Principles and Use

Refractometers are measuring instruments in which this phenomenon of light refraction is put to a practical use. Refractometers are based on the principle that as the density of a substance increases (e.g. when sugar is dissolved in water) , its refractive index rises proportionately.

Principles of Refractometers

• 1 . Refractometers utilise a prism which possesses a much a greater refractive index than the sample solution to be measured. Measurements are made possible using the refractive phenomena which arise at the interface of the prism and the sample solution.
• 2. In the case of a weak sample solution, the difference between the refractive index of the solution and that of the prism is great, therefore the angle of refraction is large (see A on the diagram below).
• 3. In the case of a strong sample solution, the difference between the refractive index of the prism is smaller and therefore the angle of refraction is smaller (see B on the diagram below).

Our refractometers work in ambient light with no battery or other power source necessary. They can be used in labs, on production lines(wine, juice, milk, honey and so on), in the field, in the automobile, in the medical industry or anywhere. Simply place a drop or two of sample on the prism and read the results immediately. With reasonable care their reliability, precision, and optical performance will last forever.

Models with the “ATC” or “T” suffix are equipped with “Automatic Temperature Compensation” for accurate measurements without recalibration after shifts in ambient working temperature (field use).