Rheotest english
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbHOperation ManualRheometer SeriesRHEOTEST ® RN
- Page 2 and 3: All rights reserved, the translatio
- Page 4 and 5: 9.2.6.5 Samples -> New ............
- Page 6 and 7: Print Job .........................
- Page 8 and 9: • The basic plate with automatic
- Page 10 and 11: 5.2 Rheometer Basic Instrument5.2.1
- Page 12 and 13: Figure 3 Basic Instrument with a Fi
- Page 14 and 15: Figure 6 Rheometer with cylinder me
- Page 16 and 17: 5.4 Overview Measuring Systems5.4.1
- Page 18 and 19: 5.4.3 Special Measuring SystemsIn a
- Page 20 and 21: Figure 9 General View of Peltier Co
- Page 22 and 23: 6 Startup6.1 Instrument Installatio
- Page 24 and 25: 7 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager
- Page 26 and 27: Figure 11 Installation of the Plate
- Page 28 and 29: 8.1.2 Rheometer with a Fixed Basic
- Page 30 and 31: 8. Enter the desired temperature (s
- Page 32 and 33: 9. Place the sample centric on the
- Page 34 and 35: 7. After that, you can insert the w
- Page 36 and 37: Prerequisite for this function is t
- Page 38 and 39: 9.2.2 SettingsFurther job’s setti
- Page 40 and 41: 4 - Charge: Name of analyzed charge
- Page 42 and 43: • Paste Empty Job - It will be in
- Page 44 and 45: If there is a method in the method
- Page 46 and 47: Note: If an overall view of the tab
- Page 48 and 49: If a bookmark “Chart” is active
- Page 50 and 51: M 4L 6XL 7The line thickness relate
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Operation Manual
Rheometer Series
RHEOTEST ® RN
All rights reserved, the translation included.
Any part of this Operation Manual cannot be reproduced in any form (as printed matter, photocopies,
microfilms or in any other form) or processed, copied or disseminated using electronic system without written
consent of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH. lt does not concern the exceptional cases that are clearly listed
in UrhG §§ 53, 54.
The RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH bears no responsibility for any technical or print technical errors or
incomplete information in this Operation Manual.
We reserve the right to change this Operation Manual without previous announcement.
The reproduction of users' names, trade names, trade marks and so on in this Operation Manual does not
create the necessary prerequisites for their use by anybody; frequently it is a question of protected by law
registered trade marks, even if they are not marked as such.
Printed in Germany
© Copyright by
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Rödertalstraße 1
Medingen
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla (Germany)
© RHEOTEST, HÖPPLER and RN are the trade marks of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
All rights reserved
Revision 06/2018
Contact
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
OT Medingen
Rödertalstrasse 1
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla
Germany
Telefon: +49 35205 58-180
Fax: +49 35205 58-297
E-Mail: info@rheotest.de
www.rheotest.de
2
Contents
1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 7
2 Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................................................... 7
3 Scope of Supply ........................................................................................................................................... 8
3.1 Scope of Supply for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN ............................................................................. 8
3.2 Scope of Supply for DSR Bitumen Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN ...................................................... 8
4 Unpacking and Checking ............................................................................................................................. 8
5 Technical Manual ......................................................................................................................................... 9
5.1 Technical Specifications Rheometer ................................................................................................... 9
5.2 Rheometer Basic Instrument ............................................................................................................ 10
5.2.1 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an automatic distance adjustment (Figure 1) ......................... 10
5.2.2 Adapter for a Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ................................................ 11
5.2.3 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a Fixed Basic Plate ................................................................ 11
5.2.4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate ................................................................................... 12
5.2.5 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with cylindrical measuring systems ............................................... 13
5.3 Control Unit ....................................................................................................................................... 15
5.4 Overview Measuring Systems........................................................................................................... 16
5.4.1 Cylinder Measuring Systems ........................................................................................................ 16
5.4.2 Cone/Plate and Plate/Plate Measuring Systems .......................................................................... 17
5.4.3 Special Measuring Systems ......................................................................................................... 18
5.5 Peltier Tempering System ................................................................................................................. 19
5.5.1 Peltier Control Unit ........................................................................................................................ 19
5.5.2 Handling of Peltier Control Unit .................................................................................................... 20
5.5.3 Filling the Cooling Liquid ............................................................................................................... 21
6 Startup ....................................................................................................................................................... 22
6.1 Instrument Installation ....................................................................................................................... 22
6.2 Instrument Connection ...................................................................................................................... 22
6.2.1 Connection of the Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ........................................ 22
6.2.2 Connection of the Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate ............................................................... 23
6.2.3 Connection of Peltier Temperature Control System for Cylindrical Measuring Systems ............. 23
6.2.4 PC-Connections ............................................................................................................................ 23
7 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager ...................................................................................................... 24
7.1 System Requirements ....................................................................................................................... 24
7.2 Installation of the Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager ................................................................. 24
7.2.1 Login ............................................................................................................................................. 24
7.2.2 Set up the Interfaces ..................................................................................................................... 24
8 Test Preparation and Measurement .......................................................................................................... 25
8.1 Use Cone- Plate / Plate-Plate Measuring Systems .......................................................................... 25
8.1.1 Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ...................................................................... 25
8.1.2 Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate ............................................................................................. 28
8.1.2.1 Preparing the Measurement ................................................................................................ 28
8.1.2.2 Adjusting the Gap Between Cone (Plate) and Basic Plate .................................................. 29
8.1.2.3 Performing the Measurement .............................................................................................. 30
8.2 Use Cylinder Measuring Systems ..................................................................................................... 33
9 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager ...................................................................................................... 35
9.1 User Interface .................................................................................................................................... 35
9.1.1 Inlays ............................................................................................................................................. 35
9.1.2 Tree for Jobs, Samples and Methods ........................................................................................... 35
9.1.3 Help System .................................................................................................................................. 35
9.2 Job ..................................................................................................................................................... 36
9.2.1 Definition ....................................................................................................................................... 36
9.2.2 Settings ......................................................................................................................................... 38
9.2.3 Sample .......................................................................................................................................... 39
9.2.4 Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 40
9.2.5 Information .................................................................................................................................... 41
9.2.6 Main Menu Job ............................................................................................................................. 41
9.2.6.1 New Job ............................................................................................................................... 41
9.2.6.2 Copy Job .............................................................................................................................. 41
9.2.6.3 Paste Job ............................................................................................................................. 41
9.2.6.4 Delete Job ............................................................................................................................ 42
3
9.2.6.5 Samples -> New ................................................................................................................... 42
9.2.6.6 Samples -> Copy ................................................................................................................. 42
9.2.6.7 Samples-> Paste .................................................................................................................. 42
9.2.6.8 Samples -> Delete ............................................................................................................... 42
9.2.6.9 Table Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 42
9.2.6.10 Table Settings -> Copy ........................................................................................................ 43
9.2.6.11 Table Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 43
9.2.6.12 Chart Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.13 Chart Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.14 Chart Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 43
9.2.6.15 Report Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................. 43
9.2.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy ....................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.17 Report Settings -> Paste ...................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.18 Units settings -> Show… ...................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.19 Units settings -> Copy .......................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.20 Units settings -> Paste ......................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.21 Method to Edit ...................................................................................................................... 43
9.2.6.22 Export / Import ...................................................................................................................... 44
9.2.6.22.1 Export / Import -> Export Job ........................................................................................ 44
9.2.6.22.2 Export / Import -> Import Job ........................................................................................ 44
9.2.6.22.3 Export / Import -> Export Job-group ............................................................................. 44
9.2.6.22.4 Export / Import -> Import Job-group .............................................................................. 44
9.2.6.22.5 Explorer to folder Transfers .......................................................................................... 45
9.2.6.23 View Distant Job .................................................................................................................. 45
9.3 Table ................................................................................................................................................. 45
9.3.1 Table Display ................................................................................................................................ 45
9.3.2 Main Menu Table .......................................................................................................................... 45
9.3.2.1 Table Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 45
9.3.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy ........................................................................................................ 45
9.3.2.3 Table Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 45
9.3.2.4 Copy to Clipboard ................................................................................................................ 45
9.3.3 Table Settings ............................................................................................................................... 46
9.3.3.1 Table .................................................................................................................................... 46
9.3.3.2 Tests..................................................................................................................................... 46
9.3.3.3 Head ..................................................................................................................................... 46
9.3.3.4 Print ...................................................................................................................................... 47
9.3.3.5 Font ...................................................................................................................................... 47
9.4 Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 47
9.4.1 Chart Display ................................................................................................................................ 47
9.4.2 Main Menu Chart .......................................................................................................................... 48
9.4.2.1 Chart Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 48
9.4.2.2 Chart Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 48
9.4.2.3 Chart Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 48
9.4.2.4 Copy to Clipboard ................................................................................................................ 48
9.4.2.5 Chart Settings ...................................................................................................................... 48
9.4.2.5.1 Axis.................................................................................................................................. 48
9.4.2.5.2 Grid.................................................................................................................................. 50
9.4.2.5.3 Tests ............................................................................................................................... 51
9.4.2.5.4 Head ................................................................................................................................ 51
9.4.2.5.5 Collection ........................................................................................................................ 51
9.4.2.5.6 Print ................................................................................................................................. 52
9.4.2.5.7 Font ................................................................................................................................. 53
9.5 Report ................................................................................................................................................ 53
9.5.1 Report Display .............................................................................................................................. 53
9.5.2 Main Menu Report ........................................................................................................................ 53
9.5.2.1 Report Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................. 53
9.5.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy ....................................................................................................... 54
9.5.2.3 Report Settings -> Paste ...................................................................................................... 54
9.5.2.4 Copy to Clipboard ................................................................................................................ 54
9.5.2.5 Settings ................................................................................................................................ 54
9.5.2.5.1 Report ............................................................................................................................. 54
9.5.2.5.2 Head ................................................................................................................................ 55
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9.5.2.5.3 Print ................................................................................................................................. 55
9.5.2.5.4 Font ................................................................................................................................. 55
9.6 Method .............................................................................................................................................. 55
9.6.1 Definition ....................................................................................................................................... 56
9.6.2 Settings ......................................................................................................................................... 57
9.6.3 Table of Tests ............................................................................................................................... 58
9.6.4 Chart of Tests ............................................................................................................................... 58
9.6.5 Method - Individual Test ............................................................................................................... 59
9.6.6 Parameter Settings ....................................................................................................................... 61
9.6.7 Units Settings ................................................................................................................................ 61
9.6.8 Main Menu Method ....................................................................................................................... 62
9.6.8.1 New Method ......................................................................................................................... 62
9.6.8.2 Copy Method ........................................................................................................................ 63
9.6.8.3 Paste Method ....................................................................................................................... 63
9.6.8.4 Delete Method ...................................................................................................................... 63
9.6.8.5 Test -> Show… .................................................................................................................... 63
9.6.8.6 Test -> Copy ......................................................................................................................... 63
9.6.8.7 Test -> Paste ........................................................................................................................ 63
9.6.8.8 Test -> Delete....................................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.9 Parameter -> Show… .......................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.10 Parameter -> Copy ............................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.11 Parameter -> Paste .............................................................................................................. 64
9.6.8.12 Units Settings -> Show… ..................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.13 Units Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.14 Units Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 64
9.6.8.15 Copy Table of Tests to Clipboard ........................................................................................ 64
9.6.8.16 Copy Chart of Tests to Clipboard ......................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.17 Export / Import ...................................................................................................................... 64
9.6.8.17.1 Export / Import -> Export Method .................................................................................. 65
9.6.8.17.2 Export / Import -> Import Method .................................................................................. 65
9.6.8.17.3 Export / Import -> Export Method-group ....................................................................... 65
9.6.8.17.4 Export / Import -> Import Method-group ....................................................................... 65
9.6.8.17.5 Explorer to folder Transfers .......................................................................................... 65
9.7 Settings ............................................................................................................................................. 65
9.7.1 Measuring Systems ...................................................................................................................... 65
9.7.1.1 Main menu Edit .................................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.1.1 Edit -> New System ........................................................................................................ 67
9.7.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy System ....................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.1.3 Edit -> Paste System ...................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System ..................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.1.5 Edit -> Move up ............................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.1.6 Edit -> Move down .......................................................................................................... 67
9.7.1.2 Main menu Calculate ........................................................................................................... 68
9.7.1.2.1 Calculate -> Constant Tau .............................................................................................. 68
9.7.1.2.2 Calculate -> Constant D .................................................................................................. 68
9.7.2 Global Settings.............................................................................................................................. 68
9.7.3 User Settings ................................................................................................................................ 71
Operation Status ........................................................................................................................................ 73
Creation of a new user ............................................................................................................................... 73
9.7.4 Communication Settings ............................................................................................................... 73
RN .............................................................................................................................................................. 74
Plate Control .............................................................................................................................................. 75
Temperature Controller .............................................................................................................................. 76
Temperature .............................................................................................................................................. 78
9.7.5 Pt100 ............................................................................................................................................. 79
9.7.6 Inertia calibration .......................................................................................................................... 79
9.7.7 Rotation calibration ....................................................................................................................... 79
9.7.8 Oscillation calibration .................................................................................................................... 79
9.8 Main Menu File .................................................................................................................................. 79
9.8.1 Page Setup ................................................................................................................................... 79
9.8.2 Print Preview ................................................................................................................................. 79
9.8.3 Printing .......................................................................................................................................... 80
5
Print Job ..................................................................................................................................................... 80
Print Table .................................................................................................................................................. 80
Print Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 80
Print Report ................................................................................................................................................ 81
Print Method ............................................................................................................................................... 81
General Print Options ................................................................................................................................ 81
9.8.4 Exit ................................................................................................................................................ 82
10 Bitumen measurements ............................................................................................................................. 83
10.1 General Information .......................................................................................................................... 83
10.2 Bitumen measurements using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) RHEOTEST ® RN ...................... 83
10.2.1 Sample Preparation .................................................................................................................. 83
10.2.2 Startup of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) .......................................................................... 83
10.2.3 Available Jobs .......................................................................................................................... 83
10.2.4 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ................... 86
10.2.5 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with a fixed basic plate ............................................ 89
10.2.5.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCR-
Test according to AL FGSL ................................................................................................................... 89
10.2.5.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175,
AASHTO T 315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T 350-
14, AASHTO M 332-14.......................................................................................................................... 91
10.2.6 Trimming the bitumen sample .................................................................................................. 93
11 Appendix .................................................................................................................................................... 94
11.1 Tests .................................................................................................................................................. 94
11.2 Result ................................................................................................................................................ 94
11.3 Analyses ............................................................................................................................................ 96
11.4 Heading data ..................................................................................................................................... 98
11.5 Calibration of measuring systems ..................................................................................................... 99
11.6 Menu overview Peltier temperature control .................................................................................... 100
11.7 Error messages ............................................................................................................................... 101
11.7.1 Error messages Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager ........................................................ 101
11.7.2 Incorrect display of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager .................................................................. 101
11.7.3 Error messages Peltier control ............................................................................................... 101
11.8 Service ............................................................................................................................................ 102
6
1 Introduction
The Rheometer finds its use in fundamental researches, in development of new products and technologies, as
well as in quality control. Viscosity and flow curves are plotted in very wide ranges of shear stresses and
shear rates and, besides that, comprehensive rheological characterization of a test medium is realized.
The Rheometer Series RHEOTEST ® RN, controlled by PC, uses a measuring motor with high dynamic
characteristics and permits to carry out the rotational measurements with controlled shear rate (CR) and/or
with controlled stress (CS), creep measurements, as well as oscillation measurements. Measurements could
be carried out in a very wide range using only one measuring system owing to a very wide range of torques.
Among other applications, rheometers of the RHEOTEST ® RN series are successfully used to study bitumen
for road construction of various grades and modifications. The device meets all the requirements for the
Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) for asphalt binder and bitumen according to international standards. Quality
problems during construction of roads in the whole world as well as qualitatively new asphalt (bitumen)
mixtures require also new, rheological justified measuring methods. Using a „DSR-Rheometer“ is prescribed
in different binding standards like ASTM D7175-08; ASTM D7405, DIN EN 14770 and PNST.
DSR Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN including Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager completely meets
requirements to the DSR-Rheometer stated in following binding standards:
• ASTM D 4402 / D4402 M, ASTM D7175, ASTM D7405,
• AASHTO T 316, AASHTO T 315, AASHTO M 320, AASHTO T 350, AASHTO M 332, AASHTO R 29,
AASHTO TP 101,
• DIN EN 13302, DIN EN 13702-1(-2), DIN EN 14896, DIN EN 14770, DIN EN 16659, FGSV AL DSR-
Prüfung (T-Sweep), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (MSCRT), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (konstante Scherrate),
• GOST 33137-2014, PNST 87-2016, PNST 85-2016, PNST 88-2016, PNST 82-2016, PNST 86-2016,
PNST 81-2016, PNST 89-2016.
2 Safety Instructions
• Read the Operation Manual before starting operation!
• Take care to ensure a stable and reliable standing of the instrument, because, in the case the instrument
might fall from a table, it would be seriously damaged.
• Never install the instrument in places, where it might be affected by occasional spills of liquids (e.g.
water)!
• Ensure sufficient distance to flammable of highly flammable items!
• Do not adjust or cover the fan, the air supply and discharge must be guaranteed!
• Unplug the power cord before opening the device!
• Connect the device to the voltage specified on the nameplate.
• The built-in gas spring must not be heated, nor be opened!
• In order to ensure safety, the instrument is equipped with the 3-pole plug of protective design, that
matches only mains’ plugs with grounded contact. This kind of connection must be obligatory. The
instrument corresponds to the protection class 1.
• Repairs may only be carried out by authorized persons. Only original parts are to be used!
• Take into consideration that, depending on the temperature set value, some parts of the casing of the
measuring plate are heated partially to a high temperature. It might result in burns in case of a contact.
Therefore, it is recommended to put on heat-insulating gloves during operating, especially during
applying of investigated material on the plate and replacement of the measuring system.
• The measuring system must only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid. The level of liquid
can be read at the coolant reservoirs (see fig.7). During operation, the coolant reservoirs should be filled
to lower edge of screwing-on cap threading. The device must be switched off if there are any leaks!
• The measuring system consists of the stainless-steel brands 1.4305, 1.4057. The material of sealing
(cylinder measuring systems) consists of Fluorine rubber (FKM) with trading designation VITON®. For
special cases it is possible to request the use of other sealing materials.
• By using of heat transfer fluid please pay attention to the safety data sheet.
7
• The basic plate with automatic distance adjustment consists of moveable parts. For avoiding injuries,
please apply samples only during standstill of the device.
Attention!
The instrument should not be put into service in case of considerable external damages or heavy
noise during operation.
3 Scope of Supply
3.1 Scope of Supply for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN
The measuring instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN includes:
• basic instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN (measuring head with highly dynamic measuring drive and
coupling for measuring systems, stand, gas spring and U-shaped support, control unit for power supply,
control of measuring drive, data registration and communication, power cable, USB-Interface cable);
• measuring systems (cylinder– and/or cone/plate and/or plate/plate) - according to the specific order; an
overview of all measuring systems supplied with the instrument is presented in the Overview Measuring
Systems;
• installation data carrier with the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager for CR-, CS-, OSC-Tests and with
module for temperature control - by concrete order;
• packaging;
• user manual;
• PC and accessories (have to be ordered separately).
3.2 Scope of Supply for DSR Bitumen Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN
The scope of supply for a DSR – bitumen rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN consists of:
• Basic instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN;
• Peltier temperature control unit RHEOTEST ® PP (with power cable and USB-Interface cable) incl.
tempered adapter for measuring systems cone-plate / plate-plate;
• Peltier basic plate, two-sided tempered;
• basic plate support;
• exchangeable plate Ø 25 mm;
• exchangeable plate Ø 8 mm ;
• exchange grip;
• measuring plate P3 (Ø 25mm);
• measuring plate P4 (Ø 8mm);
• set of trimming tools (1 spatula, 1 stripper gripper);
• set of rubber moulds;
• Phobya’s coolant with corrosion protection, if distilled water is used as a coolant. This agent must be
diluted with water in the ratio: 5% of the agent and 95% of the water.
4 Unpacking and Checking
After removing the device and accessories of packaging, please check their completeness according to the
attached delivery note.
In case of any transport damage, the carrier and RHEOTEST must be notified and receive a damage report.
Before starting the operation read the Safety Instructions!
8
5 Technical Manual
5.1 Technical Specifications Rheometer
torque range, mNm 0,1 … 150
torque resolution, mNm 0,001
angle range, µrad 0 … 5·10 6
angle resolution, µrad 11,87
angular velocity range, rad/s 0 … 210
speed, rpm 0 … 2000
speed resolution, rpm 0,015
angular frequency range, rad/s 6,28·10 -5 … 628
frequency range, Hz 0,001 ... 100
temperature range, °C – 60* … +375**
temperature range Peltier for PP4, °C –10 … +180***
temperature range Peltier for PP5, °C –15 … +180***
temperature resolution, °C 0,01
normal force range, N – 30 … 30
normal force resolution, N 0,01
electrical supply from the AC mains:
- voltage, V 110 … 240
- frequency, Hz 49 ... 61
power consumption, not more than, W 660
dimensions (length, width, height), not more than, mm
- basic instrument 235 x 240 x 570
- control unit 130 x 295 x 350
- Peltier control unit 180 x 300 x 460
weight (net), kg
- basic instrument 13,5
- control unit 9,6
- cable 0,5
- Peltier control unit 11,5
- adapter 1,7
- plate/plate measuring system 8
Note: The power supply must be protected with a maximum of 10 A!
Notes:
* For measurements at temperatures below –15°C an external cryostat is required.
** The temperature range depends on the tempering system.
*** When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature
control for basic plate, the following coolants are recommended:
temperature range from -15°C to +120°C (from -10°C in the case of PP4) – coolant distilled
water (with corrosion inhibitor Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme);
temperature range from 0°C to +180°C – coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ® X-
T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).
When using the rheometer with the cylinder measuring systems and Peltier temperature
control, the following coolants are recommended:
temperature range from -15°C to +150°C – coolant distilled water (with corrosion inhibitor
Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme);
temperature range from -5°C to +180°C – coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ®
X-T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).
