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APPLICATION SOFTWARE
SPECIALISTS IN THE
MEASUREMENT AND
CONTROL OF VISCOSITY
Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated reserves the right to change any or all
information contained herein without prior written notice. Revisions may be issued at the time of
such changes and/or deletions.
Any duplication of this manual or any of its parts without expressed written permission from
Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated is strictly prohibited.
The following Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated trademarks and service marks may
appear in this document:
Brookfield
Rheocalc
Rheovision
Wingather
Thermosel
UL Adapter
All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Introduction
About Rheocalc ........................................................................................................................... 1-1
System Requirements .................................................................................................................. 1-2
Registering Rheocalc ................................................................................................................... 1-2
Contacting Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. ............................................................... 1-2
Section 5 - Troubleshooting
Communication Errors ................................................................................................................ 5-1
Instrumentation Setup ............................................................................................................ 5-1
Windows NT .......................................................................................................................... 5-1
Windows 2000 / XP............................................................................................................... 5-2
Communication Port Settings ...................................................................................................... 5-3
Appendix B - Drawings
Index
Section 1 - Introduction
About Rheocalc
Rheocalc is designed for use with either the Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
DV-III Ultra, DV-III+, DV-III Rheometer, or DV-II+ Pro Viscometer and MS-Windows
2000 and above computer operating systems. Its purpose is to control the instrument
from a PC, collect data from the instrument and allow it to be saved, viewed, printed,
plotted and analyzed. Its features include:
System Requirements
The system requirements outlined in Table 1-1 must be met in order for Rheocalc soft-
ware to operate properly.
Registering Rheocalc
With your software registration on file at Brookfield, we will notify you when new
releases of Rheocalc are introduced. To register, locate the registration.pdf file on the
software application disk. Complete the form and return to us by either mail, fax or email
(sales@brookfieldengineering.com).
1. Insert the CD-ROM disk into the appropriate drive on your computer.
2. If AutoRun is enabled on your computer, the CD-ROM will go directly to the Main
Welcome Screen of the installation.
3. If the CD-ROM does not automatically run after being read by the CD drive, run the
setup.exe program manually by performing one of the following steps:
a. Using Windows Explorer, open the window of the appropriate drive then select
the setup.exe file from the route directory of the CD.
b. Choose START from the desktop, then select RUN. Select BROWSE and locate
the appropriate drive, then select the setup.exe file from the route directory of the
CD. Select the OK button.
4. Once the Main Welcome Screen of the installation is displayed, select NEXT to view
the available software installations, choose Rheocalc off of this list, then select
NEXT to install Rheocalc.
5. The keycode for the Rheocalc installation is printed on the silver label tucked inside
the CD-ROM jacket. Enter this keycode when prompted, then select NEXT and
follow the on-screen prompts to complete the Rheocalc software installation.
6. After installation, the Rheocalc program icon will be placed on the START/PRO-
GRAMS bar.
Starting Rheocalc
1. Locate and select the Rheocalc icon within the Rheocalc group window. The
Rheocalc software will be started.
NOTE: After each COM port is selected, Rheocalc must be restarted to intialize the the
selected port.
3. From the Instrument Status section, select the appropriate computer COM port to
which the Rheometer is connected.
4. From the Instrument Status section, select the appropriate computer COM port to
which the optional temperature accessory is connected.
5. Once the COM ports have been selected, restart Rheocalc to initialize the COM ports
you have selected.
6. Once Rhecoalc has been restarted, the data boxes on the Dashboard page will display
live rheometer data.
NOTE: If live data is not visible within the data boxes, refer to
Section 5 - Troubleshooting.
Introduction
Section 3 describes the features and functions of each Rheocalc page and dialog box.
Main Menu
The Main Menu provides general commands and information which apply to all of
Rheocalcs pages.
NOTE: For more information about manipulating Control Windows, see the Custom
Page section.
Setting Up Instrumentation
1. Use Instrumentation/Rheometer COM Port to choose the port that the rheometer is
connected to.
2. Use Instrumentation/Accessory COM Port to choose the port (if any) that the op-
tional temperature controller is connected to.
View Menu
The View Menu is used to show/hide Control Windows.
Instrumentation Menu
The Instrumentation Menu is used to establish communications with the rheometer and
optional temperature controller.
Tools Menu
The Tools Menu is used to save the users settings or return to the default settings.
Help Menu
The Help Menu is used to access Rheocalcs online Help system.
