Rheocalc Manual

BROOKFIELD RHEOCALC®

APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Programming and Operation Instructions

Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

SPECIALISTS IN THEMEASUREMENT ANDCONTROL OF VISCOSITY

BROOKFIELD ENGINEERING LABORATORIES, INC.11 COMMERCE BOULEVARD, MIDDLEBORO, MA 02346 USA

TEL 508-946-6200 or 800-628-8139 (USA excluding MA)FAX 508-946-6262 INTERNET http://www.brookfieldengineering.com

The information in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable. However,Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated, cannot accept any financial or otherresponsibilities that may result from the use of this information. No warranties are granted or ex-tended by this document.

Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated reserves the right to change any or allinformation contained herein without prior written notice. Revisions may be issued at the time ofsuch changes and/or deletions.

Any duplication of this manual or any of its parts without expressed written permission fromBrookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated is strictly prohibited.

Any correspondence regarding this document should be forwarded to:

Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated11 Commerce BoulevardMiddleboro, Massachusetts 02346U.S.A.Telephone: (508) 946-6200FAX: (508) 946-6262Internet: http://www.brookfieldengineering.com

The following Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated trademarks and service marks mayappear in this document:

Brookfield®Rheocalc®Rheovision®Wingather™Thermosel®UL Adapter™

All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Copyright© 2000 Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Incorporated Printed in U.S.A.

Rheocalc 32 Programming and Operation Manual

iiiManual No. M/99-222-D0106

Table of Contents

Section 1 - IntroductionAbout Rheocalc ........................................................................................................................... 1-1System Requirements .................................................................................................................. 1-2Registering Rheocalc ................................................................................................................... 1-2Contacting Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. ............................................................... 1-2

Section 2 - Getting StartedRheocalc Software Installation .................................................................................................... 2-1RS-232 Cable Installation ............................................................................................................ 2-1Starting Rheocalc ......................................................................................................................... 2-2

Section 3 - Using RheocalcIntroduction ................................................................................................................................. 3-1Main Menu .................................................................................................................................. 3-1

Main Menu Operation ........................................................................................................... 3-1Main Menu Description ......................................................................................................... 3-2

Dashboard Page ........................................................................................................................... 3-3Dashboard Page Operation .................................................................................................... 3-3Dashboard Page Description ................................................................................................. 3-4

Tests Page .................................................................................................................................... 3-8Tests Page Operation ............................................................................................................. 3-8Tests Page Description........................................................................................................... 3-9

Run/Data Page ........................................................................................................................... 3-12Run/Data Page Operation .................................................................................................... 3-12Run/Data Page Description ................................................................................................. 3-14

Test Data Grid ................................................................................................................ 3-15Test Data Plot ................................................................................................................. 3-18

Analysis Page ............................................................................................................................ 3-20Analysis Page Operation ..................................................................................................... 3-20Analysis Page Description ................................................................................................... 3-21

Bingham ........................................................................................................................ 3-22Casson ............................................................................................................................ 3-23NCA/CMA Casson ........................................................................................................ 3-24Power Law ..................................................................................................................... 3-25IPC Paste ....................................................................................................................... 3-26Herschel Bulkley ........................................................................................................... 3-27

Setup Page ................................................................................................................................. 2-29Setup Page Operation .......................................................................................................... 3-29Setup Page Description ........................................................................................................ 3-29

Custom Page .............................................................................................................................. 3-33Custom Page Operation ....................................................................................................... 3-33

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Section 4 - B.E.A.V.I.S. ProgramsWhat is a B.E.A.V.I.S. Program?................................................................................................. 4-1B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands .............................................................................................................. 4-1

Command Groups .................................................................................................................. 4-1Wait Command Group ..................................................................................................... 4-1Setup Command Group ................................................................................................... 4-1Data Command Group ..................................................................................................... 4-1Loop Commands Group .................................................................................................. 4-1Save Data Commands Group .......................................................................................... 4-1Report Commands Group ................................................................................................ 4-1

Command Examples .............................................................................................................. 4-4Geometric Speed Progression Command Example ......................................................... 4-4Up/Down Geometric Speed Progression Example .......................................................... 4-5A Geometric Speed Progression Run At Multiple Temperatures .................................... 4-6

Section 5 - TroubleshootingCommunication Errors ................................................................................................................ 5-1

Instrumentation Setup ............................................................................................................ 5-1Windows NT .......................................................................................................................... 5-1Windows 2000 / XP............................................................................................................... 5-2

Communication Port Settings ...................................................................................................... 5-3

Appendix A - Customer Support

Appendix B - Drawings

Appendix C - Spindle and Model Codes

Index


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Section 1 - Introduction

About RheocalcRheocalc 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-Windows2000 and above computer operating systems. Its purpose is to control the instrumentfrom a PC, collect data from the instrument and allow it to be saved, viewed, printed,plotted and analyzed. Its features include:

• An easy to learn and use graphical user interface.

• A scripting language to allow flexible data collection.

• Test Wizard for setting up commonly used tests.

• On-line plotting of data during a data gather.

• Background printing of data, graphs and programs.

• Mathematical analysis of collected data.

• Optional control of a Brookfield Engineering Labs temperature controller foruse with the Thermosel or Brookfield Engineering Labs temperature bath.

Introduction

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System RequirementsThe system requirements outlined in Table 1-1 must be met in order for Rheocalc soft-ware to operate properly.

Table 1-1: System Requirements

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Registering RheocalcWith your software registration on file at Brookfield, we will notify you when newreleases of Rheocalc are introduced. To register, locate the registration.pdf file on thesoftware application disk. Complete the form and return to us by either mail, fax or email([email protected]).

Contacting Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc.Refer to Appendix A for customer support information.


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Section 2 - Getting Started

Rheocalc Software InstallationNOTE: Make sure all other software applications on your computer have been closed

before proceeding with Rheocalc software installation.

NOTE: You must log in as an administrator to install Rheocalc succussfully on yourPC.

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 MainWelcome Screen of the installation.

3. If the CD-ROM does not automatically run after being read by the CD drive, run thesetup.exe program manually by performing one of the following steps:

a. Using Windows Explorer, open the window of the appropriate drive then selectthe setup.exe file from the route directory of the CD.

b. Choose START from the desktop, then select RUN. Select BROWSE and locatethe appropriate drive, then select the setup.exe file from the route directory of theCD. Select the OK button.

Using either method causes the Main Welcome Screen to be displayed.

4. Once the Main Welcome Screen of the installation is displayed, select NEXT to viewthe available software installations, choose Rheocalc off of this list, then selectNEXT to install Rheocalc.

5. The keycode for the Rheocalc installation is printed on the silver label tucked insidethe CD-ROM jacket. Enter this keycode when prompted, then select NEXT andfollow 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.

RS-232 Cable Installation1. Make sure the instrument and optional temperature accessory are properly connected

to the appropriate communication (RS-232) ports on the host computer.

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Starting Rheocalc1. Locate and select the Rheocalc icon within the Rheocalc group window. The

Rheocalc software will be started.

2. Select the DASHBOARD tab.

NOTE: After each COM port is selected, Rheocalc must be restarted to intialize the theselected port.

3. From the Instrument Status section, select the appropriate computer COM port towhich the Rheometer is connected.

4. From the Instrument Status section, select the appropriate computer COM port towhich the optional temperature accessory is connected.

5. Once the COM ports have been selected, restart Rheocalc to initialize the COM portsyou have selected.

6. Once Rhecoalc has been restarted, the data boxes on the Dashboard page will displaylive rheometer data.

NOTE: If live data is not visible within the data boxes, refer toSection 5 - Troubleshooting.


