Using an OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer pre-programmed for colostrum quality, you can obtain results within seconds!
Receiving quality colostrum is imperative to newborn livestock including foals, lambs and calves, as it is rich with antibodies (or immunoglobulins). Livestock born with low levels of immunoglobulin are in danger of becoming immunologically compromised and can be, at times, in a potentially life-threatening position at birth.
For the healthiest start to life, and to provide the nutrients that a newborn needs, it is imperative that the first feed be of good quality, with a sufficient colostrum supply available for your livestock.
Using a refractometer to monitor colostrum quality fed to newborns can help to ensure that these young animals receive enough immunoglobulin, increasing the survival rate of new livestock.
What do we mean by “good” quality colostrum? Well, it is broadly accepted that a sample of good quality colostrum contains 50g IgG/litre of colostrum though not all stock will produce to this level, this is why it is important to test across the farm to ensure a high quality first feed.
BRIX % |
IgG Conc. g/l |
Colostrum Quality |
<10-15% |
0-28 |
Poor |
15-20% |
28-50 |
Borderline |
20-30% |
50-80 |
Adequate |
>30% |
>80 |
Very Good |
Testing with a colostrometer (a hydrometer that uses the correlation between colostrum density and IgG concentration to give a measure of quality) is possible but can be impacted by temperature or by dry matter within the sample. Accuracy with temperature is key and will need samples of 20-21 °C to measure reliably. Refractometers are not dependant on temperature for accurate measurement of colostrum so are preferred by many.
The quickest and simplest method for colostrum quality measurement is by using an OPTi digital refractometer. This pocket sized handheld device only needs a tiny amount of sample to give you a reading. All you need to do is apply the sample to the prism dish & press “READ”. It really is that simple!
Unlike other methods of measurement there are no look-up tables or conversions necessary, the OPTi will do the hard work for you, before telling you in plain English whether the sample is good to use or not.
The OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer for colostrum also comes with 2 additional pre-programmed scales: Total Solids of Waste Milk, and Brix. These scales can be used when needed, or swapped at any time thanks to the onboard library of 50 common refractometer scales.
The Eclipse handheld refractometer is an optical tool designed to measure refractive index, which is then converted into a concentration measurement – in this case colostrum quality. To use, place a small drop of your colostrum sample onto the glass prism, close the flap and look through the eyepiece. The results will be shown by a shadowed line through the scale. We call this the borderline. By referring to the colostrum conversion table, you’ll be able to tell if the sample is poor, adequate or very good.
Remember: the use of a refractometer allows the level of immunoglobulin to be assessed quickly (in seconds) and effectively and immediate treatment can follow. The refractometer is an invaluable and simple aid to securing these measurements without the need for large, valuable amounts of sample.
To learn about Eclipse and OPTi refractometer click here.
]]>Have you tried a bottle of Bellingham + Stanley’s AG Fluid for refractometer calibration yet?
Now’s the time to switch and save with *50% off a single bottle using the offer code shown below.
AG Fluids are aqueous solutions that cover the range 1.33-1.40 RI (0-40 °Brix equivalent) and have a shelf life of 12-months. They are ideal for calibrating refractometers that have temperature control in both food and industrial applications as well as instruments that have AG Fluid temperature compensation. AG Fluids are unique as they are low Brix and have a long shelf life.
If we can’t tempt you with 50% off AG Fluids then perhaps we can interest you in 20% off other calibrations materials for refractometers? Take a look at the calibration offers below.
AG Fluid – 50% off a single bottle with discount code: AG50BLACK
AG Fluid – 20% off pack of 5 with discount code: AG20BLACK
Calibration Oils – 20% off with discount code: OIL20BLACK
Save 10% on OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers now until the end of November.
With a wide measuring range of 0-95 °Brix and a library of over 50 common refractometer scales, the OPTi is a must have for anyone interested in measuring refractive index on-the-go.
Choose either a standard OPTi Digital Handheld 0-95, ideal for measuring anywhere along the Brix range, or something more tailored towards your application – such as the OPTi for % of Starch or OPTi for Green Energy (Glycol/Ethylene Glycol). These products can all be found within our Collection pages.
OPTi Digital Refractometer – 10% off with discount code: OPTI10BLACK
Take advantage of these generous savings this Black Friday to save money on your refractometer calibration and OPTi refractometers but be quick – these offers end Thursday 30th November. Remember to use the discount code at the checkout!
Updated February 2024
Please note: whilst we’ve completed much of the move of operations we are still suffering from a few teething problems. We are endeavouring to push as much product as we can to customers (especially those of you still waiting on orders) and we apologise for this delay.
Delays are currently affecting:
Orders of refractometer calibration should be shipping to our normal delivery schedule.
If you have any queries please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
-----
Original story:
Bellingham + Stanley, a Xylem brand, recently announced it was moving operations from its home of 60 years in Tunbridge Wells, UK to Xylem’s bespoke manufacturing facility in Wilheim, Germany. The move to a facility boasting the latest manufacturing and warehouse technologies intends to better serve customers in terms of product quality and customer service – as well as helping to satisfy Xylem’s long-term sustainability goals.
You might be thinking “great, but what does that mean for me as a Refractometer Shop customer?” and that’s fair. By using Refractometer Shop you will still be buying product from our UK centre of excellence as normal, with continued access to UK customer support. All items featured in our shop are generally stocked in the UK and shipped as we have always done.
Product from Refractometer Shop is provided by Bellingham + Stanley® (where refractometers and calibration materials are concerned) as well as other Xylem brands (ebro® for thermometers and WTW® for pH electrodes for example) and as such the move in manufacturing location could result in some supply chain delays on certain product between November and December 2023.
In anticipation of the move, we have made sure that our shelves are stocked so that there should be no problem in ordering OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers, the amazing Abbe 5 or any of our calibration materials including Bellingham + Stanley’s highly recommended AG Fluids.
We hope that our transition doesn’t cause too many hiccups to our usual high standards and to thank you for reading our notice, we’d like to offer you a 5% discount on any order over £100 between now and the end of December 2023. Simply use the offer code at the checkout:
5OFFNOVDEC
Click here to see our tailored collections for Food & Beverage, Beer & Wine, Life Science, and more.
If you have any concerns about the ordering process or wish to discuss a new or ongoing order then please contact us today to speak to our Customer Care team.
]]>
Our subscriptions can be taken out over 1 month, 6 weeks, 3 months, or 6 months – enabling you to always have refractometer calibration materials whenever you need them.
That’s not all! Using subscriptions comes with the added benefit of making some great cost savings across our range of calibration solutions. Depending on the frequency, you can save up to 15% off each product you subscribe to – that’s over £15 saved on a box of 5 AG fluids!
At Refractometer Shop we believe calibration is the key to successful measurements. Our range of refractometer calibration materials and accessories are available to help keep your handheld or benchtop refractometer in great working order. Our calibration and accessories collection is the place to go if you’re looking for UKAS certified AG fluid, sucrose solution, replacement refractometers flaps, optical refractometer contact liquid or even a carry case for your digital refractometer!
Our calibration materials vary between organic compound calibration oil that cover a range of 1.47 - 1.56 refractive index (70-95 °Brix and beyond), long life aqueous AG fluids which cover 1.33 - 1.40 refractive index (0-40 °Brix equivalent), and sugar solutions - often used by food and beverage manufacturers. Refractometer calibration materials can be purchased as single bottles or in boxes of 5 for your convenience.
Have a question regarding your refractometer calibration methods or want to know more? Get in contact with us today and we’ll be happy to help.