9
5.2 Rheometer Basic Instrument
5.2.1 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an automatic distance adjustment (Figure 1)
The rheometer (Figure 1) consists of a measuring drive (1), which is fastened by means of the knurled screw
(2) on the stand. The test drive is equipped with a quick coupling (3) for measuring systems like rotors, cones
or plates. With this quick coupling measurement systems can be changed quickly and easily.
The coupling (4) is used for fixing the adapter (6), for cone and plate measuring systems (or for fixing
measuring cups of cylinder measuring systems). The mechanism of the adapter is described in Adapter for a
Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment. The coupling of the adapter or measuring cup is performed
by turn of the ball handle (5).
For measuring of samples, a Peltier-temperated basic plate (12) including located exchangeable plate (7) is
used. The basic plate is firmly connected with the basic plate guide (10). The basic plate guide is fixed by a
knurled screw (9) at the guidance rod of the stand. The stand (11) allows a stepless adjustment of the working
height of the measuring drive.
In the case of a device with an automatic distance adjustment, a two-sided temperature control of the sample
is carried out. The plate-plate distance setting is a part of the job to perform the measurements and is done
automatically.
Figure 1 Basic Instrument with an Automatic Distance Adjustment
10
5.2.2 Adapter for a Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment
The adapter (Figure 2) serves to ensure a uniform temperature distribution of the specimen. The adapter
consists of a mounting (1) for the connection with the coupling. Furthermore, the adapter has a window ring
(4), which can be rotated by means of a ball handle. Thereby, it’s possible to turn an opening at a desired
location (e.g. for sample trimming). During the measurements the opening has to be turned backwards to
close the measuring chamber. In this measuring position the upper tempering plate (2) will be lowered to
reach an optimal tempering position. In this position, with the help of the windows (5) can be looked into the
measuring chamber. The hose connections (6) and the electric connections (7) are combined to the
corresponding connectors in Figure 1 (8).
Figure 2 Adapter for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an Automatic Distance Adjustment
5.2.3 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a Fixed Basic Plate
The rheometer (Figure 3) consists of a measuring drive (1), which is fastened by means of the knurled screw
(2) on the stand. The test drive is equipped with a quick coupling (3) for measuring systems like rotors, cones
or plates. With this quick coupling measurement systems can be changed quickly and easily.
The coupling (4) is used for fixing of measuring cup for cylinder measuring systems and of adapter for cone
and plate measuring systems. The coupling of the adapter or measuring cup is carried out by turning of the
coupling (4) by means of the ball handle (5).
The basic measuring plate (7) is tempered either by a Peltier tempering system or by another external
thermostat. The basic plate can be equipped with a fixable exchangeable measuring plate for a quick cleaning
and sample replacement.
The basic plate (7) lies on the basic plate support (11), which is fixed on the basic plate guide (12) with a
knurled screw (8). The basic plate guide is fixed by a knurled screw (9) at the guidance rod of the stand.
The resilient spring pins (10) are used for correct positioning of the basic plate and locking of the whole
measuring system. To check the gap between measuring plate and basic plate, a microindicator (13) is used.
The basic plate can be moved upward and downward with the micrometer screw (14).
The stand (15) allows a stepless adjustment of the working height of the measuring drive.
11
Figure 3 Basic Instrument with a Fixed Basic Plate
5.2.4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate
In some laboratories (e.g. in road construction laboratories) a large number of samples need to be measured
daily. Therefore, a special plate system for quick replacement was constructed. As a result, much working
time for sample preparation and cleaning can be saved.
The system of exchangeable measuring plate is shown in Figure 4 and consists of a base (1), an
exchangeable plate (2) and a grip (3). If necessary, additional exchangeable plates can be supplied on
request.
To decouple the exchangeable plate, place the exchange grip perpendicularly to the exchangeable plate on
the holder - small cuboid at the edge (see Figure 4). Thereby push the opening at the front of the exchange
grip into the holder so that the pin at the end of the grip points towards the exchangeable plate. Then, turn the
grip with the exchangeable plate to the right (counter clockwise). Now the exchangeable plate can be
removed upwards.
Note: The grip and the exchangeable plate should not be rotated 180°, both can get in touch to the hand and
cause burns.
To connect and fix the exchangeable plate to the basic plate, set up the plate centric on the holder and turn
fixed the grip to the left (clockwise). In this case, turn the exchangeable plate until a stop is reached. If
pressed lightly in the opposite direction, the plate should not come off immediately. Then the grip may again
have turned upwards and be pushed forward slightly for removing.
12
Figure 4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate
A basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment with an exchangeable measuring plate and the test
sample is shown in Figure 5. The test specimen is applied on the lower plate. For the DSR - Bitumen
rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN two exchangeable plates with the diameters of Ø25 mm and Ø8 mm belong to
the scope of supply. More exchangeable measuring plates are available upon request.
Figure 5 Plate-plate Measuring System with a Basic Plate with an Automatic Distance Adjustment
5.2.5 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with cylindrical measuring systems
The rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a cylindrical measuring system is shown in Figure 6. The device
consists of the measuring drive (1), which is fastened to the stand with the knurled screw (2). The measuring
drive is equipped with a quick connecting coupling (3) for rotors, measuring cones or measuring plates. With
the help of this coupling, the measuring systems can be changed quickly and easily.
With the help of the coupling (4) the measuring cup (7) with the examined sample can be attached to the
device. To fix the measuring cup turn the ball handle (5) to the right.
In order to couple the rotor (6) to the measuring drive (1), it is necessary to insert the rotor head into the
conical opening of the quick connecting coupling (3) with the coupling sleeve pulled up and then let the sleeve
slide back. Subsequently, the entire measuring head with cylinder measuring system can be inserted into the
temperature control vessel (8).
When working with rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN and cylindrical measuring systems, it is possible to use both:
the thermostating with an external liquid thermostat (the thermostating vessel is shown in Figure 6 on the left)
and the thermostating with the Peltier technique (Figure 6 on the right).
13
Figure 6 Rheometer with cylinder measuring system. On the left: a vessel for the thermostating with a
liquid thermostat. On the right: Peltier thermostated vessel.
Note: For ease of use and cleaning the measuring cup is fitted with a screw cap. To assemble this special
closure, introduce it into the lower opening of the measuring cup and held in place by turning the thumbscrew
(see Figure 7). To clean the measuring cup, the screw cap can be removed.
Figure 7 Measuring cup with a screw cap
Note: When measuring bitumen, polymer-modified bitumen and other difficult-to-clean materials, it is
recommended to use disposable measuring vessels.
14
5.3 Control Unit
The on/off switch (1) is located on the front panel of the instrument (Figure 8). On the back side the following
connectors are located: connector for the temperature sensor Pt100 (2), interface connection to the computer
(3), two connectors to the basic plate (4), two connectors to the rheometer (5) and mains connection with
security (6).
Figure 8 Rheometer Control Unit
15
5.4 Overview Measuring Systems
5.4.1 Cylinder Measuring Systems
H-Form: HS, H1, H2, H3, H4
S-Form: S1, S2
rotor HS (measuring cup G1)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
rotor diameter: 37,4 mm
rotor length: 54 mm
filling level: 30 ml
recommended viscosity range: 5...10 4 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,67...6700 s -1
gap: 0,3 mm (minimum)
rotor H1 (measuring cup G1)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
rotor diameter: 36 mm
rotor length: 70 mm
filling level: 30 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,2...2000 s -1
gap: 1 mm
rotor H2 (measuring cup G1)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
rotor diameter: 27,5 mm
rotor length: 70 mm
filling level: 55 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,04...400 s -1
gap: 5,25 mm (maximum)
rotor H3 (measuring cup M1)
measuring cup diameter: 18 mm
rotor diameter: 16 mm
rotor length: 35 mm
filling level: 5 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,1...1000 s -1
gap: 1 mm
rotor H4 (measuring cup M1)
measuring cup diameter: 18 mm
rotor diameter: 12 mm
rotor length: 18 mm
filling level: 5 ml
recommended viscosity range: 200...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,04...400 s -1
gap: 3 mm
rotor S1 (measuring cup G1)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
rotor diameter: 35,04 mm
rotor length: 52,56 mm
filling level: 35 ml
recommended viscosity range: 20...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,13...1300 s -1
gap: 1,48 mm (standard)
rotor S2 (measuring cup M1)
measuring cup diameter: 18 mm
rotor diameter: 16,6 mm
rotor length: 24,9 mm
filling level: 5 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,13...1300 s -1
gap: 0,7 mm
SD-Form: SD1, SD2
rotor SD1 (measuring cup G1)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
rotor diameter: 35,04 mm
rotor length: 52,56 mm
filling level: 35 ml
recommended viscosity range: 20...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,13...1300 s -1
gap: 1,48 mm (standard)
rotor SD2 (measuring cup M1)
measuring cup diameter: 18 mm
rotor diameter: 16,6 mm
rotor length: 24,9 mm
filling level: 5 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 5 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,13...1300 s -1
gap: 0,7 mm
16
5.4.2 Cone/Plate and Plate/Plate Measuring Systems
cones: K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, K7, K8
cone К1
diameter: 36 mm; angle: 0,3°
gap adjustment: 10 μm*; filling capacity: 0,074 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10...10 6 mPa s
shear rate range: 2...20000 s -1
cone К2
diameter: 12 mm; angle: 0,3°
gap adjustment: 10 μm*; filling capacity: 0,003 ml
recommended viscosity range: 500...10 8 mPa s
shear rate range: 2...20000 s -1
cone К3
diameter: 36 mm; angle: 1°
gap adjustment: 50 μm*; filling capacity: 0,264 ml
recommended viscosity range: 50...10 7 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,6...6000 s -1
cone К4
diameter: 12 mm; angle: 1°
gap adjustment: 50 μm*; filling capacity: 0,014 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10 3 ...10 8 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,6...6000 s -1
cone К5
diameter: 36 mm; angle: 5°
gap adjustment: 360 μm*; filling capacity: 1,435 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 8 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,12...1200 s -1
plates: P1, P2, P3, P4, P7
plate P1
diameter: 36 mm
gap adjustment: 0,5 mm*; filling capacity: 0,509 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 8 mPa s
plate P2
diameter: 12 mm
gap adjustment: 0,5 mm*; filling capacity: 0,057 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10 3 ...10 9 mPa s
plate P3
diameter: 25 mm
gap adjustment: 1 mm*; filling capacity: 0,491 ml
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 8 mPa s
plate P4
diameter: 8 mm
gap adjustment: 2 mm*; filling capacity: 0,101 ml
recommended viscosity range: 5000...10 10 mPa s
plate P7
diameter: 70 mm
gap adjustment: 0,5 mm*; filling capacity: 1,924 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10...10 5 mPa s
cone К6
diameter: 12 mm; angle: 5°
gap adjustment: 360 μm*; filling capacity: 0,080 ml
recommended viscosity range: 10 3 ...10 9 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,12...1200 s -1
cone К7
diameter: 70 mm; angle: 1°
gap adjustment: 50 μm*; filling capacity: 1,760 ml
recommended viscosity range: 3...10 4 mPa s
shear rate range: 0,6...6000 s -1
cone К8
diameter: 70 mm; angle: 0,3°
gap adjustment: 10 μm*; filling capacity: 0,509 ml
recommended viscosity range: 1...10 4 mPa s
shear rate range: 2...20000 s -1
* -standard values; in practice, the values for gap adjustment may vary.
17
5.4.3 Special Measuring Systems
In addition to the standard measurement systems according to DIN 53018 and DIN 53019 (cylinder measuring
systems, cone/plate and plate/plate measuring systems P1 to P4) also special measuring systems can be
used. Special measuring tasks can be realized by those measuring systems, e.g. viscosity measurement of
strongly sedimenting suspensions. The main intention of using special measuring systems is to get
reproducible results. With special measuring systems, torque, speed, characteristics or relative viscosities can
be measured. The exact calculation of shear stress and shear rate and its distribution is not possible.
vane rotors: F1, F2, F3, F4
vane rotor F1 (for measuring cup G1 or free rotating)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
vane diameter: 34 mm
without holes
(recommended for cosmetics, creams)
recommended viscosity range: 20...10 5 mPa s
vane rotor F2 (for measuring cup M1 or free rotating)
measuring cup diameter: 18 mm
vane diameter: 14 mm
without holes
recommended viscosity range: 100...10 5 mPa s
vane rotor F3 (free rotating, for glass vessel)
long stab
vane diameter: 34 мм
with holes
(recommended for suspensions, starch)
recommended viscosity range: 20...10 5 mPa s
vane rotor F4 (for measuring cup G1 or free rotating)
measuring cup diameter: 38 mm
vane diameter: 34 mm
with holes
(recommended for materials with solids and
suspensions)
recommended viscosity range: 20...10 5 mPa s
Crown sensor
For the investigation of plaster and masonry mortar and
other inhomogeneous products
Claw stirrer
For the investigation of highly solids-containing and
sedimenting materials to be measured
18
5.5 Peltier Tempering System
The precise rheological measurements require the exact keep of the defined temperature conditions for the
measurement method and the measuring material (as the lowest possible temperature gradient). For that
purpose, a highly accurate temperature measurement and a temperature control are necessary. Both can be
guaranteed through a two-sided, precisely controllable Peltier tempering of the measuring chamber, which can
be supplied complete with the rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN.
By using the basic plate an automatic distance adjustment, the upper tempering element is integrated into the
adapter and the lower temperature-regulating element is integrated into the base plate, immediately below the
exchangeable plate with the material to be measured.
5.5.1 Peltier Control Unit
The Peltier control unit assures power necessary for temperature control. It operates on the basis of a microprocessor.
The micro-processor fulfils all tasks regarding the regulation, safety control and software
communication. The software permits control of temperature changes in jump and in ramp.
The device can actively heat and cool.
The general view of Peltier control unit is shown in Figure 9. An LCD-Display (1) is located on the front panel,
which displays the following parameter: set temperature (top
left); actual temperature (top right); operation mode (down 100,00 Ist: 65,21
left): MAN = manual operation, REM = Remote, control via
PC; status indication (down center): START = tempering,
MAN START 65,2 %
STOP = Peltier is switched off; actual tempering in % (down
right).
The temperature can be regulated manually using the operation buttons (2). LED-Light (4) indicates an error.
The glow of the LED-lamp (5) means the heating mode, the LED-lamp (6) – the cooling mode. The coolant
reservoirs (7) is located on the front panel of Peltier control unit. On the top of the coolant reservoir is the
screw-on lid of the reservoir (3) for filling up the cooling liquid.
The on / off switch of the device (8) can be found on the lower side.
Following interfaces and connectors are arranged on the back side of the Peltier control unit: the interface
connection to the computer (9), connections for energy supply (10) and for Pt100 temperature sensor (11) for
connection with the basic plate, mains supply (12) and hose connections to the basic plate (13).
Please note that the hose connections (13) are arranged according to the appropriate label (1 or 2).
19
Figure 9 General View of Peltier Control Unit
5.5.2 Handling of Peltier Control Unit
Operation of the control unit is carried out with the help of four keys (2). Operation structure is divided into two
levels, i.e. each key has two functions. After switching on the device is on the upper user level. The upper
user level comprises commands UP, DOWN, START and STOP:
UP = increasing of set temperature;
DOWN = decreasing of set temperature;
START = starting control, for safety reasons, this button must be pressed for at least 3 seconds, the
display of operation mode changes from STOP to START;
STOP = finishing control or switching into upper control level if button is pressed for at least 3 seconds; in this
control level the set temperature can be set as well as start and stop control process (heating ON or OFF).
Change of a set value with the help of UP and DOWN keys:
Change begins always in decimal digit of a set value. Cursor jumps to the next higher digit (for example to the
unit digit or tens digit) in case of more long hold of key UP or DOWN. Approximately in 3 s cursor
automatically returns to the smallest digit. Entry must not be confirmed. The last entry is used.
Input of digital values:
Input of digits is possible only in case that entry option designated with an arrow (→) has been selected in
menu. Then by means of repeated press of NEXT key digits 1, 2, 3, ..., 9, 0, decimal point and minus sign are
displayed. It is necessary to press ENTER key to confirm selected digit or sign. After that one inputs the next
digit in the same way. The whole number and the end of input are confirmed by double press of ENTER key.
Note: Using this key combination, the device can be restarted from memory data even after a possible loss.
UP + DOWN
It displays software version number and temperature inside instrument
20
Note: The Peltier control unit may only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid*. The level of the
liquid can be read in the coolant reservoirs (7). During operation, the coolant inlet should be filled
to at least 50%.
5.5.3 Filling the Cooling Liquid
For a new installation or even after prolonged operation of the measuring station, it may be necessary to fill
the coolant*:
1. Connect the Peltier temperated basic plate with the Peltier control unit. When using the basic plate with an
automatic distance adjustment, make sure the hose connections are correctly connected (1 – 1; 2 – 2).
2. Connect Peltier control unit to the network, but still not switch it on.
3. Remove the screw cap from the coolant supply (3).
4. Fill the coolant reservoir (7) with the coolant full, till the lower edge of the screw-in thread.
5. Switch on the Peltier control unit while pressing the UP / NEXT key. This will start a special fill mode.
The fluid is sucked cyclically and must be continuously refilled (approx. 1l) until the fill level remains
constant at the lower edge of the screw-in thread.
6. Then press the DOWN / ESC key to return to normal operating mode. If the pumps are not activated
when the control unit is switched on (a ventilator noise should be heard), set a low temperature (for
example 10°C) and start the temperature control for a few seconds. After the pumps have started, the
temperature control must be deactivated again (press the STOP button, the pumps should still continue
running).
7. Careful tilt the Peltier control unit forward and backward to remove any remaining air from the hoses.
Make sure that the temperature control fluid cannot run out from the coolant reservoir.
8. Turn the cylinder- (PCS) but especially the plate-plate- (PP) temperature control system about 180° to
remove any remaining air from the tubing. While turning, make sure that the coolant reservoir is always
filled to about ¾.
9. If there are no more air bubbles in the coolant reservoir, the cap (3) can be screwed on (closed) again.
* as a coolant we recommend to use:
When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for
basic plate, for temperature range from -15°C to +120° and by using the rheometer with the cylinder
measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for the temperature range from -15°C to +150°C
- a distilled water with corrosion protection Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme (this agent must be diluted with
water in the ratio: 5% of the agent and 95% of the water).
When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for
basic plate, for temperature range from 0°C to +180°C and by using the cylinder measuring systems
and Peltier temperature control for the temperature range from -5°C to +180°C
– coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ® X-T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).
21
6 Startup
6.1 Instrument Installation
Install the measuring station in a location, that satisfies the following conditions:
• safe position for basic instrument Rheometer (measuring drive, stand, control unit and cable 1,5 m);
• do not cover the ventilation holes on the backside of the control unit;
• connection between PC and control unit: data cable ca. 2m length;
• position the Peltier control unit on another surface to avoid vibrations.
The working environment of the measuring place should not be extremely hot, cold or clammy. We
recommend working at normal room temperature. Please avoid conditions and rooms where temperature and
humidity are extremely changing.
Always protect the device (complete measuring place) from:
• dirt and dust;
• direct sunlight;
• heat emitting objects (e.g. heaters);
• objects with high electromagnetic field (e.g. loudspeaker, motor);
• fluids and corrosive chemicals.
6.2 Instrument Connection
6.2.1 Connection of the Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment
Couple the upper tempering
• If it’s not already delivered accordingly, turn the upper tempering so, that the ashlar-formed part of the
adapter is located between the stand rods and place it on the ring of basic Peltier Plate with temperature
control;
• the hose, which is located closer to the gas pressure spring, should be bypassed left from the spring,
another one – on the right, rotate the ball handle of the coupling to the left;
• free the knurled screw (2) (Figure 1) and push the measuring drive down till the coupling encloses the
adapter and block the adapter by turning the ball handle to the right;
• plug the hose connections and connectors in lateral bushes of the basic plate (8) (Figure 1).
Making connections between the measuring drive and the control unit
• Connect for it two cables of measuring drive with two connectors to the rheometer (5) of the control
unit (Figure 8);
• furthermore, use two individual cables of the basic plate according to the number of pins to connect
with the control unit, use for it the connector to the basic plate (4) (Figure 8).
Connecting the mains cable
• The mains cable is to be joined to the control unit of the rheometer via the connector (6) (Figure 8).
Note: the cables, that are led with other hoses in a black hose, must be connected to the Peltier tempering.
Startup the plate-plate measuring system
• First, the Peltier-temperated basic plate is to be connected to the Peltier control unit, use for it two
coolant hoses of Peltier-temperated basic plate and put them into the sockets (13) (Figure 9) of the
Peltier control unit. Please note that the hose connections (13) are arranged according to the
appropriate label (1 or 2). The hose with the number 1 must be inserted into the hose connector 1 and
the hose with the number 2 – correspondent to the hose connector 2.
22
• Then contact the energy supply (10) and temperature sensor Pt100 (11) (Figure 9).
Connect power supply cable
• The mains cable is to be connected to the socket (12) of the Peltier control unit (Figure 9).
6.2.2 Connection of the Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate
• Connect the measuring drive to the control unit using two cables, placing them in the connections (5)
(Figure 8) in accordance with the number of contact pins;
• when using an external liquid thermostat, connect the thermostat to a personal computer using an
appropriate interface;
• connect the thermostat to a thermostatic vessel or to a basic measuring plate;
• connect the Pt 100 temperature sensor of the used measuring system to the control unit via the
interface (2) (Figure 8) or to the external sensor socket of the thermostat.
Connecting the mains cable
• The mains cable is to be joined to the control unit of the rheometer via the connector (6) (Figure 8).
Startup the plate-plate measuring system with Peltier tempering
• First, the Peltier-temperated basic plate is to be connected to the Peltier control unit, use for it two
coolant hoses of Peltier-temperated basic plate and put them into the sockets (13) (Figure 9) of the
Peltier control unit.
• Then contact the energy supply (10) and temperature sensor Pt100 (11) (Figure 9).
Connect power supply cable of Peltier tempering system
• The mains cable is to be connected to the socket (12) of the Peltier control unit (Figure 9).
