TQC Sheen Cone and Plate Viscometer CP1

SHEEN Cone and Plate Viscometer (CP1)

The Cone and Plate Viscometer (CP1) is a standard test for dynamic viscosity measurements. It is faster and more accurate by use of new high precision microprocessor controls. As non-Newtonian fluids exhibit different viscosities relative to the shear rate applied, the Cone and Plate Viscometer tightly controls it to 10.000 s⁻¹ (BS / ISO) or to 12.000 s⁻¹ (ASTM). These are generally accepted to be representative of paint application via a roller or brush and so reflect ‘real world’ application.

Temperature controlled

As most viscosity measurements are highly temperature sensitive the samples are placed on a temperature-controlled plate which can be set from 5°C to 65°C.

The Cone and Plate Base Unit comes without cone kit. Cone kits to be ordered separately.

Instrument Operation

Using the cone for your viscosity range, turn the instrument on and allow the plate to reach the set temperature. After a short time the instrument will display
** Ready **
Ensure that the cone value is correctly set (see top right of LCD).
The instrument is then available for use with the default settings supplied.

Taking a measurement:
• Ensure the cone and plate are clean.
• Place a small amount of material to be tested on the plate (see later for recommended sample volumes).
• Lower the cone GENTLY and fully onto the plate – any excess material will flow out from the side of the cone. The time taken for the cone and sample to reach the plate temperature will depend on the sample and ambient temperature. At least 15 seconds should be allowed and longer if the sample temperature is significantly different (this can be timed automatically).
• Press the start switch.
• Allow the instrument to run for the pre-set run time. The result is displayed on the screen until the next run is started.
• Record the result as required.
• Raise the head and clean the cone and plate.
• Lower the plate onto the cone to keep it at the plate temperature before the next test.

Changing and inserting cones:
Fit a CP1 cone to the instrument as shown below –

Overload Error:
The instrument measures the torque applied to the rotating cone and automatically halts (displaying an overload error) if the torque value exceeds the maximum allowed.

Instrument Control

• Operating handle: The handle moves the cone up and down. A sensor detects when the cone is lowered onto the plate. Operation may be set to manual or automatic (handle operated).
• Mains power socket: A detachable power lead is provided. Only use this lead to connect to the instrument. A plug must be used to connect the instrument to the mains supply. The mains supply must be earthed.
• Power indication: The rocker switch on the mains inlet is used to switch the mains power on and off. The switch must be ON (indicated by the ‘1’ position) before the instrument can be operated. The backlight on the display will operate when power is applied.
• Controls: The control panel is located at the front of the instrument. It contains a LCD display, 5 keys and a LED.
• Auxiliary Start/Stop switch: An additional start/stop (and spin) switch is located on the right-hand side of the base. This switch performs the same function as the bottom right-hand display switch. These switches may be used interchangeably to start and stop the instrument.
• LED: The front panel also has a bi-colour LED that indicates the state of the instrument.

The instrument may be started any time the LED is green; the LED will flash when the instrument is running. Operation is not possible when the LED is orange or red.

The LED is orange during periods when the instrument is on, but may not be used – for example, after the temperature has just been changed or while a menu item is selected. The LED is red during power-on diagnostics. The led will flash red when an error condition is detected (such as motor overload).

• LCD Display: The LCD display indicates the current state of the instrument. The actual plate temperature (in °C) is shown at the top left of the LCD. The currently selected cone is shown at the top right. The time and date are displayed on the bottom line. The central shaded message box displays instrument readiness.

Obtaining Good Results

The Sheen Cone & Plate will give accurate and repeatable results provided a few simple precautions are observed:
• Always ensure that the cone and plate are clean and free from damage
• Always allow enough time for the cone and sample to reach thermal equilibrium before starting the run
• Try to use the same sample volume every time
• Avoid using samples with viscosities significantly above or below the calibration oil range. Change cone when this is necessary
• Check calibration before and after use daily. Use a calibration oil to do this
• Avoid draughts in the sample area
• Never under-fill the cone
The largest source of error is usually due to the variation in sample volume. Under filling the cone will result in very large variations in the result. Over-filling produces less variation, but is still significant.