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Section 3 - Using Rheocalc

IntroductionSection 3 describes the features and functions of each Rheocalc page and dialog box.

Main MenuThe Main Menu provides general commands and information which apply to all ofRheocalc’s pages.

Main Menu Operation

Viewing/Hiding Control Windows1. Choose View from the Main Menu.

2. Click on a checked title to hide that Control Window.

3. Click on an unchecked title to show that Control Window.

4. Click on Tools/Default Toolbar Positions to return all control windows to theirdefault size and place.

NOTE: For more information about manipulating Control Windows, see the CustomPage section.

Setting Up Instrumentation1. 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.

3. Once communication is established with the rheometer, use Instrumentation/AutoZero to zero the rheometer.

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Main Menu Description

View MenuThe View Menu is used to show/hide Control Windows.

Instrumentation MenuThe Instrumentation Menu is used to establish communications with the rheometer andoptional temperature controller.

Tools MenuThe Tools Menu is used to save the user’s settings or return to the default settings.

Help MenuThe Help Menu is used to access Rheocalc’s online Help system.

Save Settings ButtonThe Save Settings button is used to save the current settings to an INI file.

Default Window Positions ButtonThe Default Window Positions button returns all control windows to their default sizeand place.

About ButtonThe About button displays various system information including Rheocalc, Windows,instrument and BDE versions.

Help ButtonThe Help button displays the Rheocalc online help file.

Exit ButtonThe Exit button exits the user from Rheocalc. Any open data files are closed as well asany open COM (RS-232) ports.

Date/TimeThe Date and Time boxes display the current date and time.

Test StatusThe Test Status box indicates whether a test is currently running.

Test File NameThe Test File Name box displays the name of the test which is currently running.


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Dashboard PageThe Dashboard Page, shown in Figure 3-1, gives a live display of the current readings.

Figure 3-1: Dashboard Page

Dashboard Page OperationThe Dashboard Page can be used to establish communication with instrumentation and toset single speeds and/or temperatures.

Establish Instrument CommunicationUse the appropriate cables to connect the rheometer or temperature controller to the hostcomputer (part #DVP-80 for the DV-III, DV-III+ and DV-II+ Pro instruments and part#HT-106 for Brookfield temperature controllers). The RS-232 cable for the TC-50xseries baths is supplied with the bath. Select the COM (RS-232) port for the rheometerand attached temperature controller using the Rheometer/Accessory drop down list. Ifthe port selected is already in use (by Rheocalc or another application) or is unavailablefor any other reason, a message box is displayed. If communication is lost with any ofthe connected instrumentation, a message box is displayed after approximately 10 sec-onds. If this problem occurs, refer to Section 5 Troubleshooting for more information.

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Set Single Speed1. In the Set Speed/Temperature Control Window, choose the Speed tab.

2. Enter the desired speed in either the RPM or Shear Rate field.

3. Click the Run button.

Set Single Temperature1. In the Set Speed/Temperature Control Window, choose the temperature tab.

2. Enter the desired temperature in the Temperature field.

3. Click the Run button.

Dashboard Page Description

Dashboard Control WindowThe Dashboard Control Window displays the instrument status and the current readings.

ViscosityThe Viscosity display indicates the fluid viscosity in units of centipoise (cP) ormillipascal-seconds (mPa•s).

SpeedThe Speed display indicates the current rotational speed of the spindle (in rpm).

TorqueThe Torque display indicates the % of scale (the % of the rheometer’s full scaletorque range capability for the model in use) measured by the rheometer.

Shear StressThe Shear Stress display indicates the force per unit area required to move the fluid inunits of dynes per square centimeter (D/cm2) or Newtons per square meter (N/m2).

Shear RateThe Shear Rate display indicates the velocity gradient of fluid rotating with thespindle in units of reciprocal seconds (1/sec).

TemperatureThe Temperature display indicates the fluid sample temperature measured by thetemperature 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 Temperaturedisplay is read from the controller's probe and is shown in red. Otherwise, thetemperature is that sensed by the rheometer's probe is shown in yellow.


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Temperature Controller SetpointThe Temperature Controller Setpoint display indicates the current temperature setpoint if a temperature controller is connected in units of °C or °F.

NOTE: This Temperature Controller Setpoint display is blank if no controller is present.

Instrument StatusThe Instrument Status display indicates the type of rheometer or temperature control-ler connected to the computer. A green light is displayed along with the instrumentidentification.

NOTE: A red light indicates that an instrument is not connected.

Advanced ButtonThe Advanced button displays the Communication Port Settings dialog box as shownin Figure 3-2. This window is used to display the communication parameters for thedevices being used with Rheocalc and to adjust the communications timing if neces-sary.

NOTE: Refer to Section 5 - Troubleshooting for more information on the Communi-cations Port Setting window.

Figure 3-2: Communications Port Setting Window

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ModelThe Model display indicates the rheometer model type being used with Rheocalc.

NOTE: The Model Display information is automatically provided by the rheometer.

SpindleThe Spindle display indicates the spindle type currently installed on the rheometer.

NOTE: The Spindle selected must be updated when the actual spindle is changed toensure correct viscosity, shear stress and shear rate calculations.

Maximum Viscosity @ RPMThe Maximum Viscosity @ RPM display indicates the maximum measurable (math-ematically) viscosity based on the model, spindle, and speed (rpm) in use. As differ-ent spindles are selected using the spindle box on this page, this maximum value isautomatically updated.

Zero ButtonThe Zero button displays a message box that reminds the user to level the instrumentand remove the spindle in preparation for the auto zero process. Once the instrumentis leveled and the spindle is removed, the OK button in the message box can bepressed to perform the auto zero function. This process takes approximately 10-12seconds.

NOTE: The Auto Zero function must be performed before the instrument can be usedto collect data.

Set Speed/Temperature Control WindowThe Speed/Temperature Control Window is used to set single speeds and/or tempera-tures.

RPM (Speed tab)The RPM field is used to enter the speed (in RPM) at which to run the rheometer.Entering a value into this field will automatically update the Shear Rate field.

Shear Rate (Speed tab)The Shear Rate field is used to enter the speed (in 1/sec) at which to run the rheom-eter. Entering a value into this field will automatically update the RPM field.

Temperature (Temperature tab)The Temperature field is used to enter the temperature (in the current units, °C or °F)at which to run the optional temperature controller.


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Run ButtonIf 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 temperaturespecified.

Stop ButtonIf the Speed tab is chosen, the Stop button stops the rheometer. If the Temperaturetab is chosen, the Stop button sets the controller to the Standby Temperature (refer tothe Setup page section for more information).

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Tests PageThe 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.

NOTE: Refer to Section 4 - B.E.A.V.I.S Programs for more information on B.E.A.V.I.SPrograms.

Figure 3-3: Tests Page

Tests Page Operation

Loading an Existing Program1. Select the LOAD button.

2. Using the standard Load File dialog box, select and load the appropriate program file(*.RCP).

Creating a New Program1. Highlight the line in the Program Grid where you want to insert a command.


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2. Highlight the appropriate command in the Command List and either double-click thecommand 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 addcommands and the DELETE button to remove unwanted commands.

NOTE: A new command cannot be added until the appropriate command parameter hasbeen entered on the previous line if required.

Saving/Printing Programs1. 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.

Setting up a Manual Test1. Click on the Manual tab to display the Manual Page.

2. Enter the desired speed and click the Run button to start the rheometer.

3. If an optional temperature controller is connected, click on the Temperature tab, enterthe desired temperature and click the Run button to set the controller.

