Refractometer Calibration.

VicD81 · Mar 24, 2015

How often should I need to calibrate my refractometer? I calibrate it every time before use and it is always off. One time (At Band camp) I had a hard time getting my fresh SW to the right SG. Added a little salt, tested, added a little more tested, added more, tested and so on and so forth. Got to a point that I checked the calibration and it was off again. Luckily it was only at 36ppm so just added RO/DI. But is it a problem with my Refractometer of is this just how it works, what would make it go out of calibration so easily?

Jimbo662 · Mar 24, 2015

Mine has a tightening screw that prevents it from changing. I check it every couple of months. Can you post a pic of what yours looks like?

VicD81 · Mar 24, 2015

Sure ill snap a pic when I get home.

johnwick · Mar 26, 2015

I calibrate mine a couple of times a year. Keeping it in the same place without major temperature fluctuations is important. If you have to calibrate it that often it's probably time for a new one.

VicD81 · Mar 31, 2015

Sorry so late. Been busy and then forgot.

glb · Mar 31, 2015

VicD81 said:
How often should I need to calibrate my refractometer? I calibrate it every time before use and it is always off. One time (At Band camp) I had a hard time getting my fresh SW to the right SG. Added a little salt, tested, added a little more tested, added more, tested and so on and so forth. Got to a point that I checked the calibration and it was off again. Luckily it was only at 36ppm so just added RO/DI. But is it a problem with my Refractometer of is this just how it works, what would make it go out of calibration so easily?

I'd say a problem with your refractometer. I only check mine a few times a year and I've never had to adjust it. I keep it in its original case.