The Milwaukee MW13 Digital Iodine Tester is a compact handheld photometer designed to measure iodine concentration in water. With a measurement range of 0.0 to 12.5 ppm, it provides a straightforward way to monitor iodine levels in water-treatment, aquaculture, laboratory and other specialist water-testing applications.

Instead of relying on visual colour comparison with test strips, the MW13 uses a reagent-based photometric method to produce a digital iodine reading. This makes results easier to read and record, helping users carry out repeatable water-quality checks.

Digital iodine testing for water quality monitoring

Iodine is used in certain water-treatment and disinfection applications, including specialist aquaculture and fish-farming processes. Where iodine levels need to be monitored, the MW13 provides a dedicated measurement instrument.

The tester uses an adaptation of the DPD method described in the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 18th edition. When the iodine reagent is added to the water sample, it produces a pink colour. The MW13 measures the colour intensity using an optical system and calculates the iodine concentration.

The result is displayed directly in ppm, without the need to judge the colour by eye.

Key features

• Dedicated iodine measurement: Designed specifically for iodine testing in water.

• Measurement range: 0.0–12.5 ppm.

• Resolution: 0.1 ppm.

• Accuracy: ±0.1 ppm ±5% of the reading at 25°C.

• Digital display: Clear numerical results instead of subjective visual colour matching.

• Reagent-based method: Uses Milwaukee iodine powder reagents.

• Simple operation: Straightforward sample preparation and measurement process.

• No manual calibration required: The instrument uses a sample-zeroing step before the reagent is added.

• Compact and portable: Suitable for testing at the point of use.

• Automatic shut-off: Helps conserve battery power.

How the Milwaukee MW13 works

The MW13 uses a photometric measurement method. The iodine reagent reacts with the sample to produce a pink colour, and the instrument measures the intensity of that colour to calculate the iodine concentration.

The basic testing procedure is:

1. Fill a clean cuvette with 10 mL of the water sample.

2. Place the cuvette in the tester and carry out the initial zeroing step.

3. Remove the cuvette and add one packet of Milwaukee MI527 iodine reagent.

4. Replace the cap and shake gently for approximately 20 seconds until the powder dissolves.

5. Return the cuvette to the instrument.

6. Allow the reaction time of 2 minutes and 30 seconds.

7. Read the iodine concentration displayed in ppm.

Always follow the supplied instruction manual and use the specified reagent.

Technical specifications

What is included?

The Milwaukee MW13 is supplied with:

• MW13 digital iodine photometer

• 2 sample cuvettes with caps

• 6 iodine powder reagent sachets

• 1 × 1.5V AAA battery

• Instruction manual

Replacement reagents and accessories

For continued testing, the MW13 requires the correct iodine reagent.

• MI527-25 iodine reagent: Replacement pack containing 25 powder reagent sachets.

• MI0011 glass cuvettes: Replacement sample cuvettes.

• MI0013 cuvette stoppers: Replacement stoppers for compatible cuvettes.

Use only the specified reagent and compatible cuvettes to maintain reliable measurement performance.

Is the Milwaukee MW13 suitable for aquarium and aquaculture water testing?

The MW13 can be useful in specialist aquarium and aquaculture applications where iodine concentration is a specific parameter of interest, particularly where iodine is used as part of a controlled water-treatment process.

It is important to distinguish iodine testing from routine aquarium water testing. The MW13 is not designed to measure iodide, iodate or every form of iodine independently, nor does it provide a general assessment of aquarium water quality. Its measurement is based on the specified reagent method.

For routine aquarium monitoring, other parameters such as pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate and chlorine may also need to be checked using appropriate dedicated tests.

Why choose the Milwaukee MW13?

The MW13 offers a convenient digital alternative to visual iodine test methods. Its dedicated measurement range, simple reagent procedure and clear digital display make it a practical option for users who need to monitor iodine in water-treatment, aquaculture or laboratory applications.

Available from GroAqua – water testing equipment and water-quality measurement solutions.