Automated Polymer Viscometers
The PSL-Rheotek Polymer Viscometer (RPV) is used widely throughout the world for testing a wide range of polymer, pulp and cellulose applications. After the measurement, the sample is automatically removed. The sample path is then cleaned and dried using a two-solvent protocol. The final stage is air-drying. Automated cleaning and drying ensures excellent repeatability and saves valuable time in the laboratory.
Process plant laboratories all over the world trust their RPV Polymer Viscometer to certify the IV of PET, K-value of PVC, Viscosity Number of Polyamide and other units of result from solvent based viscosity measurement.
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RPV Polymer Viscometers
Intrinsic Viscosity or IV is an important quality parameter for polymers. Measurement of IV of any polymer involves dissolving the polymer in a solvent and running the solution through a glass capillary viscometer. Exact procedures for all the commonly used polymers are given in International Test methods under ISO, ASTM, DIN, IEC, etc. Product specifications typically require the IV to measured on method compliant equipment.
The RPV-1 is ideally suited to Pharmaceutical applications, such as polylactides (PLA) and Hyaluronic acid (HA) - in accordance with US Pharmacopeia 911 (viscosity) and European Pharmacopeia Methods. The RPV-1 software is 21 CFR-11 compliant, and PSL Rheotek will provide IQ/OQ validation testing as well as annual maintenance.
At PSL Rheotek, we have been supplying process industry and medical laboratories with compliant instrumentation for 20 years.
How does it work?
All PSL Rheotek RPV Polymer Viscometers are fitted with calibrated glass capillary viscometers for fully automated determination of successive flow times. On completion of the test work, the result is calculated in compliance with the chosen test protocol and displayed in the software.
Which test methods are available?
ASTM D4603, ISO 1628 parts 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5, ASTM D2857, ISO 307, ISO 5351, ASTM D789, ASTM D4243, IEC 60450, European Pharmacopoeia, ASTM D1243 and many more. Custom protocols are easily configured either by our service team or the instrument owner.
Does it have automatic cleaning?
All PSL-Rheotek RPV Polymer Viscometers are supplied with the Safe-VAC cleaning and drying system installed. On completion of the test, the sample is automatically drained from the viscometer and transported to the waste pot under light vacuum. The sample path is then filled with a solvent for cleaning. Air bubbles are pulsed thorugh the sample path to maximise the effect of the cleaning solvent. When the cleaning solvent cycle has finished, the cleaning solvent is automatically drained from the sample path and disposed off in the waste pot. A second solvent is then introduced to aid the drying of the sample path and remove any remnants of the cleaning solvent. The final stage of the process is air drying.
Does it comply with ASTM?
Yes, all PSL Rheotek RPV Viscometers comply 100% to test method protocols as described in a variety of methods from ASTM, ISO, IEC, DIN and other standards covering dilute solution viscosity determined in a glass capillary viscometer.
How long does it take to measure a sample?
When calculating projected throughput, it is necessary to also include the time for cleaning and drying to get a handle on the time needed for a complete sample cycle. For most commonly measured polymers, it is possible to complete a sample cycle in approximately 30 minutes.