VEE GEE BX-50 - User Manual

Range: Brix 0.0-50.0%
Resolution: 0.5%
Accuracy: ±0.5%
Dimensions: 40 x 40 x 145mm (1.6 x 1.6 x 5.7”)
Weight: 225g (7.9 oz.)
Supplied With: Vinyl Carrying Case (1), Plastic Transfer Pipet (1)
Printed in China
VGMNL010320-43015
Operation Manual
Model BX-50
Brix 0-50%
Specifications
Cat. No. 43015
Temperature Correction Table
For Refractometers Calibrated At 20°C (l=589nm)
Source: ICUMSA,
1974
As an alternative to recalibration of the refractometer due to ambient temperature changes, the following temperature
correction table can be used. Ensuring that both the distilled water and the ambient temperature are both at exactly 20°C,
follow steps 2-7 under the CALIBRATION section on the preceding page. Once this is accomplished, if ambient temperature
changes, simply apply the temperature correction values listed below. For example, a reading of Brix 40.0% at 25°C is
corrected to Brix 40.4%; a reading of Brix 65.0% at 10°C is corrected to Brix 64.25%.
Warranty information a
nd
registration form can be found at:
www.veegee.com/service_support

Summary

Temperature Correction Table

How to Use the Temperature Correction Table

Explains how to use the table to correct readings based on ambient temperature changes.

Temperature Correction Values

Table providing correction values for Brix readings at different temperatures.

Product Specifications

Details on the refractometer's range, resolution, accuracy, dimensions, weight, and included accessories.

Introduction

Product Components

Identifies and describes the key parts of the VEE GEE Refractometer.

Calibration

Calibration Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for calibrating the refractometer using distilled water.

Precautions

Handling and Cleaning Precautions

Guidelines for safely handling, cleaning, and maintaining the refractometer to prevent damage.

General Use

Reading Measurement

Instructions on how to apply a sample and read the Brix measurement on the refractometer.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications (Model BX-50)
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The VEE GEE Refractometer, specifically the Model BX-50, is an optical instrument designed for measuring the Brix% of liquid samples. Brix% is a measure of the sugar content in a solution, and this device offers a convenient and reliable method for determining it. The refractometer is built with modern designs, ensuring reliable performance over many years with proper care.

Function Description:

The primary function of the VEE GEE Refractometer is to measure the refractive index of a liquid sample, which is then correlated to its Brix% value. When a sample is placed on the prism, light passes through it and is refracted. The degree of refraction depends on the concentration of dissolved solids (primarily sugars) in the sample. The refractometer then displays this measurement on an internal scale, where the boundary line between blue and white fields indicates the Brix% reading.

The device is calibrated at 20°C (λ=589nm). To ensure accurate readings when ambient temperatures deviate from 20°C, a temperature correction table is provided. This table allows users to adjust their readings based on the ambient temperature and the measured Brix% value, eliminating the need for frequent recalibration due to temperature fluctuations. For example, a reading of Brix 40.0% at 25°C is corrected to Brix 40.4%, and a reading of Brix 65.0% at 10°C is corrected to Brix 64.25%.

Important Technical Specifications (Model BX-50):

• Range: Brix 0.0-50.0%
• Resolution: 0.5%
• Accuracy: ±0.5%
• Dimensions: 40 x 40 x 145mm (1.6 x 1.6 x 5.7")
• Weight: 225g (7.9 oz.)
• Calibration Temperature: 20°C (λ=589nm)

Usage Features:

The VEE GEE Refractometer is designed for ease of use, incorporating several features that enhance its functionality and user experience:

• Calibration Ring: This mechanism allows for easy zeroing or calibration of the refractometer without the need for additional tools. A set screw secures the calibration ring in place, protecting against accidental shifts.
• Rubber Hood: This component houses and protects the focusable lens, preventing external light from interfering with the eyepiece during use, ensuring a clear view of the scale.
• Rubber Grip: The rubber grip insulates the refractometer against hand heat, which can otherwise affect the accuracy of readings. This ensures that the instrument's temperature remains stable during measurement.
• Daylight Plate & Prism: The prism is where the sample is placed for measurement, and the daylight plate covers it during readings. This design ensures that the sample spreads evenly and is protected from external factors during measurement.
• Eyepiece Focusing: The eyepiece (rubber hood) can be gently turned clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the focus of the scale, ensuring clear visibility for users with different vision requirements.
• Temperature Correction Table: As mentioned, this table is a crucial feature for maintaining accuracy across varying ambient temperatures, providing a practical alternative to constant recalibration.
• Simple Measurement Procedure: The general use involves applying a few drops of the sample solution to the prism, closing the daylight plate, and reading the Brix% value where the boundary line between the blue and white fields crosses the scale.

Maintenance Features:

Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity and accurate performance of the VEE GEE Refractometer. The manual outlines several key maintenance practices:

• Gentle Handling: The refractometer is an optical instrument and should be handled with care to prevent damage from dropping or rough handling.
• Prism Care: The prism, made of optical glass, is susceptible to scratches. Users are advised not to apply any rough or abrasive materials when cleaning the prism.
• Regular Cleaning: After each use, the prism surface and daylight plate should be cleaned with a soft cloth or tissue soaked in water, then wiped dry with a clean cloth or tissue. This prevents residue buildup that could affect future readings.
• Avoid Water Immersion: The instrument should not be held under a stream of water from a faucet, splashed with water, or dipped in water. This protects the internal components from water damage.
• Cleaning Oily Residues: If the prism surface becomes coated with an oily solution or similar, which can repel test samples and affect readings, it should be cleaned with a weakened detergent or similar solvent.
• Calibration Maintenance: Calibration should be performed at the start of each day or whenever significant shifts in ambient temperature occur. The calibration process itself involves using distilled water and adjusting the calibration ring until the boundary line is at "0" on the scale. After calibration, the prism should be gently wiped with tissue paper.

The VEE GEE Refractometer Model BX-50 is supplied with a vinyl carrying case and a plastic transfer pipet, facilitating safe transport and convenient sample application. Warranty information and a registration form are available online at www.veegee.com/service_support, providing users with access to support and service for their instrument.

VEE GEE BX-50 Specifications

General

Brand	VEE GEE
Model	BX-50
Category	Measuring Instruments
Language	English