About Button
The About button displays various system information including Rheocalc, Windows,
instrument and BDE versions.
Help Button
The Help button displays the Rheocalc online help file.
Exit Button
The Exit button exits the user from Rheocalc. Any open data files are closed as well as
any open COM (RS-232) ports.
Date/Time
The Date and Time boxes display the current date and time.
Test Status
The Test Status box indicates whether a test is currently running.
Dashboard Page
The Dashboard Page, shown in Figure 3-1, gives a live display of the current readings.
2. Enter the desired speed in either the RPM or Shear Rate field.
Viscosity
The Viscosity display indicates the fluid viscosity in units of centipoise (cP) or
millipascal-seconds (mPas).
Speed
The Speed display indicates the current rotational speed of the spindle (in rpm).
Torque
The Torque display indicates the % of scale (the % of the rheometers full scale
torque range capability for the model in use) measured by the rheometer.
Shear Stress
The Shear Stress display indicates the force per unit area required to move the fluid in
units of dynes per square centimeter (D/cm2) or Newtons per square meter (N/m2).
Shear Rate
The Shear Rate display indicates the velocity gradient of fluid rotating with the
spindle in units of reciprocal seconds (1/sec).
Temperature
The Temperature display indicates the fluid sample temperature measured by the
temperature controller, accessory, or rheometer temperature probe in units of C or F.
NOTE: When a temperature controller is in use, the value displayed in the Temperature
display is read from the controller's probe and is shown in red. Otherwise, the
temperature is that sensed by the rheometer's probe is shown in yellow.
Instrument Status
The Instrument Status display indicates the type of rheometer or temperature control-
ler connected to the computer. A green light is displayed along with the instrument
identification.
Advanced Button
The Advanced button displays the Communication Port Settings dialog box as shown
in Figure 3-2. This window is used to display the communication parameters for the
devices being used with Rheocalc and to adjust the communications timing if neces-
sary.
Model
The Model display indicates the rheometer model type being used with Rheocalc.
Spindle
The Spindle display indicates the spindle type currently installed on the rheometer.
NOTE: The Spindle selected must be updated when the actual spindle is changed to
ensure correct viscosity, shear stress and shear rate calculations.
Zero Button
The Zero button displays a message box that reminds the user to level the instrument
and remove the spindle in preparation for the auto zero process. Once the instrument
is leveled and the spindle is removed, the OK button in the message box can be
pressed to perform the auto zero function. This process takes approximately 10-12
seconds.
NOTE: The Auto Zero function must be performed before the instrument can be used
to collect data.
Run Button
If the Speed tab is chosen, the Run button runs the rheometer at the speed specified.
If the Temperature tab is chosen, the Run button sets the controller to the temperature
specified.
Stop Button
If the Speed tab is chosen, the Stop button stops the rheometer. If the Temperature
tab is chosen, the Stop button sets the controller to the Standby Temperature (refer to
the Setup page section for more information).
Tests Page
The Tests page, shown in Figure 3-3, is used to create, save and print B.E.A.V.I.S
(Brookfield Engineering Advanced Viscometer Instruction Set) programs.
2. Using the standard Load File dialog box, select and load the appropriate program file
(*.RCP).
2. Highlight the appropriate command in the Command List and either double-click the
command or select the INSERT button to place the command in the Program Grid.
3. Continue to build your program in this manner using the INSERT button to add
commands and the DELETE button to remove unwanted commands.
NOTE: A new command cannot be added until the appropriate command parameter has
been entered on the previous line if required.
Saving/Printing Programs
1. Select the SAVE button to save the program to disk using the standard Save File
dialog box.
2. Select the PRINT button to print the program using the standard Print dialog box.
2. Enter the desired speed and click the Run button to start the rheometer.
4. Once the desired speed and temperature have been reached, click the Start Program
button.
Program Grid
The Program Grid displays the current user program. Each line consists of a line number,
a three letter command, and a parameter if one is required.
Settings Dialog
The Settings Dialog is used to set options for the LWC and RMR commands (Refer to
Section 4 - B.E.A.V.I.S Programs for more information on these commands).
Manual Page
The Manual page is used to gather data at manually controlled speeds and tempera-
tures.
Insert Button
The Insert button inserts the command highlighted in the command list.
Delete Button
The Delete button removes the highlighted line in the program grid.
Clear Button
The Clear button clears the program grid.