]]>Whether you’re currently looking for a new BBQ, or have already spent time picking out the best, feature-packed grill that you can afford, the chances are that you’ve gone through at least one of these questions in your mind. But have you thought about cooking temperatures, and in particular - thermometers?
]]>Savings throughout July and August 2023 on selected thermometers. Read to the end for your offer.
Our range of professional thermometers can be a real asset to cooks and chefs up and down the country when operating in a busy kitchen, but they’re not just for people with culinary degrees as our popular blog from last year shows.
Here in the UK Summer is in the air, and many people are thinking about reaching for the BBQ tongs and charcoal (or gas bottle, if you’re that way inclined) for a relaxing meal in the garden with their family. Drinks will flow and more food than you really have room for will be cooked over hot coals; meanwhile someone will be scrolling through their music streaming service of choice to pick out a playlist that inevitably includes Mungo Jerry, and Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince. Good times!
Coal or gas? Do I need an adjustable grill height? An open grill or covered kettle grill? Should I buy a rotisserie or smoker?
Pro tip: Don’t open the lid so often - keep that heat on the inside.
Whether you’re currently looking for a new BBQ, or have already spent time picking out the best, feature-packed grill that you can afford, the chances are that you’ve gone through at least one of these questions in your mind. But have you thought about cooking temperatures, and in particular - thermometers?
These days many BBQs come with thermometers built into the lid, giving you a rough gauge of the current temperature inside of the grill; you’ll notice the needle move wildly when removing the lid to check on your food. Knowing the temperature of your grill can help you make good estimates on how long a piece of meat or fish will take to cook, but how do you know when it’s safe to eat?
The answer is simpler than you might think. A probe thermometer such as the TLC700 from ebro, will help you eliminate the risk of serving undercooked, or even dangerously raw food to your family and guests.
Pro tip: Aim for the thickest part of the food to insert your probe thermometer. Unevenly cut meat will take longer to cook at its thickest area.
This high quality precision folding probe thermometer has a clear digital display and can be set to either C° or F°. It’s easy to use and can save you from spoiling food by overcooking, as well as ensuring things like poultry - notorious for BBQ food poisoning - are cooked through and ready to serve. Simply insert the probe into the thickest part of your meat, poultry or fish, and take a reading in seconds.
Pro tip: To ensure you avoid cross-contamination always wipe clean the thermometer probe before taking a reading.
A thermometer like the TLC700 is not just for BBQs. This thermometer is ideal for use in brewing, beverage, food, cold-chain and general industrial applications where precise measurement of temperature is required.
Thankfully, it is rare that food poisoning from a BBQ ends with serious complications, and you can normally treat yourself at home, but in some instances it can lead to a hospital visit.
Whilst preparing your BBQ, using clean and clearly marked chopping boards for different foodstuffs prevents cross-contamination of raw meat and poultry. Washing your hands regularly whilst cooking, and especially after handling raw food, goes a long way to preventing the spread of germs. However, it’s during the process of cooking that some of the biggest risks occur; using a probe thermometer to check the temperature of food is vital to fending off harmful bacteria including Salmonella, E.coli O157 and Campylobacter, which are proven to cause varying degrees of food poisoning. These germs are only killed by cooking meat until it is piping-hot throughout.
Campylobacter is the most common bacterial cause of diarrhoea in the UK, and anyone can become infected. It is usually the result of eating or handling raw or under-cooked meat or poultry, or from cross contamination during food preparation. You can prevent infection using good hygiene practices and by making sure your food is cooked thoroughly by use of a probe thermometer.
E.coli is the one you’ve probably heard of. Generally speaking E.coli are harmless common bacteria, normally found in the intestines of animals and humans. However, certain types of E.coli can cause infections, the most common and important of which is E.coli O157. Often contracted via poorly cooked minced beef (we’re looking at you, Cheeseburger!), E.coli O157 can cause unpleasant bouts of diarrhoea and other more serious complications. In rare cases E.coli O157 has been known to be fatal. You can prevent infection by following good hygiene practices and by making sure your food is cooked thoroughly by use of a probe thermometer.
Salmonella is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of poultry and other wild and domestic animals. Symptoms of a salmonella infection include watery and sometimes bloody diarrhoea, abdominal pains, nausea and vomiting, fevers, and headaches. Infection can be caused by contamination of red and white meat, as well as dairy stuffs and is likely to be contracted by (you guessed it) eating raw or inadequately cooked food. Prevention? It’s the probe thermometer again - a simple and effective way to check that your food is properly cooked all the way through. Oh, and remember to wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs!
Temperature measuring tools like the TLC700 Probe Thermometer or the TLC730 Dual Infrared and Probe Thermometer are used in professional kitchens and at the BBQ by great chefs all over the world. It’s no fluke that they serve amazing, well prepared food day in and day out. Years of training, good hygiene practices, and simple to use tools like food thermometers are key to ensuring consistency within food and beverage both at home as well as at an industrial level.
Pro Tip: Cooking over a direct flame can char (blacken) your food and make it hard to judge when ready. Use a thermometer to tell what’s happening on the inside.
Poultry
(When cooking chicken, always make sure the juices run clear before eating.)
Meat
Fish
Order your TLC730 today and receive 20% off throughout the months of June and July using discount code: SAFEFOOD20
To see our range of thermometers including probe, and infrared non-contact thermometers visit our collection here.
]]>The OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer, the simple to use instrument with 50 scales to choose from, is a powerful handheld refractometer that you all know and love. In fact, we think you love it a little too much; so much in fact, that we’re currently having a little trouble fulfilling demand!
At Refractometer Shop we strive to get orders to customers within 3-7 working days to UK delivery addresses. Currently we are unable to meet this expectation for the OPTi. Whilst we’ve done all we can to secure components, the current struggle being felt by manufacturers the world over has unfortunately caught up with us too.
We expect to be able to start shipping orders of OPTi refractometers in February 2023. Please feel free to place your order to make sure you secure your instrument from the next shipment – but of course, we’ll understand if you choose to wait to place your order until we’re shipping again in February.
If you’re in a hurry, why not take a look at the Eclipse Professional Optical Refractometer. The Eclipse refractometer has become recognised as one of the world’s most reliable and robust optical refractometers on the market today!
If you’d prefer to wait for the OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer then please pre-order today and whilst you wait take a look at the product page to prepare for your delivery.
Need to talk to one of our team? Drop us a message via our Contact Us page and we’ll get back to you.
]]>Refractometer Shop prides itself on its fantastic range of handheld refractometers with options for both traditional optical models and easy to use digital instruments that offer clear readings at the touch of a button.
Whilst the OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer embraces modern technologies enabling customers accurate and convenient measurement on the go, the Abbe 5 optical refractometer from Bellingham + Stanley is a different beast altogether.
The Abbe 5 optical refractometer is an affordable bench-top instrument perfectly suited for users requiring a wide measurement range of Refractive Index. Customers that use an Abbe 5 are often based in smaller contract laboratories or use them for applications where sample throughput is relatively low. The instrument is also perfect for practical demonstrations and experiments in chemistry and physics laboratories of schools, colleges and universities.
The Abbe refractometer derives its name from the 19th Century physicist and father of modern optical technology, Ernst Abbe (1840- 1905). He was the co-founder of the Carl Zeiss Jena Optical Company and Schott Glasswerk. Abbe designed an instrument for measuring dispersion which became the precursor for a refractometer – the Abbe Refractometer.
Traditional Abbe refractometers have both Transmission and Reflection modes of illumination.
