohms display will be dashes:

[ - - - - ]. Use Conductivity.

C. Measuring pH (6PFCE)

1. Remove protective cap by rotating while grasping and pulling up.

2. Rinse pH/ORP sensor well and conductivity cell cup 3 times with sample to be measured. Shake out each sample to remove any residual liquid.

3. Refill both sensor well and cell cup with sample.

5. Note value displayed.

6. IMPORTANT: After use, fill pH/ORP sensor well with Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution and replace protective cap.

If Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution is unavailable, use a strong KCl solution, a pH 4 buffer, or a saturated solution of table salt and tap water (ref. Cleaning Sensors, 2. pH/ORP, pg.

34). Do not allow pH/ORP sensor to dry out.

D. Measuring ORP The Ultrameter II features the ability to measure the activity of oxidizing or reducing chemicals in solution as ORP mV. The instrument also includes an innovative Free Chlorine Equivalent (FCE) feature (Measuring Free Chlorine Using FCE, pg. 12) that uses ORP and pH to measure free available chlorine (FAC) concentration in ppm. ORP mV and ppm of free available chlorine (FAC) are the two most commonly used sanitizer units of measure in water quality management.

1. ORP / FCE Mode Selection The Ultrameter II allows the user to choose between measuring oxidizing sanitizers using either ORP mV or as parts per million (ppm) of equivalent free chlorine. Use ORP to directly measure the oxidizing power of all sanitizers like ozone, bromine, peracetic acid or chlorine. Use FCE to measure the strength of oxidizing sanitizers as ppm of equivalent free chlorine. To select between ORP and Free Chlorine modes:

1. Press

2. Press and hold for approximately 3 seconds.

The current preference for ORP units of measure is displayed. Factory setting for this preference is ORP mV.

3. Press the or keys to toggle between mV (standard

ORP mode) and FCE ppm. The setting chosen is displayed.

PPM

4. Press any parameter key to exit ORP unit preference selection or let the unit time out. ORP unit preference will be saved.

2. Measuring ORP

1. Ensure the 6PFCE is in ORP mode (ref. ORP Mode Selection,

pg. 10).

2. Remove protective cap by rotating while grasping and pulling up.

3. Rinse sensor well and cell cup 3 times with sample to be measured. Shake out each sample to remove any residual liquid.

4. Refill both sensor well and cell cup with sample.

5. Press .

6. Take reading.

7. Press MS to store reading in memory, if desired.

IMPORTANT: After use, fill pH/ORP sensor well with Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution and replace protective cap. If Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution is unavailable, you can use a strong KCl solution, a pH 4 buffer, or a saturated solution of table salt and tap water (ref. Cleaning Sensors, 2. pH/ORP,

pg. 34). Do not allow pH/ORP sensor to dry out.

E. Measuring Free Chlorine Using FCE

The FCE function can be used to measure discrete samples, flowing solution and bodies of water. Measurement technique is particular to the type of sample. For accurate results, use the FCE Flow Method described in section 2 below to measure discrete or flowing samples. Use the FCE Immersion Method described in section 3 below in situations where the 6PFCE can be dipped to obtain a sample. Read through section 4. FCE Best Practices before you begin.

1. Prepare for FCE Measurement

1. For ease of measurement, set the instrument’s Auto oFF feature to 75 sec (ref. Auto oFF, pg. 28).

2. ensure the FCE mode has been activated (ref. ORP/FCE Mode Selection, pg. 10).

3. Remove protective cap from the pH/ORP sensor by rotating while grasping and pulling up.

2. FCE Flow Method

1. empty the pH/ORP sensor well of all storage solution.

2. Hold the 6PFCE at a 30º angle (cup sloping downward).

3. Thoroughly flush the sensor well and cell cup with a steady stream of the solution you intend to measure by allowing the solution to flow into and out of the sensor well and cell cup for at least 10 seconds.

4. Let sample flow continuously into conductivity cell with no aeration.

5. Allow both the sensor well and cell cup to remain filled with sample.

6. Press

. The instrument will begin alternating between a predicted final ORP value and a free chlorine equivalent concentration in ppm. Both readings will change rapidly at first.

