Thermo Fisher Scientific Viscotester 550: versatile rotary viscometer for accurate measurements
The Viscotester 550 from Thermo Fisher Scientific is a sophisticated instrument developed to meet the demanding viscosity measurement needs of professionals. Designed primarily for quality control applications, this rotary viscometer offers a unique combination of accuracy, speed and ease of use, making it an indispensable tool in many industrial sectors.
This device is capable of measuring the viscosity and flow behaviour of a wide variety of fluids, ranging from light liquids such as oils and paints to thicker semi-solid substances such as creams, pastes and PVC plastisols. Thanks to its modular design and compatibility with a wide range of standardised sensors, it covers all applications, ensuring comparable results within the company and between different laboratories worldwide.
The Viscotester 550 is based on the Searle principle: a rotation speed is predefined and the flow resistance of the fluid is measured. The torque required to maintain the defined speed is proportional to the viscosity, allowing the viscosity, shear stress and shear rate to be calculated precisely. The results are clearly displayed on the digital LED screen and can be printed simultaneously for immediate documentation.
This viscometer offers a choice of 60 different rotation speeds, 50 of which are factory-set and 10 fully programmable by the user. This wide speed range, from 0.5 to 800 rpm, allows samples with a wide range of rheological behaviours to be processed. A contactless sensor with low displacement ensures perfect signal linearity over the entire measuring range. In addition, Pt100 probes enable precise measurement of the operating temperature, either via the sensor used or directly in the test sample.
The Viscotester 550 also stands out for its ability to automatically characterise the flow behaviour of non-Newtonian fluids and determine the yield point using the CD (controlled deformation) principle. These analyses are performed with exemplary accuracy and repeatability. The ten predefined routines integrated into the system allow intuitive and efficient use, suitable for both experienced users and beginners.
This viscometer is ideal for a wide range of industrial applications, particularly in the food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, chemical and paint industries. It is designed to provide fast and reliable measurements, reducing downtime and optimising production processes.
Thanks to its RS232C interface and auto-switching power supply, the Viscotester 550 can be easily integrated into existing laboratory environments. Its robustness and cutting-edge performance make it a long-term investment for any organisation seeking to guarantee the quality of its products.