Frequently asked questions

A bronze disc contains cytotoxic copper which has a small chance of moving up to the top of the membrane, potentially creating false negatives. Also glass does not corrode so has a longer life

The HK2000 is supplied with reagents for 50 tests of each parameter

The standard cable for the HC1000 is 1 metre. The Metalyser is 70cm

Because the Metalyser uses a standard addition method it is effectively “calibrated” with every test. Maintenance can be carried out by the user on a day to day basis. Trace2o can support users to ensure best use of the units. The HT1000 has verification standards available to show calibration, however as a result of using specific wavelength diodes it will maintain accuracy over a long period of time. The HC1000 is supplied with calibration solutions so the user can easily carry out this process in the field.

The Metalyser has 3 types of electrodes, the working electrode (WE) the counter electrode (CE) and the reference electrode (RE). The WE and CE do not need replacing except after mechanical damage by the user. It is recommended that the reference electode is replaced on a 6 monthly basis

Deionised water is available from Trace2o. It is also generally available from retail outlets globally.

Deionised water has had the charged ions (such as metals) removed to ensure they cannot interfere with any electrochemical process • Sterilised water is water that has been autoclaved or gone through a similar process to ensure it is biologically inert • Distilled water is purified through heating and then cooling, with the water vapour being collected. This removed impurities that do not vapourise with the water molecules.

No, the Metalyser is for the testing of trace heavy metals and metalloids in water. Microbiological testing can be achieved using the Aquasafe product range

Yes, in the event of a power failure when the Aquasafe being attached to the mains supply, the battery will power the unit assuming the battery is charged. The mains cable will not charge the battery whilst powering the unit. We recommend always using the battery for unit power for most efficient battery life.

No, the mains cable will either power the unit OR charge the battery but not both at the same time.

Currently the Aquasafe range do not offer cooling

The shelf life of prepared media can vary according to the method of preparation and storage. Well prepared media stored refrigerated can last for several months. If, on examination, the media is a deep red and is clear of debris then it is fit for use.

No, the mains cable will either power the unit OR charge the battery but not both at the same time.

All Metalyser and photometer reagents, and calibration buffers, are designed for storage at ambient temperatures. We do not recommend storing them above 50oC. Premixed MLSB buffer powder is also for ambient storage, however we recommend that prepared liquid media is stored between 2oC-8oC.

Colour is also referred to as Hazen. This can be tested using the HT1000 photometer without any requirements for reagents. Many procedures use a “by eye” method. Taste and odour are tested using manual human methods.

There are several options for the various portable laboratories. Please contact us for a quotation

The kits come with full instruction and can be operated by semi technical personnel.

Reagents are readily available, often in country through our wide distribution network. Please ask for a quotation.

Yes we can provide training either at our premises in Thatcham, UK or through Webinar/Skype free of charge. We can also quote for training in country at your premises if desired.

If your kit fails, contact Trace2o directly. We will take you through the process of troubleshooting the problem. 95% of the time it is possible to rectify the problem without needing to return it for repair.

Yes, the Aquasafe kits work specifically to the guidelines of the World Health Association.

Trace2o is fully ISO certified and all equipment carries the CE mark.

Yes, the kits work at all likely altitudes and likely ambient temperatures. Please note that the incubators within the Aquasafe units currently do NOT include cooling.

The kits can measure any bacteria with the application of the correct selective media. Generally they are used for indicative presumptive tests. However, by picking colonies from the membranes, confirmatory tests can be performed on samples cultured from these colony picks.

Cholera is a difficult organism to culture and often requires a large water sample and multiple culture steps. However, the Aquasafe incubator performs in the same way as a laboratory incubator so it could be used for cholera testing with the application of the correct selective media and procedure.

Our standard coliform test takes between 14-18 hours.

The cost per test is very low and varies dependent upon the test in question, please ask us for a quotation for your specific consumables requirements.

Our kits vary in weight dependent upon the application. Please ask us for details of your specific requirements.

There are many variations to our kits. We can advise you on the best solution for your application.

Yes, our kits are designed specifically to fit within the carry case provided, for your convenience and easy portability.

Due to their unreliability we have taken the decision at this time to not provide H2S strips. The possibility of failure and/or false negative/positive results are too high.

Generally all our kits are available ExStock. However, availability can change dependent upon the demand at the time. Please do ask us for a quotation.