Confirm Deletions
When checked, the Confirm Deletions check box causes a message box to be displayed
requesting confirmation whenever an attempt is made to delete a program line or to clear
the entire program.
Load Button
The Load button displays a standard File Load dialog box. This dialog box displays
Rheocalc program files that were previously saved and can now be loaded.
Save Button
The Save button displays a standard file save dialog box. This dialog box allows pro-
grams to be saved for later use. B.E.A.V.I.S. programs are saved as lines of ASCII text
consisting of a line number, command, and parameter.
Print Button
The Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printer
to be selected, its properties changed and the data to be printed.
NOTE: Refer to the MS-Windows on-line help for more information regarding printing
and printer setup.
Start Button
The Start button starts the program displayed in the Program Grid.
Stop Button
The Stop button stops the program displayed in the Program Grid. The rheometer will
stop and any attached temperature controller enters stand-by mode and sets the controls
to the default temperature of 25 C.
Next Button
The Next button causes the program to skip to the next program step before the wait
condition is reached.
NOTE: The Next Button is only enabled while a program is running and the current
step is a Wait command (i.e WTI, wait for time interval).
Run/Data Page
The Run/Data page shown in Figure 3-4 allows the execution of B.E.A.V.I.S. programs
and browsing and editing of any valid Rheocalc data file.
Executing a Program
1. Ensure that a new or existing program is displayed in the program Grid (Tests Page).
2. Click the Start Program button in either the Test Status Control Window or the Test
Setup Control Window (Tests Page).
3. The program status (i.e. Step Time, Step Status, Loop Count, Reading Time) will be
displayed in the Test Status Control Window at the top of the page. Live data will be
displayed in the Test Data Grid Control Window in the middle of the page. As they
are collected, data points will be plotted on the graph in the Test Data Plot Control
Window at the bottom of the page.
3. A standard file load dialog will appear. Using this dialog box, select and load the
appropriate data file (*.DB).
4. The data file will be listed in the Plot List: on the first line if the LOAD button is
used, or on the selected line if the Plot List is double clicked.
5. The data will appear in the Test Data Grid and the datas plot will be added to the
existing plots in the Test Data Plot. Up to five data files may be plotted at one time.
6. To remove a data sets plot from the graph, uncheck the box beside the data file name
in the Plot List.
7. To view a different data set in the Test Data Grid, click on the data files name in the
Plot List.
2. Using the Load File dialog box, select and load the appropriate data file (*.DB).
Saving/Printing Data
1. Select the SAVE button to save the data to disk using the standard Save File dialog
box.
2. Select the PRINT button to print the data using the standard Print dialog box. The
data, sample name, and user notes are all printed.
Exporting Data
1. Select the EXPORT button. Use the standard Save File dialog box to save the data
in MS-Excel format (*.XLS) for use in other programs.
Importing Data
1. Select the IMPORT button. Use the standard Load File dialog box to load in
Rheocalc Text Data from previous versions of Rheocalc (DOS and Windows 3.x
versions). The data is displayed in the Data Grid and treated as unsaved data.
Analyzing Data
1. Select the ANALYZE button. The Analysis page is displayed showing the results
and graph for the selected equation using the data displayed on the View/Edit page.
2. Select the DV-III+ button. After a few seconds, data will appear in the Data Grid.
Data was taken with the rheometer in its stand-alone mode and is extracted from the
rheometers internal data buffer.
NOTE: This option only works with a DV-III, DV-III+ or DV-III Ultra connected.
Test Status
Step Time
The Step Time box displays the amount of time the current step (as displayed in the
program grid) has been executing.
Loop Count
The Loop Count box displays the number of loop iterations remaining in the current
loop block (consisting of an LSC + LEC or LWC + LWE command).
Step Status
The first box within the Step Status area displays the current steps action (i.e. for a
WTI command, the box displays the message: COUNTING DOWN TIME INTER-
VAL. The second box displays the pertinent step parameter (i.e. for a WPT command,
the box displays the current % torque value so the user knows how far from the target
torque the step is).
Reading Time
The Reading Time box displays one of the following:
Next Button
The Next button causes the program to skip to the next program step before the wait
condition is reached.
NOTE: The Next button is only enabled while a program is running and the current
step is a Wait command (i.e. WTI, wait for time interval).
Data Button
The Data button is used to collect a single data point during a Manual Test (refer to
the Tests Page section).
