TDS Calculator

- May 10, 2025
| |

Calculate Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water samples. This calculator helps determine water quality and solute concentration based on electrical conductivity measurements.

Calculation Method

Conductivity Measurement

Typically between 0.55-0.8 depending on water type

Output Settings

Advanced Options

About Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is a measure of the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances contained in a liquid. The solids must be small enough to survive filtration through a sieve size of two micrometres.

TDS Measurement Methods
  • Conductivity Method: Based on the electrical conductivity of water. As dissolved solids increase, electrical conductivity increases.
  • Gravimetric Method (Evaporation): A water sample is filtered, evaporated, and the remaining residue is weighed.
  • Sum of Ions Method: Adding up the concentrations of individually measured ions.
Water Classification by TDS
  • Fresh water: Less than 1,000 mg/L
  • Brackish water: 1,000 to 10,000 mg/L
  • Saline water: 10,000 to 35,000 mg/L
  • Hypersaline water: More than 35,000 mg/L
Common TDS Sources
  • Natural Sources: Minerals from rocks and soils, decaying organic matter
  • Human Activities: Urban runoff, industrial wastewater, sewage, agricultural chemicals
  • Water Treatment Chemicals: Additives like chlorine, fluoride, or water softening compounds
Importance of TDS Monitoring
  • Drinking Water Quality: High TDS may indicate pollution or health risks
  • Agricultural Use: Irrigation water with high TDS can damage crops and soil
  • Industrial Applications: High TDS water can cause scaling in boilers and cooling towers
  • Aquatic Ecosystems: Changes in TDS can affect aquatic organisms
  • Water Treatment: TDS levels help determine appropriate treatment methods
Standards and Guidelines
  • WHO Guidelines: No specific health-based guideline value, but levels above 1000 mg/L may be objectionable to consumers
  • US EPA Secondary Standard: 500 mg/L (recommended, not enforced)
  • EU Drinking Water Directive: No specific parameter for TDS

Understanding the TDS Calculator

The TDS Calculator is a handy tool that helps users measure Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water. TDS refers to the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances in a liquid. This measurement is crucial for determining water quality and understanding how safe a water source is for drinking or Other uses.

How the Calculator Works

This calculator offers three different methods to measure TDS: from conductivity, from individual ions, and from evaporation. Users can choose their preferred method based on the available data. Each method has its own input requirements, allowing for flexibility depending on the information at hand.

Conductivity Method Explained

Using the conductivity method, TDS is calculated based on the electrical conductivity of water. When dissolved solids increase, the conductivity also rises. Users need to input the conductivity measurement, conversion factor, and water temperature for accurate results. Here's what you should consider:

  • Conductivity value (in μS/cm or mS/cm)
  • Conversion factor (typical range is 0.55 to 0.8)
  • Water temperature (in °C or °F)

Individual Ions Method

This method involves measuring the concentration of specific ions in the water, such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, and chloride. Users can enter the values for each ion to get a more detailed analysis of the TDS level. This approach can be particularly useful for those needing precise measurements for scientific or agricultural purposes.

Evaporation Method Details

The evaporation method measures TDS by weighing the residue left after evaporating a water sample. Users need to provide the initial and final weights of the container, as well as the sample volume. This method gives a clear representation of solids that are dissolved in the water.

Output and Customisation Options

The calculator allows users to select the output unit for TDS results, such as mg/L, ppm, or g/L. Additionally, users can adjust the number of decimal places for their results. This level of customisation ensures that users get the information in a format that suits their needs.

Advanced Features for Detailed Analysis

For those seeking a deeper insight, the TDS Calculator includes advanced options. Users can opt to see a detailed breakdown of the TDS results and a composition chart. These features can help in analysing water quality and understanding the specific contributions of different ions to overall TDS levels.

Why TDS Measurement Matters

Monitoring TDS levels is vital for various reasons. High TDS can indicate pollution or potential Health risks. It's crucial for drinking water quality, agricultural use, and industrial applications. By using the TDS Calculator, users can gain insights that help ensure water safety and suitability for their intended purposes.