Tuning the refractometer

[mrsupraboy]

I was wondering if u had to tune the refractometer for beer or if u just used it calibrated to zero with distilled water.

I measured a beer and it was reading 1025 but then i hydrometer tested and it was 1008. Tested with 2 hydrometers.

 

[takai]

Refractometers dont work with alcohol, they only measure sugar percentages, the alcohol throws it out.

I use a refractometer at all stages of the wort making process, but once the yeast gets pitched in, out comes the hydrometer.

 

[superstock]

There is a conversion chart available. I dont have a link, sorry.

 

[Mardoo]

Here's an online calculator:

http://www.northernbrewer.com/refractometer-calculator/

And here are charts you can download:

View attachment Refractometer_Chart___During_Fermentation___Brix_to_SG.xls

I don't know who to attribute for the charts. I'm pretty sure it was an AHB'er but I can't remember where I got them. Thanks to whomever it was though!!!

 

[luggy]

There's a correction tool in beersmith for fermenting wort as well

 

[mrsupraboy]

Refractometers dont work with alcohol, they only measure sugar percentages, the alcohol throws it out.

I use a refractometer at all stages of the wort making process, but once the yeast gets pitched in, out comes the hydrometer.

That makes sense with the readings i was getting