scientist with beakers
A saccharometer is a device used to measure the concentration of sugar in a solution. Saccharometers work by determining the density of the liquid, which allows the sugar content to be extrapolated. They are used in the production of wine and beer, as well as in processes where people need to create sugar solutions. Kitchen supply stores sometimes sell them, especially if they have stock to make beer and other alcoholic beverages at home.
The operation of a saccharometer is relatively simple. It consists of a cylinder attached to a lamp, with graduated markings on the sides. To use the device, someone drops the saccharometer into the solution being measured. Once the device stabilizes and stops rocking, a reading can be taken from the device. The marks can correspond to the Brix, Plato or Balling scales, all of which are expressions of the percentage of sugar in a solution.
Some care must be taken when using a saccharometer. The device does not measure the sugar content directly, but based on density and on a pre-calibrated scale. This means that if a fluid is more or less dense than it should be, it can affect the reading, as can happen with a heated syrup, which is less dense, or a solution with impurities that make it more dense. A sacchameter usually comes with a recommended temperature range so people know what temperatures it was calibrated to.
As with other tools used for measurement, a saccharometer works best when it is well maintained. After use, it must be cleaned and returned to its protective case. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, and people should avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Dropping a sacchameter can break it or cause cracks that can interfere with density measurements by impairing the calibration of the device. If you are not sure whether the device reads accurately or not, you can prepare a solution of known concentration and use it to test it.
Saccharometers should not be confused with saccharimeters. A saccharimeter also measures the amount of sugar in a solution, but uses polarization or refractive index for its measurement. So it works differently. These devices are sometimes preferred because they can be more accurate. They are also very mobile, which is useful for things like testing grapes in the field to determine how sweet they are before harvest.