A portable density meter, also known as a handheld density meter or a portable densitometer, is a device used to measure the density of a sample. These devices are compact, easy to use, and can be used in various industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and more. They are especially useful for on-site measurements where samples cannot be easily transported to a laboratory.
Portable density meters work on the principle of either oscillation or the use of gamma rays. Oscillation-based density meters measure the frequency of oscillation of a vibrating element immersed in the sample, which is related to the density of the sample. Gamma ray-based density meters use the attenuation of gamma rays passing through the sample to determine its density.
Some key features of portable density meters include:
- Portability: They are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, allowing for on-the-go measurements.
- Accuracy: They provide accurate density measurements, often with high precision.
- Ease of Use: They typically have user-friendly interfaces and are easy to operate.
- Durability: They are built to withstand harsh environments and rough handling.
- Data Storage: Many models have built-in memory for storing measurement data, which can be later transferred to a computer for analysis.
- Battery Powered: They are usually powered by rechargeable batteries, making them suitable for field use where power sources may be limited.
The portable density meters are valuable tools for quality control, process monitoring, and research applications where quick and accurate density measurements are required.