6.2.3 Connection of Peltier Temperature Control System for Cylindrical Measuring Systems
• The thermostatic vessel for cylindrical measuring systems is connected to the Peltier control unit
(Figure 9) using four wires and hoses in a black sleeve. Connect the two coolant cables from the
thermostatic vessel to the corresponding hose connections (13) (Figure 9) on the Peltier control unit;
• Then contact the energy supply (10) and temperature sensor Pt100 (11) (Figure 9).
6.2.4 PC-Connections
• To connect the rheometer to a personal computer, use connector (3) on the rheometer control unit
(Figure 8) and the supplied USB cable;
• to connect the Peltier control unit to the PC, use also USB cable and PC interface (9) (Figure 9).
23
7 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager
7.1 System Requirements
For installation and working with the software, the following requirements have to be met:
• Personal Computer Windows XP SP3, Windows 7 or above;
• Microsoft.NET Framework 3.5 (normally included in operating system Windows);
• Processor: at least Pentium 4 or comparable, frequency of 1,7GHz or above;
• Working storage at least 1 Gbyte;
• The required hard disk space depends on the amount of data to be managed; through an optimal data
structure, the requirement on the hard disk is very low, and there are usually no restrictions due to low
disk store at the current PC systems;
• Either a USB interface or a CD-ROM drive is required for installation (depending on the supplied data
carrier);
• One USB interface for connection to rheometer;
• For temperature control system further USB interface (or COM port) is necessary;
• Optional printer port with printer.
7.2 Installation of the Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager
The software package is included in the data carrier and is installed under Windows.
Note: The software installation should be performed with administrator rights.
• Insert the USB stick into a USB port or insert CD-ROM into a free drive;
• In Windows start menu Run “disk drive:setup” OK or select drive with Explorer and start file SETUP.EXE;
• Perform further installation in accordance with the on-screen instructions, by default the RHEOTEST ® RN
5 Manager is installed in C:\RHEOTEST\RN5 Manager, access violations may occur when using other file
folder;
• Start the program in the Windows Start menu, select Programs RHEOTEST RN or from the desktop.
7.2.1 Login
To log on the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager, different logins with appropriate access rights are
available:
User name Password Rights
Operator no password execution of tests and access to created jobs and methods
Engineer engineer additional to operator, additional set up of communication and creating
of jobs and methods
Administrator rheotest additional to engineer, additional configuration of measuring systems,
creating of new measuring systems as well as change the system
language
7.2.2 Set up the Interfaces
• Switch on all devices;
• Start the program and login, for example, with user: „Engineer “; password „engineer “;
• Select and set up the interfaces for rheometer RHEOTEST RN as well as optional for temperature control
in menu „Settings “– „Communication Settings... “.
• See for it section Communication Settings.
24
8 Test Preparation and Measurement
8.1 Use Cone- Plate / Plate-Plate Measuring Systems
8.1.1 Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment
The rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment is described in the section 5.2.1 and is shown in Figure
1 and Figure 10. Such a device allows an automatic adjustment of the distance between measuring plates,
automatic measurement of normal force and automatic realization of the measurement. The user needs to
follow the on-screen instructions that appear during the experiment.
Figure 10 Basic Instrument with an Automatic Distance Adjustment
To use the basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment, it must be connected to the RHEOTEST ® RN
basic instrument. In principle the procedure is described below.
1. Loosen the knurled screw (9) (Figure 9) and move the plate guide (10) upwards until the distance
between the plate guide and the stand base is approx. 8 to 10 cm. This distance is shown in Figure 11 on
the left with the double arrow.
25
Figure 11 Installation of the Plate Guide
2. Place the basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment on the plate guide. For this, the knurled
screw of the basic plate must first be loosened and unscrewed (about 1 cm). By the subsequent insertion
of the basic plate, its coupling must rest on the small surfaces of the plate guide (Figure 11 right).
3. Tighten the knurled screw of the basic plate (Figure 12 left). Thereby the V-shaped gap between the basic
plate coupling and the plate guide disappears (Figure 12 right).
Figure 12 Touchdawn the Basic Plate on the Plate Guide
4. Loosen the knurled screw on the plate guide (9) (Figure 10) and lower the basic plate until it is resting on
the work surface (Figure 13).
26
Figure 13 Setting up the Basic Plate on the Work Surface
27
8.1.2 Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate
8.1.2.1 Preparing the Measurement
1. Before the first use, fix the temperature controlled basic plate support (11) by knurled screw (8) (at the
backside) at the basic plate guide (12) (Figure 14). The basic plate support (11) has to lie on the left
and right stopper.
2. Clean the measuring cone (plate) and the basic plate (7) with appropriate solvent and dry them.
3. Insert basic plate (7) into the basic plate support (11) in the following manner: insert the basic plate (7)
(thermostat branch pipes look forward) into the basic plate support, turn 90 (thermostat branch pipes
look left) and put it onto the joint spring pins (10).
Figure 14 Basic Instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with manually adjustable basic plate
4. Close the opening of adapter (6) by keep turning the window Square (opposite the stainless-steel base)
until the opening if the ring window is closed. Turn the closed opening in direction of stand (15) and
place the adapter on the upper ring of basic plate (7). In showing to the left ball handle (5), push up the
basic plate guide (12) incl. Basic plate and adapter. Lock it by turning the ball handle (5) into to the right
direction.
Thereafter, the opening of the adapter can be rotated by hand to the front, as shown on Figure 15.
28
Figure 15 Adapter
5. Again, move down the measurement plate guide without the adapter (6).
6. Couple cone (plane) with measuring drive - to do this, lift the bushing of the quick connecting coupling
(3), insert the ball head of the cone (plate) into the cone opening of the quick connecting coupling and
pull down the bushing.
7. Set the basic plate (7) into its lower position, turning the micrometer screw (14) left.
8. Push the basic plate guide upwards on the pillars of the stand (15) – until it stops at the adapter.
9. a. Fix measuring head (1) with the help of knurled screw (2) on the stand. Hold the basic plate
guide (12) up, until the basic measuring plate (7) touches the adapter (6). Then press the plate guide up
to the adapter (6) to ensure that joint spring pins (10) are imbedded into the plate support (11)
(displacement about 3 mm) and fix by the knurled-head screw (9) or:
b. Fix the basic plate guide (12) by the knurled screw (9) in the lower part of the stand (15). Put
down the whole measuring head (1) until the joint spring pins (10) are imbedded (displacement about 3
mm) when the adapter and the basic plate come in contact and fix by the knurled screw (2).
8.1.2.2 Adjusting the Gap Between Cone (Plate) and Basic Plate
1. The microindicator (13) serves to control the distance between the plates in m range (13). If
necessary, to ease off clamp screw on micro-indicator shaft, to lift indicator along longitudinal axis in
order to use measuring range completely.
2. Move the basic plate (7) by micrometer screw (14) carefully upwards (turning right), until basic
plate will nearly touch the cone (plate).
Note: The gap has to be set only for completely tempered measuring device, because the gap can
change (thermal expansion). In the case of large temperature changes (therm al expansions), the cone,
plate or measuring shaft bearings might be destroyed.
Note: The touch of cone (plate) and basic plate cannot be felt at the micrometer screw (14), but only to
existing torque on the cone (plate). The cone (plate) does not longer rotate freely.
3. In the Software RN 5 Manager are the Jobs in the job group “gap” available as an assistance by the
gap adjusting. These jobs contain the word “gap” in their names, for example Job „gap_P3“ for the
measuring plate P3. These Jobs serve for gap adjustment including recommended trimming distance.
4. Establish readiness for measurement (see chapter Preparing the measurement);
5. Select correspondent Job (e.g.„gap_P3)“ in Job tree gap (column left);
6. For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in Sample Definition and
click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“,
enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“
(waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”;
7. The screen will display:
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8. Enter the desired temperature (start temperature of following test) and click the button OK: the screen
will display:
9. Follow the instructions on the display; after clicking OK, the measuring plate starts to rotate at 10 rpm;
10. After running of the first data, click (to see in window Information, right: receive data:) on the tab
Chart. Move the basic plate by rotating the micrometer screw counterclockwise carefully up. You
recognize the contact point by increasing the torque (about 0,1 ... 0,3 mNm);
11. Set the display of microindicator (13) by turning the outer black ring to zero;
12. Then, adjust the gap (including trimming distance), rotating the micrometer screw and removing the
plates from each other to the required distance.
Note: In the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager, the value for the trimming distance (e.g.: 0.05 mm) is
predetermined. This has to be set in addition to the gap (e.g. for the measuring plate P3 the distance will be
1.05 mm).
13. Cancel/finish the Job by pressing the button „Cancel Analysis“ under the tab Job.
Note: For inspection, check the gap between the plates after every 10 measurements or once a day.
14. Lower the basic measuring plate downwards or raise the measuring drive, disconnecting again the
cone / plate and basic plate from each other.
8.1.2.3 Performing the Measurement
1. Clean the measuring cone (plate) and basic plate with a suitable solvent and dry before the
measurement;
2. Move the measuring head (1) back to the basic plate (7). For it, carry out the steps 8a or 8b.
3. Create or select an appropriate Job in the Job tree (column left);
4. For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition
and click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“,
enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting
until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”;
5. The following notification will be displayed as a reminder to set the zero point:
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6. After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings the gap and trimming distance and will
display:
7. It is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material
should be removed.
Note: The trimming temperature may differ from the measurement temperature.
The following indication appears on display:
8. Please, enter the required temperature and press OK. After clicking OK, the program asks you to
place and trim a sample and will display:
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9. Place the sample centric on the basic plate. Application of the sample depends on kind of different
substances by dropping or covering at the center of the basic plate (7).
Note: The gap must be completely filled.
10. Trim the sample. The sample can be trimmed with a spatula or a trimming tool (available on request) -
the excess material to be measured will be removed. The trimming tool is used, as shown on the
Figure 16.
Figure 16 Trimming of the Sample with a Trimming Tool
11. Lay the stripper gripper flat on the basic plate. The inward facing ends are applied to the measuring
plate. By simultaneously pressing the brackets and pulling forward the tool, the excess material is
removed.
12. To ensure all-sided trimming of the sample, the opening of the adapter can be rotated forward (see
Figure 15). After trimming, the window is to turn back again to make ready for measurement. After
trimming, the opening has to be turned back again to make ready for measurement.
13. After clicking OK, the program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will
display:
14. After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the
information window. When the measured data came (see Information window), they can be also
displayed in the Chart and in the Table. The measured values can be viewed and / or evaluated in the
Report.
15. After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2), simultaneously lift the quick
connecting coupling (3) and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic
plates.
16. Subsequently, new sample is applied and after the plate was hitched again, a new measurement can
be started.
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8.2 Use Cylinder Measuring Systems
When working with rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN and cylindrical measuring systems, it is possible to use both:
the thermostating with an external liquid thermostat (the thermostating vessel is shown in Figure 17 on the
left) and the thermostating with the Peltier technique (Figure 17 on the right).
The vessel for cylindrical measuring systems thermostated with Peltier element is shown in Figure 17 on the
right. When using with one rheometer simultaneously cylinders and measuring systems plate-/cone-plate with
Peltier thermostating, both systems are connected to the same Peltier control unit (see Peltier Tempering
System). When replacing the measuring system, it is necessary to reconnect the two cables of the
temperature control system to the connectors 10, 11 and two hoses of the heat-transfer fluid into the
connectors 13 (Figure 9). The corresponding Peltier temperature control system will be automatically detected
and the corresponding set of temperature calibration constants becomes available during the measurement.
Figure 17 Rheometer with cylinder measuring system. On the left: a vessel for thermostating with a liquid
thermostat. On the right: Peltier thermostated vessel
Working with cylinder measuring systems
1. Before filling the measuring cup of cylinder measuring device, carefully clean it with appropriate solvent
and dry it.
2. After cleaning, fill it with media measured in quantities prescribed (see Overview Measuring Systems).
3. Couple rotor (6) (Figure 17) with the measuring drive (1) - to do this, insert the rotor cone head into cone
opening of quick connecting coupling (3), the coupling bushing is to be in the upper position. Then, shift
the bushing down.
4. Free the measuring cup coupling (4), the ball headed handle (5) is to be turned left, as shown in Figure
17.
5. Carefully assemble the filled measuring cup (7) over the rotor (6) up to the stopper (the vessel yet has to
rotate easily in the stopper).
6. Fix the measuring cup at the stopper, turning right the ball headed handle (5).
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7. After that, you can insert the whole drive of cylinder measuring device down into the temperature control
vessel (8). Fix the measuring drive on the stand with the knurled screw (2). Carry out measurements
after the necessary tempering of sample. After measurements disassemble is carried out in reverse
order.
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9 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager
9.1 User Interface
The software RHEOTEST RN 5
Manager corresponds to general
standards of MICROSOFT ® Windows
programs. After starting the program,
the login window appears. Additional
enquiry could appear concerning
thermostat activation depending upon
settings. After this user interface
appears.
1 – Main menu
2 – Inlays
3 – Job tree
4 – Sample tree
9.1.1 Inlays
Presentation is organized in inlays of
settings and analysis results. They
could be selected by pressing name of an inlay.
• Job: It is shown certain job and settings of the actual selected sample, control keys to begin an analysis
and detailed information about selected sample at the moment.
• Table: Table of data is shown in accordance with the settings.
• Chart: Chart is shown in accordance with the settings.
• Report: Report data are shown as statistic evaluation or calculated rheological parameters.
• Method: It is shown job method or methods in methods’ library.
9.1.2 Tree for Jobs, Samples and Methods
Designators for two trees are at the left side of window in RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager. They
are independent of the selected inlay for job, table, plot or report.
Through the upper tree it is possible to select a job in jobs’ group that should be presented.
The corresponding image will be activated and active sample will be shown from the selected
job after click.
It is possible to select active sample in the job in the low structural tree.
After selection the corresponding image will be active and data for all tests will be shown.
It is necessary to click + sign in front of sample name, if it is necessary to display only one
test. After this individual tests will be listed. If only one test is selected, so only those datas
are shown in table or graph.
Width and height of structural trees could be adjusted, if necessary.
Methods groups with their methods will be shown at upper tree, if display is activated of
methods library. Method with its settings will be shown after click.
9.1.3 Help System
The software gives context help on the basis of the Operating Manual.
This has advantage that information from Operating Manual corresponds to information in
Online-Help.
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Prerequisite for this function is the fact that Operating Manual (PDF document) is in catalogue where program
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager is installed. It includes also right language of the Operating Manual.
The following documents are necessary:
German: BA_De-RN-Manager.pdf
English: BA_En-RN-Manager.pdf
Russian: BA_Ru-RN-Manager.pdf
Error massage will be shown, if the required file would not be found.
Own standard Windows programs are used for information presentation.
The program tries to show the help file in Acrobat Reader.
Note
It is recommended to install Acrobat Reader at computer for optimal help presentation. One could load it from
Internet free of charge.
The program tries to use Internet Explorer, if Acrobat Reader is not installed at computer. Help file is
transferred to Windows system, if it is not possible. In this case Windows tries to find appropriate program.
One should activate the required element for selection of necessary help information. It could be done by click
or by “simple jump” with the help of TAB key. After this one presses F1 key.
Now the Operating Manual will be opened at that page which contains information concerning the required
element.
A further possibility but only available in dialog window, is to use the help-button [ ? ] top right.
After pressing the button, the cursor becomes a question mark. Now you can select the desired
item by clicking on it. The help appears immediately.
The page always will be presented from the top. However the required information could be at the foot of the
page. It is necessary to scroll content of the page downward manually.
9.2 Job
1 – Job tree
2 – Sample tree
3 – Active job definition; inlay behind
that contains further job settings
4 – Name of active sample
5 – Field of job execution
6 – Information about active sample
9.2.1 Definition
Job definition contains the job description and information about necessary components such as measuring
system and method.
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1 – Job Name: the job name should describe job’s theme. It makes easier the further search. In principal it is
possible to give the same name to many jobs. However, it could lead to confusion very quickly. Therefore, it is
not recommended.
2 – Method: it contains all necessary information for analysis carrying out. For this see Section Method.
Display of method list shows all available methods in the library at the moment. At that method name will be
shown and methods group after it. At present methods groups available in the library are set in Global
Settings.
Method data are saved in the job directly, that is changes in a method in the method library do not influence
the next measurement directly. Neither it is required that set method is available in the library. At this it is
possible to operate with a setting that was obtained and imported from external source, e.g. from engineer of
Rheotest Company.
It is necessary to press R key (see paragraph 5 – R (Reboot)), if you have changed method in the library and
want that this change works during the next measurement.
If a new method is selected from the list, request appears if it is necessary to take over the method’s units of
measurement. Each job and each method have their own settings of the units of measurement that should be
in accordance with the given measuring task.
The request makes it possible a selection, if it is necessary to keep the settings of the job units of
measurement or it is necessary to take over the settings of the job units of measurement from the method.
If you would like to change method that was imported from outside, it is necessary to copy it in the library
through Method to edit.
3 – Measuring System: measuring system that is used for sample measuring. Measuring system data are
copied at start of each measurement from the library of measuring systems. At that changes will be hold true
by every new measurement, e.g. calibration.
Message will appear and it is necessary to select another measuring system, if specified system is not in the
library.
4 – Comment Job: Always it is necessary to record here substantial comments concerning the job. It might be
information about the job’s task such as incoming inspection from supplier A, product B development or
monitoring of the production line XY.
It gives possibilities for other users of quick classification of jobs for their own tasks. Besides that this
information could be used for documentation in table heading, plot heading or in report heading.
5 – R (Reload): At that actual method’s settings will be copied from the library in the job. It has an influence on
all other changes. Button is active only in that case when the specified method could be accessed in the
library.
6 – Product Name: Product name that should be analyzed with the help of this job. However, this field could
be used also for equipment, supplier etc. This information could be used for documentation in table heading,
plot heading or in report heading.
7 – Job created: Date and time when the job was created or when the job was imported.
8 – Job changed: Date and time when the job was changed last time. It relates to all job’s settings.
9 – Last used: Date and time when the job was used last time. It relates to the start of a measurement. It is
unimportant, if the measurement of a sample was interrupted or deleted.
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9.2.2 Settings
Further job’s settings.
1 – Suppress Waittime in data: The first measured value is transferred from rheometer RHEOTEST ® to
computer after defined time depending upon method’s parameters used Trigger time and Time raster.
Measured values could be also presented / displayed starting from the moment when time = 0 with the help of
“Suppress Waittime in data”.
2 – Show Sample Collection: Data from the data list will be also shown at a plot in parallel to the actual data.
Data of the data list are set in chart settings. Data of the data list will be always shown with the line thickness
XS and appeared in legend with their set names. Colors and symbols correspond to colors and symbols of the
actual data.
3 – Osci-Correction: There is a possibility to correct the measuring data during data processing of oscillation
tests; in particular J-correction assumes inertia correction.
4 – Standard temperature: This temperature is set at the following conditions:
• if thermostat is used and it is ready for operation;
• if thermostat could assure this temperature;
• after finishing the measurement;
• after program start if it is indicated in the user settings.
5 – Copy Job to distant folder: The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the
development of the measurement on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement.
For this the function “Copy Job to distant folder” should be selected on the computer that controls the
measurement. Further an appropriate directory (distant folder) should be created and chosen, see for it
section User Settings. Furthermore the View distant job function is to mark on the distant computer.
6 – Show complete during analysis: This option is active in that case only when data list for this job will shown
also. This option acts during one measurement. Chart will be shown and scaled in accordance with the actual
data, if this option is inactive. This concerns X- and Y- axes.
Chart presentation and scaling is defined by the data from the data list before beginning of the measurements,
if this option is active. It means that, if the data list includes measuring results during 300 s the measuring
parameters will be shown completely during this 300 s. Actually, measured data will be added to this image
after analysis.
7 – Set temperature before analysis: For temperature-controlled tests this function enables to set the
necessary temperature for the analysis. If this function is marked, the window for temperature input arises
before measuring.
The temperature query (enter target temperature) is carried out before each test, so that a new temperature
can be set for each individual test. If the job name contains the components: “BINDER”, “RTFO”, “PAV”,
“PNST”, “T_SWEEP”, the query is omitted during the measurement before each individual test.
If the temperature control is activated in the method only in the first test (Const or Jump) and not in the
following tests (none), the query is omitted during the measurement before each individual test. The
temperature is however measured.
38
8 – use RN temperature only: Application of this option means that temperature value in the given
measurements will be temperature of an RN thermometer. Otherwise temperature is used measured by
thermostat. However it is possible only in that case when thermostat does not use RN-thermometer
(thermostat should have external sensor option).
Option “use RN temperature only” is useful when a large temperature difference could be expected between
thermostat bath and sample. It is also useful, if quick temperature changes could be expected. Temperature
request from thermostat is fulfilled with a cycle of 1 s. RN temperature is transferred actually with every data
set (minimum 12 ms cycle).
9 – use plate control: One can use this function to activate or deactivate the automatic movement of the lower
basic plate.
10 – Main print options: These settings determine printing, if inlay is displayed Job and File -> Page or File
View -> Printing. One could find details to these settings in Section Print Job.
9.2.3 Sample
Sample for analysis is described by the following data.
1 – Sample Name: This name will be shown in sample tree and could be used for documentation in table
heading, chart heading or in report heading. Name should be indicated before analysis start. Checking is
carried out at every analysis begin. However the name could be changed later.
In order to simplify work the name could be formed automatically, especially if there are a lot of similar
samples. For this see the next Section.
2 – Name Create Mode: It defines how sample name will be formed. Automatic name formation is necessary
for quick start. The following possibilities are at the disposal:
• manually: Sample name input at every analysis start. Quick start is impossible.
• Charge+Index (_000): Here the name will be formed from the charge names and increasing index. For
that the charge should be indicated necessarily. Index begins from 000 and the next free index is used. If
e.g. there are all samples up to the sample _006 and the sample _003 is deleted, the next sample will be
sample _003 and it will be located after the sample _006.
• DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM): The sample name corresponds to actual date and actual time in format YY-
MM-DD-HH-MM-SS (for example 2012-03-18-10:42).
• Charge+DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM): The sample name is formed from the indicated charge, actual date
and actual time (for example CD-Glue 2012-03-18-10:42). One obtains very good documented sample
name with this option.
