Concentration Control & Refractometer

Measure concentration correctly.

The refractometer reading is the fastest and most reliable method for determining the concentration of a water-miscible emulsion. The key requirement: multiply the reading by the correct product-specific factor.

TOOL-X 101 EU
REFRACTOMETER FACTOR
2.083

Constant factor –
valid for all concentrations

Concentration % = refractometer reading
× 2.083

EXAMPLES
  • Reading 2.4 °Brix → 5.0% concentration
  • Reading 2.9 °Brix → 6.0% concentration
  • Reading 3.4 °Brix → 7.1% concentration
  • Reading 3.8 °Brix → 7.9% concentration

HOW TO MEASURE CORRECTLY

PREPARATION
  • Calibrate the refractometer to zero using the mixing water
  • Bring the sample to room temperature (20 °C)
  • Dry the optics with a soft cloth
MEASUREMENT
  • Place 2–3 drops of emulsion on the prism
  • Close the cover plate and ensure even distribution
  • Read against daylight – look for a sharp boundary line
  • Multiply the reading by 2.083
PRACTICAL TIP

If the emulsion is heavily contaminated or contains a high proportion of tramp oil, verify the result with a laboratory analysis if in doubt.

Note: The process oils (Tapping Fluid 138, Swiss Screw 175, Machine Oil 180) are used undiluted and do not have a refractometer reading – concentration measurement is therefore not required.