- Upstream and downstream comparisons
- Storm-overflow and catchment investigations
- Industrial discharge screening
- Process-water and rinse-water checks
- Salinity or contamination trend investigation
- Supporting evidence beside pH and dissolved oxygen
Portable Conductivity Testing
Use conductivity as a rapid field indicator of changing dissolved ionic content across water, wastewater and receiving-water investigations.
What does conductivity show?
Electrical conductivity describes how readily water conducts an electric current and is influenced by dissolved ions. Field conductivity is valuable for comparing locations, identifying sudden changes and adding context to other water-quality measurements.
Read the USGS guide to conductivity and water for authoritative background. Return to our portable water-quality parameters guide to compare other measurements, or visit PMA for wider water and wastewater instrumentation support.
Where portable conductivity testing is useful
Compare sampling points
Choose sampling points that let you compare the same water stream or investigate a change across the site. Record conductivity with the water temperature, location and time, plus any supporting pH or dissolved-oxygen readings.
Portable instruments for conductivity
The correct instrument depends on the measurement method, expected range, water matrix, other parameters and how results need to be recorded.
Section 82 water-quality kit
A portable field kit that combines conductivity with dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, turbidity and ammonia for joined-up site investigations.
Best for: teams needing conductivity as part of a broader evidence set.
View field kit
Check the application before selecting
Tell us the sample type, expected range, test frequency, site conditions and how the result will be used. We will confirm the method, instrument configuration and supporting items before quotation.
What to include in your enquiry
- The sampling points and water or sludge type.
- The expected result range and reporting units.
- How often you test and which other measurements you need.
- The instrument or laboratory method used for comparison.
Share an example of your current test record and any practical constraints at the sampling point. This helps us review the complete workflow, including preparation, verification, accessories and result handling.
Make comparisons meaningful
Choose sampling points that let you compare the same water stream or investigate a change across the site. Record whether each measurement is taken directly in the water or from a collected sample.
Ask our team
Not sure which conductivity option fits?
Tell us what water you are testing, the expected range, where the measurement will be made and which other parameters matter.
Portable conductivity testing FAQs
What does portable conductivity testing show?
Electrical conductivity describes how readily water conducts an electric current and is influenced by dissolved ions. Field conductivity is valuable for comparing locations, identifying sudden changes and adding context to other water-quality measurements.
Where is portable conductivity testing useful?
Common uses include upstream and downstream comparisons, storm-overflow and catchment investigations, industrial discharge screening, process-water and rinse-water checks. The best sampling point should always be chosen around the decision the result needs to support.
Which portable instrument can measure conductivity?
Section 82 water-quality kit is the current Portable Analyser option shown for this parameter. Its suitability still depends on the method, range and sample.
Can a portable result help verify an online analyser?
Yes. A carefully collected portable result can provide an independent spot check during commissioning or investigation. Sampling location, timing, preparation and method differences must be considered before comparing readings.
What information should I provide before requesting a quote?
Share the water type, expected range, sampling location, testing frequency, other required parameters, record-keeping needs and any site constraints. This helps PMA confirm the complete practical package.
Can PMA help select the correct method and equipment?
Yes. PMA can review the application, expected conditions, measurement method, reagents or sensors, calibration needs and supporting accessories before quotation.
To contact us, or to request a callback, simply use the form below and we will promptly get back to you.
We greatly value all of the enquiries which our products and services generate and we are very confident that we will have the right solution available for you at the first point of contact when you reach our experienced team of engineers.