As the name implies, refractometers adopting the transmission mode of illumination allow the light to pass THROUGH the sample. The light source is either incorporated as part of the refractometer or is generated by a sodium or spectral lamp outfit.
This method of illumination works from the principle that the angle of reflected light equals that of the transmitted light. As such, the light reaches the interface of prism/sample, most of the light is transmitted out of the instrument in the normal way, however, some light is reflected. This reflected light is far less brilliant than the transmitted light but it does equal the same angle and as such may be used to interpret the Refractive Index.
Reflective mode is particularly useful for measuring samples with high optical density e.g. rubber and polymers.
It’s worth noting that modern digital Refractometers adopt only one mode of illumination - Reflection mode. By using reflected light, digital handheld refractometers such as the OPTi can be made more compact and in some instances waterproof. However, reflected light is less brilliant and so can be difficult to see with the human eye. Optical instruments such as the Abbe 5 and handheld refractometers like the Eclipse primarily adopt transmitted light, either by way of natural or artificial light sources.
The Abbe 5 is a traditional optical refractometer that features both Refractive Index and Brix scales, with a resolution of 0.0005 and 0.1 respectively. The temperature of the prism is monitored electronically and displayed on the clear LCD display at the base of the instrument. Connections for a water-bath provide optional prism temperature control, facilitating accurate readings to 4 decimal places RI (or for Brix, 1 decimal place). Dispersion measurements of solid materials such as glass, contact lenses and fibre optics may be made in accordance with standard practice.
You can use an Abbe 5 optical refractometer to measure the refractive index (and °Brix) of many different samples. The Abbe 5 is particularly useful when wanting to measure resins (including set resins) as well as very viscous samples such as confectionary including boiled sweets and gummy sweets (e.g. gummy bears and jelly babies).
Order today from Refractometer Shop and benefit from our knowledgeable UK based customer care team and free delivery direct from the manufacturer.
For more information contact our customer care team today or visit the Abbe 5 product page. To learn more about refractometry or to download the Bellingham + Stanley Refractometry Handbook visit Xylem Analytics.
]]>Perfect for beer and cider brewers as well as winemakers, this kit is a specially selected bundle of an OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer and a hydrometer for the determination of alcohol by volume (ABV) in beer, wine and cider. This is not only useful as an alcohol content guide for breweries, but for those working within trading standards as an audit tool. Refractometers are even mentioned as general provisions for cider and wine makers, by HM Revenue and Customs in the UK.
But wait, that’s not all! Because this is an OPTi refractometer you get even more. Yes, this OPTi is set for Wort and Zeiss measurement but it also measures in °Brix for extra flexibility. All you need to do is select which scale you require between A, B and C. This handy option means you only need one accurate, pocket-sized instrument to measure original gravity, monitor fermentation in process and fruit ripeness. The ability to measure fruit ripeness is great for cider makers. The Brix scale offers ripeness monitoring in the field so that apples & pears are picked at the optimum sugar level ready for fermenting.
Many brewers and winemakers may have seen or used an optical refractometer in the past. These simple tools can be effective but can sometimes suffer from an ambiguity when it comes to reading results. The OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer is far more accurate than an equivalent-scale optical refractometer as it eliminates difficult to read results at the lower end of the scale, especially cheaply made Brix refractometers that have a compressed scale near water, just where the finished beer will read.
With a digital reading your accuracy can be assured, saving you time, effort and money in terms of wasted or spoiled product. Pick the right time to harvest with the accuracy of OPTi, from Bellingham + Stanley. An instrument designed and manufactured by the minds behind precision laboratory equipment including RFM Refractometers, ADP Polarimeters and DSG Series Density Meters. In fact, Bellingham + Stanley is often cited to be the inventor of handheld refractometry. Their first product dating back to 1936 when they introduced the first pocket-sized refractometer with a brix scale for measurement in sugar cane fields.
Unlike many new calculators that have come to the market in recent years, the calculator we rely on can be traced back to the UK’s Customs Authority. Many years ago, refractometer specialists Bellingham + Stanley worked with the UK Customs Authority (the then HMRC) to develop an accurate portable instrument designed for measuring alcohol content at the dock side of commercial ports. The idea behind this was to prevent a rise in smuggling!
Duty payment was required on wine and spirits being brought into the country, with duty for spirits, such as whisky, being significantly higher than that of a bottle of wine. Trying to capitalise on this, smugglers would disguise spirits by labelling them as wine and therefore saving money per shipment on duty! With the use of a handheld refractometer Customs officials were able to scientifically determine the content of individual bottles.
Bellingham + Stanley recognised the need for a linear scale so that optical readings weren’t influenced by the non-linear scales found in commonly available Brix refractometers. The Zeiss scale was adopted due to its heritage and ease of use. By using an evenly spaced scale, readings obtained from what was then called the “Pocket Refractometer” were of the same precision no matter where on the scale the operator would take the reading. The Zeiss scale is still available for use today in the form of our Eclipse professional range refractometer for those brewers and cider makers wishing to use a more traditional optical instrument.
So why are you offering the Brix scale if the Zeiss is better?
Whilst many people prefer the ease of use of the Zeiss scale, there are still those that like to use the Brix scale. Harnessing the power of the OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer we are able to include the Brix scale as standard in the OPTi Brew Kit so that other web-based calculators for, say, “original gravity” may be used.
Brewers use this model to measure the concentration of wort (beer) contained within the mash tun prior to fermentation. Typically, a hydrometer is used for density measured in Specific Gravity (SG) but refractometers are often preferred as they are easier to use than glass hydrometers – especially in wet and cold environments! The SG scale is based on pure sucrose and, as beer recipes are likely to have been formulated using a hydrometer, it may be necessary to apply a small offset for each beer type to negate the effects of other ingredients in the Wort that are not pure sugar.
Our hydrometer is specially graduated so that it covers the specific gravity range needed by brewers and cider makers to calculate alcohol using the RI-SG method. This means you only need one hydrometer to measure alcohol rather than trying to pick the right one from a selection in your brewery.
1x OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer (Wort/Brix/Zeiss)
1 x Graduated Hydrometer
1 x Hydrometer Jar
Instruction manual with tables + access details for the Bellingham + Stanley online calculators should you need them.
Get your Brew Kit today by clicking the button below or by visiting our Beer & Wine collection now.
]]>Good ventilation in areas such as classrooms, medical practices, and offices is also key and has been proven to reduce virus load in the air dramatically, thus lowering the risk of diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza. Of course airborne viruses aren’t exactly easy to see with the naked eye, so how do we spot and eliminate risk?
Fortunately the Technical University Berlin has discovered a correlation between virus load and the CO2 value within the air around us. Carbon dioxide monitors such as the Room Climate Monitor RM 100 from ebro, monitor the levels of CO2 and can evaluate the quality of the breathable air. For instance, a measurement of 250 ppm CO2 represents pure breathing air with no cause for concern. A reading of 1500 ppm CO2 however would mean the air quality is bad and immediate venting would be recommended.
Any room with good levels won’t stay that way for long if the variables change. With the presence of people either coming-or-going, or sitting for meetings or lessons the decrease in air quality is often imperceptible. Whilst the stale air is hard to spot the negative impact is most definitely there. The RM 100 constantly assesses the air quality and will alert you with either an on-screen warning, or audible alarm.
