Chengdu Haocreate WYT-IV Handheld Refractometer for Sucrose Concentration (0–15% Brix)
| Key Features | Non-destructive measurement |
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Overview
The Chengdu Haocreate WYT-IV Handheld Refractometer is an optical precision instrument engineered for rapid, non-destructive quantification of sucrose concentration in aqueous solutions—expressed as degrees Brix (% w/w). Based on the fundamental principle of Snell’s Law, it measures the refractive index of a sample at 20 °C (standardized per ISO 2173), then converts the optical deviation into a linear Brix scale via built-in temperature-compensated Abbe-type prisms. Unlike digital or electronic refractometers requiring power sources or software interfaces, the WYT-IV operates entirely optically: a single drop of sample placed on the sapphire-coated measuring prism interacts with collimated ambient light; the resulting critical angle boundary is viewed through an eyepiece calibrated to display % Brix directly. Its design prioritizes field robustness and laboratory reproducibility—especially in environments where portability, battery-free operation, and resistance to humidity or mechanical shock are operational prerequisites.
Key Features
- Non-destructive, single-drop sampling—no dilution, heating, or chemical reagents required
- Heavy-metal (brass-alloy) housing ensures thermal mass stability, minimizing drift during sequential measurements across ambient temperature gradients (10–35 °C)
- Optical resolution of 0.2% Brix within the 0–15% range, validated against NIST-traceable sucrose reference standards
- Integrated automatic temperature compensation (ATC) mechanism using bimetallic strip coupling, compliant with ISO 2173 Annex A for ±0.3% Brix accuracy from 10–30 °C
- Ergonomic handheld form factor (160 mm length, 330 g mass) with anti-slip knurling and protective rubber bumper
- Calibration verification possible using distilled water (0.0% Brix) and 10.00% w/w sucrose standard—both traceable to national metrology institutes
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The WYT-IV is optimized for homogeneous, transparent, low-viscosity aqueous solutions containing sucrose, glucose, fructose, or invert sugar. It is routinely deployed in QC workflows aligned with ASTM D1218 (Standard Test Method for Refractive Index of Hydrocarbon Liquids) and ISO 2173 (Fruit and vegetable products — Determination of soluble solids content — Refractometric method). While primarily intended for sucrose-based matrices, empirical conversion factors enable approximate estimation of total soluble solids (TSS) in fruit juices, syrups, and fermentation broths—provided turbidity remains below 5 NTU and suspended solids are absent. The instrument meets general requirements for GLP-compliant manual instrumentation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex A (non-electronic devices exempt from electronic record mandates), and its mechanical construction satisfies IP54-rated ingress protection for dust and splashing water during routine handling.
Software & Data Management
As a fully analog optical instrument, the WYT-IV does not incorporate embedded firmware, data logging, Bluetooth, or USB connectivity. All readings are visually interpreted and manually recorded—making it inherently compatible with paper-based SOPs, LIMS-integrated manual entry protocols, and audit-ready hard-copy documentation. For laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation, the device supports documented calibration intervals (recommended every 6 months or per 200 measurements), with calibration certificates issued by accredited third-party labs referencing ISO 17025 Clause 6.5. No software validation (e.g., IQ/OQ/PQ) is required, reducing qualification burden in regulated food, beverage, and agricultural testing facilities.
Applications
- Quality control of fresh fruit harvests (e.g., grape, mango, citrus) prior to processing
- In-line verification of syrup concentration during soft drink formulation
- Monitoring sugar content in honey dilution processes (in conjunction with WYT-G model for high-Brix validation)
- Field-based assessment of sugarcane or beet juice purity in agricultural cooperatives
- Educational use in university food science labs for teaching refractometry fundamentals and Brix–density correlations
- Verification of cleaning-in-place (CIP) rinse water residual sugar levels in dairy processing lines
FAQ
Is the WYT-IV suitable for measuring salt concentration (NaCl)?
No—it is calibrated specifically for sucrose refractive index curves. Salt solutions require dedicated salinity refractometers with NaCl-specific scales and different ATC algorithms.
Can I use the WYT-IV for viscous samples like molasses or jam?
Not without dilution: high-viscosity or particulate-laden samples scatter light and obscure the shadow line. Filter or dilute to transparency first, applying appropriate correction factors.
Does this model support calibration with glycerol or ethanol solutions?
No—calibration is defined only for aqueous sucrose standards per ISO 2173. Non-sugar solutes introduce systematic deviation due to differential molar refraction.
What maintenance does the prism require between measurements?
Wipe gently with lens tissue and distilled water after each use; avoid abrasive cleaners or organic solvents that may degrade the prism coating.
Is there a certificate of conformance included with shipment?
Yes—each unit ships with a manufacturer’s Certificate of Conformance stating compliance with Q/71020094-4.2021 (Sichuan Provincial Standard for Handheld Refractometers).
