Funke-Gerber CryoStar automatic cryoscope

Water ingress occurs during milk production. The rinsing of milking systems, milk tanks and tankers leads to an unavoidable admixture of water. Therefore, the measurement of water additives plays an important role in the quality control of milk. 

Freezing point determination (cryoscopy) is used to determine the extraneous water content of milk. Ideally, the devices used for this should work quickly and precisely without being affected by external influences such as high ambient temperatures or fluctuations in air pressure. For these reasons, Funke-Gerber has made improvements to its CryoStar automatic.

The device now works quickly even at 40°C room temperature. The newly added pressure sensor warns promptly of pressure fluctuations so that undesirable deviations in the measurement process can be avoided. All settings and measurement curves can be viewed via the touch display.

A rotary magazine provides space for 12 samples, which are measured automatically in sequence. Depending on the setting, the first measurement result is available after 90 s, resulting in a maximum sample throughput of 40 samples per hour. The cooling unit has also been redesigned and the newly developed control electronics reduce the waste heat generated. With improved heat dissipation, measurements can be carried out at room temperatures of up to 40°C.

The device exhibits strict linearity in the defined measuring range. This is advantageous if, for example, the measurement is used to check that milk is lactose-free. Automatic calibration helps to save time and minimise sources of error by saving all settings and calibration values. 

The device can be connected to printers and PCs in accordance with laboratory standards due to suitable connection options. All parameters on the device can be freely programmed so it can be adjusted to current and future national and international standards.