4. Once the desired speed and temperature have been reached, click the Start Programbutton.

5. Click the Data button whenever a data point is desired.

6. Click the Stop Program button when data collection is complete.

Tests Page DescriptionThe Tests page is shown in Figure 3-3 and described in the following paragraphs.

Program GridThe 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 DialogThe Settings Dialog is used to set options for the LWC and RMR commands (Refer toSection 4 - B.E.A.V.I.S Programs for more information on these commands).

Manual PageThe Manual page is used to gather data at manually controlled speeds and tempera-tures.

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Test Wizard ButtonThis button displays the Test Wizard dialog which allows the user to easily setupseveral common tests.

Insert ButtonThe Insert button inserts the command highlighted in the command list.

Delete ButtonThe Delete button removes the highlighted line in the program grid.

Clear ButtonThe Clear button clears the program grid.

Confirm DeletionsWhen checked, the Confirm Deletions check box causes a message box to be displayedrequesting confirmation whenever an attempt is made to delete a program line or to clearthe entire program.

Shear Rate ModeWhen checked, the Shear Rate Mode check box causes all speed entries (i.e. for SSN andSSI commands) to represent shear rates (units of 1/second) instead of rotational speed(rpm).

Load ButtonThe Load button displays a standard File Load dialog box. This dialog box displaysRheocalc program files that were previously saved and can now be loaded.

Save ButtonThe 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 textconsisting of a line number, command, and parameter.

Print ButtonThe Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printerto be selected, its properties changed and the data to be printed.

NOTE: Refer to the MS-Windows on-line help for more information regarding printingand printer setup.

Start ButtonThe Start button starts the program displayed in the Program Grid.


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Stop ButtonThe Stop button stops the program displayed in the Program Grid. The rheometer willstop and any attached temperature controller enters stand-by mode and sets the controlsto the default temperature of 25º C.

Next ButtonThe Next button causes the program to skip to the next program step before the waitcondition is reached.

NOTE: The Next Button is only enabled while a program is running and the currentstep is a Wait command (i.e WTI, wait for time interval).

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Run/Data PageThe Run/Data page shown in Figure 3-4 allows the execution of B.E.A.V.I.S. programsand browsing and editing of any valid Rheocalc data file.

Figure 3-4: Run/Data Page

Run/Data Page OperationThe Run/Data page is used to execute programs and to view, edit, load, save, export,import and print data.

Executing a Program1. 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 TestSetup Control Window (Tests Page).

3. The program status (i.e. Step Time, Step Status, Loop Count, Reading Time) will bedisplayed in the Test Status Control Window at the top of the page. Live data will bedisplayed in the Test Data Grid Control Window in the middle of the page. As theyare collected, data points will be plotted on the graph in the Test Data Plot ControlWindow at the bottom of the page.


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Viewing Saved Data1. Either click the LOAD button OR

2. Double click on any line in the Plot List.

3. A standard file load dialog will appear. Using this dialog box, select and load theappropriate data file (*.DB).

4. The data file will be listed in the Plot List: on the first line if the LOAD button isused, or on the selected line if the Plot List is double clicked.

5. The data will appear in the Test Data Grid and the data’s plot will be added to theexisting plots in the Test Data Plot. Up to five data files may be plotted at one time.

6. To remove a data set’s plot from the graph, uncheck the box beside the data file namein the Plot List.

7. To view a different data set in the Test Data Grid, click on the data file’s name in thePlot List.

Loading Existing Data1. Select the LOAD button.

2. Using the Load File dialog box, select and load the appropriate data file (*.DB).

Saving/Printing Data1. 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. Thedata, sample name, and user notes are all printed.

Exporting Data1. 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 Data1. 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.xversions). The data is displayed in the Data Grid and treated as unsaved data.

Analyzing Data1. 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.

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Extracting Data from a Rheometer1. Ensure a rheometer is connected to the PC and is communicating with Rheocalc.

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 therheometer’s internal data buffer.

NOTE: This option only works with a DV-III, DV-III+ or DV-III Ultra connected.

Run/Data Page DescriptionThe Run/Data page is shown in Figure 3-4 and described in the following paragraphs.

Test StatusStep Time

The Step Time box displays the amount of time the current step (as displayed in theprogram grid) has been executing.

Loop CountThe Loop Count box displays the number of loop iterations remaining in the currentloop block (consisting of an LSC + LEC or LWC + LWE command).

Step StatusThe first box within the Step Status area displays the current step’s action (i.e. for aWTI 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 targettorque the step is).

Reading TimeThe Reading Time box displays one of the following:

Time Since Last ReadingThe elapsed time since a data point was last taken. If a data interval is not ineffect (i.e. the time of the next data point is not known), this is the time that isdisplayed.

Time Until Next ReadingThe time that must elapse until another data point is taken. This value is dis-played when a fixed data interval is in effect (using the DCI command).

Start Program ButtonThe Start button starts the program displayed in the Program Grid.


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Stop Program ButtonThe Stop button stops the program displayed in the Program Grid. The rheometerwill stop and any attached temperature controller enters stand-by mode and sets thecontrols to the default temperature of 25°C.

Next ButtonThe Next button causes the program to skip to the next program step before the waitcondition is reached.

NOTE: The Next button is only enabled while a program is running and the currentstep is a Wait command (i.e. WTI, wait for time interval).

Data ButtonThe Data button is used to collect a single data point during a Manual Test (refer tothe Tests Page section).

Test Data GridModel

The Model box displays the spring torque of the instrument from which the data wastaken. When in edit mode, this value can be changed by using the arrow to the right ofthe box. Once a change is made, all data in the grid is re-calculated based upon the newchoice.

SpindleThe Spindle box displays the spindle used to take the data. When in edit mode, this valuecan be changed by using the arrow to the right of the box. Once a change is made, alldata in the grid is re-calculated based upon the new choice.

FileThe File box displays the file and path of the data file being used.

Data Display GridThe Data Display grid displays the data (newly gathered or loaded from disk). Use themouse to select a field to be edited when in edit mode.

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Data Base Navigation BarRefer to Figure 3-5 for a description of the button functions with in the Data Base Navi-gation Bar.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

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.

BUTTON LEGEND

Figure 3-5: Data Base Navigation Bar Buttons

NOTE: When in Edit mode, only the Speed, % Torque, Temperature, and Time Intervalfields may be changed by the user. All other parameters are automaticallycalculated by Rheocalc. The data will not change until the data field beingedited has been exited.

RecordThe Record boxes indicate the total number of records in the data set and the number ofthe record currently selected.

Load ButtonThe Load button displays a standard file load dialog box. This dialog box displaysRheocalc data files that were previously saved and can now be loaded.

Save ButtonThe Save button displays a standard file save dialog box. This dialog box allows data tobe saved for later use. Data is saved in a Paradox database file along with an ASCII textfile of the same name which contains user sample name and notes.

Print ButtonThe Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printerto be selected, its properties changed and data to be printed.



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View Notes ButtonThe View Notes button displays the Notes dialog, shown in Figure 3-6. A sample nameand notes can be entered and saved here. These notes will be stored in a file with thesame name as the data file, but with an RCH extension.

Figure 3-6: View Notes

Analyze ButtonThe Analyze button switches to the Analysis page and displays the results and a graph ofthe selected math model for the currently displayed data. See the Analysis Page sectionfor more information on math model analysis.

Export ButtonThe Export button opens a dialog (similar to a Save dialog) that allows the displayed datato be exported to an MS-Excel spreadsheet.

Import ButtonThe Import button imports data from previous versions of Rheocalc (DOS and Windows3.1 versions).