During the warmer summer months it can often be preferable to keep ventilation flowing, especially if there’s a cool summer breeze to appreciate, but not all rooms have that option and often there are times when you need peace and quiet or privacy. Throughout the colder autumn and winter months keeping doors and windows closed keeps the warmth in and saves energy. This, as we’ve just learned, comes at the price of a risk to air quality. With the Room Climate Monitor RM 100 you can vent rooms only when specifically required, reducing expensive energy costs whilst keeping optimal air quality.
Whilst the in-built carbon dioxide alarm is a primary concern it is not the RM 100’s only feature. Climate Monitor by name, and climate monitor by nature. The RM 100 accurately measures the climate of any room it is in by detecting temperature and humidity. Did you know that the climate in office rooms has a critical impact on the productive efficiency as well as the health of employees? A small improvement of the climate within a room can increase productivity by up to 15 %, while at the same time decreasing the risk of respiratory diseases dramatically. The Room Climate Monitor RM 100 helps to attain this goal.
Every room climate monitor RM 100 is shipped with a certificate of calibration. This is proof of the accuracy and reliability of your device.
Measure and monitor carbon dioxide within a room effectively today by clicking here to learn more about the RM 100 from ebro, a Xylem brand.
]]>Ebro specialises in designing and manufacturing high quality thermometers and data loggers. Their expertise has spanned over 50 years and has been applied in many different industries such as medical, pharmaceutical and food & beverage — including catering and cold chain.
A wide range of instrumentation including data loggers and thermometers have aided the pharmaceutical industry for many years. High accuracy data loggers monitor the temperature and humidity of vaccines, drugs, and other raw materials during transport and storage in order to ensure climate consistency and assist with quality control of product within the industry.
Importantly, ebro’s range of software for calibrating data loggers and retrieving reports meets FDA regulation 21 CFR Part 11 and can therefore help you comply with the strict statutory regulations and guidelines.
The EBI 310 TE is suitable for monitoring vaccines (including those used to fight COVID-19) thanks to its ability to measure extremely low and high temperatures.
Within the food and beverage industry Ebro offers handheld instruments and data loggers for the entire cold chain. From process monitoring, transport and storage monitoring, to final incoming goods inspection.
Ebro's EN 13485 certified handheld thermometers are great for food preparation. Not only are they accurate and simple to use, but they can help you in complying with HACCP in order to improve food safety. The TLC Dual Core & IR precision thermometer is great for measuring the surface temperature of foodstuffs without contact, whilst still offering a probe for when you need it.
Data loggers can be used to monitor the transport and storage of food and beverage. Whether you need to track and monitor refrigerated meat in transit, or the safe storage of fresh fish, Ebro’s data loggers can accurately record temperature (and humidity, depending on the model) and produce secure, tamper-proof reports. Monitoring sensitive and costly food cargo is especially important when shipping refrigerated goods to Europe from the UK because of possible delays at the newly instated customs point between UK and EUR post Brexit.
Refractometer Shop stocks a range of high quality thermometers and data loggers from Ebro, a Xylem brand.
Reusable data logger with USB connectivity and LCD screen. Ideal for most uses when operating between -30°C and +70°C. BUY NOW.
Can monitor between -200°C and +250°C. Reusable data logger with USB connectivity and LCD screen. Ideal for low temperature monitoring. BUY NOW.
Basic low cost data logger designed for one way trips. BUY NOW.
High quality precision folding probe thermometer with clear digital display for measuring core temperatures. BUY NOW.
Dual-Infrared / folding probe thermometer for both surface and contact measurements. BUY NOW.
Infrared thermometer perfect for fast inspection of food without the need for contact. BUY NOW.
Great for applications within the food processing industry as well as other applications where deep sample penetration is required. BUY NOW.
For more information about any of the data loggers and professional thermometers from Ebro you've seen here today please browse the collection here or do not hesitate to drop our customer care team a message or ask for a call back.
]]>One of the most exciting new features of the OPTi is its onboard library of 50 common refractometer scales. The list of scales includes regularly used scales across food & beverage, automotive, industrial, life science and wine & beer. From Brix to Zeiss via glucose, fructose and and water-in-honey.
Each OPTi scale has been best matched with a “sample-relevant” Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) table to provide the best measurement performance achievable for a digital handheld refractometer. For more information on how OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers use Automatic Temperature Compensation for reliable results click here.
Every OPTi comes with space for 3 interchangeable scales, accessible at the touch of a button. Many of the application based OPTi refractometers will come with 2 or 3 pre-loaded scales related to a common theme. This OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer - Automotive for instance has 3 preselected scales which makes this particular refractometer ideal for fleet managers or mechanics working in garages.
Perhaps you’re a winemaker and need Brix for one application, and Alcohol Probable for the next? No problem! Switching scales only takes a moment. The OPTi is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to monitor and control your concentration whether you’re in a lab, a kitchen or sampling fruit juices in a vineyard.
This video, posted by Bellingham + Stanley shows new users how to navigate the OPTi menus and talks through the initial setup of the OPTi refractometer for first time use.
The initial setup video features:
The full list of common refractometer scales for OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers enables you to tailor your new digital refractometer the way you want it. With the ability to pre-load 3 interchangeable scales from an onboard library of 50, there are over 9880 possible OPTi combinations. This level of customisation makes the OPTi one the most flexible refractometers on the market today.
You can download the full list of onboard refractometer scales here.
Please note: The index number for each scale corresponds to the scale within the OPTi’s onboard library. It is important to pay attention to this number when setting up your OPTi, as this will be your main reference for selection.
If you require assistance when setting up your new OPTi, or would like to purchase a pre-selected model, then please contact us today. If you are still thinking to yourself "what is the best handheld refractometer to buy today?” and haven’t yet bought a new OPTi, then we invite you to consider the following question: What do you measure?
]]>The new OPTi® Digital Handheld Refractometer designed and manufactured by Bellingham + Stanley provides reliable and versatile measurement of total dissolved solids and blend ratios of liquids in a premium quality instrument. OPTi refractometers have always been a class leader when it comes to features and the new model retains everything you’ve come to expect, including a stainless steel prism dish, durable IP65 casing, long battery life and quick 2 second read time.
Now, in 2021, Bellingham + Stanley have taken the OPTi feature-set one step further and completely revolutionised the way in which digital handheld refractometers are supplied and purchased. Every OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer now includes 50 common refractometer scales, giving customers access to scales including: the complete 0-95 °Brix scale, 1.33-1.53 Refractive Index, °Baume, Ethylene Glycol and more.
In addition to this vast library of scales, every OPTi now includes 3 selectable scales (A, B, C), which can be quickly switched between at the touch of a button, giving customers flexibility within their particular application. A refractometer with multiple scales can benefit users in many different industries. For instance, winemakers now have the option of using just one refractometer to measure Brix (%Mass) on scale A, grape must in °Baume on scale B, and alcohol by volume (by way of the Zeiss scale) on scale C.
Switching scales is simple, and with the quick 2 second read time and pocket-sized form-factor, the OPTi refractometer is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to monitor and control your concentration on-the-go.
Refractometer Shop has exclusive access to a range of pre-selected OPTi refractometers designed around popular applications amongst our customers. So whether you require a refractometer for wine or beer brewing, automotive, aviation, colostrum quality checks or food and beverage, we’ve got a digital refractometer for you.
Take a look at Bellingham + Stanley’s "How to" video to see how easy it is to switch between different scales and other parameters.
Read more about what stands OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers out from the crowd, and see a complete list of common scales here. You can visit our collections here, or to enquire about bulk ordering, or have any other questions don’t hesitate to contact us today.