3 – Comment Sample: Comment concerning the sample. Comment to the sample might be changed after
successful analysis.
39
4 – Charge: Name of analyzed charge. At that the charge could describe any other object such as for example
device, supplier, products line, monitoring name. The charge is necessary obligatory in case of using name’s
mode “Charge+Index” and “Charge+DateTime”. The charge could be used for documentation in table
heading, chart heading or in report heading.
5 – Operator Name: setting of operator name. It could be set manually. New recording is impossible before
analysis in case of quick start. The recording could be changed after analysis. It might be indicated in settings
of user control, if this information should be filled automatically at every analysis start.
6 – Sample created: Date and time of sample creation.
9.2.4 Actions
Job actions are related always to the actually selected job.
1 – New Sample: New sample will be prepared for analysis. It is possible only in that case when other sample
is not activated. Request appears after click, if it would be necessary to use available data. It relates first of all
to the sample name, charge and comment. These records will be deleted, if one answers “No” to the request.
Mode of sample name and user are saved.
Now new records could be done, for example a new charge should be analysed. These records will be saved
and will be valid from the beginning for the new sample also, if one answers “Yes” to the request. It is possible
to know about situation that a new sample was created by indication “Active” near button “New Sample”. Now
changes made in sample data will be related to the new sample. All changes in sample data will be in force for
the actual sample, if this mode is inactive at the present moment.
Request follows, if it is necessary to use this sample for a new analysis in special case when the last sample
does not contain any data. For new analysis will be used the last empty sample, if the answer to the request
will be “Yes”.
2 – Check + Create Sample: Input data and system will be
checked after this button pressed. New sample will be
created and data structure for this, if the check was
successful. In case of good creation an inscription “OK”
will be shown near the button “Check + Create Sample”. It
appears in Information message “Press button “Start
Analysis” and it appears new sample in the sample tree.
In other case it appears error message with information
what should be changed.
The following will be checked:
• is there the indicated measuring system in the library;
• are the tests carried out licensed;
• is the sample name set and relates to manual input;
• does the inputting sample name exist already and
relates to manual input;
• was the charge indicated and relates to the name input mode “Charge+Index” and “Charge+DateTime”;
• request about distance between plates; it relates to measuring systems plate-plate only.
3 – Start Analysis: Analysis begins after this button was pressed. Check is carried out. If a thermostat is used:
Connection with thermostat will be checked, if this is indicated in the method.
Then the analysis task will be sent to RHEOTEST RN control unit. After that it is necessary to wait as
RHEOTEST RN control unit sends data and analysis would be completed.
One could follow the sequence of this procedure at Information display.
4 – Easy Start: This version of analysis start is right for a lot of similar samples that are tested one after
another in a sequence. The sample will be prepared and analysis will be started. However start takes place in
that case only when all checks were successful. In other case error message appears.
5 – Cancel Analysis: Active analysis will be interrupted at once after pressing. It is possible to cancel analysis
at the stage of analysis preparation. It should be beard in mind that at this error message could appear that
communication is impossible.
After analysis interruption it would be proposed to delete it.
40
If communication between RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager and RN control unit has been interrupted but the
reliable data of analysis were already obtained, it is possible to interrupt the analysis and one could use data
obtained before this further.
It is possible to identify loss of communication by that feature that data transmission does not take place
during a long period of time. One could check it at Information display.
9.2.5 Information
Analysis status or sample content is shown at display. Analysis
status begins with the pressing button “New Sample” or “Easy
Start”. The actions fulfilled and their results will be displayed. If
one begins analysis in manual mode, but not easy start, so after
each operation instruction appears what to do next.
For example after pressing “Check+Create Sample” instruction
appears that it is possible to start analysis with the help of “Press
button “Start Analysis”.
Tests that are carried out and already obtained data packages
are displayed during analysis.
The sample content will be displayed from the point of view of available data in case of already measured
sample.
Measuring system in use and its data will be shown. These
values are used for further parameters calculation. Number of
tests carried out and list of tests will be shown. The list contains
test type and number of test points. It will be shown additionally
number of oscillations for oscillation tests.
9.2.6 Main Menu Job
9.2.6.1 New Job
New job is created in the jobs’ group that is active at the moment. At that this job could be created at any
place of jobs’ group. New job has name “New Job” from the beginning. At once direction appears that this
name should be changed possibly. See for that Job Name.
The job has the first measuring system from the library as a measuring system. Here it is necessary to select
actually used measuring system (in the Method).
Method is used that is active method from the library at the moment. One takes into account the manner of
action for the method creation that afterwards is attached to the job. In this case it is attached to the new job.
No other samples are yet available.
The job has default settings from the beginning for all its objects (tables, charts, report). These settings should
be adapted to your own requirements.
9.2.6.2 Copy Job
Selected job (in job’s tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Message appears, if
a job was not selected but for example only jobs’ group.
9.2.6.3 Paste Job
In case that job is in clipboard it will be added into actual position in job tree.
Inserted job obtains prefix “Copy of “.
It is recommended to give to this job a new proper name. In this way name input is activated. See for it Job
Name.
There are two variants to insert the job for choice:
• Paste Complete Job – It will be inserted the job with all samples. This possibility is useful, if
you want to reorganize the jobs or place them in other jobs groups.
41
• Paste Empty Job – It will be inserted the actual job only. Job’s samples will not be inserted
together with it. This possibility is useful, if you want to start available job with new samples. It
could be for example in that case when monthly you lay together samples for storage in one
job. At the beginning of the month the job is copied without samples and in name new month
is added (For example, Product_A_May2014). Now all samples for May could be analyzed.
Note: Jobs are inserted after the marked job. In order to obtain the job at the first place in the jobs group it is
necessary to mark the jobs group.
9.2.6.4 Delete Job
Delete of the marked job.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Deleted jobs go to the
Deleted Jobs folder in the directory C:\ RHEOTEST \ RN5 Manager.
If the job was deleted by mistake, you can restore it again. To do this, proceed as follows: copy the
deleted job from the folder Deleted Jobs and place it into the folder Transfers. Then, in the main menu
of the software, you need to point the place in the jobs-tree, where you want to insert the job being
restored. Then you need to go to the top menu Job, take the function Export/Import – Import Job and
choose the right job in the folder Transfer, press Open. The job is now restored and can be used.
There are two variants of deletion for choice:
• Delete Active – the marked job will be deleted
• Delete all in group – all jobs will be deleted in the actual jobs group. This possibility is used if
it is necessary to delete jobs’ group. It is possible in that case only when there are no other
jobs.
9.2.6.5 Samples -> New
This has the same effect as in job’s actions New Sample. It starts preparation of a sample manually (not Easy
Start).
9.2.6.6 Samples -> Copy
The marked sample (in sample tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard does not used. If any
sample is marked, message appears with indication.
9.2.6.7 Samples-> Paste
If sample is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in actual place in sample tree. The inserted sample has name.
However, it is recommended to give a new proper name. So, input of sample name will be activated.
9.2.6.8 Samples -> Delete
There are two variants of deletion for choice:
• Delete Active – the marked sample will be deleted
• Delete all in job – all samples will be deleted in the actual job. This possibility is used, if for
example copied job should be used for a new samples series.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
9.2.6.9 Table Settings -> Show…
Displays the table settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Table Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
42
9.2.6.10 Table Settings -> Copy
Table settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.2.6.11 Table Settings -> Paste
If table settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.
9.2.6.12 Chart Settings -> Show…
Displays the chart settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Chart Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.2.6.13 Chart Settings -> Copy
Chart settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.2.6.14 Chart Settings -> Paste
If there are chart settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job.
9.2.6.15 Report Settings -> Show…
Displays the report settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Report Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.2.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy
Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.2.6.17 Report Settings -> Paste
If there are report settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job.
9.2.6.18 Units settings -> Show…
Displays the units settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Units Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.2.6.19 Units settings -> Copy
Units settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
One can copy and paste units settings between Jobs and Methods.
9.2.6.20 Units settings -> Paste
If there are units settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job. It can be also units settings
for a method.
9.2.6.21 Method to Edit
Copies the method from the job into the method’s library and changes the display to the method’s library. The
copied method can be then found in the method’s group „xMethods-of-Jobs“.
It is possible to repeat this process.
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If there is a method in the method’s library, all functions of the method’s library can be applied. This method
could be shown for example in details, changed, copied or exported. The changed method can be also added
to the job again. For that it is necessary to select exactly this method (in method’s group “xMethods-of-Job”) in
the method’s selection.
Note: The method’s group “xMethods of Job” is not saved. After closing the program, these methods are not
available more. If the method of the job should be saved permanently, it is necessary to copy available
method’s group through Copy/Insert.
The procedure to copy the method from the job, to edit and insert it again into the job is only necessary, if you
get a job from outside and a method contained in it does not have its own method’s library.
9.2.6.22 Export / Import
The “Export / Import” functions are used for archiving data / files. For example, routine jobs where a lot of data
files (Samples) are accumulated can be archived at defined time intervals. For a better clarity, the
measurement data files (Samples) can be then deleted from the Job. This guarantees a secure and fast
operation of the RN 5 Manager.
IMPORTANT! It is strongly recommended, to export jobs with the measurement data regular via the
Export / Import function. First to the Transfer directory, and then copy these jobs from Transfer and
save it in a safe place on the computer. Than the saved samples can be deleted from RN 5 Manager to
ensure fast and problem-free operation of the software. We suggest to transfer and save the data after
every ten measurements and do not have more than ten samples in the job.
In addition, the “Export / Import” functions can be used for exchange the data / files. Thus, e.g. the Jobs of
user can be sent to RHEOTEST for rheological analysis.
9.2.6.22.1 Export / Import -> Export Job
The marked job is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this file accessible
for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this file could be archived for documentation. The file name
for the job file corresponds to the job’s name with the file’s extension “.rjb”.
If there is a file with the same name in the data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to
overwrite the file.
9.2.6.22.2 Export / Import -> Import Job
There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a job, a file
with the file’s extension “.rjb”, from this directory. This job is then inserted in a current position in the job tree. It
might be a new created job’s group or any position inside the existing job’s group. This job will have then the
same functionality as all other jobs.
It could be used for analysis of further samples or for data viewing already existing samples in it.
9.2.6.22.3 Export / Import -> Export Job-group
The marked job’s group is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this
directory completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this directory could be
archived for documentation. The directory name corresponds to the job’s group name.
If there is directory with the same name in data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to
overwrite the catalogue.
One could not change the content of a job’s group directory. Data safety and program stability could not be
guaranteed in case of any changes of directory content.
9.2.6.22.4 Export / Import -> Import Job-group
There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a directory
from this directory that is a job’s group for import. The name of the new job’s group corresponds to the
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directory name. Imported job’s group is inserted then after the marked job’s group in job tree. This job’s group
will have then the same functionality as all other jobs groups.
Available jobs could be used for further analysis. New jobs could be developed.
9.2.6.22.5 Explorer to folder Transfers
Explorer opens of Windows-Explorer that shows data transfer directory. This could be used in order to copy
necessary data or directories into the clipboard of Windows and for example to e-mail message.
9.2.6.23 View Distant Job
The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the development of the measurement
on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement. For this the function Copy Job to
distant folder in Job Settings should be selected on the computer that controls the measurement. Further an
appropriate directory (distant folder) should be created and chosen on both computers, see for it section
Distant Folder in User Settings. Furthermore, the function View distant folder is to mark on the distant
computer.
9.3 Table
Table view is used to display measured values and calculated parameters in the form of values list.
9.3.1 Table Display
If inlay “Table” is active, the measured values and calculated parameters of the active sample will be shown in
the form of a table. Data could not be changed. Selection of the displayed parameters is fulfilled in Table
Settings.
Table dimensions are adjusted to the dimensions of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window. Columns width
could be varied with the help of a mouse and will be saved. For that it is necessary to put cursor above the
column right border. As soon as arrow left-right appears one could set the column width left mouse button
pressed and hold.
Note: If the mouse is moved over the right column border, right-left arrow appears. If a double click is
performed in this state, the column width is adjusted automatically for optimal size.
9.3.2 Main Menu Table
9.3.2.1 Table Settings -> Show…
Displays the table settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Table Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.3.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy
Table settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.3.2.3 Table Settings -> Paste
If table settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.
9.3.2.4 Copy to Clipboard
The selected table cells of a selected sample are copied in the Windows clipboard. Then they could be
inserted in a document like Excel, Word.
If only one cell in the table was selected, complete table will be copied including the column headings. If some
table cells were selected, just they will be copied in the clipboard. Also, columns headings will be added here.
Table heading is not an integral part of the information copied.
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Note: If an overall view of the table is necessary, table heading and table data, one could do printing to file
(for example *.pdf) with the help of main menu “File” – “Print”. This file will be inserted then as an object (Insert
-> Object) in the desired document.
9.3.3 Table Settings
Settings for content and look of the table. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all
samples in this job. The settings are divided into five tabs: Table, Tests, Head, Print, Font. All changes made
will be rejected with the button Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be accepted and they
become actual ones with the help of OK button.
9.3.3.1 Table
1 – Number of Columns: one column
minimum and ten columns maximum are
possible.
2 – Column definition: the parameter to
display is defined for each column. The
same parameter can occur in several
columns. For parameter meaning see
section Appendix - Result. The column
width is adjusted automatically after
selection of a new parameter and exit from
the column.
Parameters imaging could be varied in user
settings in such a manner that there is
parameter’s name only, symbol only or
combination of both. See for that Appendix
– Heading data.
3 – Cancel: all changes will be rejected and
input display is closed.
4 – OK: all changes will be applied and input
display is closed.
9.3.3.2 Tests
1 – Tests: it is possible to select here the
tests that should be represented. This setting
is active only in that case when sample is
marked in sample tree. It means that all
available tests could be represented.
If only one test was selected in the sample
tree, this setting is ignored.
The setting is active during one analysis and in the following representation. It means that e.g. at one analysis
and one not activated 1 st test, any data will not be displayed as long as the 1 st test is carried out.
For example, the conditioning steps could be hidden with this option.
2 – Set All: all tests will be selected.
3 – Clear All: selection of all tests will be cancelled; data are not represented until the sample is selected.
Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.
9.3.3.3 Head
Table heading will be shown above the table itself. It could contain additional information to analysis.
This table heading could be configured for every job. In this case it is valid for all samples that are in the job.
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Table heading makes possible to display 9 different information which is located as a matrix of 3 columns and
3 rows.
1 – Column/Row: Information could be assigned from drop-out list for each field. See in Appendix – Heading
data details of this selection.
2 – Name: If this option will be marked,
then the selected marking will be shown
before information itself. So, it will be
displayed for example “Sample: Sample
Date” during selection of the sample date.
3 – free Texts: All texts could be saved
here that afterwards will be shown as
information in table heading. It makes
possible good documentation of analysis
results.
Settings shown at the figure will be
displayed in the table heading in the
following way:
9.3.3.4 Print
1 – add Job: After the table printout the
currently used job will be added.
2 – add Method: After the table printout the
currently used method will be added.
3 – add Chart: After the table printout the
current chart will be added.
4 – add Report: The current report can be
added to the printout.
5 – add Settings: The Table Settings will be
added.
All 5 options can also be selected in any
combination. See Print Table for that.
9.3.3.5 Font
In tab page Font you can select the font type
and font size for the table display. By default,
the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.
9.4 Chart
9.4.1 Chart Display
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If a bookmark “Chart” is active, the measured values and calculated parameters of the active sample will be
displayed as a chart. Any data could not be changed. The following main settings are possible: displayed
parameters, colours, lines thickness, marking, coordinate grid, scaling, linear/logarithmic and much more.
These settings take place in Chart Settings that could be displayed by a simple mouse click at a chart or could
be called through the main menu.
Chart dimension is adapted to the dimension of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window. Image is divided into
two areas, chart heading is above and chart itself is below. Chart heading will be shown only in that case
when this information has to be displayed. If any information was not defined for display in chart heading, this
area will be used for chart square.
The chart itself is depicted under the chart heading. It is possible to represent four parameters. The
corresponding scale is depicted to the right and to the left of the chart area. The names of the displayed data
series appear above the chart square, under the chart heading.
9.4.2 Main Menu Chart
9.4.2.1 Chart Settings -> Show…
Displays the chart settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Chart Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager can not be operated.
9.4.2.2 Chart Settings -> Copy
Chart settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.4.2.3 Chart Settings -> Paste
If table settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.
9.4.2.4 Copy to Clipboard
The chart of a current sample is copied as an image to the Windows clipboard. Then it could be inserted in a
document like Excel, Word or E-Mail. The current view will be copied, including the chart head.
Note: The greater is the chart at the time of copying (possible maximize the window of RHEOTEST RN 5
Manager), the higher is the image resolution in a clipboard. A high image resolution is preferable, if later this
figure should to be enlarged.
9.4.2.5 Chart Settings
Settings for content and look of the chart.
This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all samples in this job. The settings are divided into
seven tabs: Axis, Grid, Tests, Head, Collection, Print, Font. All changes made will be rejected with the button
Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be accepted and they become actual ones with the
help of OK button.
9.4.2.5.1 Axis
It serves for coordination of displayed parameters with chart axis as well as for definition of that how they have
to be displayed.
1 - Type: Determining of the parameters to be displayed from a selection list for the X-axis. Available
parameters and their meaning one could find here: Appendix - Result.
2 - Scale mode: the scaling regime of X axis will be defined. In case of “Auto” scaling will be fulfilled on the
basis of displayed data. Scaling is carried out from 0 to maximal data value.
In case of “Min-Max” displayed limits could be set. Data that are outside these limits will not be displayed. It is
possible to fix and “zoom” the display in this mode.
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3 – Min: Minimum value of X axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active only
in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.
4 – Max: Maximum value of X axis. Data higher than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active only
in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.
5 – log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this
option is not selected, linear scaling is
displayed.
6 – Sort: Sorting of all data (all displayed
parameters) takes place according to X axis
parameter in increasing order. At that it is
unimportant at what time and in which test
data were obtained. Sorting occurs by all
actual displayed data (either one single test
or all tests of a sample).
7 – Definition of all Y axes: At the left, at the
right, 2. at the left and 2. at the right.
8 – Type: Definition of displayed parameters from the selection list for the corresponding Y axis. One could
find available parameters and their meaning here: Appendix – Result.
Note: One parameter could be displayed at several axes. It might be used for example in order to have one
parameter with different scaling.
9 – Active: It sets, if this parameter will be displayed (marked) or not. 1. Parameter (at the left) is displayed
always independent from this setting.
10 – Scale mode: the scaling regime of Y axis will be defined. In case of “Auto” scaling will be fulfilled on the
basis of displayed data. Scaling is carried out from 0 to maximal data value.
In case of “Min-Max” displayed limits could be set. Data that are outside these limits will not be displayed. It is
possible to fix and “zoom” the display in this mode.
11 – Minimum value of respective Y axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is
active only in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.
12 – Max: Maximum value of respective Y axis. Data higher than this value, will not be displayed. This value is
active only in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.
13 – log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this option is not selected, linear scaling is displayed.
14 – Color: Color setting for this parameter (Axis). This setting is displayed also in data collection, see for that
Collection. There are following colors for selection:
black
brown
violet
blue
green
red
pink
orange
yellow
grey
white
15 – Width: Lines thickness could be of 5 different values. The following values are possible with the thickness
in pixels:
XS 1
S 2
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M 4
L 6
XL 7
The line thickness relates to display of actually selected sample. Data collection’s lines will be presented with
thickness = XS always.
Sign’s shape for lines marking could be set by User also. It is possible selection from the following list for lines
marking:
None
Square
Diamond
Triangle
Triangle at the right
Triangle at the left
Triangle inverted
Circle
Line will be shown
only
■
♦
▲
►
◄
▼
●
The mark’s form relates to display of the selected sample as well as to data collection display.
Note: It is recommended to select black colour for line for all parameters and set difference in parameters with
the help of various marking in case of using chart in black and white presentation.
One could vary the marking size also. The following dimensions and values in pixels are possible:
Collection’s parameters markings are one pixel smaller.
XS 3
S 5
M 6
L 8
XL 9
16 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input screen is closed.
17 – OK: All changes will be applied and input screen is closed.
9.4.2.5.2 Grid
1 – X Grid: specifies that a vertical grid is displayed according to X axis. Here, the value range is optimally
divided so that about 7 to 12 sectors are formed.
The X grid is displayed with a width of 2 pixels.
2 – X Grid Minor: specifies that a vertical grid is displayed according to X axis. Here, the value range is
optimally divided so that about 14 to 24 sectors are formed.
The X grid is displayed with a width of 1 pixel.
3 – Y Grid: specifies that a horizontal grid is
displayed according to the left Y axis. Here,
the value range is optimally divided so that
about 7 to 12 sectors are formed.
The Y grid is displayed with a width of 2
pixels.
4 – Y Grid Minor: specifies that a horizontal
grid is displayed according to the left Y axis.
Here, the value range is optimally divided so
that about 14 to 24 sectors are formed.
The Y grid is displayed with a width of 1
pixel.
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5 – Grid Color: specifies the grid color. Colours are possible that are available by color selection for
parameters. See for that Color.
9.4.2.5.3 Tests
1 – Tests: it is possible to select here the tests that should be represented. This setting is active only in that
case when sample is marked in sample tree. It means that all available tests could be represented.
If only one test was selected in sample tree,
this setting is ignored.
The setting is active during one analysis and
in the following representation. It means that
e.g. at one analysis and one not activated 1 st
test, any data will not be displayed as long
as the 1 st test is carried out.
For example, the conditioning steps could be
hidden with this option.
2 – Set All: all tests will be selected.
3 – Clear All: selection of all tests will be
cancelled; data are not represented until the
sample is selected.
Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.
9.4.2.5.4 Head
Chart heading will be shown above the chart itself. It could contain additional information to analysis.
This chart heading could be configured for every job. In this case it is valid for all samples that are in the job.
Chart heading makes possible to display 9 different information which is located as a matrix of 3 columns and
3 rows.
Since the definition of the chart head corresponds to the table head, see section Table Settings – Head.
