KERN analog polarimeter OAB 10LN
The KERN Analog Polarimeter OAB 10LN is a manual measuring instrument for the exact determination of the angle of rotation in optically active solutions. Thanks to its compact design, simple operation and fast stabilization, it is a popular choice in many industries. Users who want a higher level of automation often use the KERN Digital Polarimeter OAB 20DN for comparison, which provides a similar measuring range but offers a digital display.
Precision measurement in everyday laboratory work
The device is equipped with a powerful sodium vapor lamp that produces a uniform and clear light source at 589 nm. It enables measurements with a 1° scale division and has a vernier with 0.05° resolution. This allows precise values to be determined when determining the angle of rotation of the substance to be examined. The glass cuvettes with lengths of 100 mm and 200 mm included in the scope of delivery allow the system to be flexibly adapted to different sample volumes.
The workmanship is robust so that the device can withstand the demands of the laboratory environment. In addition, the model impresses with its uncomplicated design, making it an efficient solution for both newcomers and experienced users in pharmacies, hospitals and industrial laboratories.
Important features at a glance
- Measuring range up to 180° (optical rotation)
- Precise scale division: 1° with additional vernier (0.05°)
- Wavelength: 589 nm (sodium vapor lamp)
- Stabilization time: approx. 10 minutes
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 500 x 130 x 330 mm
- Included in delivery: 100 mm and 200 mm glass cuvettes, replacement lenses and sealing rings
If required, additional accessories can be purchased to cover even more specific applications in the laboratory. For example, in some test series it makes sense to use shorter or longer cuvettes or to use different optical filters.
Applications and special features
The device is used in various industries and research facilities where optical rotation is important for substances such as glucose, sucrose or other e.g. pharmaceutically relevant substances. A typical area of application is the food and beverage industry, where purity and quality checks are carried out on sugar or starch products. Pharmacies, hospitals and chemical laboratories appreciate the ability to obtain reliable measurement data without a great deal of effort.
Due to its compact design, the instrument is also suitable for training laboratories or educational institutions where students learn about basic polarimetry methods. The design also complies with current laboratory standards, such as CE marking, so that it can be used safely in a professional environment.
Application examples
- In the beverage industry, regular checks of sugar content and other optically active ingredients are used for quality assurance.
- Pharmacies and hospital laboratories use the instrument to precisely check concentrations of pharmaceutical solutions (e.g. antibiotic suspensions).
- Food manufacturers analyze glucose and fructose solutions for purity and composition.
- Chemical training laboratories provide training in the use of polarimeters to promote the understanding of optical rotational substances
.
FAQs
How quickly is the device ready for use?
After switching on, the sodium vapour lamp needs about 10 minutes to stabilize. No measurements should be taken during this time so that the values are not distorted.
Which substances can be measured
In principle, all optically active substances, including sugars (e.g. sucrose, glucose), organic acids, essential oils and certain pharmaceutical solutions. Before each measurement, users should ensure that the substances are clearly dissolved.
How can the accuracy of the measurement be checked?
Reference standards or known sample substances are used for calibration or validation. This ensures that the polarimeter delivers correct values.
What role does the cuvette size play?
The 100 mm and 200 mm glass cuvettes supplied allow different path lengths for the light radiation. For substances with low rotation, the longer cuvette is recommended in order to obtain more accurate readings.
Are there any special maintenance measures?
Regular cleaning of the cuvettes and checking the seals is usually sufficient. The lamp should also be replaced after long periods of operation if the light intensity decreases noticeably.
Conclusion
This manual polarimeter is ideal for professional laboratory use thanks to its clear scale graduation and robust design. The fast measurement results and flexible adjustment to different sample quantities make it a reliable choice for a wide range of applications in pharmacies, the food and beverage industry and research facilities. Thanks to practical accessories and easy handling, this instrument supports precise analyses without requiring complicated adjustments.