NOTE: Data from previous Rheocalc software versions was in an ASCII text format asopposed to the Paradox database format currently used.

DV-III ButtonWhen a DV-III or DV-III+ rheometer is connected, the DV-III button extracts the last dataset that was taken with the instrument in its stand-alone mode. The data will appear in

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the data grid unsaved.

Test Data PlotTime Scale Drop Down List

When Time Interval is selected for any axis, this drop down list allows the units of saidaxis to be seconds, minutes, or hours.

X, Y and Y2 Axis Drop Down ListsThese drop down lists allow selection of the values to be plotted for their correspondingaxis (X, Y or Y2).

Y2 CheckboxThis checkbox determines whether the second Y axis is plotted.

Replot ButtonClicking this button causes all selected data sets to be replotted on the graph using thecurrent plot options.

Default Graph Settings ButtonClicking this button returns the graph to its default settings.

Color Prints ButtonWhen the Color Prints button is selected, graph printouts are in color (if the selectedprinter supports color).

Plot ListThis box lists all data files which are currently loaded, and indicates which files are

plotted.

Plot Options PanelThe Plot Options panel, as shown below, provides control of how data is plotted. Thefollowing lines describe each element of the Plot Options panel.


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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 PageThe Analysis page, shown in Figure 3-7, is used to mathematically analyze selected datausing various models associated with viscosity measurement and rheology. The results

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-20

are displayed both numerically and graphically, and they can also be printed to hard copy.

Figure 3-7 Analysis Page

Analysis Page Operation1. Select the LOAD button to select and load a data file.

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 lineusing the selected equation.

4. Select the PRINT button to print the data, numeric results, and corresponding graph.

Analysis Page DescriptionThe Analysis page is shown in Figure 3-7 and described in the following paragraphs.


3-21Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

ModelThix Index

Thix Index uses two viscosity measurements taken at different speeds to give anindication of shear sensitivity.

NOTE: Data sets to be analyzed with this model should have two data points only.

The Thix Index equation is n = ηL/ηH where

n = Thix Index

ηL = Viscosity at low speed

ηH = Viscosity at high speed

The calculated parameters for this model are:Thix Index(no units)

A plot of viscosity versus speed is displayed for this model.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-22

BinghamThe Bingham equation is used to calculate the viscosity of materials that only flowafter the application of a sufficiently large yield stress. These materials are referred toas Bingham plastic fluids and are described by the equation in Figure 3-8.

τ = τo + ηD

SHEAR RATE

PLASTIC VISCOSITY

YIELD STRESS

SHEAR STRESS

Figure 3-8: Bingham Equation

The calculated parameters for this model are:

• Plastic Viscosity (cP or mPa·s)

• Yield Stress (Dynes/cm2 or Newtons/m2)

• Confidence of fit (%) or “CoF”

NOTE: In all cases, confidence of fit is a measure of how well the data fits the bestfit curve for this equation with 100% being the best fit.

A plot of shear stress versus shear rate is displayed for this model.


3-23Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

CassonThe 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 isdisplayed for this model. The Standard Casson equation is shown in Figure 3-9.

SHEAR RATEPLASTIC VISCOSITY

YIELD STRESS

SHEAR STRESS

τ τ o ηD+=

Figure 3-9: Casson Equation






A plot of the square root of shear stress versus the square root of shear rate is dis-played for this model.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-24

NCA/CMA CassonThis 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. TheChocolate Casson equation is shown in Figure 3-10.

SHEAR RATE

PLASTIC VISCOSITY

YIELD STRESS

SHEAR STRESS

1 a+( ) τ 2 τo 1 a+( ) η D+= aa

cone (BOB) RADIUS/INNER CUP RADIUS (GAP RATIO)

Figure 3-10: Chocolate Casson Equation






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.


3-25Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Power LawThe Power Law equation is shown in Figure 3-18.

τ=k Dn

FLOW INDEX

SHEAR RATE

CONSISTENTCY INDEX

SHEAR STRESS

Figure 3-11: Power Law Equation


• Flow Index (no units)

• Consistency Index (cP or mPa·s)



A plot of the LOG of shear stress versus the LOG of shear rate is displayed for thismodel.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-26

IPC PasteThe IPC Paste Analysis method is based on the power law equation and is intended tocalculate the Shear Sensitivity Factor (pseudoplasticity) of pastes. A prime exampleof 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.

η =kRn

SHEAR SENSITIVITY FACTOR

ROTATIONAL SPEED (rpm)

CONSISTENCY MULTIPLIER

VISCOSITY

Figure 3-12: IPC Paste Analysis Calculation


• Shear Sensitivity Factor (slope of line; no units)

• Viscosity (cP or mPa·s)



A plot of the LOG of viscosity versus the LOG of speed (rpm) is displayed for thismodel.


3-27Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Herschel Bulkley

FLOW INDEXSHEAR RATE

YIELD STRESSCONSISTENCY INDEX (cP)

SHEAR STRESS

τ = τo + kDn

Figure 3-13: Herschel Bulkley Calculation

The calculated parameters for this model are:Flow Index (no units)Consistency Index (cP or mPa•s)Yield Stress (Dynes/cm

2 or N/m

2)

Confidence of fit (%)

A plot of the LOG of (shear stress - yield stress) versus the LOG of shear rate is displayedfor this model.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-28

CalculateThe Calculate button updates the results box and the graph using the data and model typeselected.

EquationThe Equation box displays the equation for the model selected.

ResultsThe Results box displays the appropriate results, yield stress and confidence of fit resultsof the analysis using the data and model type selected.

FileThe File box displays the file and path of the data file being analyzed.

Data GraphThe Data Graph presents a plot of the raw data and the best fit line using the modelselected.

Load ButtonThe Load button displays the Load Files dialog box which can be used to load a savedfile for analysis.

Print ButtonThe Print button displays the standard Windows Print dialog box which allows a printerto be selected, its properties changed and data analysis results and graph to be printed.



3-29Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Setup PageThe Setup page, shown in Figure 3-14, allows the user to set preferences which effect theway Rheocalc operates.

Figure 3-14: Setup Page

Setup Page OperationAdding a Special Spindle

1. In the Name box, enter a description for the special spindle.

2. Enter the Spindle Multiplier Constant in the SMC box and the Shear Rate Constant inthe SRC box.

3. Select the ADD button. The spindle will now appear at the bottom of the spindle list.

Modifying a Special Spindle1. Highlight the special spindle (only user-defined spindles can be modified) 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 themodifications.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-30

Displaying the Viscosity Measurement Range for a Spindle1. Select the appropriate spindle in the spindle list (standard or special).

2. Select the button with the green arrow to display the viscosity measurement range forthat spindle and to update the corresponding range graph.

Changing the Measurement Units

NOTE: Changing the Measurement or Temperature Units settings will cause Rheocalcto restart in order to initialize the new settings.

1. Select the appropriate Measurement Units from the drop-down list.

2. Select the appropriate Temperature Units from the drop-down list.

3. Select the appropriate Data Format from the drop-down list.

Setting the Torque Alarm1. Enter the appropriate Torque Alarm values. Select the ACCEPT button to enter the

values.

2. Select the ENABLE checkbox to enable the alarms.

Setting the Standby Temperature1. Enter the appropriate Standby Temperature.

2. Select the “Standby @ Program Completion” checkbox to have Rheocalc return tothe Standby Temperature between test runs.

3. Click the APPLY button to apply the Standby Temperature settings.

Setup Page DescriptionThe Setup page is shown in Figure 3-13 and described in the following paragraphs.