7. Wait for the readings to stabilize. When the mV and ppm values are unchanging for 5 consecutive readings, the FCE reading has reached a stable level. This may take 1 to 2 minutes.

NOTE: If the reading takes more than 1 minute to stabilize, press the after 1 minute to prevent Auto oFF feature from disturbing the measurement process. Annunciators will alert you when either the pH or ORP of the final FCE ppm value are Out of Range (“-Or-”).

8. Press MS to store reading in memory if desired.

3. FCE Immersion Method NOTE: Use this method for pools, spas and other large standing bodies of water.

1. Hold instrument beneath the surface of the water to avoid surface effects on the water’s chemistry.

2. Swirl the instrument around for at least 10 seconds to thoroughly rinse the cell cup and sensor well.

3. Continue holding the instrument under the surface while taking the reading.

4. Press .

5. The instrument will begin alternating between a predicted final ORP value and a free chlorine equivalent concentration in ppm.

Both readings will change rapidly at first.

6. Wait for the readings to stabilize. When the mV and ppm values are unchanging for 5 consecutive readings, the FCE reading has reached a stable level. This may take 1 to 2 minutes.

NOTE: If the reading takes longer than 1 minute to stabilize, press after 1 minute to prevent Auto oFF feature from disturbing the measurement process. Annunciators will alert you when either the pH or ORP of the final FCE ppm value are Out of Range (“-Or-”).

7. Press MS to store reading in memory if desired.

4. FCE Best Practices For best results it is recommended that you:

1. Take 3 consecutive FCE measurements and record the readings.

2. Calculate the average of the 3 measurements. Use this value.

3. Ignore measurements that are significantly different from the others. ex: 3.20 ppm, 1.15 ppm, 3.10 ppm

IMPORTANT: After use, fill pH/ORP sensor well with Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution and replace protective cap. If Myron L pH Sensor Storage Solution is unavailable, you can use a strong KCl solution, a pH 4 buffer, or a saturated solution of table salt and tap water (ref. Cleaning Sensors, 2. pH/ORP,

pg. 34). Do not allow pH/ORP sensor to dry out.

VI. SOLUTION SELECTION

A. Why Solution Selection is Available Conductivity, resistivity, and TDS require temperature correction to 25°C values (ref. Standardized to 25°C, pg. 39). Selection determines the temperature correction of conductivity and calculation of TDS from compensated conductivity (ref. Cond. Conversion to TDS, pg. 41).

B. The 4 Solution Types On the left side of the display is the salt solution characteristic used to model temperature compensation of conductivity and its TDS conversion.

generally, using KCl for conductivity, NaCl for resistivity, and 442 (Natural Water characteristic) for TDS will reflect present industry practice for standardization. This is how your instrument is shipped from the factory (ref. Solution Characteristics, pg. 42).

The User selection allows a custom value to be entered for the temperature compensation of conductivity and also the conversion ratio if measuring TDS.

C. Calibration of Each Solution Type There is a separate calibration for each of the 4 solution types. Note that calibration of a 442 solution does not affect the calibration of a NaCl solution. For example: Calibration (ref. Conductivity or TDS Calibration,

pg. 18) is performed separately for each type of solution one wishes to measure (ref. Conductivity/TDS Standard Solutions, pg. 38).

D. Procedure to Select a Solution NOTE: Check display to see if solution displayed (KCl, NaCl, 442 or

User) is already the type desired. If not:

1. Press , or to select the parameter on which you wish to change the solution type.

2. Press and hold key

Figure 1

KCl

NaCl

User for 3 seconds to make “SEL” appear (see Figure 1). For demonstration purposes, all 4 solution types are shown simultaneously.

3. Use the or key to select type of solution desired

(ref. Solution Characteristics, pg. 42). The selected solution type will be displayed: KCl, NaCl, 442 or User.

4. Press to accept new solution type.

E. Application of User Solution Type

1. User Programmable Temperature Compensation (Tempco) This feature allows you to change your Ultrameter II’s temperature compensating factor to another factor between 0-9.99%/°C (ref.