Spindle
The Spindle box displays the spindle used to take the data. When in edit mode, this value
can be changed by using the arrow to the right of the box. Once a change is made, all
data in the grid is re-calculated based upon the new choice.
File
The File box displays the file and path of the data file being used.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
BUTTON LEGEND
1. Moves the highlight to the first record in the data grid.
2. Moves the highlight to the previous line in the data grid.
3. Moves the highlight to the next line in the data grid.
4. Moves the highlight to the last record in the data grid.
5. Adds a blank record (data line) at the highlighted line in the data grid.
6. Deletes the highlighted data line in the data grid.
7. Turns edit mode ON.
8. Turns edit mode off and locks the database.
NOTE: When in Edit mode, only the Speed, % Torque, Temperature, and Time Interval
fields may be changed by the user. All other parameters are automatically
calculated by Rheocalc. The data will not change until the data field being
edited has been exited.
Record
The Record boxes indicate the total number of records in the data set and the number of
the record currently selected.
Load Button
The Load button displays a standard file load dialog box. This dialog box displays
Rheocalc data files that were previously saved and can now be loaded.
Save Button
The Save button displays a standard file save dialog box. This dialog box allows data to
be saved for later use. Data is saved in a Paradox database file along with an ASCII text
file of the same name which contains user sample name and notes.
Print Button
The Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printer
to be selected, its properties changed and data to be printed.
NOTE: Refer to the MS-Windows on-line help for more information regarding printing
and printer setup.
Analyze Button
The Analyze button switches to the Analysis page and displays the results and a graph of
the selected math model for the currently displayed data. See the Analysis Page section
for more information on math model analysis.
Export Button
The Export button opens a dialog (similar to a Save dialog) that allows the displayed data
to be exported to an MS-Excel spreadsheet.
Import Button
The Import button imports data from previous versions of Rheocalc (DOS and Windows
3.1 versions).
NOTE: Data from previous Rheocalc software versions was in an ASCII text format as
opposed to the Paradox database format currently used.
DV-III Button
When a DV-III or DV-III+ rheometer is connected, the DV-III button extracts the last data
set that was taken with the instrument in its stand-alone mode. The data will appear in
Y2 Checkbox
This checkbox determines whether the second Y axis is plotted.
Replot Button
Clicking this button causes all selected data sets to be replotted on the graph using the
current plot options.
Plot List
This box lists all data files which are currently loaded, and indicates which files are
plotted.
1 Turns on tracking. As data is gathered, axes will scroll to keep the newest data in view.
2 Turns off tracking.
3 Axis will scroll when the user drags it.
4 Axis will zoom when the user drags it.
5 Zooms both axes out.
6 Zooms both axes in.
7 Allows a data point to be selected.
8 Allows the user to draw a box which the graph will zoom to.
9 Places crosshairs with coordinates on the graph.
10 Opens a dialog box with many graph display options.
11 Copies the graph to the clipboard.
12 Saves the graph as a bitmap.
13 Prints the graph.
Analysis Page
The Analysis page, shown in Figure 3-7, is used to mathematically analyze selected data
using various models associated with viscosity measurement and rheology. The results
are displayed both numerically and graphically, and they can also be printed to hard copy.
2. Choose the analysis model from the Model drop down list. As each model is high-
lighted, the equation for that model is displayed in the equation box.
3. Once a model is selected, the calculations are performed and the numeric and graphi-
cal results are displayed. The graph displays the data and the best fit straight line
using the selected equation.
4. Select the PRINT button to print the data, numeric results, and corresponding graph.
Model
Thix Index
Thix Index uses two viscosity measurements taken at different speeds to give an
indication of shear sensitivity.
NOTE: Data sets to be analyzed with this model should have two data points only.
Bingham
The Bingham equation is used to calculate the viscosity of materials that only flow
after the application of a sufficiently large yield stress. These materials are referred to
as Bingham plastic fluids and are described by the equation in Figure 3-8.
= o + D
SHEAR RATE
PLASTIC VISCOSITY
YIELD STRESS
SHEAR STRESS
NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the best
fit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.
A plot of shear stress versus shear rate is displayed for this model.
Casson
The Standard Casson method is a direct implementation of the original Casson equa-
tion. A plot of the square root of shear stress versus the square root of shear rate is
displayed for this model. The Standard Casson equation is shown in Figure 3-9.
= o + D
SHEAR RATE
PLASTIC VISCOSITY
YIELD STRESS
SHEAR STRESS
NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the best
fit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.
