Misco Refractometer Support Page

Traditional Refractometer Support Page

Uses For Refractometers Different models of traditional MISCO refractometers have different internal scales on which to read fluid concentrations. Some instruments have specialized scales that indicate the exact mixture of the sample being tested, while others have an arbitrary unit of measure that works like a short-hand for refractive index measurements. The instruction manual that comes with each refractometer carefully explains the procedure for comparing refractometer readings to the actual known concentrations or properties of your specific fluid. Trained MISCO technical support engineers are always available to assist you at any time. The new MISCO Digital Fiberoptic Refractometer has hundreds of available scales that display precise physical properties for specific fluids. It is no longer necessary to make conversion tables or charts for each of your fluids.

How To Use A Traditional Refractometer MISCO refractometers are easy-to-use and require little or no training. They can be mastered by ANYONE in just minutes. 1. Place a drop of sample on the measuring surface beneath the ViewPoint Illuminator. 2. Look through eyepiece and press the ViewPoint Illuminator. 3. Take your reading at the point where the contrast line (difference between light and dark areas) crosses the scale.

1. 2. 3.

How It All Works Light passing through a liquid is slowed compared to the speed it travels in air. So once a fluid sample is placed on the measuring surface of a refractometer the light passing through it slows and is bent. The refractometer focuses this bent light on a tiny internal scale. The scale is magnified by the eyepiece lenses so it is easily visible. The optics are supported by a bi-metal strip that moves lenses in response to temperature changes, ensuring that readings are accurate regardless of temperature. Temperature is one of the single most important factors influencing accurate refractometer readings.