Kern ORM 1RS Digital Hand-Held Refractometer, Brix 0-90 per Cent, Refractive Index 1.3330-1.5177 nD

The Kern ORM 1RS is used to measure the sugar content of a liquid or its refractive index on site, without the need for a benchtop unit or a mains connection. The digital handheld refractometer displays either Brix or the refractive index. The Brix range is from 0.0 to 90.0 per cent, whilst the refractive index ranges from 1.3330 to 1.5177 nD. Kern classifies this model as a basic measuring instrument, where the result is required in Brix or as a refractive index.

Measuring principle and accuracy

The instrument measures using the total internal reflection method via a prism made of optical glass. A drop of the sample is placed on the prism; a pipette is supplied. The Brix display has a resolution of 0.1% and an accuracy of ±0.2%. For the refractive index, the resolution is 0.0001 nD and the accuracy is ±0.0003 nD. A mean value measurement is possible. The display is digital, showing the measured value as a number. The device’s storage temperature ranges from -5 to 40 °C. The display is large and shows both the measured value and the temperature.

Temperature and Calibration

Automatic temperature compensation (ATC) automatically converts the result to the reference temperature, eliminating the need for manual conversion. The measurement temperature range is between 0 and 40 °C. Calibration is carried out using standard distilled water; with Kern, this is quick and user-friendly at any time. Kern also stocks distilled water 0 % (ORA-A1010) as an accessory. For those requiring a traceable calibration, Kern offers ISO calibration as an optional service (961-290).

Protection and operation

The housing is protected against dust and splashing water to IP65 standard. Kern points out that the refractometer can be rinsed under running water after use. A cover protects the prism. Power is supplied by a AAA battery housed inside the unit, and an auto-off function switches the device off after 60 seconds. The device measures 121 x 58 x 25 mm and weighs 0.15 kg; a storage box is included. Kern describes the ORM series as precise, versatile and maintenance-free, designed for convenient and quick everyday use with a clearly legible display.

What the ORM 1RS is designed for

Kern states that the model is particularly suitable for measuring sugar content in foodstuffs and for monitoring industrial processes, including the monitoring of cooling lubricants and water-based mixtures. Users working with the refractive index simply switch the display to nD and read the value directly.

Typical applications

Kern lists the following areas of application for the ORM 1RS:

• Industry: process and quality control, lubricant monitoring
• Food industry: beverages, fruit, sweets
• Determining the degree of ripeness of fruit for quality control during harvesting
• Restaurants and commercial kitchens

Frequently asked questions

What scales does the ORM 1RS have? Brix from 0.0 to 90.0 % and refractive index from 1.3330 to 1.5177 nD. The display can be set to either of the two scales.

How accurate is the instrument? For the Brix value, the accuracy is ±0.2 per cent at a resolution of 0.1 per cent; for the refractive index, it is ±0.0003 nD at a resolution of 0.0001 nD.

What is used for calibration? Distilled water. No special liquid is required; standard commercial distilled water is sufficient.

Is the refractometer waterproof? It is protected against dust and splashing water to IP65 standard and can be rinsed under running water after use.

Technical details

Scope of delivery

• ORM 1RS hand-held refractometer
• Prism cover
• Pipette
• Storage box
• 1 x AAA battery
• User manual

Individual requirements and procurement service

We can supply distilled water for calibration, an ISO calibration or further measurement equipment for your samples for the ORM 1RS on request. Please make use of our procurement service for this.