]]>Well, in short, nothing much will change except our prices to EU countries will no longer show the 20% UK tax added and "EU Zero Tax" form that previously required completion to negate UK tax.
Instead, all EU orders will be treated as export orders and as such will be "zero tax rated" automatically.
All our export shipments are made with the necessary export documents to provide a smooth transit through customs; something we have been doing for the many shipments we have made to countries outside of the EU since 2004.
So as we enter this new era for the UK, we look forward to continuing working with all of our customers across the globe, whether they be near or far.
Here's to a prosperous and safe 2021.
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Refractometer Shop is committed to providing certified, quality products from a brand you can trust. In order for us to continue to do that effectively we are having to increase a few prices across our range of handheld refractometers. These changes will ensure that we maintain our quality of product as well as our quality of service.
The new prices come in to effect as of 01.08.20 (1st August 2020) and all orders after this date will be charged accordingly. To take advantage of the current prices please ensure you order before this time.
If you have any questions or concerns, then please do get in touch with the Customer Care team at the usual place.
Thank you for your understanding, and continued support.
Sincerely,
The team at Refractometer Shop
]]>We think you'll find some useful tips, helpful reminders and practical advice for refractometer use whether you are the owner of a handheld refractometer, or user of a bench-top instrument.
In the previous blog we talked about sample preparation and the effects of temperature. The 4th and final part of our Refractometer Top Tips looks at continuously achieve accurate results through maintenance.
If you haven’t read parts one, two or three of our Refractometer Top Tips then why not take a look to learn about refractometer 101 and quality control, as well as operating procedures and refractometer sample preparation, and the effects of temperature of refractometer samples.
Optical and digital handheld refractometers require little maintenance, often only requiring a zero calibration with water. For high range instruments that don’t have a zero point, use a sugar sample or for optical instruments, a solid test plate. Some digital handheld refractometers also allow verification of the upper scale using a long-life, certified sample. You can purchase solid test plates, sugar solutions and long-life certified samples from reputable refractometer specialist stockists such as here at Refractometer Shop.com.
Always keep your refractometer clean. Remove all traces of sample from the prism once it has been read and keep your refractometer in a safe place; after all, a refractometer is a delicate, scientific instrument.
When purchasing your new refractometer consider installation and training as part of a new user start-up package. For regulated environments such as within the pharmaceutical industry, it is worth asking the instrument manufacturer, their local distributor or even an independent validation contractor to perform a validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) using traceable standards prior to use. Configuration and start-up training can then be done in one session saving time and money.
Verify and if necessary calibrate the refractometer on a regular basis. Typically, a ZERO verification should be performed daily. SPAN, a validation of the upper part of the scale or in the range where you normally take measurements, should be done weekly and only after a ZERO validation. Always squeeze some sample to waste to ensure no crystals have formed in the nozzle.
Only adjust the refractometer if it falls out of specification and make sure samples are left long enough for the temperature to stabilise.
Clean and dry carefully between each verification and if in doubt of the reading, do it again to ensure you don’t calibrate in any erroneous readings! Always consult with the instrument instructions and the guidelines of the standard being used.
With busy work schedules it can be all too easy to forget or skip regular maintenance. Create and regiment a schedule within your operating procedures to ensure compliance. This may include routine cleaning, the changing of any consumables such as lamps, flow-through pipes or even air filters.
Some refractometers allow you to create a schedule of calibration and maintenance due dates within the onboard calendar, so be sure to take advantage of these features if they are available.
Most suppliers of digital bench-top scientific instrumentation including refractometers will offer contracted service plans or ad-hoc maintenance.
For peace of mind, and for continuously accurate results from your refractometer readings, it is wise to have your instrument checked out by the supplier or manufacturer on a yearly basis, especially if controlling critical or regulated products.
Remember, “prevention is better than cure.” It is better to keep a bad thing from happening than to fix the bad thing once it has happened. Preventative maintenance not only ensures reliable use and extends the life of the instrument, it may also help to prevent a catastrophic breakdown.
Whilst that may sound like scaremongering, in the worst case scenario, instrumentation breakdown may leave a production plant without proper quality and or quantity control.
Thanks for reading our refractometer top tips. If you’d like to learn more about Bellingham + Stanley refractometers visit Bellingham + Stanley's refractometer overview page or contact us at Refractometer Shop today.
]]>We think you'll find some useful tips, helpful reminders and practical advice for refractometer use whether you are the owner of a handheld refractometer, or user of a bench-top instrument.
In the last blog we discussed the benefits of taking time to choose the right refractometer for you, competencies and sample preparation. Part 3 of our Refractometer Top Tips will focus on taking measurements with a refractometer and how temperature can effect samples and readings.
If you haven’t read part one or part two of our Refractometer Top Tips then why not take a look to learn about refractometer 101 and quality control, as well as operating procedures and refractometer sample preparation. Here though we continue with our 18 Top Tips For Quality Refractometer Results.
When taking a reading with a refractometer it is sensible to apply the right amount of sample. If you apply too much it will take longer to stabilise — much like having too much water in a kettle or pot will cause it to take longer to boil.
Likewise if you apply too little the interface between the prism and sample will not refract properly. To ensure best performance always use the refractometer presser, plate or flap if fitted. Always make sure that you read the instrument’s manual for advice on sample size.
When measuring sugar syrups with a refractometer always ensure that you take time to stir the syrup sufficiently before taking a sample. This is the best way to avoid highly concentrated (and unrepresentative) “skin” that can form on top. (Imagine serving the skin on top of a custard, rather than the creamy goodness underneath – it’s not what you want, or what you’d expect!)
Just as important is to make sure that you do not stir too vigorously though; you don't want to entrap micro air bubbles that may also interfere with the refracted ray!
To take a measurement of refractive index refractometers need to “see through” a sample. Heat up viscous, semi-solid and solid samples like waxes, fats, edible oils & butter to take a reading with your refractometer.
When measuring hot samples next to the production line, you should reduce stabilisation times by increasing the instrument’s temperature to that of the sample. Then use temperature compensation to give the result as if it was at 20°C.
This technique also applies to refractometers measuring the total solids of instant coffee prior to freeze drying so that sediment doesn’t form on the prism whilst waiting for equilibrium.
Optical handheld refractometers offer limited temperature correction using a manual offset or bimetallic strip allowing you to compensate. Most users of handheld refractometers will find this adequate for the typical measurement offered from such an instrument. As an improvement to this some digital handheld refractometers use a technique called sugar compensation. For other non-sugar samples, high grade digital handheld refractometers, such as the OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer, use application specific compensation to provide a far more accurate result.
For accuracy and convenience digital bench-top refractometers found in laboratories or factories use electronic/mathematical temperature compensation for sugar-based products but for ultimate performance, look for Peltier temperature controlled refractometers.
Peltier temperature controlled refractometer systems control the prism and surrounding plate so that the sample is controlled to the desired measurement temperature. Ideal for those non-sugar organics and inorganic samples.
Always give the sample enough time to stabilise to the ambient temperature of the refractometer. Failure to do so will result in your refractometer borderline (and therefore your reading) will literally be moving!
Modern laboratory instruments offer stability checks so that the reading will only given after a set time, or better still, when the instrument detects both sample and temperature readings have stabilised – SMART!
Remember to clean the prism and plate of your refractometer after each and every use! It is also important to dry it properly. Cross-contamination between samples and cleaning materials will create erroneous results the next time it is used.
The cleaning process is critical when using reference materials to verify the instrument.
If the reading isn’t what you expected or if on an optical handheld refractometer the borderline doesn’t look as sharp as it normally does for that sample, start again!