A plot of the square root of shear stress versus the square root of shear rate is dis-
played for this model.
NCA/CMA Casson
This Casson method is derived from the standard set forth by the National Confec-
tioners Association (NCA) and the Chocolate Manufacturers Association (CMA).
Although based on the original Casson equation, this implementation has been tai-
lored by the NCA and CMA specifically to applications involving chocolate. The
Chocolate Casson equation is shown in Figure 3-10.
( 1 + a) = 2 o + ( 1 + a ) D
SHEAR RATE
PLASTIC VISCOSITY
YIELD STRESS cone (BOB) RADIUS/INNER
SHEAR STRESS CUP RADIUS (GAP RATIO)
NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the best
fit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.
A plot of (1 + a ) times the square root of shear stress versus (1 + a ) times the square
root of shear rate is displayed for this model.
Power Law
The Power Law equation is shown in Figure 3-18.
=k Dn
FLOW INDEX
SHEAR RATE
CONSISTENTCY INDEX
SHEAR STRESS
NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the best
fit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.
A plot of the LOG of shear stress versus the LOG of shear rate is displayed for this
model.
IPC Paste
The IPC Paste Analysis method is based on the power law equation and is intended to
calculate the Shear Sensitivity Factor (pseudoplasticity) of pastes. A prime example
of its use is in the solder paste industry, thus the name IPC (Institute for Interconnect-
ing and Packaging Electronic Circuits). The Paste equation is shown in Figure 3-12.
=kRn
SHEAR SENSITIVITY FACTOR
ROTATIONAL SPEED (rpm)
CONSISTENCY MULTIPLIER
VISCOSITY
NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the best
fit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.
A plot of the LOG of viscosity versus the LOG of speed (rpm) is displayed for this
model.
Herschel Bulkley
= o + kDn
FLOW INDEX
SHEAR RATE
CONSISTENCY INDEX (cP)
YIELD STRESS
SHEAR STRESS
A plot of the LOG of (shear stress - yield stress) versus the LOG of shear rate is displayed
for this model.
Calculate
The Calculate button updates the results box and the graph using the data and model type
selected.
Equation
The Equation box displays the equation for the model selected.
Results
The Results box displays the appropriate results, yield stress and confidence of fit results
of the analysis using the data and model type selected.
File
The File box displays the file and path of the data file being analyzed.
Data Graph
The Data Graph presents a plot of the raw data and the best fit line using the model
selected.
Load Button
The Load button displays the Load Files dialog box which can be used to load a saved
file for analysis.
Print Button
The Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printer
to be selected, its properties changed and data analysis results and graph to be printed.
NOTE: Refer to the MS-Windows on-line help for more information regarding printing
and printer setup.
Setup Page
The Setup page, shown in Figure 3-14, allows the user to set preferences which effect the
way Rheocalc operates.
2. Enter the Spindle Multiplier Constant in the SMC box and the Shear Rate Constant in
the SRC box.
3. Select the ADD button. The spindle will now appear at the bottom of the spindle list.
2. Make the appropriate changes in the Name, SMC and SRC boxes.
3. Select the UPDATE button to confirm these changes. The spindle list will show the
modifications.
Manual No. M/99-222-D0106 3-29
Using Rheocalc
2. Select the button with the green arrow to display the viscosity measurement range for
that spindle and to update the corresponding range graph.
NOTE: Changing the Measurement or Temperature Units settings will cause Rheocalc
to restart in order to initialize the new settings.
Name
The Name field is used to enter a name for a special (user created) spindle.
SMC
The SMC field is used to enter an SMC (Shear Multiplier Constant) for a special spindle.
Refer to Appendix C to learn more information on this constant.
SRC
The SRC field is used to enter an SRC (Shear Rate Constant) for a special spindle. Refer
to Appendix C to learn more information on this constant.
Add Button
The Add button adds a special spindle to the bottom of the spindle list using the user
entered parameters.
Update Button
The Update button updates the selected special spindle within the spindle list with the
parameters entered at the left.
Delete Button
The Delete button removes the special spindle highlighted in the spindle list.
Viscosity Range
The Viscosity Range display present numeric representation of the measurement range
for the selected spindle. The range is calculated using a low torque of 10% and a high of
100%. The speed range for these calculations corresponds to the minimum and maxi-
mum speeds of the instrument (0.01 to 250 rpm).
Measurement Units
The Measurement drop-down list allows the user to select the CGS or SI units to be used
during Rheocalc operation.
