sap refractometer

[O3C]

I have a refractometer for syrup but cannot get an accurate measurement on the sap. You guys that have sap refractometers , what is the range, is it 1 - 10 or 1-32 brix or doesn't it matter? Thanks, Ron

[psparr]

It might be easier to read on a 1-10, but they should both give you an accurate reading.

[O3C]

Dr. Tim, for the life of me, I cannot find a name on this one, must be a good one ! Has an RHB- 80 on it , measures 0-80 brix, it gets me close to syrup, then I measure with a Murphy cup and a hydrometer. I am tapping mostly reds, just would like to know what I am starting with. Psparr, that tapping tool must be magical, I was over run with sap, looking forward to another big run this weekend. Thanks, Ron

[DrTimPerkins]

Sap sugar content would barely register on that unit (it is 0-80 Brix, ATC). You'd need either a much better refractometer, or a different refractometer with a lower range like 0-32 Brix, or a sap hydrometer. For syrup it will get you in the ballpark, but be sure that the drop of syrup cools off some before measuring to reduce temperature errors. Trying to use this unit for sap is like measuring the length of the side of your house with your car odometer. Different tools are useful (or not) for different jobs.

[Run Forest Run!]

I have a refractometer for syrup but cannot get an accurate measurement on the sap. You guys that have sap refractometers , what is the range, is it 1 - 10 or 1-32 brix or doesn't it matter? Thanks, Ron

Ron, this is like the one that I have. It measures up to 10% sugar content and is very easy to read. I wouldn't be without it!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ade-Advanced-Optics-0-10-ATC-BRIX-REFRACTOMETER-for-Maple-Sap-Cnc-Rbti-/321024577558?hash=item4abe8e5016:m:mUCZ38NW69bX1af s6NFpN6A

[SeanD]

I have the same one. Just zero it out with distilled water. The only down side to that one is if you concentrate your sap, you won't be able to read beyond 10%, but you can check the permeate to see if you are passing sugar.

[O3C]

Thanks for the information. I bought one off of ebay yesterday for 2.99. Sounds cheap, but the shipping was over 8.00! Should be coming next week, I may have to put some samples in the fridge, temps are going to be 50-60, nothing under 32. Thanks, Ron

[adk1]

I just ordered one of those to check to see if any sugar is passing in the permeate side of my ro