Refractometer Errors

[Der_Iron_Chef]

Interesting read. Can your "problem" be solved by correctly calibrating your instrument, or do you need to buy another refractometer altogether? I guess it depends on whether or not the refractometer in question was actually designed for what it's being used.

From everything I've read on various forums, refractometers are the easy, flawless way to determine salinity/specific gravity. Now I'm learning that that's not necessarily the case! I think I'll prepare one of his DIY calibration testing samples to check mine out.

Thanks for the heads up.

[andsoitgoes]

This came up when I was having issues with my digital salinity meter. It's very frustrating and very difficult to find something that will actually match up.

With the long-term success people have had using refractometers, hydrometers (both floating and swing arm) - in the end, I think keeping it consistent is more important than anything.

So I think making a standard, and keeping that as accurate as possible to base your test against is the easiest solution, but looking at the 5-page document - it just makes me go back to thinking if keeping things consistent is more important than a minor difference which might still be in existence unless you're doing this regularly?