9.4.2.5.5 Collection
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager offers an opportunity to show the already analysed samples as a “background”
for currently analysed or represented sample. It is unimportant from what job “background samples” were
taken or they were imported from external source.
This possibility could be used, for instance, for that case if the desired material property should be presented
in the “background” as a target during the development of a material. So, it is possible to compare different
samples very quickly and effectively on the basis of their analysis.
Besides it would be possible to show the permissible limits in routine analysis in the “background”. For it two
samples are shown in the “background”, one of them represents the “lower” limit and another represents the
“upper” limit. Then actual analysed sample
must be presented during measurement
between these two samples. It is possible to
check very quickly, if the actual sample
represents a deviation.
1 – Name: New name could be assigned to
a sample. At first original name will be
inserted after sample addition in the
samples collection. In order to better
distinguish and identify samples in chart
later, a new name could be assigned
according to the theme.
2 – Active: One could select here which
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samples will be actually displayed. Sample collection could contain more samples than it must be shown. This
enables a quick conversion or turning on / off of different samples.
Marked = Sample will be displayed.
3 – Line style: The „background“-samples are displayed in the chart with the same colour as the current
sample. In order to distinguish the „background“-sample from the current sample, the line type can be set
here.
There are four types of lines available:
dot
dash
dot dash
alt dash
∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙
− − − −
− ∙ − ∙ −
− ─ − ─
If more than four samples should be shown, it is not possible to distinguish these by the line type.
4 – Details of Sample: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives a possibility for better samples
classification. The following data will be presented:
• Sample Name
• Date Time
• Charge
• Operator
• Comment
5 – Details of Sample: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives a possibility for better samples
classification. The following data will be presented:
• used Measuring System
• Factor KTau of measuring system
• Factor KD of measuring system
• Correction for Rotation
• Correction oscillation
6 – Copy: Selected sample from the sample collection will be copied into the clipboard. Windows clipboard is
not used. Afterwards this sample could be inserted into another place of sample collection. It gives a
possibility for sorting, if the previous sample will be deleted later. Furthermore, this sample in the clipboard
can be inserted into any job at any position after closing the chart settings.
7 – Paste: Sample from the clipboard is inserted into the sample collection behind the marked sample. It does
not matter, if this sample was copied from the job before this or it is earlier copied sample from the sample
collection. There are no limitations of number of samples saved in the sample collection.
8 – Delete: Marked sample is deleted from the sample collection.
9 – delete all: All samples are deleted in the sample collection.
9.4.2.5.6 Print
1 – add Job: After the chart printout the information to the job will be added.
2 – add Method: After the chart printout the
used method will be added.
3 – add Report: Actually, set report will be
added after chart printing.
4 – add Table: It will be added actual table
after printing of chart or as well as a report
(optionally).
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5 – add Settings: It will be added chart settings after printing of chart or as well as a report (optionally) or a
table.
All 5 options could be selected in any combination. See for that Print Chart also.
9.4.2.5.7 Font
In tab page Font you can select the font type and font size for the chart display, analogue to Font by Table
Settings. By default, the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.
9.5 Report
9.5.1 Report Display
The defined evaluations of a current sample will be displayed if the tab „Report“ is active.
These may be statistical parameters, such as: mean value, standard deviation, minimum and maximum
values. Besides, these could be calculated, rheological parameters for analysis, such as: yield point, model’s
parameters etc. In the case of asphalt binder, the displayed report will be evaluation according to applied
asphalt binder standard.
The calculated data could not be changed.
The report is divided into a report head and a report itself. The specified data can be seen in the report as
grey lines. There is one grey line for each evaluation. The
results are placed below the grey line.
1 – Head: Report’s head according to Settings. See also
section Table Settings – Head.
2 – Index: It is a running index of evaluations. It serves
exceptionally for orientation in case of too long reports.
3 – Description: The defined evaluation type is displayed
in the grey line. The result parameters are shown below.
There is a different number of result parameters
depending on the evaluation type. If the reasonable
evaluation results are not possible, an indication appears.
4 – Parameter / Results: The defined parameter is
displayed in the grey line, to which the report relates. The
results are listed below according to the terms in the
previous column.
5 – Test / Units: The defined test of the evaluation is displayed in the grey line. The units of the results are
listed below, provided that measured results have units.
6 – Comment: The defined comment for the evaluation is shown in the grey line. The fields below can be
described with additional information to results. They appear then in the printout.
Report’s length depends on the number of defined evaluations. Selection of displayed evaluations takes place
in Report Settings.
9.5.2 Main Menu Report
9.5.2.1 Report Settings -> Show…
Displays the report settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Report Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
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9.5.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy
Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.5.2.3 Report Settings -> Paste
If report settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.
9.5.2.4 Copy to Clipboard
The selected report cells of a selected sample are copied in the Windows clipboard. The report is copied as a
text in tabular form. Then it could be inserted in a document like Excel, Word or E-Mail.
If only one cell in the report was selected, complete report will be copied including the columns headings.
If some report cells were selected, just they will be copied in the clipboard. Also, columns headings will be
added here.
Chart heading is not an integral part of the information copied.
Note: If an overall view of the report is necessary, report heading and report data, one could do printing to file
(for example *.pdf) with the help of main menu “File” – “Print”. This file will be inserted then as an object (Insert
-> Object) in the desired document.
9.5.2.5 Settings
Settings for content of the report. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all samples in this
job. The settings are divided into four tabs: Report, Head, Print, Font. All changes made will be rejected with
the button Cancel and Menu Settings is
closed. The changes will be accepted and
they become actual ones with the help of
OK button.
9.5.2.5.1 Report
It serves for setup of necessary results
evaluations, for which tests they should be
implemented and should these results be
presented at the chart as additional
information.
1 - Calculation: Determining the evaluation
to be carried out. Necessary evaluation
type could be selected from the selection list. See list of possible evaluations in: Appendix – Analyses.
2 – Parameter 1: Parameter, for which the evaluation to be carried out. This parameter could be determined
from the selection list. If the specified evaluation is not possible for this parameter, as e.g. the mean value of
the frequency by a CS-const Test, the message appears, that this evaluation is impossible. Also, you will be
informed, when the evaluation has been defined for a test, which does not exist in the analysis, e.g. 5 th test in
method with three tests.
3 – Test: Determining for which test the evaluation should be carried out. There are tests 1 to 65 possible. So,
for each test one or several evaluations could be determined. Besides, indication “all” is possible. In this case
evaluation is carried out of all available tests of the sample.
4 – Parameter 2: This input data depends on the evaluation type.
• There are not input data: Parameter 2 is not necessary, as for example Average / Standard deviation.
• Number: Input of one number, as for instance by upper limit.
• List for selection: The list for the second measured parameter appears here during data input, as for
example by correlation.
• Automatically: Evaluation type determines this parameter by itself, as for instance yield point.
5 – Description: Short description will be shown for the actual selected evaluation.
54
Note: By a choice from the selection list this display will be updated. So, it is possible to move up and down in
the list with the cursor keys and to recognize the meaning of evaluation types. This is very helpful by choosing
the modelling method.
6 – Copy: Actually, selected evaluation is copied into the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Afterwards
this evaluation could be inserted and setup in other place of this report. Besides it is possible to insert this
evaluation in a report of another job.
7 – Paste/New: Evaluation from the clipboard will be inserted in the report below the actual position provided
that it is in the clipboard. The evaluation may be from this report or from other report of other job.
8 – Delete: The currently selected evaluation will be deleted. Depending on user settings, a confirmation of the
operation is requested.
9 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
10 – OK: All changes will be applied and
input display is closed.
11 – Range: The range limits of the
Parameter 2 are here selectable. Default is
Auto – evaluation over the entire range of
the Parameter 2. By the choice of Man you
can limit the range of Parameter 2 manually.
12 – Min: Minimum value of selected range.
13 – Max: Maximum value of selected
range.
14 – Show in Chart: the evaluation to be
carried out is shown in the chart.
15 – Comment: The comment to the report can be added here.
9.5.2.5.2 Head
Report heading will be shown above the report itself. It could contain additional information about analysis.
This report heading could be configured for every job. Then it is valid for all samples that are in the job.
Chart heading makes possible to display 9 different information which are located as a matrix of 3 columns
and 3 rows.
As heading specification corresponds to the table heading see for that Section Table Head.
9.5.2.5.3 Print
This function is analogue to Print Chart.
9.5.2.5.4 Font
In tab page Font you can select the font type and font size for the report display, analogue to Font by Table
Settings. By default, the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.
9.6 Method
Method will be shown, if inlay “Method” is active. It includes definition, settings and certain single tests of a
method.
The inlay serves for displaying the method of the actual selected job and active method of the method library.
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One method contains at least one test. A test
describes the conditions, on which the sample
should be measured, such as rotational speed,
time, temperature.
1 – Method tree.
2 – Specification of displayed method. Inlay
after it contains further settings for the method.
3 – Single tests are presented in form of a
table.
4 – Single tests are presented as a chart.
5 – Tests displacement in a table or in a chart.
9.6.1 Definition
Method definition contains an information describing the analysis to be carried out.
1 – Name: Methods name should describe the method’s subject. This facilitates subsequent search. In
principle it is possible to give the same names for a lot of methods. However, it could lead quickly to confusion
and it is not recommended to do so.
2 – Group: Methods group, in which the indicated method is stored or was stored. If the display „Method from
library“ is active, the group will be shown, where this method is saved. If the display „Method of Job“ is active,
the group will be shown, from which this method has been copied to the job. Therefore, it could occur that this
group is no longer in the method library. It might be e.g. renamed, deleted or is inactive. The job could be
imported also and thus the method in it.
3 – Measuring System: used measuring system.
4 – Comment: You should write here always a significant reference to the analysis. It could be information
about the task of analysis such as: input control of supplier A, development product B or monitoring of
products line XY. A designation according to rheological sense is possible, such as measurements with
controlled shear rate, temperature dependence, determination of yield point.
During the method development it is useful also to comment the development steps in this field, i.e. the
changes to the previous version. It gives a possibility for other user for quick method classification for his
tasks. Besides this information could be used for documentation in table heading, chart heading or in report
heading.
5 – Method created: Date and time of method creation or when the method was imported.
6 – Method changed: Date and time when method was changed last time. It relates to all method settings.
7 – New Test: New test will be inserted in the last position of the tests table. The settings of active test will be
applied at that moment. These settings can be then adjusted.
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8 – Copy Test: The actual test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
9 – Paste Test: Test from the clipboard will be inserted after the actual test.
10 – Delete Test: Selected test will be delayed.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
11 – Details of Test: Shows the actual test settings in details. See for that Method – Individual test. One
cannot use inlay methods while test settings window is active.
12 – Display mode: Inlay Method serves for imaging of the actual job method and actual method from the
methods library.
This display serves for distinction of imaging modes. Besides, this mode is displayed in status line of
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager.
Display mode in
inlay „Method“
Status line of
RHEOTEST ® RN 5
Manager
Job’s method display Job’s method Job’s display
Job x from y
Method’s display of the Method from the Method’s display
Method library
library
Method x from y
Tree display
Job tree and Samples
tree
Methods tree
Display mode switching: The job’s view is active after the program start. If now one switches to inlay “Method”,
job’s method will be displayed. It is necessary to select the menu item Method in the main menu of
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager in order to switch the display mode. It will be changed to the inlay “Method” and
method display is activated. This will be active until one of the menu items or one of the inlays Table, Chart or
Report will not be selected in the main menu. After that the display mode is switched again to the job’s
display.
Note: If you are in the job display and you want to look at the methods parameters in detail, you have to click
on Method in the main menu and hold the left mouse button. With the pressed mouse button, one could now
move to the menu item Parameter -> Show… Now the methods parameter of the job are displayed.
9.6.2 Settings
Further settings of method.
1 – special function: This function is only visible in the methods view and if the registered user has the
administrator rights. Special function is used to perform the specific evaluations after the analysis is finished.
There are following possibilities for choice:
• none – special evaluation is not fulfilled.
• Pt100 calibration – Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings – Pt100 calibration.
• Inertia calibration - Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings – Inertia calibration.
• Rotation calibration - Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings – Rotation calibration.
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• Oscillation calibration − Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings – Oscillation calibration.
This setting is also used to verify, if a special evaluation is possible, when the calibrations are selected in a
main menu. Only the samples for Pt100 calibration or inertia calibration can be used here, that were
measured with the correspondingly adjusted method.
2 – Use Torque Limit: in all CD OSC tests (deformation-controlled oscillation test) this function is marked
through a tick mark here. A value of 0.5 mNm is used in this case by default (is set in Method / Parameter /
Advanced Parameters under Torque Limit). For all other tests, the function Use Torque Limit is not applied.
3 – Trim.dist.[mm]: The distance between the measuring plate and basic plate, that should be adjusted in
addition to the recommended plate distance to trim the sample (removing the excess of measured material).
4 – Main print options: These settings determine printing, if inlay Method is displayed and if one selected File -
> Print preview or File -> Print. One could find details of these settings here Print Method.
9.6.3 Table of Tests
Presentation of certain tests in table form in the order of execution.
Maximum 65 tests could be defined.
Main data of tests will be displayed. Further settings could be done in Method – Individual test.
1 – Table of Tests: The most important parameters of a single test are displayed. Values that are obligatory
necessary for test are shown as white areas for input. Values that are not necessary for the corresponding
test are marked in grey. Showed here values do not have influence on the test. The necessary values are
determined by test type selection.
Data could be marked by one click and changed afterwards.
Note: However, it is recommended to carry out changes in input mask Test settings.
The measuring unit will not be shown in the change mode and it is not necessary to input it.
The column width is optimal, fixed and could not be changed. The width of the test table is fixed also.
The meaning of the columns and thus the set values could be found in the section Method – Individual test.
2 – Tests displacement in the table or in the chart: Marked test is moved in the limits of the table one line
upwards or downwards. In such a way the
tests sequence could be corrected.
9.6.4 Chart of Tests
Graphical representation of defined tests.
1 – Display of the time profile of specified
values. The start and end values are used
here depending on the test type. Initial
conditions could not be determined
previously for some types of test.
It occurs e.g. by the changing from CS-
Test to CD-Test as ramp. The last state in
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CS-Test decides on the start value of the CD-ramp. However, it could differ from reality.
The following 4 physical values are displayed:
• Blue: Shear stress and/or torque, it is valid also for oscillation measurements;
• Red: Shear rate and/or rotation speed;
• Green: Deformation;
• Orange: Frequency by oscillation measurements.
2 – Estimated time: this is time necessary for test carrying out. Time specification of the tests is used.
Time profile of a process is only an approximation in some tests, because in some tests, for example, in
equilibrium experiments the time is not fixed.
3 – Set values range: Physical values used in tests will be presented. Scaling is defined by the highest
encountered value and could not be changed.
The same scale is used during simultaneous display, for example of shear stress and rotation speed.
Recalculation of shear stress in rotation speed does not take place with a measuring system.
4 – Display of single tests areas. Each test is limited by vertical lines at time axis. If there is enough space to
display, the test type is specified.
The actual test, i.e. marked test in a table will be designated with some other colour and arrow before test type
name. In such a way the marked test is moved then by Tests displacement. Here displacement takes place to
the left (upwards key) or to the right (downwards key).
9.6.5 Method - Individual Test
It determines parameters of one single test.
1 – Type: Test type, see for that Appendix - Tests. Test type determines which further settings values are
necessary. Afterwards they will be represented as white input areas. Input areas that are not necessary for
this type of test will be displayed in grey. Besides this, physical value is determined by test type. So, for
instance for CS-test it must be set shear stress and for CR-test it must be set shear rate.
2 – Short description of the selected test.
3 – Constant or initial value of test. If test type is “const”, it means that this value is constant and is set for the
test fulfilment period. If test type is “sweep”, this value is initial value of a ramp.
4 – End test value: End value of a ramp, it is valid for the tests types “sweep”.
5 – Time: Time duration for a test. It is for the test types with definite behaviour in time. Number of measuring
points during this time depends on
the method’s parameters: trigger
and measuring time raster
(Number = Time duration –
Trigger time / Measuring time
raster).
6 – Fixed parameter: It is valid
only for test types Oscillation. This
value represents constant
amplitude of oscillation by „OSC
const“ and by „OSC fsweep“.
By „OSC asweep“ the constant
frequency is entered here.
7 – Measuring points: It is a
number of measuring points at
test types without defined time
behaviour, for instance oscillation tests or equilibrium measurements.
In case of oscillation tests this value gives a number of oscillations that will be done. Then result of
measurements contains also time information about oscillations duration and duration of complete test.
59
Y
In case of equilibrium measurements this value determines a number of measuring points.
8 – Use geometric spacing: At “sweep”-tests ramp is not divided into
linear portions but into geometric segments. As an example, at figure
ramp has been divided into 9 segments from 1 to 10.
Linear division is shown in blue colour, all portions are equal.
Geometric division shows unequal portions on Y axis. Each individual
value is a x-fold of the previous value. This setting is recommended
for sweep tests in very wide ranges.
9 – Triggertime: This time in s causes delayed data recording after
the start of testing. It can be used to hide the transient effects.
12,00
10,00
8,00
6,00
4,00
2,00
linear
geometrisch
0,00
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
10 – Timeraster: This time in s determines the sampling time of the measurement during the test. The
smallest theoretically possible value is 0.004 s (4 ms). Formally, only multiples of this value are possible.
Deviating entries are adjusted to the required value. To ensure secure and continuous data transmission, we
recommend the smallest value of 0,04 s (40 ms).
X
11 – Temperature Control: It sets with which temperature control test should be carried out.
The possibilities are as follows:
• None: Temperature control is unnecessary for this test. Measured temperature is displayed along with
the measuring result.
• Const: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.
After that one waits achievement of the required value and then test is executed. This temperature is
maintained constant during the whole test.
• Jump: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.
Test starts at the same time. Temperature approaches to the set value as soon as possible and for
this reason is not constant during the test. Achievement of set value is independent of the carried test.
• Ramp: The temperature is brought to the specified target value within the test period. Temperature
control is activated. It will be pre-set the earlier actual target value. It could be target temperature
value from the previous test. Waiting takes place until this value stabilized. Only after that a new
target temperature value is set and test starts up. Now temperature changes so rapidly in order to
achieve a new target temperature exactly at the end of the test. Temperature ramp and test run
synchronous during test period.
All temperature ramps depend on the used temperature control techniques. So, it is technically impossible for
example, to realize a set temperature ramp from 20C to 100C in 10 s with the help of liquid thermostat,
especially for negative temperature ramps (cooling).
At the beginning of test, it is checked if temperature control is necessary and is it possible to reach set
temperature values with the help of the specified temperature controller. Error message appears, if it is
impossible.
12 – Temperature: Temperature value will be pre-set which is necessary to set at constant temperature or
temperature value that should be reached at temperature ramps or temperature jumps.
13 – Abort Criteria: it defines when the test should be interrupted. The following settings are possible:
• None: Interruption criterion has not been defined.
• Angle: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set angle. The angle value is set in method’s
parameters. This criterion is valid for CD-tests only.
• Viscosity: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set viscosity. The viscosity value is set in
method’s parameters.
• Speed: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set rotation speed. The speed value is set in
method’s parameters. This criterion is valid for CR- and CS-tests only.
14 – Previous: Transfer to the previous test in the limits of the test’s row, if it is possible.
15 - Next: Transfer to the next test in the limits of the test’s row, if it is possible.
16 – use end value of previous test as start value: If this option is active, initial value of this test will be taken
automatically from the previous test. The start value can also be a constant value at a constant test. This
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option gives an automatic concatenation of transmitted values in such a way that during changing of the
previous test this value will be changed also. This option is possible from the second test only, if the previous
test has the end value and tests’ types match to each other, for instance both tests are CR tests.
17 – Test ... of ...: indicates, the parameters of which test are determined.
18 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
19 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
As long as a window for the test settings is active, you cannot do any inputs in the inlay Method.
9.6.6 Parameter Settings
Method Parameter
1 – use average: If this option is active, floating mean value will be formed in the control unit of RN. This
option enables a low noise result.
2 – Angle Abort Limit: This value in ° gives
possibility to interrupt test at achievement of
the definite angle. It is necessary to select
interruption criterion “Angle” in test settings.
3 – Viscosity Abort Limit: This value in Pas
gives possibility to interrupt test at
achievement of the definite viscosity. It is
necessary to select interruption criterion
“Viscosity” in test settings.
4 – Speed Abort Limit: This value in 1/min
gives possibility to interrupt test at
achievement of the definite speed. It is
necessary to select interruption criterion
“Speed” in test settings.
5 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
6 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Interruption conditions could be used for protection of material to be measured, the instrument and User from
damages or dirt.
So, it would be possible to obtain such high speeds with a torque ramp that the measuring material is ejected
from the measurement arrangement. This could be prevented with the help of function Speed Abort Limit.
Advanced Parameters
Using the advanced parameters, the internal rheometer parameters are described. They are assigned for
each specific device and can only be changed by the RHEOTEST service staff with special administrator
rights.
9.6.7 Units Settings
The units of the parameters are specified by units settings. It relates to the method definition as well as to
displaying of measuring results in table, chart or report. Each settings change has a direct influence on the
presented numeric values, if these changes are confirmed with OK key.
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No. Parameter Possible Units
1 Torque mNm, µNm
2 Speed 1/s, 1/min
3 Time ms, s, min
4 Temperature °C, K, °F
5 Shear Rate 1/s, 1/min
6 Shear Stress Pa, mPa, dyn/cm²
7 Viscosity Pa s, mPa s
8 Normal Force μN, mN, N, kN
9 Deformation arb.unit *1 , %
10 Angle ° (Grad), rad
11 Frequency Hz, 1/s
12 Angular Frequency Hz, 1/s
13 Modul Pa, kPa, MPa
14 Compliance 1/Pa, 1/kPa, 1/MPa
*1
arb.unit represents dimensionless value relative to the initial value
15 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
16 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
9.6.8 Main Menu Method
9.6.8.1 New Method
A new method is created in active methods group at the moment. At that this method could be created in any
place of the methods group.
New method has name “New method” from the beginning. At once guideline appears that it is necessary to
change this name if possible. See for that Section Method-Name.
Such test is set that could be adapted to the new requirements.
Parameters and units settings should be coordinated also.