NOTE: Rheocalc must be restarted after changing the Measurements Units setting.
Temperature Units
The Temperature drop-down list allows the user to select the temperature scale units
Fahrenheit (F) or Celsius (C) to be used during Rheocalc operation.
NOTE: Rheocalc must be restarted after changing the Temperature Units setting.
Date Format
The Date Format drop-down list allows the user to select the date format (U.S. : mm/dd/
yyyy) or (International: dd/mm/yyyy) to be used during Rheocalc operation.
Torque Alarms
The Torque Alarm warns the user that the % torque value has either fallen below (Low
Alarm) a preset value or risen above (High Alarm) a preset value.
Alarms can only be tripped (i.e. the % torque value falls outside the alarm values) if the
rheometer speed is greater than zero rpm, and the alarms are enabled (click the check box
next to the word Enabled to Enable/Disable alarms). Once alarm values are changed,
click the Accept button to use the new values.
When an alarm is tripped, a beep will be heard, and a picture of an alarm clock appears
next to the % Torque field on the Dashboard page.
NOTE: If the Motor Off alarm is tripped, in addition to the indications stated above, the
rheometer speed is set to 0 rpm. If a program is running at the time, the rheom-
eter remains at 0 rpm until it is commanded to another speed by any succeeding
program steps.
Standby Temperature
The Standby Temperature is used as the default temperature of the optional temperature
controller. This is the temperature which the controller will go to at startup.
If Standby @ Program Completion is checked, the controller will return to the Standby
Temperature after running a test. If it is unchecked, the controller will remain at the last
specified temperature when the test ends.
After changing the Standby Temperature options, click Apply to use the new settings.
Custom Page
The Custom page is a blank page where the user can move groups of controls (called
Control Windows) from other pages. An example of a Custom page setup is shown in
Figure 3-15.
2. Undocking the window: Doubleclick the bar on the left of the window in order to
float it above the application.
3. Resizing the window: While the window is undocked, drag on the edges of the
window to resize it.
B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands
Command Groups
Commands are grouped into functional groups which are identified by the graphic to the
left of the command. Icons for each group are shown in Figure 4-1.
At this point the program again waits 30 seconds before taking a data point, this time at
15 rpm. This is repeated four more times for a total loop count of 5. The resulting data
consists of data points taken at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 rpm.
Section 5 - Troubleshooting
Communication Errors
If the warning shown in Figure 5-1 is displayed for either the rheometer or the tempera-
ture controller, use the troubleshooting procedures in this section to resolve the problem.
Instrumentation Setup
1. Ensure that the rheometer or controller (or both) have the appropriate communica-
tions cable (Communications) connected to them and that the opposite end of the
cable is connected to a valid COM (serial) port on the host PC.
2. Ensure the rheometer, temperature controller, or both are powered ON. The rheom-
eter will display External Control on the front panel and the Remote LED on the
front panel of the HT-10X Series temperature controllers will be lit.
NOTE: For the TC-50X Series Baths, check the baths operation manual for RS-232
communication information
3. If communication problems still exist, perform one of the following procedures based
the computer operating system being used.
Windows NT
1. Select the START button.
4. Select the PORTS icon. Either right-click the COM port in use and select PROPER-
TIES from the popup menu or double-click the COM port in use.
7. Select the OK buttons to accept the changes and get back to the desktop.
8. If there is still a communication problem, follow the above procedure, but this time,
remove the check from the box labeled labeled FIFO Enabled.
9. Select the OK buttons to accept the changes and get back to the desktop.
10. If communication problems still exist, adjust the communications port settings using
the procedure described in the following section.
Windows 2000 / XP
1. Select the START button.
4. Select the HARDWARE tab then click the DEVICE MANAGER button.
5. Select the PORTS icon. Either right-click the COM port in use and select PROPER-
TIES from the popup menu or double-click the COM port in use.
6. Select PORT SETTINGS then ADVANCED. NOTE: You must have Administrator
privleges to use the ADVANCED port features.
7. Make sure the check box labeled USE FIFO BUFFERS (requires 16550 compatible
UART) is checked. Make sure the sliderrs for the RECEIVE BUFFER and the
TRANSMIT BUFFER are both set all the way to the left (Low).
8. Select the OK buttons to accept the changes and get back to the desktop.
9. If there is still a communication problem, follow the above procedure, but this time,
remove the check from the box labeled labeled USE FIFO BUFFERS (requires
16550 compatible UART).