Spindle, SMC and SRC ListThe Spindle, SMC, and SRC list displays a list of spindles from which to choose andview measurement range information. Special (user) spindles are displayed at the bottomof the list.

NameThe Name field is used to enter a name for a special (user created) spindle.

SMCThe 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.


3-31Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

SRCThe SRC field is used to enter an SRC (Shear Rate Constant) for a special spindle. Referto Appendix C to learn more information on this constant.

Add ButtonThe Add button adds a special spindle to the bottom of the spindle list using the userentered parameters.

Update ButtonThe Update button updates the selected special spindle within the spindle list with theparameters entered at the left.

Delete ButtonThe Delete button removes the special spindle highlighted in the spindle list.

Viscosity RangeThe Viscosity Range display present numeric representation of the measurement rangefor the selected spindle. The range is calculated using a low torque of 10% and a high of100%. The speed range for these calculations corresponds to the minimum and maxi-mum speeds of the instrument (0.01 to 250 rpm).

Measurement UnitsThe Measurement drop-down list allows the user to select the CGS or SI units to be usedduring Rheocalc operation.

NOTE: Rheocalc must be restarted after changing the Measurements Units setting.

Temperature UnitsThe Temperature drop-down list allows the user to select the temperature scale unitsFahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C) to be used during Rheocalc operation.

NOTE: Rheocalc must be restarted after changing the Temperature Units setting.

Date FormatThe 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 AlarmsThe Torque Alarm warns the user that the % torque value has either fallen below (LowAlarm) 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 therheometer speed is greater than zero rpm, and the alarms are enabled (click the check boxnext to the word Enabled to Enable/Disable alarms). Once alarm values are changed,click the Accept button to use the new values.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-32

When an alarm is tripped, a beep will be heard, and a picture of an alarm clock appearsnext to the % Torque field on the Dashboard page.

NOTE: If the Motor Off alarm is tripped, in addition to the indications stated above, therheometer 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 succeedingprogram steps.

Standby TemperatureThe Standby Temperature is used as the default temperature of the optional temperaturecontroller. This is the temperature which the controller will go to at startup.

If “Standby @ Program Completion” is checked, the controller will return to the StandbyTemperature after running a test. If it is unchecked, the controller will remain at the lastspecified temperature when the test ends.

After changing the Standby Temperature options, click “Apply” to use the new settings.


3-33Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Custom PageThe Custom page is a blank page where the user can move groups of controls (calledControl Windows) from other pages. An example of a Custom page setup is shown inFigure 3-15.

Figure 3-15: Custom Page

Custom Page OperationMost of the application’s controls are grouped together on Control Windows which canbe moved, resized, or hidden by the user.

Manipulating Control Windows1. Moving the window: Click and drag the bar on the left of the window.

2. Undocking the window: Doubleclick the bar on the left of the window in order tofloat it above the application.

3. Resizing the window: While the window is undocked, drag on the edges of thewindow to resize it.

4. Hiding the window: Click on the x in the corner of the window.

Placing Control Windows on the Custom PageEither undock the Control Window and drag it to the Custom Page, ORRight-click on the Custom Page and choosing the Control Window from the popup list.

Using Rheocalc

Manual No. M/99-222-D01063-34

Removing Control Windows from the Custom PageEither undock the Control Window and drag it to another page, ORRight-click on the Custom Page and deselect the Control Window from the popup list.


4-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Section 4 - B.E.A.V.I.S. Programs

What is a B.E.A.V.I.S. Program?B.E.A.V.I.S. Brookfield Engineering Advanced Viscometer Instruction Set is a commandlanguage developed at Brookfield Engineering Labs that allows control of Brookfieldviscometers/rheometers and associated accessories (i.e. temperature controllers). Thecommands allow the creation of both simple and complex test programs that providemaximum flexibility in completely unattended data gathering.

B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands

Command GroupsCommands are grouped into functional groups which are identified by the graphic to theleft of the command. Icons for each group are shown in Figure 4-1.

WAIT SETUP DATA LOOP SAVE REPORT

COMMAND COMMAND COMMAND COMMAND COMMAND COMMAND

GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP

Figure 4-1: Command Group Icons

Wait Command GroupWait Commands wait for a certain condition to be reached. The time to reach the condi-tion is displayed as Step Time on the Program page.

Setup Command GroupSetup Commands set program parameters (i.e. speed or temperature).

Data Command GroupData Commands dictate the manner in which data is collected.

Loop Commands GroupLoop Commands mark the beginning and end of a loop (i.e. commands between the loopstart and end are repeated).

Save Data Commands GroupSave Data Commands save or append data to a disk file.

Report Command GroupReport Commands set the reporting options.

B.E.A.V.I.S. Programs

Manual No. M/99-222-D01064-2

Table 4-1: B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands used in Rheocalc

dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD

ITW emitroftiaW emitdeificepsehtlitnupetsehttasniameR.despalesah)SS:MM(lavretni

TPW euqrot%roftiaW euqrot%deificepsehtlitnupetsehttasniameR.dehcaersieulav

PTW roftiaWerutarepmet

deificepsehtlitnupetsehttasniameR.dehcaersieulaverutarepmet

STW tnioptesroftiaWerutarepmet

sehcaererutarepmetehtlitnupetsehttasniameRerutarepmetdetaicossaehtnieulavtniopteseht

.eulavdeificepseht±rellortnoc

PDW atadroftiaWstniop

forebmundeificepsehtlitnupetsehttasniameRsihtemitehtmorfdetcellocerastniopatad

.deussisidnammoc

NSS deepsteS .deepsdeificepsehttaretemoehrehtnuR

PSS eldnipsteS ehT.retemoehrehthtiwesuoteldnipsehtteSehtoteldnipssihthcattaotdetpmorpeblliwresu

lliwCRSdnaCMSs'eldnipssihtdna,retemoehr.snoitaluclacllarofdesueb

MTS erutarepmetteS ehtottnioptesrellortnocerutarepmetehtteS.erutarepmetsihtotlortnocdnaeulavdeificeps

ISS esaerceD/esaercnIdeepS

ehtybdeepstnerrucehttnemercedrotnemercnI.deificepseulav

ITS esaerceD/esaercnIerutarepmeT

erutarepmettnerrucehttnemercedrotnemercnI.deificepseulavehtybtnioptes

ICD noitcellocataDlavretni

emitdeificepsehttaatadgnitcellocnigeB.)SS:MM(lavretni

IAD gnigarevaataD ehtsegarevA.atadgnigarevanigebyletaidemmIdeificepshcaerevostniopforebmundeificeps

niydaerlaICDynasetanimreT.lavretniemit.ssergorp


4-3Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Table 4-1: B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands used in Rheocalc

dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD noitpircseD

PSD elgnisatcelloCtniopatad

.tniopatadelgnisatcellocyletaidemmI

DSD atadpotSnoitcelloc

.ssergorpniydaerlaICDynaetanimreT

CSL pooltnuoctratS sdnammocllamrofreP.poolafotratsehtskraMpool(CELtxenehtotpuenosihtretfagnitrats

.deificepssemitforebmuneht)dne

CEL pooltnuocdnE sdnammocllamrofreP.poolafodneehtskraMehtCSLtnecertsomehtotkcabenosihterofeb

.CSLehtnidetatssemitforebmun

CWL lanoitidnoctratSpool

smrofreP.poollanoitidnocafotratsehtskraMehtotpuenosihtretfagnitratssdnammoclla

ehtfoenolitnu)dnepoollanoitidnoc(EWLtxen.temsisnoitidnocdeificeps

EWL lanoitidnocdnEpool

smrofreP.poollanoitidnocafodneehtskraMtsomehtotkcabenosihterofebsdnammocllanidetatssnoitidnocehtfoenolitnuCWLtnecer