Output values of a new method:
Test
Type: Speed const;
Start: 0 1/min;
Time: 10 s;
Temperature: none temperature control;
Triggertime: 1 s;
Timeraster: 1s
Abort Criteria: none.
Method Parameter
Use average: ON;
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Angle Abort Limit: 360°, not required as interruption criterion is absent;
Viscosity Abort Limit: 1000 Pas, not required as interruption criterion is absent;
Speed Abort Limit: 2100 1/min, not required as interruption criterion is absent.
Units Settings
Torque
mNm
Speed
1/min
Time
s
Temperature °C
Shear Rate 1/s
Shear Stress Pa
Viscosity
Pa s
Normal Force N
Deformation %
Angle
rad
Frequency 1/s
Angular Frequency 1/s
Modul
Pa
Compliance
1/Pa
9.6.8.2 Copy Method
Marked method will be transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the method is not marked but only methods group, for example, a message with indication appears.
9.6.8.3 Paste Method
If method is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in the actual position of the method tree.
Inserted method has in its name prefix “Copy from..”.
It is recommended to give to this method new appropriate name.
Therefore, name input is activated. See for that also Section Method – Name.
Note: Methods are inserted after the marked method. It is necessary to mark methods group in order to obtain
method at the first position in the methods group.
9.6.8.4 Delete Method
The marked method is deleted.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
9.6.8.5 Test -> Show…
Displays settings of the marked test. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see section
Test Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.6.8.6 Test -> Copy
Marked test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. It is possible to transfer tests inside
the method as well as from one method to another one. If there is no method marked, it appears message
with indication.
9.6.8.7 Test -> Paste
If test is in the clipboard, it will be inserted after the actual test into tests’ table.
Note: If it is necessary to insert this test in the first position, at first it should be inserted after the first test and
then displace upwards with the help of key Arrow Up.
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9.6.8.8 Test -> Delete
The marked test is deleted.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
9.6.8.9 Parameter -> Show…
Displays settings of the methods parameters. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see
section Parameter Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.6.8.10 Parameter -> Copy
Method parameters settings are transferred to the clipboard. So, parameter settings could be moved from one
method to another one. Windows clipboard is not used.
9.6.8.11 Parameter -> Paste
If parameter settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.
9.6.8.12 Units Settings -> Show…
Displays units settings of the method. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see section
Units Settings.
As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.
9.6.8.13 Units Settings -> Copy
Method units’ settings are transferred to the clipboard. So unit’s settings could be moved from one method to
another one or to the job also. Windows clipboard is not used.
9.6.8.14 Units Settings -> Paste
If units’ settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.
9.6.8.15 Copy Table of Tests to Clipboard
It copies selected cells of the test table to Windows clipboard. This could be then inserted to a document, for
instance Excel, Word.
If only one cell was selected in test table, the whole table is copied columns headings including.
If one selects only some table cells, then they only will be copied to the clipboard. Here columns headings will
be added also.
Unneeded values that depend on the selected type of test will not be issued.
9.6.8.16 Copy Chart of Tests to Clipboard
It copies chart of the method test as image into Windows clipboard. Later it is possible to insert it in document,
for example Excel, Word or E-mail.
Current view will be copied.
Note: The larger is the chart size at the moment of copying (to do RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window
possibly maximal), the higher will be image resolution in the clipboard. High image resolution is an advantage
if afterwards this image should be enlarged.
9.6.8.17 Export / Import
The “Export / Import” functions are used for archiving the data / files. For example, routine methods can be
archived at defined time intervals. For a better clarity, some methods may be deleted. This guarantees a
secure and fast operation of the RN 5 Manager.
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In addition, the “Export / Import” functions can be used for exchange the data / files. Thus, e.g. Methods can
be sent from the user to RHEOTEST for the rheological analysis.
9.6.8.17.1 Export / Import -> Export Method
The actual method is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this data file
completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this file could be archived for
documentation. The files name corresponds to the methods name with the file extension “.rmb”.
If there is already a file with the same name located in the data transfer directory, the program asks if it is
necessary to overwrite the file.
9.6.8.17.2 Export / Import -> Import Method
There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a method, a
file with the file’s extension “.rmb”, from this directory. This method is then inserted in a current position in the
method tree. It might be a new created method’s group or any position inside the existing method’s group.
This method will have then the same functionality as all other methods.
9.6.8.17.3 Export / Import -> Export Method-group
The marked method’s group is saved as a directory in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make
this directory completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this directory could be
archived for documentation. The directory name corresponds to the method’s group name.
If there is directory with the same name in data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to
overwrite the directory.
One could not change the content of a method’s group directory. Data safety and program stability could not
be guaranteed in case of any changes of directory content.
9.6.8.17.4 Export / Import -> Import Method-group
There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a directory
from this directory that is a method’s group for import. The name of the new method’s group corresponds to
the directory name. Imported method’s group is inserted then after the marked method’s group in methods
tree. This method’s group will have then the same functionality as all other methods groups.
9.6.8.17.5 Explorer to folder Transfers
Explorer opens Windows-Explorer that shows data transfer directory. This could be used to copy necessary
data or directories in clipboard of Windows and for example to e-mail message
9.7 Settings
In this item of the main menu both measuring systems as well as specific settings can be edited. Besides,
calibrations can be fulfilled here in case of corresponding authorization.
9.7.1 Measuring Systems
RHEOTEST RN could be used with different measuring systems. In selection one should follow samples
under study and analysis purpose. Various measuring systems are necessary in order to cover a wide range
of measurements for very different tasks.
RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager requires certain characteristics that describe the measuring system to calculate
the rheological analysis parameters.
Control of these data is fulfilled in measuring systems library. One could select from available measuring
systems the measuring system in use at the moment. One does it before analysis in actually used job (see
also Job – Measuring System).
Also new measuring systems can be defined and inserted for special tasks.
65
1 – Main menu: Access to
supplementary functions.
2 – Measuring systems tree:
Overview of available measuring
systems. There are two groups of
measuring systems:
Rheotest: They are
predetermined and coordinated with
the supplied measuring systems;
User: Here it is possible to define
own measuring systems.
Here one could not add groups,
delete or rename them. For selection
one should mark with mouse the
necessary measuring system.
3 – Name: Measuring system name.
For Rheotest measuring systems name is fixed and could not be
changed.
4 – Type of System: Name of measuring system type. Rheological measuring systems are standardized parts,
which are divided into several basic types.
5 – Comment: Comment to the measuring system.
6 – Constant Tau: Constant to calculate the shear stress from the torque. This value is automatically
calculated from the geometric data. With appropriate authorization the constant can also be entered manually
for special measuring systems.
7 – Constant D: Constant to calculate the shear rate from the rotational speed or the deformation from the
rotation angle. This value is calculated automatically from the geometric data. With appropriate authorization
the constant can also be entered manually for special measuring systems.
8 – Filling Quantity: Optimum capacity for measuring system.
9 – System torsion [°/Nm]: own rotation of the entire motor shaft and a separate measuring system (rotor,
cone or plate). Especially plays an important role in the measurement of very hard samples. Such samples
are deformed minimally, even at very high shear stresses. In this case, the own torsion of the system will be
taken into account / corrected.
10 – Moment of Inertia: Moment of inertia of the measuring system. It is required to correct the measured
torque. Additional torques are compensated here, which arise from the accelerating and braking at
oscillations. This value could be set or input manually or automatically through Service-Job.
11 – Correction for Rotation: These are constants for conversion of torque to shear stress and speed to
shear rate, respectively, of rotation angle to deformation on the basis of an ideal flow conditions in the shear
gap (especially one-dimensional laminar flow). Flow field deviations, for example due to front surface
influence, eccentricity could be taken into account with the help of rotation correction. Correction for rotation is
determined automatically with the help of reference liquid and “calibration job” or it could be input manually.
12 – Correction oscillation: is the same as correction for rotation but serves for oscillation measurements.
13 – Geometric data of measuring systems: Settings of geometric data of the measuring system. One fulfils
setup of necessary data on the basis of the measuring system type. These values should be input manually
according to the measuring system. They are used for calculations of constant Tau and constant D.
14 – Graphic display: One presents corresponding type of measuring system with set geometric data.
15 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
16 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
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9.7.1.1 Main menu Edit
9.7.1.1.1 Edit -> New System
It adds a new measuring system in actual position in measuring systems tree. It is possible for Users with
rights of administrator only for group of measuring systems „Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could do a
new measuring system in group of measuring systems “User”.
New measuring system has name “New” from the beginning. This name must be changed obligatory. For that
window appears with proposition to change name.
New measuring system has the following settings:
Type:
Cylinder S
Constant Tau: 1.0
Constant D: 1.0
Moment of Inertia: 0
Correction for Rotation: 1.0
Correction oscillation: 1.0
Rotor Diameter: 0
Rotor Length: 0
Cup Diameter: 1.0
These data should be changed for data of a new measuring system.
9.7.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy System
One copies actual measuring system to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Copying from each
group of measuring systems is possible for User with rights of engineer.
9.7.1.1.3 Edit -> Paste System
Measuring system is inserted from the clipboard in actual place in measuring systems tree, if before it was not
copied. Name of the inserted measuring system is “Copy of…”. This name must be changed at once.
Only User with rights of administrator could add measuring systems into the group of measuring systems
„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could add measuring systems in group of measuring systems “User”.
9.7.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System
The actual measuring system will be deleted.
Only User with rights of administrator could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems
„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems
“User”.
Note: Inquiry appears about confirmation of deletion in case, if this was set in User settings. Cancel function is
not foreseeing.
9.7.1.1.5 Edit -> Move up
The actual measuring system will be shifted one position upwards in measuring systems tree. This function
serves for sorting of measuring systems according to the own criteria.
Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
“User”.
9.7.1.1.6 Edit -> Move down
The actual measuring system will be shifted one position downwards in measuring systems tree. This function
serves for sorting of measuring systems according with the own criteria.
Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
“User”.
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9.7.1.2 Main menu Calculate
9.7.1.2.1 Calculate -> Constant Tau
It will be calculated Tau constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for
User with administrator rights only.
Calculation rules correspond to the regulations in force and depend upon measuring system inserted.
9.7.1.2.2 Calculate -> Constant D
It will be calculated D constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for User
with administrator rights only.
Calculation rules correspond to the
regulations in force and depend upon
measuring system inserted.
9.7.2 Global Settings
In order to achieve an optimal use of
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager some view
options could be adjusted to individual
requirements. These settings are valid for all
users of the software and hence have global
character.
1 – Inlays: Jobs, Methods, Print and System.
Content is described in details below.
Inlay Jobs
2 – It is a list of actually available job groups. This list includes all jobs groups that are in the system catalogue
of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager at present.
When you call the „Global Settings“, a check is made, which job groups are available. If new job groups will be
found, a message with indication appears and they will be added to this list. If one jobs group from the list will
not be found in RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager system catalogue, it will be informed and this jobs group will be
deleted from the list.
This jobs group is displayed in the jobs tree of the main display by marking before the name of the job group.
Due to this possibility the unnecessary at present jobs groups could be hidden in the jobs tree. It was done for
better image clarity.
3 – Set New Group: New empty jobs group will be created. It contains pre-set name from the input area under
this button. If the name was not set, a message with indication appears.
4 – Input area for jobs group: Here one could set the name of jobs groups which afterwards is used to create a
new jobs group or to rename available jobs group.
5 – Rename Group: Existing jobs group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in the
input area (4). Then it is necessary to select jobs group from the name list (6) which it is necessary to rename.
Now the name of jobs group could be changed with the help of “Rename Group” button.
6 – List of groups names: it is a list of available jobs groups. A choice in this list is necessary for functions
“Rename Group” and “Delete Group”.
7 – Delete Group: Selected jobs group will be deleted in the list of groups’ names. It takes place in that case
only, if this jobs group is empty, i.e. there are no more jobs in this jobs group. It will be informed, if selected
jobs group is not empty.
However, if this jobs group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that it is
necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager view window a job in the group that has to be
deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Job -> Delete Job -> delete all in group through the main menu.
Now jobs group is empty and could be deleted completely in global settings. For that in inlay “Job” one selects
group name in names list (6) and then the jobs group is deleted with the help of “Delete Group”.
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8 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
9 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Note: By creation, renaming or deletion of the jobs group in every case only one function could be fulfilled for
the jobs group. It means for example that new created jobs group could not be renamed or deleted at once.
For that it is necessary to escape from “Global settings” and recall them again. Only then the second function
can be performed. It refers to the inlay
“Methods” also.
Inlay Methods
1 – It is a list of actually available methods
groups. This list includes all methods groups
that are in the system catalogue of
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager at present.
When you call the „Global Settings“, a check
is made, which method groups are available.
If new methods groups will be found, a
message with indication appears and they
will be added to this list. If one methods
group from the list will not be found in
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager system
catalogue, it will be informed and this methods group will be deleted from the list.
This methods group is displayed in methods tree of the main display by marking before the name of the
methods group.
Due to this possibility unnecessary at present methods groups could be hidden in methods tree. It was done
for better image clarity.
2 – Set New Group: New empty methods group will be created. It contains pre-set name from input area
under this button. If the name was not set, a message with indication appears.
3 – Input area for methods group: Here one could set name of methods groups which afterwards is used to
create a new methods group or to rename available methods group.
4 – Rename Group: Existing methods group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in
the input area (3). Then it is necessary to select methods group from the name list (5) which it is necessary to
rename. Now name of methods group could be changed with the help of “Rename Group” button.
5 – List of groups names: it is a list of available methods groups. A choice in this list is necessary for functions
“Rename Group” and “Delete Group”.
6 – Delete Group: Selected methods group will be deleted in the list of groups’ names. It takes place in that
case only, if this methods group is empty, i.e. there are no more methods in this methods group. It will be
informed, if selected methods group is not empty.
However, if this methods group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that
it is necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager view window a method in the group that has
to be deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Method -> Delete Method in order to delete one method after another
through the main menu.
Now methods group is empty and could be deleted completely in general settings. For that in inlay “Methods”
one selects group name in the names list (5) and then the methods group is deleted with the help of “Delete
Group”.
7 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
8 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed
Inlay Print
Defines heading form for printing.
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It will be determined how the heading of each printout should be represented. This includes text information as
well as company logo.
1 – User-specific heading for printouts. If this
function is active, it will be output for each
printout heading in accordance with the
following settings.
2 – free Text 1: Main text in heading. It is
output with large font in the first line of the
printout. It might be for example the
company.
3 – free Text 2: As addition to the heading. It
will be considerably smaller than the main
text and is situated in the second line of the
printout. This might be for example a
department.
Note to 2 and 3: Texts will be aligned to the left edge and be in a frame. If text should be wider than the frame
or page, so the text will be shown as it is possible.
It is recommended to check texts image through Page Preview and if necessary correct text in accordance
with the page parameters.
4 – Name of Logo: Here it could be determined name of a graphic file (*.bmp, *.jpg) that represents logo. It
might be logo of enterprise or branch. If possible graphics should have size 100 pixels x 100 pixels. Other
dimensions are used but it could result in images distortion.
If file was set that was not found, so the logo would not be presented. Message with indication does not
appear.
Logo appears in heading at the right side.
5 – Show Head on all Pages: If this function is active, heading will be presented at every printed page. If it is
not active, so it will be at the first page only.
6 – Select Font: Select the font and font size for the title.
Inlay System
It serves to set or display of system significant settings.
1 – Identification: These are codified numbers to check the compatibility of RN 5 Manager and the instrument.
Identification numbers are set by RHEOTEST and could be changed by administrator only.
In the case of a service it is necessary to inform Rheotest about this number in order to identify instrument and
software correctly.
2 – Mode: Description of the mode in which the rheometer works. 0 corresponds to the rheometer to perform
CR-Tests; 1 – CR-, CS-Tests; 2- CR-, CS-, Oscillation-Tests.
3 – Plate Control: Activating and deactivating of the plate control. When using of cylinder or cone-plate
measuring systems with another tempering
system, the plate control can be disabled.
4 – Temp. Control: Possibility, to manage
and to control the temperature via the
software RN 5 Manager.
5 – Language: Settings of software
language. After new language has been
installed it is necessary to restart the
software to activate these settings.
Pt100 calibration: The data stored in the
system for Pt100 calibration are displayed.
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They will be updated when Service-Job „xPt100-Calibration“ in the jobs group „xJobs-for-Service“ was
performed.
6 – Reference temperature: corresponds to the temperature at which the temperature calibration was carried
out.
Correction factor is a calibration itself. Measured temperatures will be corrected with these values.
7 – Pt100 constant for temperature control vessel G.
8 – Pt100 constant for temperature control vessel M.
9 – Pt100 constant for basic plate system temperature controlled by liquid thermostat.
The temperatures measured for respective measurement systems are corrected with these values, the right
Pt100 constant is used automatically. This requires the activation of the option use RN temperature only in the
job settings.
10 – Time correction: This value is used for correction of measuring data by oscillation measurements. The
value is inserted by RHEOTEST and could be changed with the rights of administrator only. One wrong
change could lead to distortion of measuring data.
11 – Plate Control: The calibration data for the normal force measurement of the base plate have been
entered here. The values are inserted by RHEOTEST and could be changed with the rights of administrator
only. An improper change can lead to distortion of the measured normal force or even to disruption of the
automatic plate control.
9.7.3 User Settings
The software supports to some certain extent user-specific settings. When starting the software, the login
window appears. The user has to identify himself by a login name and a password. Information input here will
be used in further operations in program. See for that section Login.
The management of registered users occurs in this input window in User Settings. They are divided in two
inlays. One inlay contains settings for one user. The second inlay contains settings of the registered users
1 – Inlays: User, Admin. Content is described in detail below.
Inlay User
2 – delete with confirmation: At each deletion at first enquiry appears for confirmation of deletion. If one
answers to this enquiry NO, deletion process will be cancelled.
3 – auto fill in user data: At creation of a new sample user name will be filled in automatically. It will be used
the registered user name.
4 – start with last used Job, Method...: By start-up of the software the last selected job and the last selected
method is chosen automatically. Thereby the
work can be quickly continued.
5 – ask for temperature control at program
start: If this option is active, by start-up of the
program and user login an enquiry appears if
it is necessary to start the temperature
control. This option is useful if samples must
be measured at temperatures that differ
considerably from room temperature. By the
start of the temperature control, the
measuring system and the sample is already
thermally conditioned while still adjustments
are to be made in the software.
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6 - Parameters handled by: Parameters (designation of measured values / results) could be corrected in
accordance with personal requirements. Parameters names appear in different menus of parameters
selection, in table, chart and report.
The following options exist:
1. Name – it will be shown parameter’s name only, for example, shear stress;
2. Symbol – it will be shown parameter’s symbol only, for instance τ;
3. Name-Symbol – for example, shear stress – τ;
4. Symbol (Name) – for example, τ (shear stress).
Note: The registered user can define the setting (2) to (6) for himself. Further it is possible that the user with
higher status (see below) could change the settings.
7 – Input field for own password, i.e. the user password that was registered at program start. It is impossible to
change the password of another user. The password cannot be displayed.
8 – Input field for password repeat. It is necessary to exclude the typing errors.
9 – Set/Change: Registered user could change his own password after input of a new password and repeat.
Already existed password will be changed for a new one.
10 – Distant Folder: The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the development of
the measurement on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement. To use this
function, one should create an appropriate directory (distant folder) and chose it through the button Select
distant folder on both computer: on the computer which controls the measurement as well as on the computer
for following / monitoring the measurement.
Also, the function Copy Job to distant folder should be selected on the computer that controls the
measurement. Furthermore the View distant Job function is to mark on the distant computer.
11 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
12 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Inlay Admin
It is possible to manage registered users in inlay Admin.
1 – all users: All registered users are listed in the list. One might start RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager with one of
these names only.
2 – Set New: New user is created. For that it will be used the name for login from the input field (3). If no name
was indicated, message appears about this.
3 – Input field for login name: The login
name of a new user is entered here. New
user will be registered, if one presses New
(2).
4 – Delete: Actually, selected user will be
deleted. Afterwards he could not start
RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager. Only one user
with higher status could delete another user.
Also, it is impossible to delete oneself by
oneself.
5 – full Name: Full name of user. It appears
then as operator name during sample
creation. Operator name could be output
later in headings of table, chart or report.
6 – Department: Input of user department. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does
not use later.
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7 – Phone: Input of phone number of user. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does
not use later.
8 – Level of rights: This setting serves for determination of software use. It is reasonable to permit to some
users not to do all changes. It could assure prevention of errors, accidental data deletion, error measurements
and in such a way incorrect analysis.
It is possible 4 user’s levels, see for that the following section Operation Status.
9 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
10 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Operation Status
Designation – Level of rights
1. Operator – 0: Measurements (jobs) could be started and results could be printed.
2. Engineer – 1: It could be created and changed methods and jobs including formation of displaying and
output of measured values and report settings.
3. Administrator – 2: It could be done settings connected with the system, for example measuring constants,
parameters, constants of measuring systems and control of user. These settings require detail knowledge
as in such a way measurements precision and rheometer functions are determined. Incorrect input data
could lead to erroneous measurements results or to instrument damage also.
4. Super-Admin – 3: here it could be set special parameters which determine instrument functioning. These
settings are fulfilled by Rheotest before delivery and then they are reserved by the service of Rheotest.
Change of the operating status: you can change other user status only if it is smaller than your own status.
Creation of a new user
It is necessary user login with status Admin in order to create a new user.
The input mask „Settings“ -> „User Settings...“ is called in the main menu. New user name could be input in
the inlay Admin at the right side of the section All Users. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that
certain signs are allowed only. Not allowed signs are not accepted. Besides this name must not have more
than 20 characters.
This new user will be added to the users list with by pressing “New”. Now additional information could be input
such as full name, department, phone number and user status.
In inlay User the user-specific settings can be made.
However, password could not be entered. The password entry always relates to the own password.
Afterwards as all settings were done it is possible to exit from the input form with the help of OK. All settings
will be saved.
Now new user has to login with his registration name. As far as a password was not created, no password
must be entered.
After the program was launched it is necessary to define password in input form “Settings -> “User – Settings”.
