The new refractometers and portable pH meters improve machine shop productivity and reduce maintenance costs by allowing operators to measure coolant quality quickly and easily.  Along with coolant skimmers, maintaining the proper coolant concentration and pH level is an ongoing process in machine shops and is critical to reducing tooling costs and manufacturing high-quality parts with ideal surface finishes. Correct concentration is also key to coolant efficiency; regular monitoring can ensure that expensive concentrate is not wasted and weak coolant is boosted or replaced for maximum performance.  Coolant potency diminishes over time and, if not properly maintained, the consequences can be costly. Improper coolant concentrations can cause poor surface finishes and increased wear on cutting tools.  Abanaki refractometers are available in three models, including two with a built-in light.