Quicklinks:

Technical Specifications
Measurement Features
Software Features
Automation
One, Two and Multipoint Calibration
Robust Manufacture
Security Features – 21 CFR Part 11

Measurement Features:
• Wide Range – 1.30 to 1.70 RI
• Standard Brix range
• User Scale Library
• 5-decimal place RI
• 2-decimal place Brix
• Peltier Temperature Control
• Wide Temperature Range

Software Features:
• Temperature Stability Checks
• Measurement Methods
• Reading Limits Check
• Calibration Log/Report
• PIN Protection
• GLP Printout
• 21 CFR Part 11
• Audit Trails

Methods:
• Coffee
• BeerSmart %ABV (PDF)
• Daily Offsets
• Edible Oils
• Automation
• ASTM D 2140 (PDF)

Options:
• Funnel Flowcell (PDF)
• Micro Flowcell (PDF)
• Barcode Reader (PDF)
• Autosampler (PDF)
• IP66 Power Supply (PDF)
• Calibration Materials
• Splash Covers (PDF)

Compliance:
• GLP
• OIML
• USP/EP/BP
• ASTM D 1218-02
• ASTM D 5006
• ASTM D 2140

RFM800
Automatic Digital Refractometers

Measurement Features:
RFM800 series refractometers offer one of the highest measurement specifications available. Results may be displayed in refractive index or Brix, or alternatively, over 15 industry standard scales may be loaded from the instrument library without the need for expensive ‘plug-in cards’. Customer defined scales may also be created by using software available free of charge from the Internet.

Sample containment is vital in providing a rapid temperature response. A carefully shaped prism dish ensures only the right amount of sample is applied to the sapphire prism and close-contact temperature sensors ensure rapid response from Peltier devices to quickly control the sample temperature. Readings are monitored by software and when in ‘SMART temperature stability mode’, the result is displayed only when both reading and temperature has stabilised. ICUMSA temperature compensation is also provided with the option to load User Temperature Compensation.

Software Features:
A powerful microprocessor lies behind a simple control panel providing standard measurement or industry specific methods. Navigation is by cursor or numeric index and access is protected to three levels depending on the security of measurement required. The reading display can be configured to show one or a number of different measurement parameters along with instrument configuration, batch code and operator identifiers in accordance with GLP and the technical requirements of FDA regulation 21 CFR Part 11. Statistical measurement in accordance with USP is provided by a simple print function, where a sample of 5 products may be measured and reported including a calculated MEAN VALUE. Readings may be output to a printer and/or sent to LIMS in CSV format.

Methods:
Under normal operation, the methods system offers a rapid means of configuring instrument parameters such setting the operating temperature, scale, temperature compensation as well as looking at product limits.  However, in addition to this feature, the RFM800 series refractometer is pre-programmed with a number of industry standard methods to assist in other operations.  These include methods for calculating %ABV (alcohol content) of beers, %TS coffee solids ‘daily offsets,’ offsets for comparison to other methods (e.g. RI vs. oven solids), and calculation of hydrocarbon content (ASTM D 2140).

Automation:
RFM800 series refractometers provide both mechanical and electrical connection to other instruments and automated systems. Beer analysis in accordance with International Standards is made easy by connecting a compatible density meter, with alcohol & gravity results being calculated and output in the normal way. A micro flowcell provides the connection for pumped sample from an autosampler in beer and fragrance & flavours systems, whilst funnel flowcells give rapid readings in busy sugar laboratories. Full details of automated systems are available on request.

One, Two and Multipoint Calibration:
Two-point calibration in any selected scale allows accurate control of measurement. Typically ‘zero calibration’ is made with air and water but for narrow range or high temperature measurement, other samples such as oils may be used. Span calibration facilitates control at the upper end of the scale, whilst multipoint calibration is available to customers wishing to make minor adjustments at more than one point.

Uniquely, a wide range of UKAS certified calibration samples traceable to International Standards is available from Bellingham + Stanley Ltd. Details

Robust Manufacture:
Construction materials have been carefully selected to withstand common samples and solvents. The chemical resistant Polyurethane Foam case offers a seal against moisture and corrosion, whilst materials in contact with the prism are of the highest specification including Kalrez® gaskets and PEEK spill barriers as standard. Optional ‘splash covers’ are also available. The temperature control system comprises internal Peltier elements and heatsinks using a system of controlled airflow through filtered ducting to ensure there is no contamination to the optics, electronics or heatsinks; ensuring performance year after year.

Security Features:
FDA Regulation 21 CFR Part 11
Strict controls within the pharmaceutical industry dictate the need for high levels of security in terms of sample analysis and data control. Instrument software facilitates the level of security: low, medium and high. The lowest level requires a 3-digit PIN to access determinable parts of the instrument menu, whilst ‘medium’ requires an 8-digit PIN. In either of these modes, setting the supervisor PIN to zero allows free access to all users.
The highest standard of security is compliant with the technical requirements of FDA regulation 21 CFR Part 11, where access to measurement and data transfer is strictly controlled, making use of extended passwords and electronic signatures that have a controlled schedule of validity and re-usage. Changes to the instrument configuration are also recorded in the instrument as an ‘audit trail’ that also records calibration activity, all of which may be extracted using PC software.

PC Software:
RFM800 series refractometers are supported by a range of PC software programs that allow the user to carry out a number of functions.  Creation of user scales and temperature co-efficient is made easy, whilst extracting audit trails is an important procedure for pharmaceutical industries under FDA regulation. All PC software is available free of charge from the Internet.