ViscoMelt 5000 Extruder Viscometer - Maintenance-free polymer melt viscometer installs directly on extruder die head

The slimline probe of the ViscoMelt 5000 is designed for maximum compatibility with existing plant. The instrument has a single sensor probe that extends into the process stream, with a tip just 7mm in diameter. It is normally supplied with the industry standard ½-20 UNF fitting, making it easy to retrofit on an existing port without having to add or modify any pipework. There is no need for a bulky high-pressure flange. As a result, installation is very simple and can usually be completed in minutes.

Viscosity can be measured continuously in real time at pressures over 200 bar (2900 psi) and at temperatures up to 400 °C (752 °F) without requiring any special cooling. Sensitivity is high and repeatability is excellent. The instrument connects to a VP550 signal processor (included in the system), which provides three fully-configurable 4-20mA analogue outputs and RS485 serial data. All models are intrinsically safe, certified for use in Zone 0 Hazardous Areas (explosive atmosphere continuously present), equivalent to Class I, Division 1, Group A.

The wetted parts of the sensor are all 316 stainless steel, making the probe extremely rugged. It is an all-welded construction with no moving parts, seals or bearings which could wear out or fail in service. The instrument requires no on-site calibration and maintenance is virtually zero. Also, there are no nooks or crannies where material can collect.
For the first time, polymer manufacturers will be able to monitor melt viscosity at the heart of the die head with minimum fuss. The tip of the ViscoMelt probe is designed to reach the centre of the extruder pipe, providing continuous real-time melt viscosity measurement with minimal impact on flow. Because the instrument installs directly into the melt, variations in the polymer are detected instantaneously in real time. The system is ideal for the immediate detection of viscosity changes resulting from switches in compounding formulation or variations in the degree of polymerisation.

The on-line viscometer provides much more frequent and rapid monitoring than is possible using side-stream or off-line methods. Real-time viscosity measurement allows manufacturers to respond instantly to off-spec conditions, which reduces wastage and delays in production while improving product quality.