Density meters: high accuracy measurement for liquids

What is a density meter?

A density meter - also known as a densimeter or density meter - is one of the essential laboratory analysis instruments for which the user expects maximum precision and the highest functionality. Density, for example, is an elementary property and key figure for substances of all kinds. It must be measured correctly in every case. After all, in everyday laboratory and institute work, a substance cannot be characterized without a correct density reading.

With highly functional density meters, you can answer all questions about purity and composition as well as structure, possible interactions with other substances and also individual content. We offer you the right instrument for every project and every task. For all technical questions our trained support team is always at your disposal.

How does a density meter work?

Liquids and solids of various types must be subjected to density measurement in everyday laboratory and institute work. This is because it is only through density data that certain substances can be defined and their valence or purity determined.

When it comes to the production of foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals or chemicals, density measurements are therefore indispensable. Various measuring methods are used for this purpose. The most important measuring instruments in this respect are the hydrometer, the pycnometer and the oscillating U-tube.

Density meter with oscillating U-tube

The oscillating U-tube method is probably the simplest and most accurate method for measuring the density of substances. It is based on the physical law that the oscillation frequency of a body depends on its mass. To carry out a measurement with the density meter with flexural oscillator, a u-shaped capillary is first fitted with a substance and then made to oscillate.

The resulting frequency of the bending oscillator allows the mass or density of the substance to be calculated accurately. Unlike a pycnometer, only a volume of one milliliter is required, and the simple handling of the flexural oscillator also speaks for itself.

Hydrometer

The hydrometer uses a glass float. This is immersed in the substance to be tested until the buoyancy force and the respective mass-dependent weight force harmonize with each other. This measuring method is therefore based on the physical principle of buoyancy.

You can then read off the immersion depth and thus the density of the substance from the scale located on the instrument. If you would like to buy a hydrometer, we will be happy to advise you individually and in detail.

MedSolut Expert Tip:

Although hydrometers are very inexpensive to purchase - experience has shown, however, that the measured values are difficult to read with dark samples and also with highly viscous substances. In addition, they are relatively fragile.

To achieve good results overall, you need a volume capacity of at least 100 milliliters for each measurement. This is the only way to ensure the required measurement accuracy of 0.001 g/cm³.

Pycnometer

When using a pycnometer, the first step is to weigh the still unfilled vessel and then take a measurement when the substance to be tested has been filled in. The density can be determined on the basis of the weight calculated in this way.

The measuring principle of the pycnometer is the so-called gravimetric density measurement. Compared to the hydrometer method, you benefit from a significantly higher measuring accuracy.

However, take into account that the entire measurement procedure is very time-consuming and requires a highly professional approach.

The advantage of a pycnometer, however, is that devices of this product category can be used in a wide range of pressures and temperatures and impress with their good measuring accuracy.

Density meter - areas of application

A density meter is used in a wide variety of medical and research fields, as well as in numerous industries. Especially in these areas density meters are indispensable:

• in the chemical or petrochemical industry
• in the pharmaceutical industry and in the production of pharmaceuticals
• in medical research
• in the food and beverage industry (beer, wine, fruit juices, etc.)
• in the petroleum industry
• in explosive areas
• in hygienic applications

When it comes to testing raw materials as well as intermediate and end products for their qualitative value within the scope of the individual manufacturing processes, you cannot do without a density meter. This is the only way to ensure complete quality control at all levels.

On the basis of density measurements, it is possible to identify substances, define their purity and determine their concentration in various mixtures. Accurate temperature control of the samples is essential, because density is highly dependent on temperature.

Criteria for choosing a density meter

For every task in your laboratory, institute or company, you will find the right density meter in our online store. Rely on quality and order the density meter that meets your requirements to the highest degree. The following selection criteria will help you if you want to find the perfect device for your density measurement:

Measurement accuracy

Absolute precision is essential, especially in medicine, science and research. In addition, maximum purity and utmost care are required in the production of food and beverages. That's why you should leave nothing to chance when selecting your density meters.

At MedSolut.com, you will find highly functional measuring devices with an accuracy of up to 6 decimal places. Talk to us and let our friendly team of experts show you the density meters that best meet your requirements.

Measuring range

Depending on viscosity, properties and application, a density meter must have a specific measuring range. The relevant spectrum is broad and ranges from 300 to 1300 kg/m³ (calibrated), depending on the device. You need density meters with a measuring range from 0 to 3000 kg/m³?

Our friendly team of experts will be happy to help you and introduce you to the suitable product innovations of the renowned manufacturing companies.

Degree of automation

On MedSolut.com you will find semi-automatic, fully automatic and manually operated density meters:

- semi-automatic density meters

For low to light viscosity materials, the semi-automatic version is recommended. The sample feed and also the cleaning of the instrument are carried out semi-automatically with the aid of a peristaltic pump. This means that you benefit from greater safety and higher efficiency when working. Especially if you handle hazardous, chemical or aggressive substances.

- Fully automatic density meters

Fully automatic density meters are especially recommended for work areas with a particularly high sample throughput. From sample feeding and measurement to cleaning and drying - fully automatic density meters offer you maximum flexibility and a special performance volume. Even unattended measurements of several hundred samples are possible, depending on the instrument.

- Manual density meters

Manual density meters are advantageous for rather small sample volumes and especially when working with highly viscous substances. Here you have absolute control and can check at any time whether the loading is free of residues and bubbles.

- Table-top units

The innovative benchtop instruments in our range are particularly compact and easy to fill. Due to their dimensions, they take up very little space and also offer maximum flexibility during measurements. They are used to determine density and alcohol volume in wine and beer production and in the sugar industry, among others. 

- Mobile density meters

Portable instruments in this product category lend themselves to many industrial applications. When it comes to performing regular or random quality checks on assembly lines or in production processes, you can't do without mobile density meters.

Please feel free to contact us. We are here for you if you have technical questions about portable density meters.

Accessories for Density Meters

With the right accessories for your Density Meter you will achieve best results and benefit from a special usability. You will find the optimal accessories for every density meter in our online portfolio. Supplement your equipment with the following Density Meter accessories, among others:

Barcode reader

Use your Density Meter for multiparameter measurements and transfer the data from the certificate directly to the instrument with this functional accessory. Barcode readers are available in both compact and portable versions.

Compact printer

You can conveniently output the data generated by the density meter with a local printer using USB technology. This ensures even more efficient workflows.

Fingerprint readers

Many density meters require the user to log in before use to ensure that measurements and analyses are assigned. A fingerprint reader simplifies your user management and saves you the hassle of entering user names, passwords and the like.

Level sensors

The precise level sensors detect the level of a substance and help prevent overfilling. This makes it even easier to avoid contact with hazardous or aggressive samples and solvents.

Order density meter for laboratory and industry at MedSolut

Order the density meter you need for your laboratory now. Feel free to contact the MedSolut team of experts by phone at +49 30 209 657 900 or by e-mail (info@medsolut.com). We are always there for you and will be happy to advise you individually.

Discover the product variety in our store and take advantage of the excellent service and performance offer. Which density meter do you need for your work?