As an Amazon Associate Conductscience Inc earns revenue from qualifying purchases
Hydrometers are essential measuring devices used to detect the specific gravity of material. Note that specific gravity or relative density is defined as the ratio of the density of a material to the density of a reference liquid (e.g., water).
Interestingly, the invention of the hydrometer is credited to the famous philosopher Hypathia of Alexandria (370-415) and is based on Archimedes’ principle, according to which a solid body submerged in a fluid is buoyed by force equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by the body. While the design of the hydrometer evolved over the centuries, with some advanced models developed by the French chemist Antoine Baumé (1728-1804) and the English scientist William Nicholson (1753-1815), the most common type today consists of a glass tube with a weighted bulb (with mercury or lead shot) and a scale (with different scales for different uses; American Petroleum Institute gravity for petroleum products, Plato scale for brewing, and Brix scale for wineries).
Hydrometers are invaluable tools used to measure relative density. Note that such instruments are calibrated for different applications, depending on the liquid tested. Here we should note that there is a wide variety of specific gravity tools:
With a wide range of products for sale, choosing a hydrometer can be a challenging task. Prospective buyers should consider three major aspects: requirements, specifications, and costs.
Requirements: As hydrometers can be employed in a variety of settings, users should refine their research and production goals. Here we should note that there are three types of hydrometers on the market. Triple scale hydrometers are the most popular and affordable units available. They are multi-functional tools that can measure the specific gravity (0.00-1.170), Brix/Balling scale, and potential alcohol. Thermohydrometers, on the other hand, are used to measure both specific gravity and temperature. Precision units are also available. Note that they can measure specific gravity on a small and accurate scale (e.g., 1.000-1.070, 1.060-1.130).
Specifications: Apart from the specific type, users should consider the materials used. Note that glass hydrometers may break easily, and paper scales might be less accurate. Hydrometers equipped with mercury require special considerations as mercury is more hazardous than other materials.
Total costs: Before purchasing a hydrometer, users should decide on a budget. Additional accessories, such as testing jars or graduated cylinders, should be considered. Note that some units come with a testing jar (jars with a wild base are preferred).
From Baume meters used for liquids denser than water and salt hydrometers to Tralle hydrometers that assess the percentage of ethyl alcohol and thermohydrometers, prospective buyers can choose from a wide range of products. Based on different parameters and user reviews, here are the best hydrometers for sale.
Brewer’s Elite Hydrometer & Test Jar Combo is an excellent hydrometer that comes with a 250 ml graduated cylinder, a storage case, a cleaning cloth, a brush, and a manual. Note that the unit has a triple scale: specific gravity (0.99-1.16), potential alcohol (0%-20%), and Brix Balling (0-35), which makes it suitable for numerous applications. With clear fonts and graduated color bands, measurements are easy to read and interpret, and alcohol by volume (ABV) is easy to calculate. With numerous features, this hydrometer is an affordable product ideal for making low-alcohol products, such as wine, beer, ale, and even kombucha at home.
E-Z RED SP101 Battery Hydrometer is a highly accurate battery hydrometer made of unbreakable plastic and rubber that can resist tough treatment. Note that the unit has a range of 1.100-1.300. With its rugged design, this hydrometer is an affordable meter, ideal for technicians to check the state of battery acid.
MEOMOU Hydrometer Alcohol Meter 0-200 – Proof Hydrometer Kit with Thermometer is a great distillers hydrometer kit for assessing distilled spirits and high-alcohol liquor. With its practical thermometer (0℉-230℉) and conversion table, the unit gives accurate and clear readings, with a Proof measurement range of 0 to 200 and a Tralle measurement range of 0 to 100. Additionally, this hydrometer has a stable glass test jar, which is easy to clean (cleaning brush and cloth included).
LabStock Master Distillers Hydrometer Test Jar is ideal for anyone looking for a high-quality test jar. This product is suitable for high-proof liquids, and there are no graduations in order to facilitate quick readings. Note that the jar is made of Borosilicate glass and has a three-inch diameter base with three contact points to resist tipping. With an innovative design, this cylinder is an excellent addition to any hydrometer kit.
Hydrometers are invaluable instruments. Thus, it’s not surprising that proper use, maintenance, and storage are crucial to guarantee long and accurate use.
Hydrometers are invaluable meters used to measure the specific gravity of liquids. These instruments are used in various applications, such as a brewery, mechanics, and research, to determine the weight and concentration of different liquids. From urinometers to alcoholmeters, we should note that there are different hydrometers designed for different purposes.
Before purchasing a unit, however, prospective buyers should consider three major factors: requirements, specifications, and total costs. Note that the three main types of hydrometers available on the market are triple scale hydrometers, thermohydrometers, and precision hydrometers. Accuracy, materials used, and additional accessories are also essential factors to consider.
Get the entire package for up to 50% discount with our Replication program.
DISCLAIMER: ConductScience and affiliate products are NOT designed for human consumption, testing, or clinical utilization. They are designed for pre-clinical utilization only. Customers purchasing apparatus for the purposes of scientific research or veterinary care affirm adherence to applicable regulatory bodies for the country in which their research or care is conducted.
