The new ViscoSensor for online rheology measurement is available from Process Heaters

Process Heaters can supply the new ViscoSensor from Dynisco. The ViscoSensor offers the benefits of online rheology measurement at a cost that is half that of units with comparable capabilities. 

How it works

The ViscoSensor uses capillary rheology, which means it works in a similar way to capillary viscometers. Capillary viscometers force material through small diameter capillary dies. This creates a pressure drop across the die. The sensor controls the material's shear rate through the die, or shear stress across the die, to obtain the apparent viscosity or melt flow index. In contrast, the ViscoSensor uses differential pressure across the die as either a control point for measuring melt flow index, or a measurement point for calculating apparent viscosity. 

The ViscoSensor is available with a variety of different capillary dies and metering pumps to suit specific needs for material measurement. For instance, capillaries with large length-to-diameter ratios can be used to minimize the entrance and exit effects of flow. These sensors are used to monitor the properties of a variety of molten polymers such as PC, PS, TPE, PET, LDPE, LLDPE HDPE, PA6, PA66, PP, EVA and silicones.

ViscoSensor features and advantages

The ViscoSensor system is made up of two parts: the sensor head and the control unit. The head connects directly to the process to take measurements in real time. The control unit is used to remotely manage test parameters and provide measured and computed data.  

The benefits of taking online rheology measurements include maximized efficiency, decreased scrap rate, and an increased ability to use regrind and wide-spec materials. These sensors can detect very small changes in viscosity or melt flow rate. A change as small as 1 PA-s or 0.02 MFR can be seen in the measurement data. This minimum detection level is important for quickly identifying a change in material or contamination and adapting the process parameters.

The ViscoSensor can be run in two different modes to suit the application: a shear stress control mode allows monitoring of melt flow, and a constant shear rate mode enables continuous measurement of apparent viscosity.

More information

Dynisco's products provide the precise testing and analysis capabilities that polymer manufacturers need to remain competitive. To learn more about the company’s ViscoSensor, contact Process Heaters, a leading supplier of a wide variety of sensors, instrumentation, process controls and more.

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