Density Meter Buyer’s Guide
Understanding Density Meters
Which Density Meter is Right for Your Lab?
Density meters determine the density and concentration
of liquids and gases and are used in a variety of industries
including food, beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical,
petrochemical, breweries, flavors, and fragrances.
Density measurements are defined as mass per volume
and are an important quality control parameter because the
calculations are indicative of a substance’s purity, consistency,
and/or concentration in both industry and research.
Concentration measurements as determined by density are
measured in % wt, % vol, proof, molarity, ppm, % Brix, API gravity
and other units tailored to the need.
The density of fluids is measured in grams per cubic
centimeter, or g/cm3, using the oscillating U-Tube method.
A sample is filled into a glass U-Tube that is fixed at one end.
The U-Tube oscillates and the density is calculated from its
oscillation frequency. Density measurements are affected by
temperature and pressure so it is important for a density meter
to have very accurate and precise temperature controls.
Reichert density meters have a built-in Peltier thermostat for
temperature control. Condensed into a compact, robust, standalone unit Reichert density meters are reliable workhorses for
the laboratory, resisting damage from demanding applications.
With the push-of-a-button these instruments provide accurate
and reliable measurements. And they are durable, offering
outstanding value and optimum performance.
With this overview, Reichert makes it easy to determine
which density meter suits your needs. Determine the specific
requirements of your applications within your industry and
within your budget and then select the appropriate instrument.
Selecting the Right Density Meter
Identify answers to the following 5 questions and then simply
select the right Reichert density meter from the chart on the
back.
1 Measurement Accuracy
What level of accuracy do you want to obtain? Reichert
density meters measure with results accurate to 5 decimal
places and also to 4 places. For applications that require the
highest degree of accuracy, choose the density meter that
measures out to the 5th decimal place.
2 Measuring Time
Is time a factor when measuring samples? In a busy lab,
quick and accurate measurements are essential. With
the push-of-a-button, Reichert density meters using
the oscillating U-tube method determine the density of
liquids and gases. This process is based on an electronic
measurement of the frequency of oscillation and is a timely,
accurate calculation of density.
3 Maintenance
Can downtime be minimized? Interruption of a process in
a lab due to instrument failure is a significant problem for
productivity. When purchasing a density meter consider
the maintenance records. Many density meters require
factory service if the measurement cell is damaged or needs
replacement. Not Reichert’s. Backed by a longstanding
knowledge in the analytical instruments industry, Reichert
density meters are robust and manufactured for reliability and
longevity. They offer a unique Plug-and-Play measurement
cell that is pre-calibrated to the instrument and all parts are
replaceable on site. Maintenance is local and productivity is
not affected.
4 Connectivity
Do you want the instrument to perform in anticipated
applications? Strategic planning in a laboratory business
is key to maintaining its strength. It is important when
purchasing any instrument to determine if it has the ability
of exceeding current needs. Reichert density meters are
part of a flexible modular system that easily connects other
Reichert instruments with one display for the simultaneous
determination of measurements (ex: Alcohol % and Wort).
5 Software
Is start-up time a factor? Minimizing start-up time with the
acquisition of a new instrument is valuable. Operating
systems can be cumbersome. The operating system of
Reichert’s meters is designed with the user in mind. The
intuitive touchscreen navigation saves time when defining
settings or changing methods. And Reichert’s powerful
software is easily configured to meet your needs with custom
scales and methods, and is compliant with 21CFR Part11.
Reichert Density Meters
Density5
Density4
Universal Display - #10836-578
The color touchscreen is optional and can
be connected to either meter for connectivity
with other instruments for the simultaneous
determination of measurements.
Technical Specifications
Measuring range
Temperature range
Pressure range
Density
Accuracy
Resolution
Reproducibility
Density5 - #10836-584
0-3 g/cm3
Density4 - #10836-560
5-95°C Peltier thermostat
0-10 Bar (0-145psi)
0.00005g/cm3
0.00001g/cm3
0.00002g/cm3
0.0001g/cm3
0.0001g/cm3
0.0002g/cm3
0.03°C
0.01°C
0.05°C
0.02°C
Temperature
Accuracy
Reproducibility
Minimum sample amount
Measuring time per sample
Filling
Interfaces
Compliancy
Dimensions Weight 2ml
< 30sec.
<10sec.
Injection
USB and RS232
European and American Pharmaceutical, GMP/GLP and 21 CFR Part 11, ATSM,
ISO and DIN standards
12.5 x 9.25 x 8.5 inches (320 x 235 x 218mm)
22 lbs. (10 kg)
For more information contact
your VWR representative or
visit VWR.com®