For digital refractometers that feature a quality indicator, check to see if the number is correct for the sample being measured.
Some “Methods based” refractometers, such as the RFM900-T from Bellingham + Stanley, with limit checking function also allow you to set a threshold for each sample so that anything unusual is displayed to the user as an error message.
Limit functions may also be applied to the temperature and quality number as well as the measured sample reading.
Next time our 18 top tips for achieving quality results from your refractometer will continue with a look at how to continuously achieve accurate results through calibration and good maintenance. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about Bellingham + Stanley refractometers visit Bellingham + Stanley's refractometer overview page or contact Refractometer Shop today.
Here’s what’s needed to ensure reliable results when taking refractometric measurements, whether they be Brix, RI, Urea, or many of the other application specific scales that have evolved over the 150 years refractometers have been in use.
]]>We think you'll find some useful tips, helpful reminders and practical advice for refractometer use whether you are the owner of a handheld refractometer, or user of a bench-top instrument.
In our last blog we looked at the science behind refractometers; “What is a refractometer?” “How does a refractometer work?” and a brief look at some of the typical refractometer scales available. We also looked at how refractometers are used the world over for quality control, and also quantity control. If you haven’t read part one of our Refractometer Top Tips blog you can do so here.
So here’s what’s needed to ensure reliable results when taking refractometric measurements, whether they be Brix, RI, Urea, or many of the other application specific scales that have evolved over the 150 years refractometers have been in use.
Choosing the right refractometer for your particular application can be tricky. There are many different models of refractometer to choose from and prices can range from £30 right up to £10,000. How do you know which one is correct for you?
A really useful tip is to start by writing down your measurement needs and the environment in which the reading is to be taken. This will help you determine the right instrument for the job in hand.
A simple, low cost handheld refractometer is fine for field testing before fruit harvest or for checking chemical dilution in the automotive industry. For less mess and accurate results we recommend going digital with the OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer.
If you’re mixing expensive raw materials or controlling a high speed bottling line in a beverage factory then a sophisticated instrument is required. Bench-top digital refractometers such as the RFM-Series from Bellingham + Stanley are ideal when there are needs for tighter control to avoid even the smallest amount of waste. Technologically advanced refractometers such as these are suitable for a factory environment.
Did you know that refractive index changes significantly with variations in temperature? These variations are very important to consider if you want to achieve reliable measurements.
Within food and beverage, sugar-based foodstuffs including beverages, sauces, and confectionery are specified at 20°C and have very similar temperature characteristics, so can be treated together. Organics such as oils and aromas differ widely with temperature change and so must be considered independently.
It might sound simple, but going to the source may answer any queries you have. Very often instrument manufacturers have a wealth of information collected over the years, and can be a great source of advice so be sure to speak with them. Once you’ve chosen your refractometer, think about pre- and after-sales advice. Choose a brand from a local supplier so that you can be supported throughout the lifespan of the product. Don’t settle for “box shifters,” the quality of your product could be at stake.
There is no benefit in having the most sophisticated refractometer if you don’t stop to think about the people that are expected to use it. You wouldn’t hand over the keys to a Ferrari to someone without a driving licence! Proper consideration must be given to what the instrument is to achieve vs. the skill-set of the people expected to achieve it.
It is worth looking around for an instrument that has an intuitive display, like the RFM refractometers from Bellingham + Stanley that include a colour coded menu structure to help guide users in their daily work.
No matter what the application, good operating procedures and proper training in the use of the instrumentation is essential if you are to get the best from your refractometer. Look for a digital refractometer with operating assistance through on-screen prompts. These can help guide the operator to take precise measurements with very little training. Password protection ensures low-level operators will not be able to access sensitive configuration menus so that instrument integrity is protected throughout the working day. Some refractometers even use RFID tags, allowing you to tap a secure tag to log in.
If available, use the instrument’s on-board audit trail that logs who has done what so that any unauthorised changes to the instrument’s configuration can be easily traced.
Preparing a sample prior to measurement with a refractometer is important. For handheld refractometers, this could be as simple as degassing soda from canned drinks using cups - for the uninitiated here’s a quick life hack for removing gas from carbonated drinks: Simply take two cups and pour the fizzy drink back and forth between the two containers. Soon enough you’ll have degassed the soda.
If you’re using fruit, simply crush it until it becomes a smooth juicy sample. Remember to remove any pips, seeds or fleshy pulp. For fibrous product like carrot, potato, turnip or swede, use a grater to break down the fibres and then squeeze the juice from a handful of the shreds before taking a measurement.
Next time our 18 top tips for achieving quality results from your refractometer will continue with a focus on applying sample and the effects of temperature on your readings. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about Bellingham + Stanley bench-top refractometers visit the B+S refractometer overview or contact the Refractometer Shop contact page today.
]]>SenTix® pH electrodes are simple to use electrodes compatible with most types of laboratory meters and suitable for a wide range of samples and applications, including food and beverage (such as beer, soft drinks and coffee extracts), detergents, salt solutions, surface water and tap water.
WTW’s pH electrodes are optimised for measurement in aqueous systems, with the flexibility to also measure samples of a different consistency in certain situations. Contact us today to receive a Xylem Lab and Field brochure containing an electrode/application suitability table.
pH measurement is a common scientific measurement and useful across a wide range of applications; from routine measurement in water-based solutions, to special applications in a variety of media such as strong acid or alkaline solutions. pH measurement can also be conducted with suspended solids or non-aqueous phases, inside or outside of laboratory conditions.
The SenTix® range of electrodes from WTW, a Xylem brand, include low-maintenance electrodes, precision electrodes, electrodes with or without temperature sensors, analogue electrodes and digital electrodes including IDS technology. They are manufactured in a range of epoxy and glass tubes.
Refractometer Shop has chosen to stock a selection of “universal” glass and epoxy electrodes from WTW. The SenTix® 82 and 81 are glass pH combination electrodes with liquid electrolyte, a built-in temperature sensor, BNC plug/banana plug (and DIN plug for the 81). Both electrodes have a probe length of 120mm, and cable length of 1m.
The SenTix® 82 is one of the most popular electrodes on the market. These probes are ideal for most makes of bench-top pH meters, thanks to its common BNC style plug, and suitable for a wide range of applications; so much so that you could call the SenTix® 82 electrode the “universal electrode”.
The SenTix® 42 and 41 are epoxy pH combination electrodes with gel electrolyte, a built-in temperature sensor, BNC plug/banana plug (with DIN style plug available on SenTix® 41). Both electrodes have a probe length of 120mm, and cable length of 1m.
Whether you’re looking for hints on buying the best refractometer for your application or wanting to learn about refractometer care and maintenance we’ll have something for you.
]]>We think you'll find some useful tips, helpful reminders and practical advice for refractometer use whether you are the owner of a handheld refractometer, or user of a benchtop instrument.
With over 100 years experience, Bellingham + Stanley are well positioned to give good, practical advice to refractometer users all around the world. We’ve pulled together 18 top tips for achieving quality results from your refractometer which we will be sharing with you over the next few weeks. Whether you’re looking for hints on buying the best refractometer for your application or wanting to learn about refractometer care and maintenance we’ll have something for you.
A refractometer is a scientific instrument used to measure refractive index. As Xylem Analytics state: “When light passes from one medium to another, the speed at which the light travels will change depending on the parameters of the materials. This principle can be seen when looking at a straw in a glass or an oarsman on the river, where the straw or oar appears to be bent at the water/air interface. The ratio or change in the speed of light is called refractive index and instruments that measure this are called refractometers.”