.temsiCWLeht

ASF ataDotdneppAeliF

dneehtotreffuberutpacehtniatadynadneppAtonsiemanhtapllufafI.elifdeificepsehtfomargorplaitiniehtnidevassielifeht,deificeps

.detaercsiti,tsixetonseodelifehtfI.yrotcerid

OSF ksidotatadevaSelif

elifehtotreffuberutpacehtniatadynaevaS,deificepstonsiemanhtapllufafI.deificeps

.yrotceridmargorplaitiniehtnidevassielifehtehtnistsixeydaerlaemanemasehtfoelifafI

,tsixetonseodelifehtfI.nettirwrevositi,htap.detaercsiti

RMR stlusertropeR snoitpoehtgnisustlusertsetehtstropeR.deificeps


Manual No. M/99-222-D01064-4

B.E.A.V.I.S. Program Examples

Geometric Speed Progression Command ExampleThe program outlined in Table 4-2 starts at 10 rpm after which it waits for 30 secondsbefore taking a data point. Speed is increased by 5 rpm at the bottom of the loop afterwhich program execution moves back to the LSC line and decreases the loop count (5) byone. 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 ofdata points taken at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 rpm.

Table 4-2: A Geometric Speed Progression Command Example

dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC dnammoC retemaraP retemaraP retemaraP retemaraP retemaraP noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF noitcnuF

NSS 01 mpr01tadeepssteS

CSL 5 semit5etucexe;pooltratS

ITW 03:00 sdnoces03roftiaW

PSD - tniopatadaekaT

ISS 5 mpr5ybdeepsesaercnI

CEL - CSLgnidnopserrocehtotnruteRdnammoc

Up/Down Geometric Speed Progression ExampleThe program outlined in Table 4-3 takes one data point after waiting for 30 seconds ateach speed with speeds progressing from 10 to 30 rpm in 5 rpm increments. This time,however, after taking a data point at 30 rpm, speed is decremented back down to 10 rpmin 5 rpm decrements with a data point being taken after 30 seconds at each speed.


4-5Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Table 4-3: Up/Down Geometric Speed Progression Command Example

dnammoC retemaraP noitcnuF

NSS 01 mpr01tadeepsteS

CSL 5 semit5etucexe;pooltratS



ISS 5 mpr5ybdeepsesaercnI


CSL 4 semit4etucexe-pooltratS

ISS 5- mpr5ybdeepsesaerceD




A Geometric Speed Progression Run At Multiple TemperaturesThe program outlined in Table 4-4 runs the following geometric speed ramp at 25ºC,50ºC, and 75ºC. The interior loop starts at 10 rpm after which it waits for 30 secondsbefore taking a data point. Speed is then increased by 5 rpm when at the bottom of theloop after which program execution moves back to the LSC line and decreases the loopcount (5) by one.


Manual No. M/99-222-D01064-6

At this point the program again waits 30 seconds before taking a data point, this time at15 rpm. This is repeated four more times for a total loop count of 5. The resulting dataconsists of data points taken at 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 rpm.

Table 4-4: Geometric Speed Progression at Multiple Temperature Example

dnammoC retemaraP noitcnuF

MTS 52 erutarepmetdehcattaehtteS.°52otrellortnoc

CSL 3 eerhtpoolerutarepmetehtnuRsemit

STW 5.0 erutarepmetssecorpehtlitnutiaWerutarepmettnioptesehtsehcaer

ITW 00:10 erutarepmetrofetunimenoroftiaWezilibatsot

NSS 01 mpr01tadeepsteS

CSL 5 semitevifetucexe:pooltratS



ISS 5 mprevifybesaercnI

CEL - dnammocCSLpooldeepsotnruteR

ITS 52 tniopteserutarepmetehttnemercnI°52yb

CEL - dnammocCSLpooldeepsotnruteR


5-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Section 5 - Troubleshooting

Communication ErrorsIf 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.

Figure 5-1: Communications Warning Pop-up Window

Instrumentation Setup1. Ensure that the rheometer or controller (or both) have the appropriate communica-

tions cable (Communications) connected to them and that the opposite end of thecable 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 thefront panel of the HT-10X Series temperature controllers will be lit.

NOTE: For the TC-50X Series Baths, check the bath’s operation manual for RS-232communication information

3. If communication problems still exist, perform one of the following procedures basedthe computer operating system being used.

Windows NT1. Select the START button.

2. Select SETTINGS then CONTROL PANEL.

3. Select the SYSTEM icon.

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.

Troubleshooting

Manual No. M/99-222-D01065-2

5. Select SETTINGS then ADVANCED. NOTE: You must have Administratorprivleges to use the ADVANCED port features.

6. Make sure the check box labeled FIFO Enabled is checked.

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.


10. If communication problems still exist, adjust the communications port settings usingthe procedure described in the following section.

Windows 2000 / XP1. Select the START button.

2. Select SETTINGS then CONTROL PANEL.

3. Select the SYSTEM icon.

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 Administratorprivleges to use the ADVANCED port features.

7. Make sure the check box labeled USE FIFO BUFFERS (requires 16550 compatibleUART) is checked. Make sure the sliderrs for the RECEIVE BUFFER and theTRANSMIT BUFFER are both set all the way to the left (Low).


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 (requires16550 compatible UART).


11. If communication problems still exist, adjust the communications port settings usingthe procedure in the following section.


5-3Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Communication Port SettingsPerform the following procedure to establish the communication port settings for theviscometer/rheometer being used and accessory device.

1. Select the DASHBOARD tab.

2. Select the ADVANCED button within the Instrument Status area of the Dashboardwindow. The Communication Port Settings pop-up window appears as shown inFigure 5-2.

Figure 5-2: Communication Port Settings Pop-up Window3. The baud rate, data bits, stop bits and parity settings for the rhemoeter and accessory

are for viewing only.

4. Drag the slider up or down to set the correct TX Delay (data transmission delay) forthe rheometer and accessory being used.

5. Select the OK button. The Communication Port Settings have been established.


A-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106


IntroductionUse the information in Appendix A to Contact Brookfield EngineeringLaboratories, Inc. for technical assistance or service. Please have the following informa-tion available when calling so that we may assist you:

• Software Name

• Software Version Number

• Viscometer Model

• Viscometer Firmware Version

• Product Application

• Specific Problem Area

• Hours of Operation

• Equipment Type

• Computer Information: operrating system, microprocessor, amount of RAM,hard drive size, number of RS-232 ports, modem, network card, or otherequipment being used with the computer.

North AmericaBrookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc.11 Commerce BoulevardMiddleboro, Massachusetts 02346 U.S.A.

TEL: 508-946-6200800-628-8139 (USA only - excluding MA)FAX: 508-946-6262E-MAIL: [email protected]


Manual No. M/99-222-D0106A-2

U.K.Brookfield Viscometers Limited1 Whitehall EstateFlex MeadowPinnacles WestHarlow, Essex CM19 5TJ, United Kingdom

TEL: (44) 27/945 1774FAX: (44) 27/945 1775E-MAIL: [email protected]

Germany:Brookfield Engineering Labs. VertriebsHauptstrasse 18D-73547 Lorch, Germany

TEL: 7172/927100FAX: 7172/927105E-MAIL: [email protected]


B-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106


RS-232 CablesUse the appropriate information in Figures B-1 and B-2 if you wish to make your ownRS-232 communication cable.

