Viscosity testing is one of the foundations of performance assessment and quality control in the petroleum and lubricants sectors.
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However, traditional methods (such as ASTM D445) are hindered by high maintenance needs, extensive manual input requirements, and time-consuming operations.
The advanced patented technology utilized by Phase Technology's OptiMVD analyzer addresses these issues, providing a transformative approach to viscosity testing.
This article discusses the OptiMVD analyzer's ability to amplify lab productivity and reduce operational and maintenance expenses.
Restrictions of ASTM D445
The Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity of Transparent and Opaque Liquids (and Calculation of Dynamic Viscosity), commonly referred to as ASTM D445, was introduced in 1937 and remained the most common viscosity test for liquid petroleum products.
Similar methods, such as ASTM D7042, provide comparable accuracy and applicability to ASTM D445; however, their temperature and viscosity ranges are more restrictive.1
ASTM D445 also has limitations, as operators must carefully select the correct capillary tube, manually time the flow, and clean the equipment post-test, all of which increase the possibility of human error and variability in results.
Every run has a minimum flow time of 200 seconds, and at least two consecutive tests are required per sample to ensure precision, culminating in a significant time investment.2
Bulky materials and the absence of automatic data transfer to a laboratory information management system (LIMS) also increase the operational burden.
This is further compounded by the maintenance of glass capillaries, which are prone to breakage and costly to replace, adding to the total cost of operation.2
Advantages of OptiMVD
The OptiMVD analyzer is the most rapid and versatile combination viscometer and density meter on the market. It utilizes patented technology to negate many issues associated with ASTM D445.
The OptiMVD is available in five configurations to accommodate diverse needs. It utilizes automation to guarantee high-precision measurements and reduce operational time and manual operation.
The OptiMVD analyzer can determine kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, and density.
A 5 mL sample is drawn from a vial into a measuring cell at a controlled temperature and is then passed through a capillary tube with optical sensors and constant pressure.
The capillary tube is surrounded by a thermal block within the cell, where heating, cooling, cleaning, and drying are all controlled automatically.
Density measurement follows the ASTM D7777 method, and users can manage samples using an intuitive touchscreen interface. They can pre-select favorites and add individual samples to the carousel.
After a test run, the system self-cleans, and used materials are deposited into a waste container.2,3
Key Features of OptiMVD
The OptiMVD analyzer has a suite of advanced features, some of which are discussed below.
High Precision and Accuracy
Utilizing the ASTM D7945 method as an alternative to ASTM D445, the constant pressure viscometer provides precision and reproducibility that meets or exceeds traditional methods, with no relative bias to D445.
The ability of the analyzer to measure a viscosity range from 1 to 2000 mm² per second at 40 °C and from 1 to 100 mm² per second at 100 °C ensures comprehensive coverage for a range of sample types.2,3
Rapid Analysis Time
Advanced electronics and automated processes help reduce the analysis time of OptiMVD, which can test viscosity and density at two different temperatures in about 10 minutes. The “Smart Sample Ordering” feature further optimizes performance, cutting total test time by over 50%.3,4
Ease of Use
Loading a sample vial into the injection port or carousel and initiating the test requires minimal operator interaction.
A user-friendly interface with a 13.3-inch color touchscreen simplifies data entry, sample configuration, and test initiation, meaning minimal training is required to operate the analyzer.
Automatic viscosity index calculations for dual viscometer models remove the risk of sample contamination or mislabeling.3
Fully Automatic Sample Loading and Cleaning
The OptiMVD has a fully automatic self-cleaning capability that saves time and guarantees consistent and repeatable results by eliminating manual cleaning errors. The built-in waste container has a capacity for over 50 tests.3
Small Benchtop Footprint
The compact design of the OptiMVD means the apparatus takes up minimal laboratory space. Despite this small size, the analyzer can hold up to 48 samples in dual 24-position carousels, maximizing space utilization without compromising functionality.2
Low Cost of Ownership and Maintenance
The OptiMVD is designed for cost-efficiency. Only 5 mL of sample per test is required, and minimal solvent is used for cleaning.
Unlike those made from fragile glass, Fluoropolymer capillaries reduce maintenance costs and improve durability.
The calibration process is also streamlined, using a quick self-calibration kit and USB drive with pre-programmed vial settings.
The absence of external cooling/heating baths also reduces maintenance requirements, and a robust design ensures long-term reliability.2
Industry Applications and Standards
The OptiMVD is optimal for industries such as lubricant blending plants, pipelines, refineries, terminals, mobile labs, contract laboratories, and chemical plants.
The OptiMVD complies with ISO 18335, ASTM D7945, and ASTM D7777 standards; results are reliable across various applications. The OptiMVD has also been approved for SAE J300 engine oil viscosity specifications, with EN 590 diesel provisions in progress.3
OptiMVD Models
A wide range of models have been customized to meet varied laboratory needs. Each one is fortified with specific features to maximize performance.3
MODEL SS-D features a single injection port, dual viscometers, and density meters for high-speed testing. It is tailored to the lubricant market and calculates the viscosity index automatically.
MODEL SS has a single injection port, a viscometer, and a density meter for normal speed operations.
MODEL AS1-D features a carousel with 24 positions, dual viscometers, and dual density meters for high-throughput testing with an autosampler. It is tailored for high-speed performance in the lubricant sector and has automatic viscosity index calculation.
MODEL AS1 has a carousel with 24 positions, a viscometer and a density meter for high-throughput testing with an autosampler at standard speed.
MODEL AS2 features two carousels with 24 positions each, dual viscometers, and dual density meters for high-speed, high-throughput testing. It is tailored to the lubricant sector and has automatic viscosity index calculation.
Conclusion
The OptiMVD analyzer by Phase Technology signifies a transformation in viscosity testing. Through addressing the challenges connected to traditional methods such as ASTM D445, the OptiMVD offers a high-precision, user-friendly automated solution that improves productivity while reducing maintenance expenses.
With inexpensive ownership and maintenance, advanced features, and a small carbon footprint, the OptiMVD is an essential tool for modern laboratories.
References and Further Reading
- Khuu, H., et al. (2019). Improving ASTM D445, the Manual Viscosity Test, by Video Recording. Journal of Testing and Evaluation. doi.org/10.1520/JTE20170341.
- PAC. [Seminar Presentation] OptiMVD: Save Time and Reduce Maintenance Expense in Viscosity Testing.
- PAC. (2024). [Brochure] OptiMVD™. Available at: https://info.paclp.com/optimvd#brochure
- PAC. [Online] OptiMVD. Available at: https://info.paclp.com/optimvd (Accessed on 30 July 2024).
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by PAC L.P.
For more information on this source, please visit PAC L.P.