Refractive index is often converted into a concentration measurement, typically of sugar (displayed commonly as °Brix) for food applications or other easily useable concentration scales relative to the products being measured. Common scales include °Brix, Ethylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Starch, Water-in-Honey, Urea, Wort, and °Zeiss.
Refractometers come in several shapes and sizes and differ in accuracy and technological sophistication. From simple optical handheld instrumentation, to digital bench-top refractometers with flow-through accessories that can form part of complete purity packages.
Before we get started with our top tips for achieving quality results from your refractometer we wanted to talk a little about quality control.
Refractometers are commonly used as a quantity control tool within factories and laboratories. The importance of good quality control (often referred to as QC), whether in food, beverage, pharmaceutical or chemical manufacture, is to ensure all finished product is consistent and meets the required (and often regulated) specification.
Investing in a good quality refractometer from a reputable manufacturer, such as Bellingham + Stanley, is therefore essential to the quality of your end product – whether you’re making small batch craft beer, supplying a supermarket with jams and marmalades, or determining purity and concentration of pharmaceutical ingredients. Refractometers from Bellingham + Stanley are supplied with a unique serial number and Certificate of Calibration ensuring every instrument you buy may be traced to NIST and ICUMSA standards.
Good QC has an impact on profits too. Most people define QC as quality control but it can
also be interpreted as quantity control, where quantity relates to the dilution or blend of, say, an expensive raw material such as concentrated apple pulp used to make juice. Over-dilute and you’re simply giving money away. Under dilute and you run the risk of breaching specification limits, creating unhappy customers who don’t come back for more, or even losing supply contracts.
Next time, we’ll be starting our 18 top tips for achieving quality results from your refractometer with a focus on initial investment and preparation. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about Bellingham + Stanley refractometers visit their website for a refractometer overview or take a look at Refractometer Shop's collections today.
OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometers are perfectly pocket-sized, accurate, digital refractometers available in many different scales to suit your particular application. OPTi refractometers feature an easy clean prism dish and easy-to-read LCD display, as well as a unique "AG Test Mode”. This unique mode negates the need to use expensive, short shelf-life, sucrose based solutions for verification and instead facilitates the use of long-life AG Fluid calibration materials without having to consider scale range or compensation type.
We think that the OPTi refractometer is such a reliable and accurate refractometer that it is almost like having a mini lab instrument in the palm of your hand. Not only that but every OPTi refractometer is supplied with a unique Certificate of Calibration for peace of mind (and don’t forget that a simple fixed price re-certification service is also available for those that require it).
Order your limited edition “Cool Grey” OPTi Digital Handheld Refractometer from Refractometer Shop today by answering our simple question: What do you measure?
Can’t find what you’re looking for or simply want to know more? Speak to our Custom Care team today.
Limited Edition available until 31.05.20
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The OPTi digital handheld refractometers are simple-to-use, accurate, pocket sized refractometers with many different scales to choose from. With their striking blue colour, easy-clean prism dish and bold simple-to-read LCD display, the OPTi refractometer is like having a mini-lab instrument in the palm of your hand.
The OPTi comes in a range of scales to suit your needs so it is perfect for taking measurements on-the-go, whether it be in the vineyard testing for ripeness or in a factory with industrial chemicals.
Every OPTi refractometer incorporates a unique "AG Test Mode" that facilitates the use of long-life AG Fluid calibration materials, and is supplied with a unique Certificate of Calibration for peace of mind.
Blue is the new black this Black Friday with 10% percent savings to be had across our range of OPTi digital handheld refractometers. Use offer code: TEN%OPTI at the checkout. Offer runs from 28th November to 2nd December 2019.
To find your perfect OPTi visit our application collections and add an OPTi to your basket now, or browse our clearance items for big reductions on end of stock refractometers.
It is great to see The Great British Bake Off back on television screens, not just because it’s great entertainment, but because it inspires so many of us to get into our kitchens and… BAKE!
This year we’ve already seen bakers measuring temperature using a handheld probe thermometer to temper chocolate, and caramelise sugar properly. Whilst a set of scales, a decent rolling pin and a sturdy mixing bowl are seen as indispensable, a quality handheld probe thermometer is an essential but often overlooked piece of kitchen equipment for the amateur baker. This simple to use, and inexpensive tool isn't just for the professional baker, and it may just help transform your baking from from good to great!
Xylem’s Ebro brand has been manufacturing innovative thermometers and data loggers for over 50 years from its headquarters in Germany, so they know a thing or two when it comes to precise measurements of temperature. That’s why we are proud to be offering a range of thermometers that complement our selection of refractometers here at Refractometer Shop.
Visit our Temperature, Data Logging & Validation collection today to find out more, or revisit our Great British Baking blog, to see how we got on in the kitchen using Ebro infrared and folding probe thermometers.
Xylem's new facility in the UK is now open and accepting precision thermometers and data loggers from Ebro and many other brands for repair, calibration and certification. For more information about our range of precision thermometers and data loggers for the food and beverage industry, please visit our collection. To enquire about thermometer or data logger calibration give Xylem Analytics a call on 01892 500 400 or email them today. Read more about Xylem's new Calibration Lab here.
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Analytical instrument experts, Xylem Analytics UK, are pleased to announce the opening of a new Calibration Laboratory at its Bellingham + Stanley facility in Tunbridge Wells, Kent.
The new facility is brought to you in conjunction with Ebro, manufacturers of precision thermometers and data loggers for over 50 years. Ebro's instrument expertise has given customers confidence in using their products in many different applications within the food and beverage industry; from simple catering instruments that check food is piping hot to complex wireless systems that monitor warehouses and supermarket chilling systems.
Monitoring the temperature and humidity of food in transport and storage is Xylem brand Ebro’s specialty and Xylem Analytics UK are harnessing that expertise in 2019 with the opening of a brand new Calibration Laboratory. The custom-built facility offers fixed price inspection, repair, calibration and certification on a range of thermometers and data loggers - including non-Xylem product.
The importance of verifying the performance of any temperature monitoring device is paramount if we are to be sure that perishable goods are stored and transported in a safe and consistent manner. Likewise, it is imperative to know that critical temperatures within the pasteurisation process of, say, a dairy based beverage or fruit juice packaging process is sustained for a specified period as part of HACCP. It is also as important to verify that the equipment being used for such purposes is in itself reliable and traceable to primary standards. Xylem’s new Calibration Laboratory fulfils this need.
For more information about our range of precision thermometers and data loggers for the food and beverage industry, please visit our collection. To enquire about thermometer or data logger calibration give Xylem Analytics a call on 01892 500 400 or email them today.
]]>With strawberries around the UK ripe for the picking, we decided to grab some handheld Xylem brand instruments including an OPTi digital handheld refractometer for jam from Bellingham + Stanley, and a TLC 700 thermometer from Ebro, before harvesting some delicious fruit in order to make our very own jam.
DID YOU KNOW? The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK state that sugar content of jam, jelly and marmalades should always be measured by a refractometer. The sugar content shown on product labelling must be accurate to ±3 refractometric degrees, a requirement that the OPTi digital refractometer for jam is more than capable of meeting.
One of the most popular types of preserve in the UK, jam will normally contain both the flesh of a fruit (or occasionally a vegetable) as well as the juice. Jam has also been defined as “a cooked and jelled puree.” The term "jam" refers to a product made of whole fruit cut into pieces or crushed, then heated with water and sugar to activate its pectin before portioning out into containers - typically jars.
