ATAGO CM-800α Online Refractometer

Overview

The ATAGO CM-800α Online Refractometer is a high-reliability, industrial-grade process refractometer engineered for continuous, real-time measurement of aqueous and alkaline liquid concentrations in dynamic production environments. Based on the fundamental optical principle of critical angle refractometry, the instrument determines concentration by measuring the refractive index (n_D) of the process stream—automatically compensating for temperature fluctuations using built-in ATC (Automatic Temperature Compensation) across 5–100°C. Unlike offline sampling or manual handheld methods, the CM-800α integrates directly into pipelines or tanks via sanitary or flanged mounting options, enabling true closed-loop process control for mixing, dilution, concentration, fermentation, and cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems. Its robust design supports uninterrupted operation under harsh conditions—including high-pressure steam sterilization cycles and aggressive chemical exposure—making it suitable for GMP-compliant food, pharmaceutical, and bioprocessing applications where regulatory traceability and measurement stability are non-negotiable.

Key Features

• High-precision sapphire prism optics with exceptional scratch resistance and long-term calibration stability
• Full ATC functionality compliant with ISO 21542 and ASTM D1218 standards for temperature-corrected Brix reporting
• Dual analog and digital output: isolated 4–20 mA current loop for PLC/DCS integration and RS-232C serial interface for direct PC communication and firmware updates
• IP67-rated stainless-steel housing (SUS316L wetted parts) certified for washdown and hazardous area proximity (non-explosion-proof version)
• Sub-second measurement cycle (~1 s), enabling responsive feedback control in fast-moving processes such as syrup blending or caustic solution dosing
• Configurable display and output units: Brix %, refractive index (n_D), mass concentration (% w/w), or user-defined linearized scales

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CM-800α is validated for use with water-based solutions, organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, glycols), alkaline cleaners (NaOH, sodium metasilicate), acids (H₃PO₄, citric acid), and fermentation broths containing suspended solids up to 5% v/v. It complies with IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-4 (emissions) for industrial electromagnetic compatibility. While not intrinsically safe, its construction meets FDA 21 CFR Part 11 readiness requirements when paired with audit-trail-capable SCADA systems. The device supports GLP/GMP documentation workflows through timestamped data logging, configurable alarm thresholds, and user-access-level management (admin/operator modes). Calibration verification can be performed in situ using NIST-traceable sucrose reference standards.

Software & Data Management

The CM-800α operates autonomously but interfaces seamlessly with industry-standard automation platforms via Modbus RTU (via RS-232-to-Modbus converter) or 4–20 mA analog input modules. Optional ATAGO Data Logger software enables local trend visualization, CSV export, and alarm history review. All configuration parameters—including zero/span calibration points, damping filters, and output scaling—are stored in non-volatile memory with write-protection to prevent accidental modification. Firmware updates preserve historical calibration coefficients and user settings. For regulated environments, the system supports electronic signature capture and change-control logs when integrated with validated MES or LIMS platforms.

Applications

• Food & Beverage: Real-time sugar concentration monitoring in juice extraction, syrup concentration, dairy evaporation, and beverage blending lines
• Pharmaceutical CIP: Verification of NaOH or HNO₃ concentration during equipment sanitization cycles to ensure microbiological efficacy per USP and EU GMP Annex 1
• Chemical Manufacturing: Control of polymer emulsion solids content, surfactant dosage in detergents, and glycol concentration in heat-transfer fluids
• Bioethanol Production: Fermentation broth density tracking for yeast viability optimization and distillation feed consistency
• Electroplating & Metal Finishing: Monitoring of acid pickling bath strength and rinse water purity to minimize drag-out losses

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable process pressure for the CM-800α probe?

Standard models support up to 1.0 MPa (145 psi) at 25°C; higher-pressure variants (up to 3.0 MPa) are available upon request with reinforced gasketing.
Can the CM-800α measure non-aqueous solutions like pure ethanol or acetone?

Yes, though Brix calibration is optimized for sucrose-water systems; for non-sugar solutes, users must establish custom concentration-refractive index correlation curves using reference gravimetric analysis.
Is validation documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ protocols) provided?

ATAGO supplies factory calibration certificates (traceable to JCSS) and technical specifications required for IQ/OQ execution; PQ protocols must be developed by end-users per site-specific process requirements.
How often does the instrument require recalibration?

Under stable operating conditions, annual verification against certified standards is recommended; more frequent checks are advised after maintenance, process fluid changes, or exposure to particulate fouling.
Does the CM-800α support HART communication?

No; it provides fixed 4–20 mA analog output and RS-232C serial interface only. HART-enabled versions are not part of the CM-800α product line.