LimsPulse
Physical testing

Viscometer / rheometer

Measures how thick a liquid is, that is its resistance to flow (viscosity). Used for syrups, suspensions, gels, creams and polymer solutions.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Cosmetics
  • Food & beverage
  • Paints & coatings
  • Polymers
  • Petrochemicals
Photo of a Viscometer / rheometer
Photo: Jhon04512, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
Follow your site SOP
This is a typical operating sequence for learning. Your instrument model and approved SOP take precedence.
STAGE 1

Before you start

  1. 1Check the calibration label and that the instrument is level (bubble centred).
  2. 2Switch on and perform auto-zero with no spindle attached, if the model requires it.
  3. 3Set the water bath to the test temperature and let it stabilise.
  4. 4Select the spindle and speed stated in the STP.
  • Never attach or remove a spindle without supporting the coupling; bending the shaft damages the torque sensor.
STAGE 2

Measurement

  1. 1Fill the specified container with sample to the stated level and bring it to temperature.
  2. 2Immerse the spindle at an angle to avoid trapping air, then attach it and lower it to the immersion mark.
  3. 3Start rotation at the specified speed.
  4. 4Read the viscosity and % torque after the stated time (for example 1 minute) or when stable.
  5. 5Check the % torque is within the range your SOP allows. If not, change spindle or speed as the STP permits.
  6. 6Record viscosity, % torque, spindle, speed, temperature and reading time.
  • Do not let the spindle touch the bottom or walls of the container.
  • Avoid air bubbles under the spindle disc; they lower the reading.
  • For non-Newtonian samples, keep pre-shearing (shaking, stirring) the same every time.
STAGE 3

After use

  1. 1Stop the motor, remove and clean the spindle with water or a suitable solvent, and dry it.
  2. 2Store spindles in their rack.
  3. 3Raise the head and complete the log.
  • Never leave sample drying on a spindle; residue changes its geometry and weight.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every Viscometer in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how