Portable Clinical Refractometer

The new product from PrismaTech comes with advanced features and is designed for clinical laboratory applications. The PTRP-U-S100 Portable Clinical Refractometer is used in medical diagnostic laboratories.

This portable laboratory refractometer can measure urine specific gravity in the range of 1.000 to 1.060 S.G. with an accuracy of 0.002 S.G., serum protein concentration from 0 to 12 g/dl, and refractive index from 1.33 to 1.54.

The maximum sample temperature and temperature compensation range for this model are 80°C and 5 to 40°C, respectively.

Clinical Brix Meter

A refractometer, or Brix meter, is a laboratory instrument used to determine the amount of impurities or dissolved substances in a liquid, typically water. It operates by passing light through a layer of the liquid containing the dissolved substance and measuring the refraction (bending) of that light through a glass prism.

In modern laboratory science, refractometers are not only used to measure sugar content but also to determine fat, salinity, pH of water, and even nutritional value. They can also measure blood urea, protein concentration, salt levels, and fluid density.

How a Clinical Refractometer Works

A refractometer works by passing light through a liquid and measuring its refractive index, which is unique for each substance. Inside the device, a light line is formed through prisms and viewed through lenses, allowing the operator to read the measurement clearly.

Operation of Portable Clinical Refractometer

Digital refractometers, or digital Brix meters, operate using an LED light source that illuminates the sample on top of the prism. The refracted light is detected by a sensor that measures the angle of refraction.

Since measurements depend on temperature, the device applies automatic temperature correction through internal algorithms and converts the data into refractive index or other parameters.

Compared to similar equipment, digital refractometers offer advantages such as ease of use, automatic temperature correction, and adjustable measurement ranges. These instruments are also available in smaller, portable models. Moreover, digital refractometers can be customized for specific applications, although doing so may narrow their range of use.

Laboratory Urine Refractometer

A urine refractometer is a scientific tool used to measure the concentration of dissolved substances in urine. It works based on the principle of light refraction, allowing users to determine the specific gravity or relative density of urine.

These measurements provide valuable information about hydration status and kidney function.

How to Use a Urine Refractometer

1. Calibration: Calibrate the device with distilled water or a special calibration solution to ensure accurate readings.

2. Sampling: Place a small amount of urine sample on the prism surface.

3. Measurement: Close the cover and look through the eyepiece to observe the refraction line and read the specific gravity value.

Advantages of Using a Urine Refractometer

• High accuracy: Provides precise measurement of dissolved substances.
• Speed: Measurements are quick, with immediate results.
• Simplicity: Easy to use and requires no complex equipment.

Measuring urine specific gravity can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances.

For example:

– High specific gravity may indicate dehydration or kidney-related disorders.
– Low specific gravity may suggest excessive fluid intake or impaired kidney function.