NOTE: Your computer may use either a standard 9-pin or 25-pin (male or female) D-type connector.

Connected to Rheometer9-pin male “D” TypeConnector

Connected to Host Computer25-pin female “D” TypeConnector


Use shielded cable

Note: jumper between pins 4 and9 is required to place rheometerin external control mode

OR

2 3 4 5

9

237 235

Figure B-1: PC Interface Cable Drawing


Manual No. M/99-222-D0106B-2

2 3 7

5 3 2237

Connected to HT-10xTemperature Controller 25-pinmale “D” Type Connector

Note: jumper between pins 13and 25 is required to place thecontroller in external control mode



13

25

Figure B-2: Temperature Control Interface Cable Drawing


C-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106


IntroductionEach spindle has two constants which are used to calculate viscosity, shear stress, andshear rate. The Spindle Multiplier Constant (SMC) is used in viscosity and shear stresscalculations. 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 thedata displayed is zero (0) for these functions.

NOTE: Refer to Appendix A and contact Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. fora copy of More Solutions to Sticky Problems for additional information.

Spindle Codes

Table C-1: Spindle Codes

eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS edoC edoC edoC edoC edoC CMS CMS CMS CMS CMS CRS CRS CRS CRS CRS

ALU 00 46.0 322.1

1VR 10 1 0

2VR 20 4 0

3VR 30 01 0

4VR 40 02 0

5VR 50 04 0

6VR 60 001 0

7VR 70 004 0

1AH 10 1 0

2AH 20 4 0

3AH 30 01 0

4AH 40 02 0

5AH 50 04 0


Manual No. M/99-222-D0106C-2

Table C-1: Spindle Codes (continued)

eldnipS edoC CMS CRS

6AH 60 001 0

7AH 70 004 0

1BH 10 1 0

2BH 20 4 0

3BH 30 01 0

4BH 40 02 0

5BH 50 04 0

6BH 60 001 0

7BH 70 004 0

41-4CS 41 521 4.0

51-4CS 51 05 84.0

61-4CS 61 821 92.0

81-4CS 81 2.3 23.1

12-4CS 12 5 39.0

52-4CS 52 215 22.0

72-4CS 72 52 43.0

82-4CS 82 05 82.0

92-4CS 92 001 52.0

13-4CS 13 23 43.0

43-4CS 43 46 82.0

04PC 04 723.0 5.7

14PC 14 822.1 2

24PC 24 46.0 8.3

15PC 15 871.5 48.3

25PC 25 229.9 2


C-3Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

Table C-1: Spindle Codes (continued)

eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS eldnipS edoC edoC edoC edoC edoC CMS CMS CMS CMS CMS CRS CRS CRS CRS CRS

1VL 16 4.6 0

2VL 26 23 0

3VL 36 821 0

4VL 46 046 0

5VL 56 0821 0

C2-VL 66 0.23 212.0

C3-VL 76 0.821 012.0

3Y-PS 07 501 776.0

17-enaV 17 26.2 0.0

27-enaV 27 1.11 0.0

37-enaV 37 5.35 0.0

47-enaV 47 0.345 0.0

18-NID 18 7.3 92.1

28-NID 28 57.3 92.1

38-NID 38 90.21 92.1

58-NID 58 22.1 92.1

68-NID 68 56.3 92.1

78-NID 78 31.21 92.1

A-T 19 02 0

B-T 29 04 0

C-T 39 001 0

D-T 49 002 0

E-T 59 005 0

F-T 69 0001 0


Manual No. M/99-222-D0106C-4

Model CodesTable C-2 lists the model codes (spring torque) constants for each rheometer model.

Table C-2: Model Codes

ledoM ledoM ledoM ledoM ledoM)euqroTgnirpS( )euqroTgnirpS( )euqroTgnirpS( )euqroTgnirpS( )euqroTgnirpS(

KTKTKTKTKT neercSretemoehR neercSretemoehR neercSretemoehR neercSretemoehR neercSretemoehR

III-VDVL 37390.0 VL

III-VDVLx5.2 3432.0 L4

III-VDVLX5 6864.0 L5

III-VDVR4/1 52.0 R1

III-VDVR2/1 5.0 R2

III-VDVR 1 VR

III-VDAH 2 AH

III-VDAHX2 4 A3

VDAHx5.2 5 A4

III-VDBH 8 BH

III-VDBHx2 61 B3

III-VDBHx5.2 02 B4

III-VDBHx5 04 B5

Full Scale Viscosity Range CalculationThe full scale viscosity range for any rheometer model and spindle may be calculatedusing the equation:

Full Scale Viscosity Range [cP] = TK * SMC * 10,000/rpm

Where:


C-5Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

TK = Spring Torque Constant from model tableSMC = Spindle Multiplier Constant from spindle table

Shear Rate CalculationThe Shear Rate calculations is:

Shear Rate (1/sec) = SRC * rpm

Where:

SRC = Shear Rate Constant from spindle table

Using Non-Standard (Special) Spindle with a DV-III or DV-III+Rheocalc allows the entry of spindle constants (Spindle Page) which the software uses tocalculate viscosity, shear stress, and shear rate for spindles in boundary conditions otherthan the 600ml beaker or specified chamber. The spindles must conform to geometriesthat allow for mathematical calculations of shear stress and shear rate (i.e. coaxial cylin-der, cylindrical).

Two constants are required:

• SMC (Spindle Multiplier Constant) which is used to calculate the viscosity(cP) value.

• SRC (Shear Rate Constant) which is used to calculate shear rate (1/sec) andshear stress (Dyne/cm2) value.

If SRC = 0 (Ex. LV #1-4, RV, HA, HB #1-7 spindles), shear rate and shear stress valuesare not calculated and cannot be displayed.

The SMC value for a spindle may be calculated as follows:

1. For new spindle conditions you calculate the SMC using a Newtonian fluid of knownviscosity (Brookfield Viscosity Standard). This is done in the container with the newdimensions at the controlled temperature specified for the viscosity standard fluid.

2. The new full scale viscosity range is calculated for a selected rpm:


Manual No. M/99-222-D0106C-6

R1 = 100n/Y

where:

R1 = The new full scale viscosity rangen = The viscosity (cP) of the Newtonian fluidY = The torque % reading at the selected rpm

3. The SMC value is then calculated:

SMC = [Full Scale Viscosity Range (cP) * [Selected rpm] TK * 10,000

where:

TK = DV-III Torque Constant from Table C-2

The SRC value may be calculated for cylindrical spindle geometry using the followingequation:

Shear Rate (1/sec)=(2 * Rc2 Rb2)/(2 * [Rc2 - Rb2])

The SRC value may be calculated by first calculating the shear rate of the geometry at agiven rpm then solving the shear rate equation on page C-5 for SRC. For example; for acylindrical geometry, use the following equation:

Shear Rate (sec-1) = 2m Rc2 Rb

2

X2 (Rc2 Rb

2)

where:

m = (2π/60)N = angular velocity of the spindle (rad/sec)Rc = radius of the container (cm)Rb = radius of the spindle (cm)X = radius at which shear rate is being calculated (cm)N = RPM

To calculate shear rate, refer to Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc., More Solu-tions to Sticky Problems publication for more information on calculations for variousgeometries.