The user opens the input form and enters twice his password in inlay “User” and confirms it with the help of
“Set/Change”.
After exit from the input window using OK this password is active. It is necessary to enter login and password
at the next registration during the program launching.
Note: Only registered users can only change their own password.
One could refuse from password entering, if only one person works with the program or it is unnecessary to
use different users’ rights.
For new users, no password will be defined. Password could not be deleted directly for existing users. Here it
is necessary to give possibility to delete user and then create a new one.
9.7.4 Communication Settings
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Prerequisite for functioned working place is correct communication between computer, RHEOTEST RN and
connected temperature controller.
The connection between the computer and the RHEOTEST RN is carried out via a USB port, using a USB
cable. The connection of the temperature control system depends on the device used. When using the Peltier
temperature control RHEOTEST PP, communication takes place also via USB port.
The necessary settings are made in 4 inlays.
1 – Inlays:
RN –
Communication settings for RN control unit
Plate Control –
Panel for plate control
Temperature Controller – Communication settings for temperature controller
Temperature –
Control panel for temperature controller
Content is described in detail below.
RN
This tab shows the communication settings with the rheometer control unit. The parameters are fixed for
RHEOTEST ® RN. It refers to data bits, baudrate, stop bits and parity.
The data protocol used between the PC and RN controller has been specially developed for this task. It is
impossible to set communication with the help of other software.
The settings of the used interface are
permanently stored in the software. Only the
number of the virtual COM-port must be
defined.
2 – COM-Port: Number of used virtual COMport.
3 – Data bits: Number of data bits for one
sign – 8
4 – Baudrate: Speed of transmission –
1500000
5 – Stop bits: Number of stop bits in data
protocol – 1
6 – Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic – 0
7 – Send: Transmitted signs sequence from RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager to RN-control unit.
8 – Receive: Received signs sequence from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager.
9 – Rec. stream: Data intake during analysis.
10 – Check Port: All available COM-port will be detected that could be used for communication.
11 – Init Port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are
transmitted to interface.
12 – Send INIT: Signs sequence is output for RN-control unit initialization. In case of correct communication
answer follows from RN-control unit in form of determined signs sequence.
13 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
14 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Start-up RN-interface
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The following procedure exists for setting and commissioning of the interface:
• Press “Check Port”: all available COM-ports are entered into selection list;
• At the control computer (PC) read, to which port the RN-control unit is connected. This is not so
easy when using USB cables. Here one should check in the Device Manager in PC system;
• Select from the list the right interface;
• Press ”Init Port”: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters;
• Press „Send INIT“ to check communication: now definite command is sending to RN-control unit.
Sent text one could read on display “Send”;
• If communication was set correctly, it appears text with answer on display “Receive”;
• If error arises, it means that communication was set incorrectly. In this case, you need to check the
connecting cable and RHEOTEST ® RN. The following possible causes of the error should be
checked:
- the wrong COM-port is selected;
- RHEOTEST ® RN is not on;
- wrong type of cable;
- damaged cable;
- defect USB-port on the computer, if possible, check on another computer.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. So, it is not necessary to carry out
commissioning again in case of changeless complete set of working place for measurements.
Thus, the start-up must not be carried out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.
Plate Control
The manual operation of the plate control is of
particular interest for test measurements and
by the creation of new methods. By plate
control various plate distances can be entered
manually and parameters for operation of the
plate control can be changed.
1 – Target [mm]: Input of the absolute value
for cone-plate or plate-plate distance.
2 – Time to Move [s]: Input the time, in which
the plate should reach the target position from
the current position.
3 – Force limit [N]: The value for the force limit should be changed only by authorized staff. Using this input,
the precision of the zero point definition can be set.
4 – System is moving: If the system is moving, it is represented by a tick here. During the moving the control
commands are inadmissible, except „STOP“.
5 – Zero [mm]: This indicator is only relevant for service tasks.
6 – Current [mm]: Displays the current value of the cone-plate or plate-plate distance. This is referenced to the
last zero position.
7 – Force [N]: Display of the current measured normal force, which is set by default to zero by moving to the
zero position.
8 – STOP: The current movements can be stopped with this button.
9 – to Zero: After activating of this button, the zero point is automatically determined. The position of the
current zero point will be overwritten. Subsequently, the base plate moves automatically to the lower limit.
10 – to Target: The specified target will be reached in the specified time, starting from the current position.
11 – to Limit: The base plate is moved completely down, and thus the maximum distance between the plates
will be set.
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12 – Reset F: It is possible to set the normal force manually to zero at any position. This can be done
exclusively by the authorized service staff.
13 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
14 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Temperature Controller
Used data protocol is determined by the manufacturer of the thermostat. There are some commands or data
structures that are the same for all temperature controllers but every controller type has its’ own special
commands. It is related with technical progress and different functionality.
Only certain commands are used in the software in order to correspond to this circumstance. They meet
requirements of rheological studies. Moreover, there is freedom of actions due to this and it is possible to use
practically every temperature controller with this software.
The settings for communication with the temperature controller are made in the inlay „Temperature
Controller“. For thermostating systems
Heizplatte_HP (heating plate) and
Peltierplatte_PP (Peltier plate) you don’t
need to make any changes to the
communication parameter settings. It refers
to data bits, baudrate, stop bits and parity.
1– COM-Port: The number of used COMport
(or virtual COM-port).
2 – Controller type: Selection of available
thermocontroller. It will be shown
thermocontrollers that are recorded in file
„ThermoControl.set“.
3 – Data bits: Number of data bits for one
sign – 8.
4 – Baudrate: Speed of transmission – 9600. This value is given in the operating instructions of the
temperature controller.
5 – Stop bits: Number of stop bits in data protocol – 1. This value is given in the operating instructions of the
temperature controller.
6 – Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic – 0. This value is given in the operating instructions of the
temperature controller.
7 – Send: the signs to be sent are displayed here. These symbols could not be entered directly but they are
determined by the software. This display is necessary for service or for experienced user in case of
troubleshooting.
8 – Receive: Here received signs are presented. These signs are sent from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST
RN 5 Manager and are answer to command sent. This display is necessary for service or for experienced user
in case of troubleshooting.
9 – Check Port: All available COM-ports will be detected that could be used for communication.
10 – Init Port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are
transmitted to interface.
11 – Load Types: Available temperature controllers will be read from file „ThermoControl.set“ and put into the
list (2).
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12 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
13 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Parameters and commands for temperature controllers are indicated in file „ThermoControl.set“. The file is in
the same catalogue where the software is. If this file does not exist, the program could not be started.
All temperature controllers available in the file are loaded at program launching. If the file contains wrong data,
the loading will be stopped and there are no temperature controller available for selection.
Start-up Temperature Controller
The following procedure exists for setting and commissioning of the temperature controller:
• Press „Load Types“: file „ThermoControl.set“ is loading. If file contains errors, it will be shown. If
the reading is performed without error this is indicated by the display “Available”.
• Select connected temperature controller from the list. Now the parameters and commands are
transferred to display.
• Press „Check port“: all available interfaces are put in the list for selection.
• Read in PC to which port the temperature controller is connected. Here one should see and check
equipment settings in PC system.Select from the list the interface for temperature controller.
• Press ”Init Port”: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters.
• Communication check is carried out in inlay “Temperature”.
Commands and replies are shown on displays “Send” and “Receive”, if communication took place. They are
necessary for service in troubleshooting.
If you have problems, you should check and fix the following possible errors:
- the wrong COM-port is selected;
- RHEOTEST ® RN is not on;
- wrong type of cable;
- damaged cable;
- defect USB-port on the computer, if possible, check on another computer.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. Thus, the start-up must not be carried
out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.
When working with other thermostats
Select controller type (thermostat type), transmission parameters and COM-interface for the thermostat
(before setting up the thermostat, the transmission parameters must be known). Refer to the Operating
Instructions or the instrument configuration.
Note for the USB interface: even by using the USB interface, a serial port must be chosen. After the USB
driver is installed, serial ports are available in
the Windows system. They can be installed
and checked in the control panel after
installing the driver software for USB
adapter.
When setting up the USB driver, the
standard settings are used. If communication
with the USB interface is not secure, we
recommend, in particular, to set the wait time
[ms] of 4 (Advanced parameters) in the
parameter for corresponding interface.
By exit the program the settings will be
saved.
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Temperature
It is possible to operate the temperature controller by remote control in inlay „Temperature“, if communication
was set correctly. The commands are divided in two groups: fixed temperature and temperature ramps.
The following commands for fixed temperatures are available:
1 – Read: Actual temperature will be displayed. If it concerns the internal controller, temperature or the
external temperature is determined by Init-commands or through a command. Actual temperature appears on
display “Cur.Temp.[°C]“.
2 – Set: Setup of new target temperature. Input of new value in input field “Settemp.[°C]“. Afterwards this
value will be transmitted to temperature controller as new set value.
3 – Read: It is enquiry of actual set target temperature. Enquired value will be shown in input field
“Settemp.[°C]“.
4 - START: Temperature control starts, i.e. the set temperature is reached by cooling or heating. At that it is
necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high, dangerous temperatures could arise
in the measuring system.
5 - STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.
Note: It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!
The following commands for temperature-ramp are available:
6 - Set Ramp: The information will be transferred that are necessary for a temperature ramp. Thereby the
value on display „Targettemp.[°C]“ and the value on “Ramptime [min]” as a ramp time are transferred. From
these two values, the ramp rate is then calculated in the temperature controller.
7 – Ramptime [min]: It is a field for input of temperature ramp duration. This input is used for determination of
the temperature ramp (6).
8 - Status: The status of the temperature controller will be readout. Reply is different for each controller type
and must be taken from the Operating Manual of the temperature controller.
9 - START: The temperature ramp starts, i.e. new temperature will be reached in pre-set time from the
actually set value. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high,
dangerous temperatures could arise in the measuring system.
10 - STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.
Note: It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!
11 - Init1: The commands could be sent optionally to the temperature controller. These commands could fulfil
certain settings to the temperature controller. This command is fulfilled one time at program launching. The
commands could be the following: display accuracy, internal / external temperature, pump ON/OFF. The
commands must be stored in setup file of the temperature controller.
12 - Init2: It is such as Init1 for further commands.
13 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
14 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Note: “Read” (3) is a simple command to check the communication. “Cur. Temp.[°C]“ (actual temperature on
the temperature controller) appears on a display as a reply on this command.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. Thus, the start-up must not be carried
out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.
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9.7.5 Pt100
Pt100 calibration could be carried out with this action. As a rule, this calibration is fulfilled after the ending of
the corresponding job with an actual sample.
However, it could happen that it is necessary to carry out the calibration again without a new measurement. In
this case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If this is not the case and other sample is active,
message with indication appears. See also 1-Special Function.
9.7.6 Inertia calibration
Calibration of moment of inertia of the measuring system could be carried out with this action. As a rule, this
calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.
However, it could happen that it is necessary to carry out the calibration again without a new measurement. In
this case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If this is not the case and other sample is active,
message with indication appears. See also 1-Special Function.
9.7.7 Rotation calibration
Correction factor of the measuring system could be determined for rotation tests with this action. As a rule,
this calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.
However, it could happen that it is necessary to carry out the calibration again without a new measurement. In
this case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If this is not the case and other sample is active,
message with indication appears.
See also 1-Special Function.
9.7.8 Oscillation calibration
Correction factor of the measuring system could be done for oscillation tests with this action. As a rule, this
calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.
However, it could happen that it is necessary to carry out the calibration again without a new measurement. In
this case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If this is not the case and other sample is active,
message with indication appears.
See also 1-Special Function.
9.8 Main Menu File
The following functions are possible:
• Page Setup
• Print Preview
• Exit
•
9.8.1 Page Setup
Setting of the used paper size, paper format and page margins.
9.8.2 Print Preview
It permits to preview pages that must be printed. So, it is possible to check version for printing. If necessary
one could do changes, for instance print parameters or width of table columns.
The following functions are possible:
• Direct printing of preview
• Preview Zoom
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• Display of one page
• Display of two pages
• Display of three pages
• Display of four pages
• Display of six pages
• Preview close
The content of the printout is described in the next section.
9.8.3 Printing
A printing is performed depending upon the selected
view, that is currently displayed bookmark.
The following contents and options are possible for
printing:
Bookmark Job – Printing of active job or list of
available jobs at the moment;
Bookmark Table – Printing of data table, with table
settings optionally;
Bookmark Chart – Printing of chart, with report, table,
chart settings optionally;
Bookmark Report – Printing of report, with chart optionally;
Bookmark Method – Printing of active method or of list of available methods at the moment.
The meaning of the parameters and specifications is to take from the respective chapter.
Print Job
It is necessary to select inlay Job, sub-inlay Settings.
One could select an active Job or a list of available at the moment jobs to be printed.
Print Table
For that it is necessary to select the inlay Table.
Table of the active job is displayed always. At that table’s actual settings are taking into account such as:
• Displayed parameters (number of columns)
• Selected tests
• Table heading settings
• Columns width
See for that menu – Table settings.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon number of
parameters and number of columns set.
It is necessary to use preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is possible to see
necessary corrections of columns width or page format.
Print Chart
For that it is necessary to select inlay Chart.
Chart of the active job is displayed always. At that chart’s actual settings are taking into account such as:
• Displayed parameters (number of Y axes)
• Selected tests
• Chart heading settings
• Sample collection settings
• Report parameters settings
See for that menu – Chart settings.
The printed chart size is adjusted to the page format used.
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It will be printed maximal possible format, without changing proportions of the chart page. It means that in A4
portrait format, the sheet width is crucial. On the other hand, in A4 landscape the sheet height dominates. By
changing the display window of the chart, the width-to-height ratio can be set.
Print Report
For that it is necessary to select inlay Report.
Report of the active job is displayed always. At that report’s actual settings are taking into account such as:
• Displayed calculations
• Report heading settings
See for that menu – Report settings.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon columns width of
the report set. It is necessary to use page preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is
possible to see necessary corrections of columns width or page format.
Print Method
For that it is necessary to select inlay Method.
One could select print active method or list of
available methods at the moment (in a bookmark
Settings).
General Print Options
One could determine specific heading for User in order to printout corresponds own requirements. It consists
from two lines and logo.
If complete printout does not fit into one page, the inscription appears “see next pages”.
The source is indicated at the end of each printout:
RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager, and then date of printout follows.
Settings of the specific for the User heading are carried out in Global Settings in the inlay Print.
The following functions are possible:
• user defined Head for Print
• free Text 1
• free Text 2
• Name of Logo
• Show Head on all Pages
user defined Head for Print
It is displayed specific for User heading, if
this option is active. Then it appears in a
frame on the highest possible position in the
printable sheet. At that all other information
that is printed will be shifted downwards.
Width depends upon selected sheet width.
free Text 1
This text is output in the upper line with left
alignment and bold type. This text could be used for enterprise name.
free Text 2
This text is output in the lower line with left alignment. This text could be used for department name.
If the texts should be positioned in the middle of the page, it is necessary to insert blanks before texts. It is
possible to check with the help of the page preview.
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Name of Logo
This is a name of graphic file that contains enterprise logo.
This logo is displayed to the right at the top of the page.
Logo size is fixed and is 50 x 50 pixels. If the picture in file is of other size, it will be recalculated to this size.
Possible files types are .bmp or .jpg. This file must be saved in the same path as a file RN 5 Manager.
Show Head on all Pages
This option permits to display specific for User print heading at every sheet.
The heading is output at the first sheet only, if this option is inactive.
9.8.4 Exit
End of RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager operation. All settings are saved.
Note: Current analysis must be interrupted before the end of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager operation.
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10 Bitumen measurements
10.1 General Information
Measurements of bitumen using the rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN can be carried out according to the following
international standards:
• ASTM D 4402 / D4402 M, ASTM D7175, ASTM D7405,
• AASHTO T 316, AASHTO T 315, AASHTO M 320, AASHTO T 350, AASHTO M 332, AASHTO R 29,
AASHTO TP 101,
• DIN EN 13302, DIN EN 13702-1(-2), DIN EN 14896, DIN EN 14770, DIN EN 16659, FGSV AL DSR-
Prüfung (T-Sweep), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (MSCRT), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (konstante Scherrate),
• GOST 33137-2014, PNST 87-2016, PNST 85-2016, PNST 88-2016, PNST 82-2016, PNST 86-2016,
PNST 81-2016, PNST 89-2016.
10.2 Bitumen measurements using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) RHEOTEST ® RN
10.2.1 Sample Preparation
Bitumen samples should be prepared according to a relevant instruction or standard.
For sample preparation we recommend to use silicone molds with diameter of 25mm and diameter of 8mm
(see Figure 18). The silicone mold must be filled with a sample in an amount sufficient for: setting the
necessary gap between the measuring plates, trimming the sample and for the measurement itself.
Figure 18 Rubber Molds for Sample Preparation
10.2.2 Startup of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR)
The Rheometer has to be installed according to chapter 6 Startup. Switch on the control unit of Rheometer
and Peltier control unit and start the software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager.
10.2.3 Available Jobs
For bitumen tests according to requirements of ASTM / AASHTO and DIN EN Standards, the software
RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager has various test sequences as pre-set Jobs.
• Jobs available in the Job group AASHTO according to binding standards of ASTM / AASHTO:
- “OSC_BINDER_CS”- for Original Binder, with controlled shear stress,
- “OSC_BINDER_CD” - for Original Binder, with controlled shear strain,
- “OSC_RTFO_CS”- for Rolling Thin-Film Oven Residue, with controlled shear stress,
- “OSC_RTFO_CD” - for Rolling Thin-Film Oven Residue, with controlled shear strain,
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- “OSC_PAV_S_CS” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Standard
Traffic “S” Grade, with controlled shear stress,
- “OSC_PAV_S_CD” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Standard
Traffic “S” Grade, with controlled shear strain,
- “OSC_PAV_H_CS” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Heavy
Traffic “H” Grade, Very Heavy Traffic “V” Grade and Extremely Heavy
Traffic “E” Grade, with controlled shear stress,
- “OSC_PAV_H_CD” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Heavy
Traffic “H” Grade, Very Heavy Traffic “V” Grade and Extremely Heavy
Traffic “E” Grade, with controlled shear strain,
These jobs for execution of temperature sweeps of different bitumen types
according to ASTM D7175; AASHTO T 315-12; AASHTO M 320-10 are
used for determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle with
DSR at different temperatures under defined oscillating stress. The start
temperature depends on the Performance Grade (e.g. PG64: start
temperature 64°C). The binder sample is oscillated at a frequency of 1,59
Hz, the temperature is increased in 6°C increments. After crossing of the
termination criteria, the Job is automatically terminated.
- “ASTM123_A” – for measurements according to AASHTO TP 123,
method A,
- “ASTM123_B” – for measurements according to AASHTO TP 123,
method B.
- „MSCR_RTFO_DETERMINE“ is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the type
of bitumen; the PASS requirements only for the most significant bitumen type (S, H, V or E) will be shown
in the Report,
- „MSCR_RTFO_E” (Extremely Heavy Traffic),
- „MSCR_ RTFO_GENERAL” is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the type of
bitumen; all PASS/FAIL requirements for all types of bitumen (S, H, V or E) will be shown in the Report,
- „MSCR_RTFO_H” (Heavy Traffic),
- „MSCR_RTFO_S“ (Standard Traffic),
- „MSCR_RTFO_V“ (Very Heavy Traffic).
These jobs are used for determination of deformation behavior of bitumen and bituminous binders according
to ASTM 7405; AASHTO T 350-14; AASHTO M 332-14 for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). The MSCR-Test
(Multiple Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term static shear stress and subsequent recovery
of the test sample to determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well it’s not-recoverable content.
The PASS/FAIL conditions for the respective type of bitumen (S, H, V or E) are considered in the Report.
The MSCR-Test according to ASTM / AASHTO is executed in two stress levels as follows: with the shear
stress levels of 100 Pa and 3200 Pa.
• Following Jobs are available in the Job group Bitumen:
For road pavement bitumen. The jobs are named after the type of asphalt binder:
- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB20_30”,
- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB30_45”,
- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB50_70”,
- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB70100”
- “OSC_T_Sweep_160_220”.
For polymer modified bitumen. The jobs are named after the type of asphalt binder:
- “OSC_T_Sweep_10_40_65” (PmB bitumen 10/40-65 A),
- “OSC_T_Sweep_25_55_55” (PmB bitumen 25/55-55 A),
- “OSC_T_Sweep_45_80_50” (PmB bitumen 45/80-50 A),
- “OSC_T_Sweep_12020040” (PmB bitumen 120/200-40 A),
- “OSC_T_Sweep_4010065” (PmB bitumen 40/100-65 A).
They serve for execution of temperature sweeps of different bitumen types according to the instruction sheet
DSR-Test (T-Sweep). They are used for determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle with DSR
at different temperatures under defined oscillating stress according to DIN EN 14770 and instruction sheet
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DSR-Test (T-Sweep). The temperatures are rising during
measurement stepwise from 30°C to 90°C in 10°C step. The sample is
oscillating stressed at a frequency of 1,59 Hz.
- „MSCR_AL_FGSV“ Job is used for determination of deformation
behavior of bitumen and bituminous binders according to FGSVinstruction
sheet for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). A MSCR-Test
(Multiple Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term
static shear stress and subsequent recovery of the test sample to
determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well its notrecoverable
content.
The MSCR-Test according to FGSV_AL is executed in three load
levels as follows: with the shear stress levels of 100 Pa; 1600 Pa and
3200 Pa.
IMPORTANT!
It is strongly recommended, to export jobs with the measurement
data regular via the Export / Import function. This especially
concerns the MSCR Jobs, where there is very large amount of
measured data.
First to the Transfer directory, and then copy these jobs from
Transfer and save it in a safe place on the computer. Than the
saved samples can be deleted from RN 5 Manager to ensure fast and problem-free operation of the
software. We suggest to transfer and save the data after every ten measurements and do not have
more than ten samples in the job.
