ATAGO TANK(CM) Series In-line Refractometer
| Brand | ATAGO |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Model | TANK(CM) Series |
| Type | In-line Process Refractometer |
| Measurement Principle | Critical Angle Refractometry |
| Output Signal | 4–20 mA / RS-485 (Modbus RTU) |
| Process Connection | Clamp, Flange, or Threaded (DIN/ISO/JIS compliant) |
| Housing Material | SS316L |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
| Operating Temperature | −10 to 80 °C (process fluid) |
| Brix Range | 0–95% w/w |
| Resolution | 0.01% Brix |
| Repeatability | ±0.02% Brix |
| Calibration | Single-point or multi-point via software |
Overview
The ATAGO TANK(CM) Series In-line Refractometer is an industrial-grade process analytical instrument engineered for continuous, real-time measurement of dissolved solids concentration—expressed as % Brix—in liquid streams. It operates on the principle of critical-angle refractometry: a collimated LED light beam passes through a sapphire prism in direct contact with the process fluid; the resulting refraction angle is precisely detected by a high-resolution linear CCD sensor array. This optical configuration enables non-invasive, maintenance-free concentration monitoring without moving parts, sample extraction, or reagent consumption. Designed for integration into sanitary and industrial piping systems, the TANK(CM) series delivers stable, drift-compensated output under dynamic flow conditions, making it suitable for applications requiring compliance with hygienic design standards (EHEDG, 3-A SSI) and long-term unattended operation in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing environments.
Key Features
- Robust stainless steel (SS316L) wetted parts and sapphire measuring prism for exceptional chemical resistance and abrasion tolerance
- Temperature-controlled internal thermistor (±0.1 °C accuracy) enabling automatic temperature compensation per ISO 21542 and AOAC 932.12
- Configurable analog (4–20 mA) and digital (RS-485 Modbus RTU) outputs for seamless integration with DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems
- Optional explosion-proof housing (ATEX II 2G Ex db IIB T4 Gb / IECEx DBEX 22.0039X) for hazardous area installation
- Zero-drift optical design with built-in reference channel and periodic self-diagnostic routines to ensure measurement integrity over extended service intervals
- Hygienic process connections compliant with DIN 11851, ISO 2852, and SMS 1145 standards—including tri-clamp, weld-in, and sanitary flange options
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TANK(CM) series is validated for homogeneous aqueous solutions containing sugars, salts, acids, alkalis, glycols, and other soluble solutes where refractive index correlates linearly with concentration. It is not intended for suspensions, emulsions, or highly turbid media without inline filtration. The instrument meets CE marking requirements under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU. For regulated industries, its data logging and calibration traceability support alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with compliant host software), EU GMP Annex 11, and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration protocols. Optional IQ/OQ documentation packages are available for validation in pharmaceutical and biotech facilities.
Software & Data Management
Configuration, calibration, and diagnostics are performed using ATAGO’s proprietary PC-based TANK Manager software (Windows OS), which supports firmware updates, multi-point calibration curve generation, alarm threshold setting, and audit-trail-enabled calibration logs. The software exports timestamped measurement data in CSV format and allows export of calibration certificates traceable to NIST SRM 84d sucrose solutions. When integrated with third-party MES or LIMS platforms via Modbus TCP gateways, the TANK(CM) provides structured, time-synchronized process data suitable for statistical process control (SPC), batch release documentation, and real-time quality dashboards.
Applications
- Continuous Brix monitoring in juice concentration, syrup blending, and dairy evaporation lines
- In-line concentration control during caustic cleaning (CIP) solution preparation and verification
- Real-time % w/w monitoring of brine, glycol, or ethanol solutions in heat transfer and freeze protection circuits
- Concentration feedback for automated dilution control in pharmaceutical excipient preparation
- Batch endpoint detection in solvent recovery and crystallization processes
- Quality assurance of incoming raw materials (e.g., corn syrup, molasses, whey permeate) at receiving stations
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable suspended solids content for reliable measurement?
For optimal accuracy and minimal prism fouling, total suspended solids should remain below 0.5% w/w. Inline filtration (e.g., 50 µm wedge wire or cartridge filter) is recommended for slurries or particulate-laden streams.
Can the TANK(CM) be calibrated with non-sucrose solutions?
Yes—custom calibration curves can be generated using user-defined reference standards (e.g., NaCl, H₂SO₄, propylene glycol), provided refractive index linearity is verified across the operational range.
Is pressure rating specified for the sensor body?
Standard models are rated for continuous operation up to 10 bar (145 psi) at 20 °C; high-pressure variants (up to 40 bar) are available upon request with reinforced housing and enhanced sealing.
How frequently must the instrument be recalibrated in routine operation?
Under stable process conditions and proper installation, annual calibration verification is typically sufficient; however, quarterly checks are recommended for critical GMP applications or when operating near upper/lower measurement limits.
Does the device support automatic cleaning cycles?
While the TANK(CM) does not include integrated CIP nozzles, its smooth-surface sapphire prism and flush-mounted design are fully compatible with external automated cleaning systems using water, steam, or caustic solutions—provided temperature and pressure transients remain within specified limits.
