What To Look For In A Refractormeter

[cubbie]

Hi,

I am looking to get a refractometer, but what should i be looking for? There seems to be a few different types on the market.

http://stores.ebay.com.au/easylifeproduct_...6QQftidZ2QQtZkm

One of the site sponsors has a refractometer I have my eyes on, but i would like to get a bit more background on them before I start.

Eg what range 0-32 or 0-18
Can some calculate alc% as well as give brix readings
etc

Cheers,

Cubbie

 

[Effect]

you need two different readings to get alcohol percentage - refractometers only measure how much sugar is in the water - or the gravity of the liquid.

So no, a refractometer won't give you alc% - just possible alc%

i think this would be the one you are after...could be wrong though

 

[cubbie]

you need two different readings to get alcohol percentage - refractometers only measure how much sugar is in the water - or the gravity of the liquid.

So no, a refractometer won't give you alc% - just possible alc%

So is this model just giving a possible alc%

Also if I am going the type that you suggested would something like this be better (built in calibration knob).

Is there a preferred brix range?

 

[Effect]

I just bought one today from beerbelly. The range is the same as the one on ebay 0 - 32.

I don't think you would need to make a beer over 32 BRIX (SG 1.137).


And yes, alcohol % scale on the wine refractometer is just the possible alcohol. I do it in my head - here is my equation. e.g. sg = 1.070, fg = 1.007. Difference = 63. Divide that by 7 and you get 9% alcohol. In beersmith it is 8.2% So my equation is incorrect - but I use it so I can get a quick idea of the 'range' of the alc % ...

 

[cubbie]

Happy to do my own calc (I have Promash), just thought it may be an added bonus.

In that case I think I like the look of the one with the calibration knob. i did see a thread were someone got a 0-18.

Cheers

 

[Kleiny]

Theirs one from craftbrewer and mashmaster(no affiliation)

That show both SG and Brix

Link Refractometer SG and Brix

More expensive but worth the money they have been developed for brewing

:icon_cheers:
Kleiny

 

[brendo]

Theirs one from craftbrewer and mashmaster(no affiliation)

That show both SG and Brix

Link Refractometer SG and Brix

More expensive but worth the money they have been developed for brewing

:icon_cheers:
Kleiny

+1

I just ordered one of these earlier in the week and it arrived today. A friend has one it I was suitably impressed. Looking forward to taking it for a spin next brew.