• Jobs available in the Job group Mixing_Compaction_T according to standards of ASTM / AASHTO:
- “MCT_Equiviscous_SD1”- for determining the viscosity of
asphalt binders using a cylindrical measuring system at 2
temperatures and 1 shear rate; temperature range corresponding
to 0,17±0,02 Pa s is chosen for mixing and a temperature range
corresponding to 0,28±0,03 Pa s is chosen for compaction,
- “MCT_steady_shear” – for measurements of steady state
viscosity of asphalt binder using the measuring plate P3 with the
plate distance of 0,5 mm at 76°C, 82°C and 88°C over a range of
0,16 to 500 Pa stress; the viscosity values at 500 Pa are plotted
versus temperature and mixing and compaction temperature
ranges are determined at target values of to 0,17±0,02 Pa s and
to 0,35±0,03 Pa s, respectively,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG46” - for measurements of the phase
angle and complex shear modulus of asphalt binder with PG 46
using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in
oscillatory shear at angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s
at 50°C, 60°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a
master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle
with a reference temperature set to 80°C, the frequency that
corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic
behavior (represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction
temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG52” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 52 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 50°C, 60°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a
master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to 80°C,
the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented by a
phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG58” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 58 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 50°C, 70°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a
master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to 80°C,
85
the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented by a
phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG64” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 64 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 60°C, 70°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a
master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to 80°C,
the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented by a
phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG70” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 70 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 70°C, 80°C and 90°C, the results are combined to create a
master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to 80°C,
the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented by a
phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG76” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 76 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 90°C and 100°C, the results are combined to create
a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to
80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented
by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG82” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 82 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 100°C and 110°C, the results are combined to
create a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set
to 80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior
(represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG88” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 88 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 110°C and 120°C, the results are combined to
create a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set
to 80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior
(represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,
- “MCT_phase_angle_PG94” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of
asphalt binder with PG 94 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at
angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 120°C and 140°C, the results are combined to
create a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set
to 80°C the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented
by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures.
10.2.4 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment
• Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement.
• Select an appropriate Job in the Job tree (column left).
• For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and
click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter
consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the
sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”.
• Following display arises on the screen:
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Please make sure that there is no sample for measurement in the device between the measuring plates. After
that, click Yes. The basic plate moves down to the lower limit. After that, a dialog box will appear on the
screen:
The window means that data is being transferred from the software to the rheometer and it is necessary to
wait a certain time.
• Next, the following dialog box appears:
• Couple the measuring plate P3 for Original Binder or RTFO aged material (Jobs OSC_BINDER,
OSC_RTFO and all MSCR AASHTO Jobs) and the measuring plate P4 for PAV aged material (Jobs
OSC_PAV_H and OSC_PAV_S) with measuring drive - to do this, lift the bushing of the quick connecting
coupling, insert the ball head of the plate into the cone opening of the quick connecting coupling and pull
down the bushing.
• Resolve the knurled screw (2) (Fig. 1) and push the whole measuring drive (1) so, until the springy ring
backs down (displacement about 3 mm) and fix the knurled screw.
• Press OK button.
• In the next window “RN User Input” enter the temperature of the measurement according to the
Performance Grade of the binder (PG) or its PG and press OK.
87
•
• The Peltier- temperated basic plate begins with the tempering to the appropriate temperature.
• In the next window enter the tempering time which is to be sustained for sufficient temperature control of
the sample and then from the sample trimming until the measurement starts. Click OK.
• In the information window at the bottom right starts the countdown. Then there is an automatic setting of
the contact between the plates (zero point). The lower basic plate moves down. The following massage
appears on the screen:
• In this window, enter the temperature for the sample trimming and click OK. You will se the next dialog
box:
• The following actions must be performed:
- Resolve the knurled screw (2) and move the measuring drive upwards;
- Position the bitumen sample centred on the elevation of exchangeable measuring plate;
88
- Resolve the knurled screw (2) (Fig. 1) and push the whole measuring drive (1) so, until the springy ring
backs down (displacement about 3 mm) and fix the knurled screw;
- Press OK button.
• The display „Trimming Sample“ means, that the plate-plate measuring system was placed to a trim
position. Now the excessive material to be measured can be removed. In the Jobs of RHEOTEST ® RN5
Manager the value for the trim distance is given (e.g. 0,05mm). It means, the distance between the upper
and the lower measuring plates is 1,05mm (Plate P3) and 2,05mm (Plate P4) in the trimming position.
This distance is set automatically.
• After trimming press OK button and the measurement starts automatically. The progress of the
measurement can be seen in the information window (bottom right).
All Jobs start with an appropriate tempering of the measured material. During this time (e.g. 10 min) there is
no measurement. After that the first measured data arrive. When the measured data of the second partial test
came, they can be also displayed in the Chart and in the Table
The completion of the analysis will be displayed in the status line. Now, the measured values can be viewed
and / or evaluated in the Report.
If the termination criteria are exceeded (for OSC_Jobs), the Job is automatically terminated. The
evaluation/output of the measured results is stored in the Report according to the appropriate AASHTO
Standards.
The PASS/FAIL criteria for different asphalt binder are shown below. Material satisfies the PASS criterion if
the following condition is fulfilled:
- Original binder G * sin 1. 0kPa
- RTFO residue G * sin 2. 2kPa
- PAV residue G* • sin 5000kPa
for “S” Grade
- PAV residue G* • sin 6000kPa
for “H”, “V”, “E” Grades.
After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2), simultaneously lift the quick connecting
coupling and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic plates.
10.2.5 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with a fixed basic plate
10.2.5.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCR-Test
according to AL FGSL
- Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;
- Set a distance between the measuring plates as described in section 7.2.2.2.;
- Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_T_Sweep_StB50_70 or MSCR_AL_FGSV) in the Job tree Bitumen
(column left);
- For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and
click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job;
or:
- Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample
Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click
the button „Start Analysis”;
- The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:
89
- After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will
display:
- it is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material
should be removed.
Note: The trimming temperature may differ from the measurement temperature.
The following indication appears on display:
Please, enter the required temperature and press OK.
- After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim the sample and will display:
90
- Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the
program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:
- After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the
information window.
10.2.5.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175, AASHTO T
315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T 350-14, AASHTO
M 332-14
- Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;
- Set a distance between the measuring plates as described in section 7.2.2.2.;
- Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_BINDER or MSCR_RTFO_S) in the Job tree AASHTO (column left);
- For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and
click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job;
or:
- Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample
Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click
the button „Start Analysis”; the following notification will be displayed:
- Enter the temperature corresponding to the Performance Grade of the binder type (PG) and click OK; the
Peltier temperated basic plate starts tempering to the predetermined temperature;
- The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:
- After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will
display:
91
- it is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material
should be removed.
Note: The trimming temperature may differ from the measurement temperature.
The following indication appears on display:
- After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim a sample and will display:
- Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the
program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:
- After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the
information window (bottom right).
92
All Jobs start with appropriate tempering of the measured material. During this time (10 min) there is no
measurement. After 10 min the first measured data arrive. When the measured data of the second partial test
came, they can be also displayed in the Chart and in the Table.
The completion of the analysis will be displayed in the status line. Now, the measured values can be viewed
and / or evaluated in the Report.
If the termination criteria are exceeded (for OSC_Jobs), the Job is automatically terminated. The
evaluation/output of the measured results is stored in the Report according to the appropriate AASHTO
Standards.
After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2) (fig. 3), simultaneously lift the quick
connecting coupling and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic plates.
10.2.6 Trimming the bitumen sample
The sample can be trimmed with a spatula or trimming tool (Figure 19). For trimming of the material, one can
rotate the open window of the adapter in a circle, to ensure the all-sided trimming. After it, turn the window to
the back side if the rheometer to make ready for measurement.
Figure 19 Trimming Tools
93
11 Appendix
11.1 Tests
There are two categories of tests possible: rotation tests and oscillation tests. In the rotation tests, the
rotational direction is not changed. The default value is either torque / shear stress or speed / shear rate, or
angle / deformation. Another value is then respectively measured as a response.
In the oscillation tests, the rotational direction is changed. Generally, a sine wave is performed and evaluated
for an oscillation dataset. Thereby either torque / shear stress or angle / deformation is defined as a sine wave
and the response is measured.
test description set value response
CR const constant shear rate shear rate shear stress
CR sweep shear rate sweep (ramp) shear rate shear stress
CR steps stepwise change in shear rate shear rate shear stress
CR equilibrium shear rate equilibrium shear rate shear stress
CS const constant shear stress shear stress shear rate
CS sweep shear stress sweep (ramp) shear stress shear rate
CS steps stepwise change in shear stress shear stress shear rate
CS equilibrium shear stress equilibrium shear stress shear rate
CS OSC const oscillation at a constant frequency and shear stress deformation
amplitude
CS OSC fsweep oscillation at a frequency sweep and shear stress deformation
constant amplitude
CS OSC asweep oscillation at an amplitude sweep and shear stress deformation
constant frequency
CD const constant deformation deformation shear stress
CD sweep deformation sweep (ramp) deformation shear stress
CD OSC const oscillation at constant frequency and deformation shear stress
amplitude
CD OSC fsweep oscillation at frequency ramp and constant deformation shear stress
amplitude
CD OSC asweep oscillation at an amplitude ramp and deformation shear stress
constant frequency
Creep constant shear stress shear stress deformation
Speed const constant speed shear rate shear stress
Speed sweep speed sweep (ramp) shear rate shear stress
Speed steps stepwise change in speed shear rate shear stress
Torque const constant shear stress shear stress shear rate
Torque sweep shear stress sweep (ramp) shear stress shear rate
Torque steps stepwise change in shear stress shear stress shear rate
11.2 Result
The results of tests are divided into three categories: raw measuring data, rheological measuring data and
model parameters.
The Rheometer RHEOTEST RN generates data sets, which belong to the category raw measuring data.
These are a basis of all other values.
The rheological measuring data are derived from the raw measuring data. In principle, these can be
distinguished into two groups:
1. CR/CS - measuring data: are produced during tests in which the rotation direction is not changed, the
rotation tests.
2. Oscillation measuring data: are produced during oscillation tests, that is the torque is changed
sinusoidal, rotation direction is changed (see also Tests).
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data Gr. X Y meaning calculation unit
time- t 1,2 x x elapsed time since the start of the raw measuring s (SI), min
test
data
speed – N
or
angle-
1,2 x x speed or angle of the measuring
system at the time
raw measuring
data
N: 1/s (SI), 1/min
: °(grad), rad (SI)
torque -M 1,2 x x torque, which acts on the
raw measuring µNm, mNm
measuring system at the time data
temperature - T 1,2 x x temperature of sample or of the raw measuring K, °C, °F
thermostating unit
shear stress - 1,2 x x on the surface acting force, which is
in parallel direction to the working
surface
shear rate - D 1 x x speed change vertical to the flow
direction
deformation - 1,2 x x degree of deformation of a material
under the influence of force
data
= KTau * M
(KTaumeasuring
system)
D = kD * N
(KD – measuring
system)
= kD *
(KD – measuring
system)
= / D
Pa (SI), mPa, dyn/cm²
1/s (SI), 1/min
%, no unit
dynamic viscosity - 1 x internal resistance of flow at steady
shearing
Pa s (SI), mPa s
complex viscosity - 2 x complex resistance of flow at = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s
oscillating stress
_max *
real part of complex 2 x describes the viscous component of ’ = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s
viscosity - ’
deformation (dissipation)
_max * *
sin()
imaginary part of
2 x describes the elastic component of ’’ = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s
complex viscosity - ’’
deformation (storage)
_max * *
cos()
shear modulus– G 1 x rotation G = / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
complex modulus – G* 2 x oscillation G = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
_max
storage modulus – G’ 2 x oscillation G’ = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
_max * cos()
loss modulus – G’’ 2 x oscillation G’’ = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
_max * sin()
compliance – J 1 x rotation J = / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
1/MPa
complex compliance – 2 x oscillation J = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
J*
_max
1/MPa
storage compliance – J’ 2 x oscillation J’ = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
_max * cos() 1/MPa
loss compliance – J’’ 2 x oscillation J’ = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
_max * sin() 1/MPa
phase angle - 2 x phase shift between torque
phase shift °(grad), rad (SI)
oscillation and angel oscillation between torque
and angle
tangent phase angle – 2 x tangent value of phase angle °(grad), rad (SI)
tan
frequency – f 2 x x reciprocal of the period duration of f = 1 / T
Hz, 1/s (SI)
an oscillation
angular frequency - 2 x x frequency value as = 2 f Hz, 1/s (SI)
torque_max – M 2 x maximum torque of an oscillation µNm, mNm
angle_max - 2 x maximum angle of an oscillation °(grad), rad (SI)
test 1,2 number of test of the method no
index 1,2 number of data set of test no
index cumulative 1,2 number of data set of method
no
(accumulated over all tests)
time cumulative – t 1,2 expiration, since start of analysis no
system result 0 – SR 1,2 intrasystem datas, among others
no
temperature values
status Mode - SM 1,2 intrasystem datas no
result Mode - RM 1,2 intrasystem datas no
column X: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the x-axis.
column Y: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the y-axis.
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11.3 Analyses
An overview of available evaluations to determine statistical and rheological characteristics of a sample.
name function / formula application chart
Avg/StDev Average and Statistics
standard deviation
Min / Max / Minimum value, Statistics
Range
maximum value,
spread (Max – Min)
Upper Limit
Upper limit value as a marker on the chart
Lower Limit
Lower limit value as a marker on the chart
Target
Target value as a marker on the chart
Correlation
Yield point Tau
Thixotropie
Newton
Ostwald de
Waele
De Haven
Carreau
Cross
Golub
Reiner -
Phillippoff
Correlation factor
Determination of
yield point; premise
is a CS-sweep.
„Hysteresis area“;
premise is a test
sequence of CR (or
CS) with sweep up -
hold – sweep down.
Calculation of
hysteresis area
(difference of
integrals between up
and down).
Determination of necessary shear stress to
start a sample flowing (shear rate > 0)
Difference of the areas corresponds to a
volume-related power, which is necessary to
structure destruction.
Water, mineral oil,
all „Newtonian“ materials
readout:
- viscosity
Empirical function for formal adjustment to the
flow curve curvature
readout:
- consistency factor k
- flow exponent n
Polymer melts
readout:
- viscosity _0 0
- tau max m
- exponent n
Polymer solution
readout:
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity _0 0
- shear rate Db
- exponent n
Universal
readout:
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity _0 0
- shear rate Db
- exponent n
Universal
readout:
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity _0 0
- exponent factor k
Universal
readout:
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity _0 0
- tau max m
96
Meter
Bingham
Herschel Bulkley
Casson
Casson gen.
Tscheuschner
gen.
OSC-T-Sweep
MSCR-Test
MSCR-AASHTO
G* and as a
function of
temperature
Determination of
percent recovery and
non-recovery creep
compliance at the
creep stress levels
100 Pa; 1600 Pa and
3200 Pa
Determination of
percent recovery at
the creep stress
levels 100 Pa and
3200 Pa
τ_0_OSC Determination of τ =
τ_0 when G’=G’’
TTS (Time
Temperature
Superposition)
BTSV (Bitumen-
Typisierungs-
Schnell-Verfahren)
TPT (according to
the working
instruction FGSV AL
Using master curves,
rheological behavior of
materials and aging effect
can be characterized in a
wider range of time or
frequency at a given
temperature
The test determines the
temperature at which the
bitumen in OSC mode by
increasing the temperature
has a definite module G*
and determines the
corresponding phase
angle δ
Determination of the
phase transition
temperature of modified
Universal
readout:
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity _0 0
- tau max m
- exponent n
Paste, cream
readout:
- yield point 0
- viscosity
Empirical function for formal adjustment to the
flow curve curvature
readout:
- yield point 0
- factor k
- exponent n
Suspensions (paints, varnishes, chacolate)
readout:
- yield point 0
- viscosity
Suspensions
readout:
- yield point 0
- viscosity
- exponent denominator n
Chocolate
readout:
- yield point 0
- viscosity infinite ∞
- viscosity str
- exponent n
- shear rate Dr
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Paste, unguents, sealant
Universal
Evaluation of the deformation behavior of
bitumen at increased temperatures
Determination of the temperature of asphalt
binder, at which they have a markedly different
behavior of the material due to the applied
97
DSR-Prüfung
(konstante
Scherrate))
MSCR_2016
(according to the
working instruction
FGSV AL DSR-
Prüfung (MSCRT)
PNST88_MSCR
(according to PNST
88-2016)
GOST_33137
(according to GOST
33137)
TP 123 A
asphalt binder
Determination of percent
recovery and non-recovery
creep compliance at the
creep stress level 3200 Pa
Determination of percent
recovery at the creep
stress levels 100 Pa and
3200 Pa
Determination of dynamic
viscosity of bitumen
Determination of binder
yield energy and ductility
according to AASHTO TP
123, method A
TP 123 B Determination of DSR -
elastic recoveryaccording
to AASHTO TP 123,
method B
MCT Equiviscous
MCT Steady Shear
MCT Phase Angle
Determining the viscosity
of asphalt binders using a
cylindrical measuring
system at two
temperatures
Determining the laboratory
mixing and compaction
temperature of asphalt
binders using DSR Steady
Shear Flow
Determining the laboratory
mixing and compaction
temperature of asphalt
binders using DSR Phase
Angle Method
shear
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
Bitumen
As a prerequisite for application of the evaluations from "Newton" to "Tscheuschner gen." is the presence of a
sample which was measured as a flow curve. Flow curves arise from CR or CS test, executed as a sweep or
as an equilibrium. The data are necessary which describe the dependence of shear stress as a function of
shear rate ( = f (D)).
11.4 Heading data
Heading data could be selected for displaying in Table head, Chart head or Report head.
The following options are available:
Designation
Meaning
None
nothing is displayed
Job name
job name from Job definition
Setting-Group name
group and job name from Job definition
Product
record from the field Product from Job definition
Method
name of method used
Methods group
group and name of method used
Comment Job
comment to Job from Job definition
Measuring system
measuring system used
Sample
sample name from Sample definition
Charge
record from the field Charge from Sample definition
Operator
operator name from Sample definition
Sample created
date of sample creation
Comment sample
comment to sample from Sample definition
Free text 1 it will be shown free text 1
Free text 2 it will be shown free text 2
Free text 3 it will be shown free text 3
98
11.5 Calibration of measuring systems
Each Rheometer RHEOTEST RN ® including provided measuring systems will be delivered in calibrated
state. The measuring systems can be recalibrated if great deviations occur by control measurements with
calibration substances.
For calculation of rheological parameters Shear Stress, Shear Rate and Viscosity from the measured
parameters Torque and Speed, the constants of measuring systems are already determined by the
manufacturer and stored for each measuring system. Those constants arise from geometry of measuring
systems (e.g. DIN 53018 and DIN 53019). Since the ideal conditions (like one-dimensional, laminar flow) are
assumed by the calculation of measuring systems constants and measuring systems exhibit fabrication
tolerances, correction factors must be determined. This is done by measurements with calibration standards.
Correction factor Rotation. See Correction for Rotation and Rotation Calibration.
Correction factor Oscillation. See Correction Oscillation and Oscillation calibration.
99
11.6 Menu overview Peltier temperature control
Note: The changes in the temperature control can be made in the menu item Service. This item can be used
only by the authorized staff.
100
11.7 Error messages
11.7.1 Error messages Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager
The software is a Windows application and is based on this technology. Therefore, error messages may come
from both the system software and the Rheometer software. How to treat the system error messages, please
follow instructions in Windows. The error messages of the Rheometer software are self-explanatory. When
error messages occur, please remove the named causes.
11.7.2 Incorrect display of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager
If the size of some menu items of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager are displayed to large, please set the Windows
display to the recommended standard size.
- right click on the empty space of Windows Desktop;
- depending on the Windows version, click the menu item „Adapt“ or „Display Settings“;
- under display set the font size to 100%.
11.7.3 Error messages Peltier control
Mentioned below error messages could appear during measurements or operation of the device. These
messages indicate the user that precise measurement or some function are impossible or incorrect.
Error message:
“SENSOR BROKEN!“
The red LED-signal light is on and it is not heated.
Cause of trouble:
• One or both thermal elements do not deliver signal.
Troubleshooting:
• Check correct connection of connectors to the control unit or
• Inform service of RHEOTEST.
Error message:
“Too high device temperature”
The internal temperature of the control unit is monitored permanent. When the limit value is exceeded, an
error message appears.
Cause of trouble:
• Unacceptable heat source is formed in the control unit – device failure.
• The device is operated at too high ambient temperature.
• Device fan is closed.
Troubleshooting:
• Provide acceptable environment conditions and necessary cooling.
• Inform service of RHEOTEST in case of defect.
101
Error message:
“Program-Stop“
Temperature control is off.
Cause of trouble:
• Program of microprocessor control does not respond.
Troubleshooting:
• Switch off the device and switch on it again in 10 seconds. This method should not be used more than
three times successively. If the device does not operate after this, it says about serious fault. It is necessary to
inform the service of RHEOTEST.
Error message: “Incorrect Value!”
Range of permissible values is prescribed for each menu choice where input of numerical values is possible.
This error message appears and input value is ignored if input value is above or below this range.
Cause of trouble:
• Input numerical value was rejected during checking of plausibility.
Troubleshooting:
• Input permissible value.
11.8 Service
A Rheometer is a very robust and, at the same time, a very sensitive measuring instrument. It does not need a
special maintenance, if the following rules are fulfilled:
• especially of the measuring shaft
•
•
•
•
• Do not use it near strong heat sources (e.g., heating radiators)
• Do not use it near the objects with strong electromagnetic fields (e.g., loudspeakers, motors etc.)
• Do not use chemicals, such as strong solvents or acids for the instrument cleaning
• Do not permit penetration of liquids in the measuring head, bearings of the measuring drive or in the control
unit
• Do not bend the mains cable and connecting cable, exclude strong stretching loads and high temperatures
In case of some defect or deviations from nominal values, please contact our dealer or RHEOTEST directly:
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Medingen
Rödertalstr. 1
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla
Telefon: +49 – (035205)-580
Fax: +49 – (035205)-58297
mailto:info@rheotest.de
Repairs may only be carried out by specialists who have been authorized by the manufacturer.
Never open the device itself.
For any kind of damage report, please always specify the engraved on the nameplate the exact device name
and the unit number.
102