Experiences with a Density Meter

The use of this instrument, utilising galvanic action to indicate the density of massecuite as a guide to crystallization in sugar-boiling vacuum pans and its construction from cheap and readily available materials are enlarged upon. Difficulties experienced in the instrument's successful operation are enumerated and the means of overcoming these are set forth as a guide to present and future operators. Introduction It will be recalled that in 1954, a paper entitled "An Aid to Pan Boiling'? was read and received the interest of many members of this Association. This was followed in 1955 by an explanation of the method used. Many factories in Natal, Zululand, Rhodesia and Portuguese East Africa have used the Density Meter with varied forms of success. Of those who have tried to put the method of "Pan Aid" into practice, many are divided in their opinion as to its efficacy. . The blame has been put on the practical side of the instrument, i.e. faults which may arise from time to time due to various causes. The theoretical side has been accepted. The causesimpairing the reliability of the instrument in its functioning could in most cases be eliminated by proper care as the writer will endeavour to explain.