Temperature Compensation, pg. 39). This feature does not apply to pH or ORP.

a. As in D. Procedure to Select a Solution above, select “User” mode.

b. With User mode now selected, press . You may now adjust a temperature compensation from .00%/°C to 9.99%/°C, by pressing or .

See example in Figure 2.

c. Press twice to skip

Figure 2

°C% /

COND calibration adjustment and accept the new tempco (3 times if in TDS mode). You are now ready to measure samples with your new temperature compensation factor.

2. Disabling Temperature Compensation

a. Select User mode (ref. Procedure to Select a Solution, pg. 14).

b. With “User” selected, press . If the display does not show .00%/°C, hold long enough to bring the tempco to .00%/°C (see Figure 3).

Figure 3

°C% /

COND

c. Press twice

(3 times if in TDS mode).

Temperature compensation is now disabled (=0) for measurements in User mode.

3. User Programmable Conductivity to TDS Ratio This feature allows you to select a custom conductivity to TDS conversion ratio within the range of 0.20-7.99 for User mode measurements.

To determine the conversion ratio for a custom solution of known TDS ppm value, measure the solution conductivity at 25ºC with the Ultrameter II and divide the ppm value by the µS value. For example, a solution of known 75 ppm TDS and measured 100 µS conductivity at 25ºC would have a conversion ratio of 75/100 or 0.75. enter the new conversion ratio as follows:

a. While in User mode, press .

b. Press twice (to skip

Figure 4

RATIO

TDS

over tempco adjustment) and “RATIO” will appear (see Figure 4).

c. Adjust with or key until new conversion ratio is displayed.

d. Press twice (to skip over calibration adjustment) to accept new conversion ratio. You are now ready to measure samples with the new conductivity/TDS ratio.

In these first six sections, you have learned all you need to make accurate measurements.

The following sections contain calibration, advanced operations and technical information.

VII. CALIBRATION

A. Calibration Intervals Generally, calibration is recommended about once per month with Conductivity or TDS solutions. Calibration with pH solutions should be checked twice a month. Calibration of ORP is not necessary (ref.

CALIBRATION INTeRVALS, pg. 22).

B. Rules for Calibration of the Ultrameter II

1. Calibration Steps

a. Starting Calibration

Calibration is begun by pressing while measuring Conductivity, TDS or pH. Measuring continues, but the “CAL” icon is on, indicating calibration is now changeable.

The reading is changed with the and keys to match the known value.

The calibration for each of the 4 solution types may be performed in either conductivity or TDS mode.

Depending on what is being calibrated, there may be 1, 2 or 3 steps to the calibration procedures.

KCl, NaCl or 442 User

Cond Gain only Tempco, then Gain Res Done in conductivity Done in conductivity or TDS TDS Gain only Tempco, Ratio, then Gain pH 7, acid and/or base (6PFCE) ORP Zero set with pH 7 automatically (6PFCE)

Once in CAL mode, the key becomes an “ACCEPT” key. At each point, pressing accepts the new calibration value and steps you to the next adjustment (or out of CAL mode if there are no more steps).

To bypass a calibration step, simply press to accept the present value as is.

b. Leaving Calibration Calibration is complete when the “CAL” icon goes out. Pressing any measurement key cancels changes not yet accepted and exits calibration mode.

Leaving pH after the 2nd buffer results in the same gain being entered in place of the 3rd buffer.

2. Calibration Limits There are calibration limits. A nominal “FAC” value is an ideal value stored by the factory. Attempts to calibrate too far, up or down, from there will cause the displayed value to be replaced with “FAC”. If you accept it (press the “Cal” key), you will have the original default factory calibration for this measurement. The need to calibrate so far out that “FAC” appears indicates a procedural problem, incorrect standard solution, a very dirty cell cup or an aging pH/ORP sensor (ref.

Troubleshooting Chart, pg. 36).

C. Calibration Procedures

1. Conductivity or TDS Calibration

a. Rinse conductivity cell three times with proper standard (KCl, NaCl, or 442) (ref. Cond/TDS Standard Solutions, pg. 38). For user calibration see User Calibration Conductivity/TDS below.

b. Refill conductivity cell with same standard. KCl-7000 shown.

c. Press or

, then

Figure 5

°C

C…