Answers to all your questions on OSIL's instruments.
What is the shelf life of IAPSO seawater?
We recommend that for high-accuracy work, the Standards have a minimum shelf-life of 3 years. For further information please refer to Culkin, F. and Ridout, P.S. (1998), ‘Stability of IAPSO Standard Seawater’, j.atmos. & oceanic tech., 15, 1072-1075.
What is a linearity pack?
When analysing samples at salinities away from 35, it is important to know the accuracy of the salinometers’ offset across the working range to improve data quality. OSIL have developed the Linearity Pack to enable the linearity of instruments to be checked more easily. The pack contains; 4 x P-Series, 2 x 38H-Series, 2 x 30L-Series and 2 x 10L-Series, complete with full instructions.
How do I use the Nutrient standards kit?
OSIL’s Nutrient Standards kit consists of concentrated solutions of phosphate, nitrite, nitrate, silicate and ammonia. The standards should be diluted with Low Nutrient Seawater (LNS) or de-ionised water to prepare working standards for the measurement of nutrients in seawater/ freshwater samples respectively.
How do I change the wiper on my YSI when it has worn away?
There is a small allen bolt located on the side of the wiper, use the suppied allen key to unscrew the bolt and remove the old wiper. Place a new wiper on the shaft, ensuring the flat side of the shaft is presented to the allen bolt and then simply tighten the bolt.
Can I calibrate YSI sensors myself and if so how?
YSI sensors are unique because they can be easily field calibrated by the end user. How to do this is fully explained in the manual accompanying each sensor.
Alternatively you can return your unit to OSIL for a full service and calibration. Please contact us for prices on customer.services@osil.co.uk.
How often should I calibrate my CTD/ SV?
For optimum performance we recommend that you calibrate your CTD/SV annually. Composite SV sensors should be calibrated every 18 months.
How often should I service my salinometer?
It is recommended that Guildline Salinometers should be calibrated every year to maintain it's operational capabilities.
What is a Salinometer alignment and service?
A Salinometer service is performed to ensure that the mechanical parts of the instrument are working and moving correctly. The water bath is checked, the pipes are cleaned and the pumps are inspected to ensure that they are free moving and that their tubing is clear. A service also includes a stability and linearity check and the conductivity cell is cleaned.
It is recommended that each Salinometer is aligned every two years to receive the optimum performance from the electronics of the instrument. An alignment involves the checking of the voltages, power supply and the matching and balancing of the unit.
If you have any questions that aren't answered here please contact us on osil@osil.co.uk or +44 (0)2392 488240