This is called “refraction”. There is an angle of light propagation at which refraction no longer occurs, the light beam instead being reflected back into the original material. This is called the critical angle. Critical angle is the result of light interfacing at two mediums. The PR-111 Inline Process Refractometers measure this critical angle, thereby inferring the refractive index of the second material. Different materials have different refractive indices (RI’s), as do different concentrations. Critical angle is dependent upon these RI’s.
It is equally important to note that the critical angle and refractive index are both closely related to the temperature of the liquid. The refractive index of a liquid at 20°C will be different from the refractive index of the same liquid, at the same concentration, when the liquid is heated to 90°C. Accurate temperatures for the process to be measured are therefore critical to an accurate measurement.
During a measurement, the refractometer’s LED shines through a sapphire prism. At the interface of the liquid and prism, some of the light is reflected back into the refractometer’s probe, and some is refracted out into the liquid. The light that is reflected at the interface with the liquid meets the refractometer’s two silicon detectors. These detectors are the reference cell and the measurement cell for the refractometer equipment.
A third cell is also applied for “backscattered” light that is reflected back into the probe from suspended particles in the liquid being measured. It is the abilities of the PR-111 Inline Process Refractometers to compensate for this “backscattered” light that give these refractometers the ability to monitor many liquids that would defeat other refractometers.
Veteran Owned and Operated
At the forefront of precision and innovation, our refractometers are engineered to deliver unmatched accuracy in measuring liquid concentrations across industries. Whether you’re in food production, chemical processing, or manufacturing, our advanced refractometers ensure real-time monitoring, boosting efficiency and product consistency.
Accurate, reliable and repeatable results from refractometer equipment .
Our refractometers are designed to be durable and precise, helping industries like food and beverage, chemical processing, and manufacturing maintain quality control. By constantly monitoring the refractive index of liquids, the refractometer provides real-time data, ensuring that products meet strict standards and reducing waste.
Miracle Solutions
Our inline refractometers are built for easy integration into existing systems, offering a reliable solution for continuous measurement without disrupting operations. With advanced technology, these devices give accurate readings even in tough industrial environments, helping businesses improve efficiency and maintain product consistency. This saves time and resources, making them a valuable tool for companies looking to optimize their processes.
