It is critical to establish all the specific ‘what’, ‘when’, ‘where’, and ‘why’ questions regarding your target samples before going into the actual search. Are the samples municipal wastewater treatment plant samples, industrial effluent samples, or taken from aquatic environments such as rivers and lakes? Different applications may require different measurement accuracy, as well as measurement range. For instance, if you’re monitoring the effluent from a pharmaceutical factory where high purity is essential, you will require an analyzer that can provide peak precision in measuring the pollutant. What is the measurement range you require? There are some BOD analyzers that span a great range, such as the range of 0 – 4000mg/L, which are able to analyze BOD levels in samples from 0, or low polluted, to 4000, or highly contaminated. But if your samples have specific BOD values, a more specialized analyzer that is more cost effective, yet span accurate, may be more your style. Also, consider the frequency of use. If it is for daily, continuous monitoring, then the device should be extremely reliable.
Research Different Analyzer Technologies
Every BOD analyzer has certain technologies with their own advantages and disadvantages. The 5-day BOD test is a traditional and standard method which is accepted globally but takes a long time to complete. Modern methods include certain models in the Hach BODTrak series which use pressure difference methods. These methods are versatile, easy to use, and have a wide range of measurements. Many general applications, including municipal wastewater treatment plants, use these models. In certain LAR models, and other domestic Chinese brands, the microbial electrode method is used which lowers the testing time significantly, even obtaining BOD results in 8 minutes. This is beneficial in industries with high demand for real time data to modify their production processes, including the paper and petrochemical industries. Also, the Bebur UVsense-D which is a BOD analyzer, uses UV spectral absorption and needs no chemical reagents, measures quickly, self cleans, and has a turbidity compensation features. Familiarizing yourself with these technologies will allow you to select an analyzer which fulfills your needs and will not waste your money on unwanted features.
Compare Brands and Their Reputations
Brands that have been in business for a while might provide a warranty for the products sold under their name, but it would also imply a premium price for their products. Such brands and their corresponding products command a significant price in the international market. Hach, part of the Danaher Group, leads the world in water quality monitoring, while the BODTrak series dominates the market for its unparalleled compliance to the environmental regulations and its wide measuring range. WTW popularized in the German market for its ultrahigh precision OxiTop series, preferably used in the pharmaceutical and semiconductor market, for its mercury-free breathing measurement and handy "fault self - diagnosis" function.
But it's important to consider local and new companies too. In the last couple of years, companies like Dalian East, Liaoning Xin Ruipeng, and Lianhua Technology have been making big strides. Dalian East has great prices for the YST - BOD device, which has good accuracy with an improved microbial electrode method. Liaoning Xin Ruipeng developed analyzers that work at low temperatures suitable for use in the Northeast and cold regions. Lianhua Technology has the famous BOD-Q series which takes only 8 minutes to produce results. Also, you may analyze information and first hand feedback about the devices that you read in community forums and discussions, audience insights about products, industry documents, or advice from field experts.
Evaluate the Cost - Performance Ratio
Cost is always a consideration when purchasing equipment, however with a BOD analyzer, value often is not synonymous with low price. BOD analyzers which are cheaper often come with higher servicing costs, resources, and low accuracy. The overall price for serviced BOD value will vastly exceed the purchase price. Assess the price of consumables and other planned or unplanned resources which come along with the purchase of the BOD analyzer. This includes specialty sensors and low cost analyzers, which need sensors and have cartridges that are expensive and need to be replaced often. Also take into account the operational cost for servicing the BOD value due to its efficient and economical power consumption. Find out the warranty details provided by the supplier. The longer the warranty, the cheaper it is likely to be for servicing. This often reflects the confidence the supplier has in the equipment and its accuracy. Evaluate the competing analyzers and their performance features to find those that best meet the product features to price ratio for your budget. Sometimes the cheapest offer is less economical in the long run. Spending more money for higher accuracy, longer life and lower servicing costs is often the best value deal.
Consider After - Sales Service
Proper after - purchase servicing plays an important role in helping your BOD analyzer function without issues. See if the seller or manufacturer offers calibration services. Regular calibration is essential to maintain the analyzer's reading accuracy. Some companies may charge exorbitant fees for calibration while others may offer it along with their after - sales servicing. Ascertain the extent of the available technical support. In the event of equipment malfunctions or operational issues, it is crucial to quickly contact qualified personnel. Local support networks for Chinese brands, like Dalian East, enable them to respond quicker than their foreign competitors. See if the manufacturer conducts training programs. To prolong equipment life, proper use of the analyzer is essential and training serves to reduce operational mistakes. Additionally, check the turnaround time for obtaining spare parts. If a component malfunctions, timely replacement is crucial in order to minimize service outages.
Explore Multiple Purchase Channels
You can visit various sites and check how much a BOD analyzer costs. BOD analyzers are offered by various sellers in different countries. You can easily check product details, customer reviews and compare prices without much hassle. Some sellers have their own websites and sell their products which is a fantastic offer. Reach out to people selling specialized laboratory equipment as they are well versed in the niche and can offer good suggestions tailored to your needs. If they are in advertisements, you can talk to them and they might give you prices lower than the actual price for the equipment. You should always check for other ongoing sales, limited time offers and seasonal sales as they usually have additional items in bundles.