Index-1Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

AA Geometric Speed Progression 4-6a legend 3-29About 3-8Advanced 3-4alarms 3-5Analysis 3-23, 3-32Analysis page 3-33ANALYZE 3-18Analyze 3-23ASCII text file 3-21Auto Division 3-27Auto Zero 3-6Auto/Manual Scale 3-29axis limits 3-16

BB.E.A.V.I.S 3-12B.E.A.V.I.S. Commands 4-1B.E.A.V.I.S. Program 4-1B.E.A.V.I.S. program 3-16, 3-25, 3-31B.E.A.V.I.S. Program Examples 4-4B.E.A.V.I.S. Programs 3-15best fit curve 3-33, 3-34, 3-35, 3-36, 3-37Bingham plastic 3-33Brookfield Viscosity Standard C-6

Ccables 3-3CALCULATE 3-32Calculate 3-38Casson 3-34Celsius 3-5centipoise 3-2CGS 3-4Chocolate Casson 3-35CMA 3-35Color Prints 3-30COM (RS-232) port 3-3

COM (RS-232) ports 3-11, 3-16, 3-24, 3-38COM (serial) port 5-1COM port 2-1, 2-2, 5-2Command Groups 4-1Command List 3-13communication (RS-232) ports 2-1communication port 3-2Communication Port Settings 3-4, 5-2communications cable 5-1Communications Port Setting 3-4Confidence of fit 3-33, 3-34, 3-35, 3-36, 3-37Confidence of fit 3-34, 3-35, 3-36, 3-37Confirm Deletions 3-15Consistency Index 3-36Customer Support A-1

DD/cm2 3-3DASHBOARD 2-1, 3-2Dashboard 2-2, 3-5Dashboard Page 3-1Dashboard page 3-2Data Base Navigation Bar 3-19Data Display grid 3-19Data Grid 3-13, 3-15data grid 3-19data interval 3-14data point 3-14Data Point Marker 3-29Date Format 3-2, 3-5Date/Time 3-19DCI 3-14DV-III 1-1, 3-3, 3-24, B-1, C-6DV-III Rheometer 1-1DV-III+ 1-1, 3-4, 3-18, B-1

INDEX

Index

Manual No. M/99-222-D0106Index-2

EEdit mode 3-20Equation 3-38Exit 3-8, 3-11, 3-16, 3-24, 3-31, 3-38EXPORT 3-18Export 3-23Exporting Data 3-18Extracting Data from a Rheometer 3-18

FFahrenheit 3-5file load dialog 3-21File Load dialog box 3-30file save dialog 3-21file save dialog box 3-15Flow Index 3-36FSA 3-15FSO 3-15full scale torque 3-2full scale viscosity C-5, C-6

GGeometric Speed Progression 4-4Geometry 3-2, 3-5Go 3-6GRAPH 3-18Graph 3-22

HHelp 3-8, 3-11, 3-16, 3-24, 3-31, 3-38HT-10X (104,105,106,107) RS-232 CableDrawing B-2

IIMPORT 3-18Import 3-23Importing 3-18Importing Data 3-18Info button 3-31Instrument Status 2-1, 3-2, 3-3IPC Paste Analysis 3-37

LLEC 3-14Linear Scale 3-27Live data 3-13Load File dialog box 3-7, 3-12, 3-17, 3-18,3-26Load Files dialog box 3-38Logarithmic Scale 3-27Loop Count 3-13, 3-14LSC 3-14

MMajor Grid 3-29Manual Divisions 3-28Manual Scale 3-28, 3-29math model 3-23Maximum Viscosity 3-6Measurement 3-2measurement range 3-11Measurement Units 3-2, 3-4, 3-5minimum and maximum speeds 3-11Minor Grid 3-29Model 3-5, 3-19, C-1model 3-6, C-5model codes C-4MS-Excel 3-18MS-Excel spreadsheet 3-23

NN/m2 3-3NCA 3-35NCA/CMA Casson 3-35Next 3-16Notes 3-20

OON-LINE 3-13, 3-16, 3-31On-Line 3-15, 3-31On-Line Plotting 3-25On-Line plotting 3-13on-line plotting 3-13, 3-31Open 3-7


Index-3Manual No. M/99-222-D0106

PParadox database 3-19, 3-20, 3-23Paradox database file 3-21Plastic Viscosity 3-33, 3-34, 3-35Plot 3-10, 3-13, 3-15, 3-16, 3-18, 3-22, 3-25,3-26, 3-30, 3-31Plot Limit dialog box 3-13Plot Options 3-25, 3-26plot options 3-16plot parameters 3-13Power Law 3-36power law 3-37PRINT 3-18Print 3-15, 3-21, 3-30, 3-38print 3-32Print dialog box 3-13, 3-15, 3-21, 3-30, 3-38Printing Data 3-18Program Grid 3-12, 3-13, 3-16program grid 3-14program status 3-13Programs 3-12, 3-13, 3-16, 3-25, 3-31pseudoplasticity 3-37

RReading Time 3-13, 3-14Record 3-20records 3-20REPLOT 3-28Replot 3-30Rheocalc Text Data 3-18rheometer 1-1RPM 3-6rpm 3-2, 3-15RS-232 Cable 2-1RS-232 cable 3-4RS-232 Cables B-1RS-232 communication 5-1RS-232 communication cable B-1

SSample box 3-19sample name 3-19Save 3-7Save dialog 3-23

Save File dialog box 3-7, 3-13, 3-18Saving data 3-18Shear Multiplier Constant 3-10Shear Rate 3-3, C-5shear rate 3-6, 3-33, 3-34, C-1, C-5Shear Rate Constant 3-9, 3-10, C-1, C-5Shear Rate Mode 3-15shear rates 3-15Shear Sensitivity Factor 3-37Shear Stress 3-3shear stress 3-6, 3-33, 3-34, C-1, C-5Show X/Y 3-30SI 3-4SMC 3-10, C-1, C-6Software Installation 2-1special (non-standard) 3-9special (non-standard) spindles 3-9special (user created) spindle 3-10Special (user) spindles 3-10special spindle 3-9, 3-10, 3-11special spindles 3-9Speed 3-2, 3-20speed 3-5, 3-6, 3-15speed plot 3-16, 3-25Spindle 3-6, 3-19, C-1, C-5spindle 3-2, 3-6, 3-9, 3-10, 3-11, C-5, C-6Spindle Codes C-1Spindle Multiplier Constant 3-9, C-1, C-5Spindles 3-9, 3-10spindles C-5Spring Torque C-5SRC 3-10, C-1, C-6SSI 3-15SSN 3-15START 3-13Start 3-16step parameter 3-14Step Status 3-13, 3-14Step Time 3-13, 3-14Stop 3-6, 3-16support 1-2Symbol Legend 3-29System Requirements 1-2

Index

Manual No. M/99-222-D0106Index-4

TTC-501 Bath 5-1TC-501 bath 3-4Temperature 3-2, 3-3, 3-20temperature 3-6temperature accessory 2-2temperature bath 1-1temperature controller 3-3, 3-8, 5-1Temperature Controller Setpoint 3-3temperature controllers 4-1Temperature Units 3-2, 3-5Thermosel 1-1Time Interval 3-20Torque 3-2, 3-5, 3-20torque 3-5, 3-11, 3-14, 3-25, C-6Torque Alarm 3-2, 3-5Troubleshooting 3-3, 3-4, 5-1

UUp/Down Geometric Speed Progression 4-5user-defined spindles 3-10

VView/Edit 3-17, 3-18, 3-19, 3-20Viscosity 3-2, 3-37viscosity 3-6, 3-32, 3-33, C-1, C-5, C-6Viscosity Measurement Range 3-10Viscosity Range 3-11

WWTI 3-16

YYield Stress 3-33, 3-34, 3-35

ZZero 3-6

Symbols% torque 3-16*.DB 3-17*.XLS 3-18.RCH 3-19, 3-20

Documents

Rheocalc Manual