Pectin is a soluble gelatinous polysaccharide which is present in ripe fruits.
It is made up of D-galacturonic acid connected by α (1–4) glycosidic linkages with traces of L-fructose, D-glucose, D-mannose, and D-xylose. In jams, pectin is what thickens the final product, causing the mixture to set in a jelly-like state.
Ingredients:
Instruments:
Method
1. Prepare your strawberries by giving them a wipe with wet kitchen towel or a quick rinse. Don’t be tempted to submerge the fruit, as this will allow the strawberries to absorb water - making the jam harder to set later on.
2. Empty the strawberries into a large bowl and cover with the sugar. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring that the fruit is generously coated in the sugar. Leave uncovered at room temperature overnight. Leaving for 12hr+ will allow the sugar to dissolve, and ensures the strawberries keep their colour and don’t drastically disintegrate.
3. Transfer to a preserving pan and add the lemon juice. Set the pan over a low heat and cook gently until all grains of sugar are dissolved. Wipe away any stray grains on the side of the pan, and check with the back of a mixing spoon whether any sugar remains.
4. Once satisfied that the sugar has completely dissolved, steadily increase the heat and bring to the boil. Please note that the sugar must be completely dissolved before increasing the temperature else the jam will have trouble setting later on.
5. Boil the mixture until the temperature reaches 105°C on the thermometer. This should take around 10 minutes of boiling. It’s worth noting: in our kitchen we ran 2 different thermometers whilst boiling the mixture. When our precision thermometer from Ebro read 105°C (the ideal temperature we were looking for) the cheap sugar thermometer was still some way off reading “Jam”.
6. Use an OPTi digital refractometer for jam to measure the °Brix of the mixture. Give the prism dish a wipe with a tissue to ensure that it is clean. Take a small sample of the jam from the middle of the pan, making sure to only sample pure jam and not impurities that may have formed on the surface whilst boiling. Place the sample onto the prism and allow 15 seconds for the temperature to stabilise so that the refractometer’s automatic temperature compensation is accurate. Press the READ button. A reading of 65 °Brix indicates that the jam is ready. Clean the prism dish and store away the refractometer for next time.
7. Remove any scum from the top of the jam using a spoon to skim the surface and discard. Leave to settle for around 20 mins and then spoon the finished jam into sterilised jars. Place a disc of greaseproof paper over the top before securing with a lid.
Ready to follow the instructions but need a new refractometer and thermometer? Visit Refractometer Shop for your new ebro TLC700 thermometer, OPTi Digital refractometer for jam or an Eclipse Optical refractometer for jam. Available whilst stocks last.
As latest building regulations dictate the need to incorporate energy efficient solutions into domestic and commercial property builds, many architects turn to thermal heat collector systems as part of their green energy strategy to help reduce the overall carbon footprint of properties under construction.
]]>Whether thermal heat collectors are above ground as part of a closed loop hot water system or as a more complex geothermal installation where collection pipes are laid below lakes, ponds and garden landscapes, consideration to heat transfer efficiency and more importantly the effects of freezing weather conditions in winter has to be considered from the outset.
Manufacturers have adopted propylene glycol as the base chemical for most heat transfer fluids, not only because of its high heat transfer characteristic that allows energy to easily flow between the source and circulated fluid, but also as it has excellent antifreeze properties that provides protection in the sub-zero temperatures of winter keeping systems fully operational and ensuring an efficient energy harvest all year round!
However, getting the concentration right from the outset of installation and during routine maintenance is paramount to both system efficiency and protection and many professionals turn to Bellingham + Stanley OPTi digital handheld refractometers (available right now at Refractometer Shop) to accurately measure the dilution ratios of heat transfer fluids.
“Using a digital refractometer is far easier and measurement is more precise compared to a conventional refractometer as the instrument takes care of any temperature corrections needed when working out in the cold. It only takes a drop of sample and the touch-of-a-button to get an instant concentration readout that you can rely on,” said one commercial installer.
OPTi refractometers for the measurement of heat transfer fluids are available as single or dual scale instruments with results displayed as °C Frost Protection, % Glycol by volume and of course the core measurement, refractive index.
Discover OPTi digital refractometers today at Refractometer Shop.
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The TLC 700 folding probe thermometer is a fantastic partner to the OPTi given that it is perfect for applications including brewing and jam making. It’s precise, has a clear display and is rated to IP65. What more could you possibly need? A certificate of calibration? Absolutely! This is Refractometer Shop after all, where all of our instruments are supplied with certification.
Look out for the blue circle, indicating which of our refractometers are eligible for a free TLC 700 thermometer, but hurry this offer is extremely limited!
As well as this great giveaway, Refractometer Shop (in collaboration with other Xylem brands) have many other fabulous offers including reductions on pH meter kits and Eclipse refractometers. Take a look at our Black Friday Collection page now.
Being able to control and measure heat is essential for tempering chocolate and caramelising sugar both at home or in a busy kitchen. With only a small window in which to operate, using a digital thermometer can save you from burnt sugar (along with ruined pots and pans).
For those that want to have a try at tempering chocolate, to add that finishing touch of class to your beautiful bakes, then a thermometer will be required so that you can achieve that glassy, snappable finish to your chocolate.
Refractometer Shop have been experimenting in the kitchen with ebro probe thermometers (TLC 700) as well as taking a look at measuring with the hygienic, non-contact TFI 260 thermometer (perfect for those of us that love a kitchen gadget!) Both the infrared digital thermometer and probe thermometer gave excellent, accurate results, though the TFI 260 infrared proved to be a safer bet for measuring temperatures over a hot pan.
Staying hydrated is important in all walks of life but for competitive athletes the need to monitor hydration levels is a vital part of tournament preparation as they prepare their bodies for intense training and competition.
Staying hydrated is important in all walks of life but for competitive athletes the need to monitor hydration levels is a vital part of tournament preparation as they prepare their bodies for intense training and competition.
Read our original blog here or jump straight over to our OPTi Refractometer for Sports Science.
The OPTi Sports Science comes with a dual scale, Brix and Urine Specific Gravity, which is great for sports physios and for any athletes wishing to ensure optimum hydration. The Brix scale can be used to monitor sugar levels of drinks being taken by the athlete, whilst the urine specific gravity scale can be used to monitor hydration before and after training. Doing so provides a baseline for water/sugar replenishment.
]]>As well as monitoring concentration, pH is also monitored in order to reduce bacterial growth within the system. Commonly this is done using a dipping paper and colour comparison chart; however, many companies now use digital meters such as the PHX 800 pH-Tester as it helps eliminate human error.
Handheld refractometers are also commonly used within the food and beverage area to control the Brix, or dissolved solids content of drinks, jams and chutneys etc. as well as being ideal for monitoring the blend ratio of automotive fluids such as AdBlue® and antifreeze.
]]>We will be taking several key products to the Hospitality Tech Show - one of the four shows on offer at the exhibition; including precision core & infrared thermometers for food safety, frying oil meters for viably maintaining the oil quality of deep fat fryers, and USB and wireless data loggers for monitoring temperature and humidity of foodstuffs in transit and storage. Our Eclipse and OPTi handheld refractometers, ideal for measuring the concentrations of sauces and soups as well as for use within artisan food & beverage manufacture will also be on show.
If you’re planning to visit to Hotelympia this year, be sure to drop by our booth no 3323 in the Hospitallity Tech arena to learn how ebro products can help you deliver higher quality, more consistent, and safer food to your customers.
Pre-register to get free entry to Hotelympia or pay at the door (£30)
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