VEE GEE BTX-1 - User Manual

Range: Brix 0.0-32.0%
Resolution: 0.2%
Accuracy: ±0.2%
ATC Range: 10-30°C (50-86°F)
Dimensions: 40 x 40 x 165mm (1.6 x 1.6 x 6.5”)
Weight: 240g (8.5 oz.)
Supplied With: Vinyl Carrying Case (1), Plastic Transfer Pipet (1), Calibration Screwdriver (1)
Printed in China VGMNL010320-43002
Operation Manual
Model BTX-1
Brix 0-32%
Specifications
Cat. No. 43002
Automatic Temperature Compensation
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General Use
Open the daylight plate and apply one or two drops of the sample solution to
the surface of the prism. Hold the prism at an angle close to parallel with the
floor so the sample will not run off of the prism.
Gently close the daylight plate over the prism. The sample solution should
spread as a thin, even layer in between the daylight plate and the prism. By
looking through the daylight plate, ensure that the sample solution covers the
ENTIRE surface of the prism. If there are bubbles and gaps or if the sample
is only on one portion of the prism, the sample solution must be reapplied
(Figure 1). Inaccurate readings will result if the prism is not covered correctly.
Looking through the eyepiece, hold the refractometer and direct the daylight
plate upwards towards light. If the scale is not in focus, adjust it by gently
turning the eyepiece (rubber hood) either clockwise or counterclockwise. Be
careful not to overturn the focusing mechanism.
When the refractometer scale is viewed through the eyepiece, the upper field
of view will be seen as blue and the lower field will be seen as white (Figure 4).
The reading is taken at the point where the boundary line of the blue and white
fields crosses the scale (Figure 5). The value is the Brix% reading of the
sample.
When each measurement is complete, the sample must be cleaned from
the prism using tissue paper and water.
Figure 5
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Summary

VEE GEE General Use

Applying and Spreading Sample

Apply sample, close plate, ensure even spread for accurate readings.

Focusing the Eyepiece

Adjust eyepiece for clear focus of the scale and boundary line.

Reading the Brix Scale

Identify reading at the boundary of blue/white fields on the scale.

Cleaning the Prism

Clean prism with tissue and water after each measurement.

VEE GEE Refractometer Components

Instrument Components Overview

Identify key parts like eyepiece, prism, calibration ring, and protective stand.

VEE GEE Precautions

Handling and Care Instructions

Handle with care, avoid scratches, do not immerse in water.

VEE GEE Calibration

Calibration Procedure

Calibrate with distilled water at 20°C, adjust scale to zero.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features
5. Supplied With

The VEE GEE Model BTX-1 Refractometer is a precision optical instrument designed for measuring the Brix% of solutions. It is built with modern designs to ensure reliable performance and is intended for use in various applications requiring accurate concentration measurements.

Function Description:

The primary function of the BTX-1 Refractometer is to determine the Brix% (percentage of sucrose by weight) of a liquid sample. This is achieved by measuring the refractive index of the solution, which correlates directly to its concentration. The device utilizes a prism and a daylight plate to create a thin, even layer of the sample solution. Light passing through the sample is then refracted, and the degree of refraction is observed through an eyepiece against a calibrated scale. The boundary line between the blue and white fields on the scale indicates the Brix% reading.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Range: Brix 0.0-32.0%
• Resolution: 0.2%
• Accuracy: ±0.2%
• ATC Range: 10-30°C (50-86°F)
• Dimensions: 40 x 40 x 165mm (1.6 x 1.6 x 6.5")
• Weight: 240g (8.5 oz.)
• Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC): The BTX-1 is equipped with an ATC mechanism, eliminating the need for manual recalibration or temperature correction tables for samples within the 10-30°C range. This feature automatically compensates for ambient temperature changes, ensuring accurate readings without constant adjustment.

Usage Features:

• Sample Application: To use the refractometer, one or two drops of the sample solution are applied to the prism surface after opening the daylight plate. The prism should be held at an angle to prevent the sample from running off. The daylight plate is then gently closed, ensuring the sample spreads evenly across the entire prism surface without bubbles or gaps.
• Focus Adjustment: The eyepiece features a rubber hood and can be adjusted by gently turning it clockwise or counterclockwise to bring the scale into focus. This ensures clear visibility of the measurement scale.
• Reading Measurement: When looking through the eyepiece, the field of view is divided into a blue upper field and a white lower field. The Brix% reading is taken at the point where the boundary line between these two fields crosses the calibrated scale.
• Calibration: While the ATC feature reduces the need for frequent calibration, periodic checks with distilled water are recommended. Calibration should be performed in a controlled environment of 20°C (68°F) using distilled water of the same temperature. The process involves applying distilled water to the prism, observing the reading, and adjusting the calibration ring with a supplied screwdriver until the boundary line aligns with the "0" mark on the scale. It is crucial not to over-tighten the set screw on the calibration ring.
• Ergonomic Design: The refractometer features a rubber grip that insulates the instrument against hand heat, preventing temperature fluctuations from affecting readings. A non-roll stand is also incorporated to protect the instrument from damage when placed on a surface.
• Portability: The compact dimensions and light weight, combined with the included vinyl carrying case, make the BTX-1 highly portable and convenient for field use.

Maintenance Features:

• Cleaning: After each measurement, the prism surface and daylight plate must be cleaned using tissue paper and water. It is important to use a soft cloth or tissue to avoid scratching the optical glass prism. The device should not be held under running water or submerged.
• Prism Care: The prism is made of optical glass and is susceptible to scratches. Users are advised to avoid applying any rough or abrasive materials during cleaning. If the prism surface becomes coated with an oily solution or similar residue that repels test samples, it should be cleaned with a weakened detergent or similar solvent.
• Storage: The refractometer comes with a vinyl carrying case for safe storage and transport, protecting it from physical damage and environmental elements.
• Durability: With proper care, the VEE GEE Refractometer is designed to provide many years of reliable performance. Adhering to the cleaning and handling guidelines is essential for maintaining its accuracy and longevity.

Supplied With:

The VEE GEE Model BTX-1 Refractometer comes with a comprehensive set of accessories to facilitate its use and maintenance:

• Vinyl Carrying Case (1)
• Plastic Transfer Pipet (1)
• Calibration Screwdriver (1)

This instrument is an optical device and should be handled with care to prevent damage from dropping or rough handling. The robust design and user-friendly features make it suitable for both professional and educational environments where accurate Brix% measurements are required.

VEE GEE BTX-1 Specifications