How do i read this?

[ikazamay]

My dad gave me a refractometer that he uses to check coolant level for his machines, I believe its 0-10%. Can I use this to check my salinity, what is the range I should keep? I took a picture of what it looks like with my tank water. It would look sharper if there was more light and if I could have used my camera better. Any advise would be appreciated.

 

[wattsupdoc]

I wouldn't know how to convert that. But you could possibly compare it to a known value. Even compare it to different known values, like .021, .023, .025, .027. You get the idea. This would give you reference you need to read the refractometer. Just be sure the reference is correct, good refractometer, etc.

 

[spanko]

That refractometer is used to gauge the sugar content (brix). Is your dad a wine maker? I have seen this used where I get my grapes for wine to measure the sugar content of the grapes. The higher the sugar, the more potential alcohol in the juice.

 

[ikazamay]

Thanks for you input, from what you guys say so far my refractor isn't normal and I should just do a side by side comparison to a normal refactor and just put my range down. My Dad uses it for coolant to water ration for his machines, it smells like apple juice and has ethanol, I've never tasted it can't be safe...

 

[spanko]

Spend the $35 or so dollars and get one from an aquarium site or store. Make sure it is temperature compensating.

 

[snakeblitz33]

I say to just go ahead and get an actual specific gravity refractometer. Not a sugar content refractometer.

 

[wattsupdoc]

There's no reason it wont work for you, as long as you can find a control to use to judge it by. Also you will need to check this from time to time by comparing to a control. This could be as simple as taking a small amount from your tank,(say a pint or small bottle full anyways.) determining what SG it is, then labeling it and saving it. Refractometers are used for a wide range of uses. Including the medical field. If a lab grade hydrometer is acceptable, then I say this refractometer would be. It doesn't matter what it's been exposed to, you're not going to be exposing your tank to it. Just dripping drops from the tank onto it.
Also,is that measuring your tank water? If so that's probably reading 36 ppm, or relatively 1.027 I say compare it and see. You can easily find a chart to convert SG to PPM. google specific gravity to salinity, first link.....

 

[ray j neal]

Interesting. Keep up updated on how it works. I would def do a comparison reference though.