A&D''s Solution for Quick and Repeatable Low Viscosity Measurements Continues to Evolve

About a year ago, its predecessor, the RV-10000, was introduced as a breakthrough alternative to conventional methods in the research of non-Newtonian fluid properties. Drawing on A&D''s proven sensor technology for high-resolution analytical balances, it provided quick stability and high repeatability with low viscosity fluids (e.g. below 100, 10 or even 1 mPa.s), which were not possible with other types of rheometers, such as rotational ones.

With the RV-10000, it was possible to change the shear rate by altering its sensor plate amplitude while keeping the frequency at 30 Hz, which results in differing vibration speeds. However, there was some inconvenience to users in that the amplitude was only alterable to eight levels by manually pressing a key. Also, changes in amplitude could not be converted to actual shear rate values, or used as an axis variable when creating graphs using the provided software, allowing users only crude measurements and data analyses.

The new RV-10000A has no such limitations thanks to its dedicated controller with 7-inch color touch-panel LCD display. Specifically, the controller can automatically change the amplitude and capture data in a manner as programmed by the user. It also converts each amplitude into a numerical shear rate based on the required electromagnetic force (i.e. shear stress) and obtained viscosity value. Further, it graphs measured values in real time so that viscosity changes as a function of time, temperature, and/or shear rate become plainly visible.

Of course, one shouldn''t forget the unique strengths of the tuning fork vibro method, on top of the new features of the RV-10000A above. To quickly reiterate them: (1) wide continuous measurement range―from as low as 0.3 mPa.s to the maximum of 25,000 mPa.s; (2) excellent repeatability of 1% of the measured value (by standard deviation) for the entire measurement range; (3) simultaneous and precise measurements of sample fluid temperature and viscosity, with temperature control also being possible; (4) easy setup/cleaning and very quick measurement; (5) little interference to the sample fluid; (6) measurements of fluids in motion possible; and (7) easy calibration by users themselves, including a simple calibration function using water.