Koehler LKV5000 series kinematic viscosity baths with optical flow detection system provides automatic viscosity measurements of petroleum and petrochemical products. Includes communication and power ports for each optical detection assembly and can utilize up to four optical assemblies. Optical sensors and viscometer tubes to be ordered separately. The bath provides improvements in operating features, safety and cabinetry. Advanced temperature control circuitry includes microprocessor PID design and two decimal calibration offset. Simple pushbutton controls and dual digital displays permit easy setting and monitoring of bath temperature. The bath accommodates four glass capillary viscometers using 2″ (51mm) round holders (rectangular ports are available on special order). The bath medium is contained in a clear, evacuated Dewar flask and glare-free fluorescent backlighting provides excellent visibility when working with the viscometers.
The LKV5000 operates at temperatures from ambient to -30 °C (-22 °F) or ambient to -70 °C (-94 °C), model dependent, exceeding ASTM temperature control accuracy and uniformity requirements throughout the operating range. Air-cooled hermetic compressors provide efficient operation with the use of CFC-free refrigerants.
The insulated steel cabinet has an attractive polyester-epoxy finish and is mounted on adjustable leveling feet. Chemical resistant working (top) surface has four round ports for 2″ (51mm) viscometer holders and one port for a thermometer holder. The front viewing window provides clear, distortion-free visibility. The microprocessor controller incorporates circuitry that interrupts power to the heater in the event of an over-temperature condition or disconnection of the primary probe. A redundant adjustable controller and sensor probe provide added over-temperature protection, and an integrated low liquid level sensor cuts power to the heaters if the bath liquid is not filled to the proper level or falls below during operation. Both over-temperature and low liquid level circuits will latch and prevent further operation of the bath until the fault is removed.
Features
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- Complete instrument and data acquisition system exclusively designed for conducting ASTM D445, IP 71 and related test methods
- Optical sensor detection system accurately measures sample flow and automatically calculates kinematic viscosity results
- Powerful software system for PC platforms operating in Windows® XP, Vista, 7 and 8 environments
- Automatic calculation and display of results in viscosity units or seconds
- Accommodates Ubbelohde, Cannon®- Fenske, and Cannon®- Fenske Opaque Reverse Flow viscometers
- High accuracy temperature control with dual digital displays show set point and actual bath temperature with selectable scale (°C or °F)
- Stand alone feature provides for automated testing without an external PC
- Improved design with enhanced performance and safety features
- Software exports test data with graphs and test parameters direct to CSV file format for use with LIMS or any other spreadsheet program
- Integrated digital timing for easy measurement of sample efflux times
Test Method
Kinematic viscosity is of primary importance in the design and selection of a wide range of petroleum products. Calibrated capillary viscometers are used to measure flow under gravity or vacuum at precisely controlled temperatures.
