HACH HC9420 UNIQ Fermentation pH Electrode
| Brand | Hach |
|---|---|
| Origin | Imported |
| Manufacturer Status | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Model | UNIQ Fermentation pH Electrode HC9420 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The HACH HC9420 UNIQ Fermentation pH Electrode is an industrial-grade, high-reliability pH sensing device engineered specifically for continuous in-situ monitoring in bioprocess environments—including stirred-tank fermenters, bioreactors, and upstream/downstream processing units. It operates on the potentiometric principle, measuring the hydrogen ion activity across a specialized high-temperature glass membrane via the Nernst equation. Unlike standard laboratory pH electrodes, the HC9420 integrates structural and electrochemical design features optimized for dynamic, high-pressure, and thermally demanding fermentation workflows—where sensor stability, mechanical robustness, and long-term calibration integrity are critical to process control and regulatory compliance.
Key Features
- High-temperature borosilicate glass pH membrane, precision-blown into a cylindrical geometry to maximize active surface area and improve signal-to-noise ratio under turbulent flow conditions.
- Pressure-rated construction capable of withstanding up to 6 bar (87 psi) of sustained hydrostatic or process pressure without membrane deformation or electrolyte leakage.
- Patented multi-pore ceramic junction (salt bridge) engineered for consistent liquid junction potential, minimizing drift during extended operation in viscous, protein-rich, or particulate-laden media.
- Integrated PT1000 platinum resistance thermometer (PRT) for real-time, two-point temperature compensation—fully compatible with HACH SC1000, HQ40d, and other industry-standard controllers supporting DIN/IEC 60751 Class A tolerance.
- Autoclavable design rated for repeated sterilization cycles at 121 °C for 30 minutes, meeting ASME BPE-2022 requirements for hygienic process instrumentation.
- IP68-rated housing with FDA-compliant EPDM and PEEK materials; suitable for direct mounting in sanitary tri-clamp (DIN 11851) or NPT threaded ports.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HC9420 demonstrates broad compatibility with complex biological matrices, including microbial broth (E. coli, yeast, CHO cell cultures), mycelial suspensions, enzymatic reaction mixtures, and low-conductivity media (< 100 µS/cm). Its stable liquid junction resists clogging in high-protein environments typical of monoclonal antibody production or vaccine manufacturing. The electrode meets ISO 15197:2013 (for performance validation protocols), complies with USP environmental monitoring guidelines, and supports audit-ready documentation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with HACH’s validated data acquisition software. It is routinely deployed in facilities operating under cGMP, GLP, and ISO 13485 quality systems.
Software & Data Management
When connected to HACH’s SC200 or SC1000 universal controllers—or integrated via Modbus RTU/ASCII into DCS/SCADA platforms—the HC9420 delivers time-stamped, temperature-compensated pH values with 0.01 pH resolution and ±0.05 pH accuracy (per NIST-traceable calibration). All calibration events (including slope, offset, and asymmetry potential) are logged with user ID, timestamp, buffer lot number, and ambient temperature—enabling full traceability per ALCOA+ principles. Optional HACH Insight™ software provides automated calibration verification reports, trend analysis for drift detection, and export to CSV or PDF formats compliant with internal QA review and external regulatory submissions.
Applications
- Real-time pH control in aerobic and anaerobic batch, fed-batch, and continuous fermentation processes.
- In-line monitoring during upstream processing of therapeutic proteins, vaccines, and recombinant enzymes.
- Process analytical technology (PAT) implementation per ICH Q8(R2) and FDA PAT guidance documents.
- Quality-by-Design (QbD) studies requiring high-fidelity kinetic pH profiling across scale-up transitions (lab → pilot → production).
- Monitoring acid/base addition rates in dairy fermentation, ethanol production, and organic acid synthesis (e.g., citric, lactic).
FAQ
Is the HC9420 compatible with non-HACH transmitters?
Yes—it outputs a standard mV signal (±1200 mV range) and supports passive temperature input (PT1000); compatibility requires transmitter support for dual-input pH/RTD measurement with NIST-traceable calibration routines.
What is the recommended calibration frequency in continuous bioreactor operation?
Initial calibration pre-sterilization, followed by post-sterilization verification; routine recalibration every 24–72 hours depending on medium fouling risk and regulatory tier—validated per ASTM D1293-22 Annex A1.
Can the electrode be cleaned in situ without removal from the vessel?
Yes—compatible with CIP protocols using 0.1 M HNO₃ or enzymatic cleaners (e.g., Tergazyme®); avoid chloride-based or oxidizing agents that degrade the glass membrane.
Does the HC9420 support digital output or only analog?
Analog-only (mV + PT1000); for digital integration, pair with HACH’s SC1000 controller or third-party gateways supporting HART or Modbus mapping of pH and temperature registers.
