LimsPulse
Physical testing

Refractometer

Measures the refractive index of a liquid or melted solid, usually at 20 °C and 589 nm. It is a quick identity and purity test for oils, solvents and syrups.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Food & beverage
  • Flavours & fragrances
  • Chemicals
  • Petrochemicals
Photo of a Refractometer
Photo: Roco190, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Maintenance checklist

Daily / each use

  • Check with purified water at 20 °C (expected about 1.3330)
  • Clean the prism before and after each sample

Monthly

  • Inspect the prism and its seal for scratches or damage
  • Check the temperature display against a calibrated probe if your SOP requires

Six-monthly / annual

  • Calibrate with water and a certified refractive index reference liquid
  • Preventive maintenance by the service engineer
SAFETY

Safety precautions

Before you work on the Refractometer
  • Handle flammable solvents used for cleaning away from ignition sources.
  • Wear gloves when handling oils, solvents or irritant samples.
  • Do not look directly into the light source.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every Refractometer in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how