Calibration fluid

Calibration Fluid for Honey Refractometers 19.4% – 2 ml

Do you use an optical refractometer and want to be sure it shows accurate values when measuring honey moisture content? This 2 ml calibration fluid is a practical tool for every beekeeper who values precise honey quality control. It is used to verify the accuracy of a refractometer and to adjust it if necessary. A properly calibrated instrument is especially important when determining the water content of honey, which directly affects its stability, shelf life, and overall quality.

Why Monitor Water Content in Honey

Honey moisture is one of the most important parameters to monitor during both extraction and subsequent storage. Honey with a higher water content, typically above the recommended threshold of 18–20%, can begin to ferment and spoil an entire batch. Accurate measurement therefore helps determine whether the honey is suitable for bottling and sale. Calibration fluid provides your refractometer with a reliable reference point, keeping your measurements under control and ensuring you offer customers honey of the appropriate quality.

Precise Reference Value According to the Chataway Table

At a temperature of 20 °C, this calibration fluid has a refractive index (RI) of 1.488. According to the Chataway table, which is commonly used when working with honey refractometers, this value corresponds to a water content of approximately 19.4%. Depending on rounding, some manufacturers may indicate an approximate range of 19.3–19.6%. This fluid is therefore suitable for checking the optical scale of a refractometer designed for honey measurement.

How to Use the Calibration Fluid Correctly

Refractometers purchased from our online store are factory-calibrated, so there is no need to calibrate them immediately upon delivery. However, with frequent use, transport, or fieldwork, measurement accuracy may change over time. Perform a check and any necessary adjustment using the following procedure:

1. Carry out calibration at a stable temperature of 20 °C. For accurate measurement, it is advisable to use a refractometer with an ATC (Automatic Temperature Compensation) function, or to perform a manual temperature correction using the appropriate table.
2. Apply a small drop of calibration fluid onto the clean and dry prism of the refractometer. Then close the cover plate so that the fluid spreads evenly and without air bubbles.
3. Point the refractometer towards a light source and look through the eyepiece. On the water content scale, the shadow line should be at the 19.4% mark.
4. If the instrument shows a different value, adjust the setting using the calibration screw. Turn it gently until the shadow line moves precisely to 19.4%.

Product Technical Specifications

Practical Tip for Beekeepers

Always store the calibration fluid tightly sealed, in a dark place, and at room temperature. After use, make sure that no impurities or atmospheric moisture get into the bottle, as these could affect the accuracy of future calibrations.