Xylem ECLIPSE PROFESSIONAL HAND-HELD REFRACTOMETER - Manual (Page 3)

Applying the sample to the refractometer
Lift the illuminator flap, drip the sample on to the prism then close the illuminator flap, alternatively
use the dribble feature; drip sample into the top of the closed flap.
Applying sample directly to the prism Appling sample using the dribble feature
Optical glass is relatively soft and care should be taken not to scratch the prism surface. Do not
use metal spatulas or glass rods to apply samples but instead use softer materials such as plastic.
The Eclipse can also be used for testing solid substances such as apples, melons, grapes, sugarbeet
and potatoes. Cut a slice of the sample about 2mm thick and slightly smaller then the prism area.
With the flap lifted, apply the slice to the surface of the prism taking care to obtain a good contact.
Focussing the scale:
Hold the instrument up to a suitable light source and look through the eyepiece. Rotate the
eyepiece to focus the scale.
Taking a reading:
Take a reading from the scale at the border of the light and dark areas. If the scale is completely
light then the sample concentration may be too high for the instrument range.
Cleaning the prism:
Thoroughly clean the prism after use with water or other suitable solvent and dry with clean tissue.
The prism surface could be damaged by strong alkalis or acids if left in contact for long periods of
time. Clean samples from the prism as soon as practicable.
Wiping the prism surface occasionally with alcohol will remove any build-up of oils left from the
samples.
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