ink viscosity measurement, portable viscometers

Viscometers for the measurement of viscosity under process conditions

Ink viscosity in an instant

Viscolite in printing ink In the press room, ink viscosity is critical. Too low, and fine details are washed out; too high, and halftone dots tend to disappear. The ideal viscosity depends on both the job and the press. Determining and maintaining this viscosity requires skill and experience on the part of the press operator.

Traditionally, operators have measured the viscosity of printing ink using the efflux cup. This is a container of specified dimensions with an accurately sized and shaped hole at its base. The number of seconds required for the given volume of ink to drain out through the hole gives a measure of its viscosity.

This procedure is messy, awkward and time-consuming, particularly if the ink has to be filtered first. It is also notoriously inaccurate. Even a practised operator may find it difficult to get consistent results.

Using a Hydramotion Viscolite portable viscometer, a press operator can measure ink viscosity accurately with maximum speed and minimum fuss. Simply dip the sensor into the sample and read off the viscosity immediately. Clean the instrument Wiping the Viscolite clean with a single wipe and it is ready for re-use.

An optional integrated thermometer makes it possible to obtain temperature-corrected readings instantly, without having to adjust the temperature of the sample or perform any calculations.

Convenient and easy to use

The Viscolite is factory-calibrated to traceable international standards, so there is no need for any on-site calibration, setting-up or adjustment. The solid stainless steel construction means maintenance requirements are virtually zero. Each instrument is supplied in a robust carrying case for convenience of transport and storage.

When deadlines are tight and you want to minimize downtime, the Viscolite is the solution.

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