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Lab Trends

2017 Titrator Product Survey Results

Find out our readers’ most common titrator types and more from our latest product survey results

by
Erica Tennenhouse, PhD

Erica Tennenhouse, PhD, is the managing editor of Clinical Lab Manager.

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Modern titrators can be simply classified as one of two types: potentiometric and Karl Fischer, with the latter available in both coulometric and volumetric versions. While titration may be considered a basic analytical method, modern titrators are far from simplistic. Many titrators offer a variety of automation options and can perform titrations with great accuracy with minimal operator intervention.

Top 6 Questions You Should Ask When Buying a Titrator

  1. How precise is the titrant delivery system? Is the titrant delivery system certified for accuracy?
  2. Can additional titrants be used without having to purge burettes?
  3. What information is included in the titrator’s display and reports?
  4. Is the titrator limited to proprietary electrodes? What is the replacement cost for electrodes?
  5. Is the software field upgradeable?
  6. What is the service and repair policy?
    • Is on-site support offered?
    • If something goes wrong with the meter, can it be fixed locally?
    • What is the general turnaround time for repair?

Types of titrator used by survey respondents:

Potentiometric 69%
Karl Fischer Volumetric 33%
Karl Fischer Coulometric 30%
Other 10%

Titrator components used by survey respondents:

Autosampler 50%
Homogenizer 25%
Evaporators 17%
Karl Fischer oven 12%
Other 17%

Nearly 53% of respondents are engaged in purchasing a new titrator. The reasons for these purchases are as follows:

Addition to existing systems, increase capacity
35%
Replacement of an aging system
31%
First time purchase
18%
Setting up a new lab
16%

Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing a titrator:

Accuracy 89%
Reliability 89%
Ease-of-use 73%
Service and support 66%
Low maintenance 61%
Warranty 51%
Price 51%
Operating cost 49%
Ease of installation 43%
Data management 42%

For more information on titrators, including useful articles and a list of manufacturers, visit www.labmanager.com/titrators

See the most recent survey results here