Page 23 - Beverage Master_DecJan2022

Brewery & Distillery
Craft Brewery

Meanwhile, inline process refractometers are best are developing new refractometers that utilize tech-
for larger operations and give continuous readings nologies that are part of the Industry 4.0 paradigm
that can be output to any data capture system. for improvements in operations, automation and
communication.”
“For breweries, MISCO has developed a set of
measurement scales that were scientifically derived Even when beverage-related technology looks
from a complex sugar profile specific to wort,” and sounds intriguing and exciting on the surface,
Keck said. “Other refractometers base their read- there is little benefit to trying it just for the sake of
ings on sucrose, which is why using a correction novelty. Keck told Beverage Master Magazine that
factor is required when using these units. MISCO “spyglass-style” analog refractometers are still com-
Pro-Brewing Scales account for the wort’s complex monly used in the industry, but these devices have
sugar profile, which includes maltose, maltotriose, numerous limitations compared to digital units,
dextrose, fructose, sucrose and other materials, such as reading subjectivity, precision and durabili-
eliminating the need for correction factors and pro- ty.
viding more accurate results.”
“When upgrading to a digital refractometer, or
Recently, there have been advances and innova- even considering a different digital unit, customers
tions in refractometry that breweries and distilleries would want a unit that is easy to use, employs qual-
may find helpful. ity materials, is durable, has automatic temperature
compensation, is easy to calibrate and provides
“Because every operation has unique testing readings that match the fluid testing requirements
requirements, MISCO has developed a build-your- of the operation,” Keck said. “Lastly, product sup-
own tool on its website to allow customers to easily port should also be considered - where the unit
design and order digital handheld refractometers would be serviced for routine maintenance and cali-
with programming they select from our large mea- bration certification.”
surement scale library,” said Keck. “In addition, we
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