Measuring pH tells you how acidic or basic (alkaline) your solution is. Biochemists and food industry scientists measure the pH of food, dairy, and beverage products for quality. In industries such as oil refining, textiles, and paper and printing, pH measurement is an integral part of processes that produce the end product. Outside of the lab and the manufacturing plant, monitoring the pH of water and wastewater is essential in environmental control. According to the EPA, “measuring alkalinity is important in determining a stream's ability to neutralize acidic pollution from rainfall or wastewater.” 
Conductivity tests a solution’s ability to conduct electrical current and serves as a quick and simple indicator of water quality and purity. Conductivity measures the ionic content in a solution and is assessed for pharmaceutical waters, boiler water, fermentation, and public water supplies. Conductivity can also indicate how much pollution is in rainwater and rivers.
Testing the Tools: Are Your Readings Correct?
Described by Lab Manager as a mainstay of laboratories, pH meters commonly test the pH of solutions while conductivity meters, resistivity meters, and sometimes multiparameter meters typically measure conductivity. If you’re losing confidence in your pH or conductivity readings—and it’s not an issue with the electrodes or environmental factors such as static electricity—it may be time for meter calibration.
At an ISO17025-accredited calibration lab, your meter will be tested to the manufacturer’s accuracy at standard test points or to those of your choosing. Electronic calibrators, ISO Guide 34-accredited pH and conductivity solutions, and high-accuracy temperature standards are used to ensure that your meter is restored to full precision, or, in some cases, recommended for replacement.
InnoCal is the only authorized ISO17025-accredited calibration lab for Oakton®, Accumet®, Thermo Scientific, and Orion® pH meters. We maintain a full fleet of electronic calibrators, ISO Guide 34-accredited pH and conductivity solutions and high-accuracy temperature standards.