Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) Concentration Measurement

Define a continuous KOH concentration duty around the real process range, temperature, composition and control decision.

Discuss this application

Use online KOH measurement within a defined calibration basis

Rhosonics describes KOH concentration measurement using speed of sound and temperature, with real-time reporting for process monitoring and control. The correct analyser and model depend on the solution composition and range. Any other components that change independently must be considered because they can influence the acoustic response.

Frequent process visibility

An online analyser can show concentration trends between laboratory checks, helping operators see dilution, dosing or process changes sooner. The signal should be tied to a documented response.

One-component assumptions

The 8500 Series is intended for one chemical in solution. If another constituent changes materially, the application needs further review and may require additional measurement inputs or a different model.

Operators reviewing process information from a Rhosonics ultrasonic analyser in a control room.

See the measurement in its process context

Application planning includes the surrounding process, safe access, representative sampling and verification—not only the analyser itself. PMA reviews these conditions together before recommending a measurement arrangement.

Define the KOH concentration duty

Use the following inputs to prevent an apparently precise but ambiguous reading.

Range and temperature

Record normal, minimum and maximum KOH concentration and temperature, including make-up, start-up, shutdown and cleaning states.

Other constituents

List dissolved salts, additives, contamination and reaction products. Identify which can change independently and how those changes are currently detected.

Control response

Define whether the reading supports trend, alarm, dosing or quality release, and specify the reference check required before consequential action.

KOH concentration measurement pathway

  1. Characterise the solution. Record composition, units, range and temperature.
  2. Confirm calibration suitability. Review the duty with PMA and the manufacturer.
  3. Check wetted materials. Include concentration, temperature and cleaning exposure.
  4. Select the process point. Confirm mixing, flow, full pipe and safe access.
  5. Commission with reference samples. Cover planned operating states.
  6. Monitor drift and change. Reassess after formulation or equipment changes.

Evidence to collect

Collect online KOH concentration, temperature, dosing and dilution events, production state and paired reference results. Record any conductivity or density data used for diagnosis. Evidence should cover the working range, not only a single nominal point.

Limits, compatibility and safety

The measurement model does not make the solution chemically simple. Co-components, crystallisation, gas, poor mixing or operating outside the approved range can affect interpretation. Caustic handling, containment, PPE and emergency controls remain independent requirements.

Frequently asked questions

How is KOH concentration measured ultrasonically?

Rhosonics uses the relationship between speed of sound, temperature and concentration for a defined KOH solution and calibrated range.

Can the reading be used for automatic dosing?

Potentially, after application validation and control-risk review. Independent limits and verification should reflect the consequence of an incorrect adjustment.

Does temperature variation matter?

Yes. Temperature is part of the measurement model and the specified operating range. Rapid or uneven temperature changes should be considered when selecting the point.

What if salts build up in the process?

Changing dissolved or deposited material may alter the response or installation condition. Trend context and reference checks are needed to identify the cause.

Sources and engineering review scope

PMA will review KOH concentration and temperature ranges, co-components, materials, process point, reference method and intended control action. This page is application guidance, not a substitute for a site survey, chemical compatibility review, risk assessment or manufacturer-approved configuration.

Related analyser range

The 8500 Series is the primary PMA range for defined one-component KOH concentration measurement.

View the relevant analyser range.

Define your KOH measurement range

Share the solution composition, range, temperature, process drawing, materials and current laboratory method with PMA.