Extech RF11 0–10% Brix Refractometer with Automatic Temperature Compensation

Low-Range Brix Measurement for Food Processing and Industrial Fluids

The Extech RF11 is a handheld optical refractometer designed for measuring low concentrations of sucrose in aqueous solutions. Its 0–10% Brix measurement range makes it a practical choice for applications where a standard 0–32% Brix refractometer provides less resolution across the concentration range of interest.

The RF11 uses automatic temperature compensation (ATC) to help account for temperature variations during measurement. It requires only two or three drops of sample, making it suitable for routine quality control, field testing, and production checks where quick results and minimal sample consumption are desirable.

Use the Extech RF11 to monitor sugar concentrations in fruit juices and beverages, check suitable industrial fluid concentrations, and perform other refractive-index measurements where a low-range Brix scale is appropriate.

Key Features

Extech RF11 0–10% Brix Refractometer with Automatic Temperature Compensation

Manufacturer: Extech
Model: RF11
Measurement Range: 0–10% Brix
Resolution: 0.1% Brix
Accuracy: ±0.1% Brix

Low-Range Brix Measurement for Food Processing and Industrial Fluids

The Extech RF11 is a handheld optical refractometer designed for measuring low concentrations of sucrose in aqueous solutions. Its 0–10% Brix measurement range makes it a practical choice for applications where a standard 0–32% Brix refractometer provides less resolution across the concentration range of interest.

The RF11 uses automatic temperature compensation (ATC) to help account for temperature variations during measurement. It requires only two or three drops of sample, making it suitable for routine quality control, field testing, and production checks where quick results and minimal sample consumption are desirable.

Use the Extech RF11 to monitor sugar concentrations in fruit juices and beverages, check suitable industrial fluid concentrations, and perform other refractive-index measurements where a low-range Brix scale is appropriate.

Key Features

• 10% Brix range: Designed for low-concentration sugar solutions.
• 0.1% Brix resolution: Displays readings in 0.1% increments.
• ±0.1% Brix accuracy: Manufacturer-specified basic accuracy under appropriate measurement conditions.
• Automatic temperature compensation: Compensates for temperature variation between 10°C and 30°C (50°F and 86°F).
• Small sample requirement: Uses approximately two or three drops of liquid.
• Easy-to-read optical scale: View the reading through the eyepiece using the instrument’s optical shadowline.
• Adjustable focus: Helps the operator obtain a clear view of the measurement scale.
• Portable design: Suitable for laboratory, production-floor, and field measurements.
• Calibration adjustment: Allows the zero point to be checked and adjusted using distilled water.

Applications and Uses:

Fruit Juice and Beverage Quality Control

Measure the apparent Brix value of low sugar or sugar substitute fruit juices, beverage ingredients, and other low-concentration sugar solutions. Brix readings can help operators monitor consistency between batches, verify incoming ingredients, and track concentration during processing.

Food Processing

The RF11 can be used for suitable aqueous sugar solutions in food manufacturing and processing. Its low-range scale is particularly useful when samples fall below the range where a higher-range refractometer provides the desired measurement resolution.

Industrial Fluid Monitoring

Refractometers can be useful for monitoring certain water-based industrial fluids when a validated relationship exists between refractive index and concentration. Before using the RF11 for a specific cutting fluid, coolant, or other industrial formulation, verify that the formulation is compatible with its sucrose-calibrated Brix scale. A dedicated industrial-fluid refractometer may be more appropriate for some formulations.

Research and Routine Quality Checks

The RF11 provides a quick, repeatable method for comparing samples when the solution composition and measurement conditions are controlled. It is useful for routine checks that do not require a digital display or electronic data logging.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does the Extech RF11 measure?

The RF11 measures the refractive index of a sample and displays the result on a sucrose-calibrated Brix scale from 0 to 10%. Brix is commonly used to express the concentration of dissolved sucrose in water.

What is the advantage of a 0–10% Brix refractometer?

A low-range refractometer devotes its scale to lower concentrations. The RF11 provides 0.1% Brix resolution, making it useful for samples that typically fall within the 0–10% range. A 0–32% Brix instrument may be more versatile if your samples span a wider concentration range.

What is automatic temperature compensation?

Automatic temperature compensation, or ATC, adjusts the measurement to account for temperature-related changes in refractive index. The RF11’s specified compensation range is 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F). ATC does not eliminate the need for proper sample handling, calibration, or temperature control outside the specified range.

Can I use the RF11 to measure cutting fluids or industrial coolants?

Potentially, but suitability depends on the formulation. The RF11 is calibrated for sucrose solutions, so its Brix reading should not automatically be interpreted as the actual concentration of a non-sugar fluid. For industrial coolants and cutting fluids, select an instrument with a scale or calibration specifically intended for that application.

Can I use the RF11 for beer or wine?

It can measure the apparent Brix of suitable, low alcohol, liquid samples, but fermentation complicates interpretation. Alcohol and other dissolved substances affect refractive index, so a post-fermentation reading does not directly represent the original sugar concentration or residual sugar. For brewing and winemaking, use an appropriate correction method or an instrument designed for the required measurement.

How do I calibrate the RF11?

Place a few drops of distilled water on the clean prism, close the cover plate, and view the optical scale. Adjust the calibration screw if necessary so the shadowline aligns with zero. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the specified calibration conditions, including the recommended reference temperature of approximately 20°C (68°F).

How much sample is required?

Typically, two or three drops are sufficient to cover the prism. This small sample requirement makes the RF11 convenient for routine testing and applications where sample volume is limited.

How should I clean the refractometer?

After taking a reading, gently wipe the prism and cover plate with a soft, clean cloth. Avoid scratching the optical surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storage, particularly when testing industrial fluids or chemically aggressive samples.

Is the RF11 a digital refractometer?

No. The RF11 is an optical refractometer with a viewing eyepiece and a graduated scale. It does not have a digital display or electronic data output.

Order the Extech RF11 from National Industrial Supply

The Extech RF11 provides a straightforward solution for low-range Brix measurements in laboratories, food-processing operations, and suitable industrial applications. Its compact design, small sample requirement, and automatic temperature compensation make it useful for routine concentration checks.

National Industrial Supply
Temecula, California
Website: https://www.nisupply.com

For product questions, application assistance, or help selecting the right refractometer for your sample, contact National Industrial Supply through our website.

Specifications and included accessories are subject to manufacturer changes. Confirm instrument suitability for your specific sample and application before use.