Introduction to CHEMetrics Water Tests
CHEMetrics has been a major part of the water testing industry since its founding in 1969. Our single analyte colorimetric test kits have offered rapid and accurate results to meet the needs of many industries. Whether you are snapping your first ampoule or are an experienced operator of our tests, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need to find the appropriate test for your needs.
The History of CHEMetrics
CHEMetrics was originally founded in the state of Virginia by Gordon Rampy in 1969. A chemist by trade, he developed a new technology of self-filling ampoules that contained a precise volume of reagent for a water test. These ampoules could be snapped in a water sample and would fill with the volume of sample needed to mix with the reagent. Over the years CHEMetrics expanded their technology and analytes offered. In 2022, CHEMetrics joined the AquaPhoenix Scientific family of companies to offer a comprehensive lineup of water testing products and supplies to multiple industries.
The Technology Behind a CHEMetrics Water Test
The core technology behind a CHEMetrics test is a self-filling glass ampoule. These ampoules have scored tips that snap directly in the sample being tested. The vacuum inside the ampoule draws the sample in and leaves a small bubble for mixing. This technology is utilized in nearly all CHEMetrics test kits.
Test Kit Types
CHEMets Test Kits
For visual colorimetric tests, CHEMetrics offers the CHEMets ampoule. CHEMets water test kits are packaged in a durable plastic case, are portable, and ideal for field use or any situation where rapid results are required. The CHEMets ampoules are 100 mm in length and 7mm in diameter with a pre-scored tip for easy snapping. A kit comes with 30 ampoules with each ampoule containing reagent for one test. Once snapped in sample, the reagent in the ampoule will change color relative to the concentration of the analyte. Once the color develops the ampoule is matched to a supplied color comparator for test results.
CHEMetrics Comparators
Comparators come in flat or round styles. Flat comparators are for higher concentrations while round comparators are for designed for color concentrations where color development will be more subtle. Both offer accurate test results.
Vacu-vials Test Kits
For instrumental colorimetric water tests, CHEMEtrics offers Vacu-vials ampoules. Vacu-vials follow the same snap and read process as CHEMets ampoules. Once the color develops in a Vacu-vials test they are measured with a CHEMetrics Single Analyte Meter, Mult-Analyte Meter, or any instrument that reads absorbance and accepts a 13-mm cell. If you are not using a CHEMetrics branded instrument, a calibration equation is supplied with each test kit or you can use the concentration calculator available online.
Titrets Test Kits
Titrets ampoules are marked glass ampoules designed for reverse titrations. The tip is snapped outside of the sample, and a plastic assembly is used to draw sample into the ampoule in small doses. Once a color change indicates the equivalence point has been reached, the ampoule is stood on its end. The liquid level inside the ampoule corresponds to the scale printed on the outside of the Titrets ampoule.
Industries Served by CHEMetrics
CHEMetrics serves the water testing needs of many industries. We offer colorimetric tests for over 40 analytes at multiple ranges.
Test Kits for Water and Wastewater
CHEMetrics test kits are applicable for both water and wastewater plants. For drinking water applications, we offer tests to monitor residual disinfectants like chlorine. For wastewater labs our tests can be used to monitor influent, settling tanks, and effluent.
Key Analytes for Drinking Water and Wastewater Testing
- Ammonia
- Chlorine
- COD
- Ozone
Test Kits for Power Plants
In the power generation industry CHEMetrics water test kits are used to monitor water within the boiler system to prevent deposits from forming and corrosion. Our silica test kit is often used on water that contacts turbines.
Key Analytes for Water Testing in Power Plants
- Alkalinity
- Hydrazine
- Molybdate
- Silica
Test Kits for Food and Beverage Production
CHEMetrics tests are utilized during production, packaging, and sanitization in the food and beverage industry. Our kits can be used to monitor production water as well as the efficacy of sanitation or sterilization solutions. Within this industry, bottled water and dairy manufacturing are particularly well served by us.
Bottled Water Testing
The CHEMetrics testing method for ozone has been approved for worldwide use by a major bottler monitor trace ozone levels. Our ozone test offers a simple self-zeroing test and works with most spectrophotometers.
Test Kits for Dairy Manufacturing
CHEMetrics Hydrogen Peroxide tests are a standard for extended shelf life and aseptic packaging applications. Our tests can test directly in a carton for the most accurate results.
Key Analytes for Food and Beverage Manufacturing
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Ozone
- Peracetic Acid (PAA)
- Zinc
Petroleum and Chemical Manufacturing
CHEMetrics tests are applicable for the necessary testing a refinery or chemical manufacturer may need, including:
- Testing production water
- Monitoring closed loop systems
- Maintaining compliance with environmental regulations
Key Analytes for Pertroleum Refining and Chemical Manufacturing
- Carbon Dioxide
- Formaldehyde
- Phenols
- Sulfide
Test Kits for Industrial Water Treatment
CHEMetrics test kits are routinely used to monitor process water, boiler water, cooling water, and wastewater for all industrial applications. Our test kits are great for process checks or to verify other monitoring methods like in-line analyzers.
Key Analytes for Industrial Water Treatment
- Carbohydrazide
- Glycol
- Iron
- Nitrate
Environmental Education
As CHEMetrics tests are portable and come in a convenient case, they are popular with environmental monitoring programs. The tests are simple to conduct so students and volunteers can learn to gather reliable data with minimal training.
Key Analytes for Environmental Education
- Dissolved Oxygen
- Detergents
- Phosphate
- Ammonia
Water Monitoring for Pulp and Paper Manufacturing
The manufacturing of pulp and paper can create caustic wastewater that will require strict treatment. Along with boiler and cooling water monitoring, CHEMetrics test kits are popular in this industry for the frequent process checks operators will need for wastewater treatment.
Key Analytes for Water Monitoring in Pulp and Paper Manufacturing
- Chemical Oxygen Demand
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Nitrite
- Sulfite
Water Tests for Medical and Lab Applications
Laboratories have strict cleaning requirements, particularly in clinical applications. CHEMetrics offers test kits to monitor sanitation solutions and monitor low-level contaminants.
Key Analytes for Water Tests in Medical Facilities
- Chlorine Dioxide
- Formaldehyde
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Ozone
Where to Find CHEMetrics Test Kits
All CHEMetrics products are available for purchase on the AquaPhoenix e-store alongside many other water testing products. For more information on our test kits you can visit the CHEMetrics or AquaPhoenix website.