10. Select the OK buttons to accept the changes and get back to the desktop.
11. If communication problems still exist, adjust the communications port settings using
the procedure in the following section.
2. Select the ADVANCED button within the Instrument Status area of the Dashboard
window. The Communication Port Settings pop-up window appears as shown in
Figure 5-2.
4. Drag the slider up or down to set the correct TX Delay (data transmission delay) for
the rheometer and accessory being used.
5. Select the OK button. The Communication Port Settings have been established.
Introduction
Use the information in Appendix A to Contact Brookfield Engineering
Laboratories, Inc. for technical assistance or service. Please have the following informa-
tion available when calling so that we may assist you:
Software Name
Viscometer Model
Product Application
Hours of Operation
Equipment Type
North America
Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
11 Commerce Boulevard
Middleboro, Massachusetts 02346 U.S.A.
TEL: 508-946-6200
800-628-8139 (USA only - excluding MA)
FAX: 508-946-6262
E-MAIL: sales@brookfieldengineering.com
U.K.
Brookfield Viscometers Limited
1 Whitehall Estate
Flex Meadow
Pinnacles West
Harlow, Essex CM19 5TJ, United Kingdom
Germany:
Brookfield Engineering Labs. Vertriebs
Hauptstrasse 18
D-73547 Lorch, Germany
TEL: 7172/927100
FAX: 7172/927105
E-MAIL: info@brookfield-gmbh.de
Appendix B - Drawings
RS-232 Cables
Use the appropriate information in Figures B-1 and B-2 if you wish to make your own
RS-232 communication cable.
NOTE: Your computer may use either a standard 9-pin or 25-pin (male or female) D-
type connector.
Connected to Rheometer
9-pin male D Type
Connector
9
Note: jumper between pins 4 and
9 is required to place rheometer
in external control mode
2 3 45
7 3 2 5 3 2
Connected to HT-10x
Temperature Controller 25-pin
male D Type Connector
25
2 3 7 13
7 5 3 2
3 2
Introduction
Each spindle has two constants which are used to calculate viscosity, shear stress, and
shear rate. The Spindle Multiplier Constant (SMC) is used in viscosity and shear stress
calculations. The Shear Rate Constant (SRC) is used in shear stress and shear rate calcu-
lations.
NOTE: Where SRC = 0, no shear stress/shear rate calculations are performed and the
data displayed is zero (0) for these functions.
NOTE: Refer to Appendix A and contact Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. for
a copy of More Solutions to Sticky Problems for additional information.
Spindle Codes
Model Codes
Table C-2 lists the model codes (spring torque) constants for each rheometer model.
Model
TK
TK Rheometer Screen
(Spring Torque)
LVDV-III 0.09373 LV
2.5xLVDV-III 0.2343 4L
5XLVDV-III 0.4686 5L
1/4 RVDV-III 0.25 1R
1/2 RVDV-III 0.5 2R
RVDV-III 1 RV
HADV-III 2 HA
2XHADV-III 4 3A
2.5xHADV 5 4A
HBDV-III 8 HB
2xHBDV-III 16 3B
2.5xHBDV-III 20 4B
5xHBDV-III 40 5B
Where:
Where:
SRC (Shear Rate Constant) which is used to calculate shear rate (1/sec) and
shear stress (Dyne/cm2) value.
If SRC = 0 (Ex. LV #1-4, RV, HA, HB #1-7 spindles), shear rate and shear stress values
are not calculated and cannot be displayed.
1. For new spindle conditions you calculate the SMC using a Newtonian fluid of known
viscosity (Brookfield Viscosity Standard). This is done in the container with the new
dimensions at the controlled temperature specified for the viscosity standard fluid.
2. The new full scale viscosity range is calculated for a selected rpm:
R1 = 100n/Y
where:
The SRC value may be calculated for cylindrical spindle geometry using the following
equation:
The SRC value may be calculated by first calculating the shear rate of the geometry at a
given rpm then solving the shear rate equation on page C-5 for SRC. For example; for a
cylindrical geometry, use the following equation:
where:
To calculate shear rate, refer to Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc., More Solu-
tions to Sticky Problems publication for more information on calculations for various
geometries.
INDEX
B D
B.E.A.V.I.S 3-12 D/cm2 3-3
B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands 4-1 DASHBOARD 2-1, 3-2
B.E.A.V.I.S. Program 4-1 Dashboard 2-2, 3-5
B.E.A.V.I.S. program 3-16, 3-25, 3-31 Dashboard Page 3-1
B.E.A.V.I.S. Program Examples 4-4 Dashboard page 3-2
B.E.A.V.I.S. Programs 3-15 Data Base Navigation Bar 3-19
best fit curve 3-33, 3-34, 3-35, 3-36, 3-37 Data Display grid 3-19
Bingham plastic 3-33 Data Grid 3-13, 3-15
Brookfield Viscosity Standard C-6 data grid 3-19
data interval 3-14
C data point 3-14
cables 3-3 Data Point Marker 3-29
CALCULATE 3-32 Date Format 3-2, 3-5
Calculate 3-38 Date/Time 3-19
Casson 3-34 DCI 3-14
Celsius 3-5 DV-III 1-1, 3-3, 3-24, B-1, C-6
centipoise 3-2 DV-III Rheometer 1-1
CGS 3-4 DV-III+ 1-1, 3-4, 3-18, B-1
Chocolate Casson 3-35
CMA 3-35
Color Prints 3-30
COM (RS-232) port 3-3
E L
Edit mode 3-20 LEC 3-14
Equation 3-38 Linear Scale 3-27
Exit 3-8, 3-11, 3-16, 3-24, 3-31, 3-38 Live data 3-13
EXPORT 3-18 Load File dialog box 3-7, 3-12, 3-17, 3-18,
Export 3-23 3-26
Exporting Data 3-18 Load Files dialog box 3-38
Extracting Data from a Rheometer 3-18 Logarithmic Scale 3-27
Loop Count 3-13, 3-14
F LSC 3-14
Fahrenheit 3-5
file load dialog 3-21 M
File Load dialog box 3-30 Major Grid 3-29
file save dialog 3-21 Manual Divisions 3-28
file save dialog box 3-15 Manual Scale 3-28, 3-29
Flow Index 3-36 math model 3-23
FSA 3-15 Maximum Viscosity 3-6
FSO 3-15 Measurement 3-2
full scale torque 3-2 measurement range 3-11
full scale viscosity C-5, C-6 Measurement Units 3-2, 3-4, 3-5
minimum and maximum speeds 3-11
G Minor Grid 3-29
Geometric Speed Progression 4-4 Model 3-5, 3-19, C-1
Geometry 3-2, 3-5 model 3-6, C-5
Go 3-6 model codes C-4
GRAPH 3-18 MS-Excel 3-18
Graph 3-22 MS-Excel spreadsheet 3-23
H N
Help 3-8, 3-11, 3-16, 3-24, 3-31, 3-38 N/m2 3-3
HT-10X (104,105,106,107) RS-232 Cable NCA 3-35
Drawing B-2 NCA/CMA Casson 3-35
Next 3-16
I Notes 3-20
IMPORT 3-18
Import 3-23 O
Importing 3-18 ON-LINE 3-13, 3-16, 3-31
Importing Data 3-18 On-Line 3-15, 3-31
Info button 3-31 On-Line Plotting 3-25
Instrument Status 2-1, 3-2, 3-3 On-Line plotting 3-13
IPC Paste Analysis 3-37 on-line plotting 3-13, 3-31
Open 3-7
T W
TC-501 Bath 5-1 WTI 3-16
TC-501 bath 3-4
Temperature 3-2, 3-3, 3-20 Y
temperature 3-6 Yield Stress 3-33, 3-34, 3-35
temperature accessory 2-2
temperature bath 1-1 Z
temperature controller 3-3, 3-8, 5-1 Zero 3-6
Temperature Controller Setpoint 3-3
temperature controllers 4-1
Symbols
Temperature Units 3-2, 3-5
% torque 3-16
Thermosel 1-1
*.DB 3-17
Time Interval 3-20
*.XLS 3-18
Torque 3-2, 3-5, 3-20
.RCH 3-19, 3-20
torque 3-5, 3-11, 3-14, 3-25, C-6
Torque Alarm 3-2, 3-5
Troubleshooting 3-3, 3-4, 5-1
U
Up/Down Geometric Speed Progression 4-5
user-defined spindles 3-10
V
View/Edit 3-17, 3-18, 3-19, 3-20
Viscosity 3-2, 3-37
viscosity 3-6, 3-32, 3-33, C-1, C-5, C-6
Viscosity Measurement Range 3-10
Viscosity Range 3-11