Abstract: The method comprising the steps of engaging the flow circuit of the detector with a reference fluid, accepting a sample in the flow circuit of the detector, sensing an attribute of the sample for determining a characteristic of the sample, changing the direction of the flow of the sample in the flow circuit, and purging the sample from the flow circuit such that the flow circuit is ready to accept another sample. Another method provides the steps of engaging the flow circuit of the detector with a reference fluid, inserting a sample in the flow circuit juxtaposed to the reference fluid, sensing an attribute of the sample for determining a characteristic of the sample, and deviating the direction of the flow of the sample from the flow circuit for purging the sample from the flow circuit such that the reference fluid is maintained in the flow circuit.

Abstract: The method comprising the steps of engaging the flow circuit of the detector with a reference fluid, accepting a sample in the flow circuit of the detector, sensing an attribute of the sample for determining a characteristic of the sample, changing the direction of the flow of the sample in the flow circuit, and purging the sample from the flow circuit such that the flow circuit is ready to accept another sample. Another method provides the steps of engaging the flow circuit of the detector with a reference fluid, inserting a sample in the flow circuit juxtaposed to the reference fluid, sensing an attribute of the sample for determining a characteristic of the sample, and deviating the direction of the flow of the sample from the flow circuit for purging the sample from the flow circuit such that the reference fluid is maintained in the flow circuit.

Abstract: A capillary bridge viscometer is disclosed for measuring the relative viscosity of a solute in a solvent. The bridge contains two (2) fluid flow circuits. One circuit contains two (2) capillaries in series. The second circuit contains two (2) capillaries in series with a valve and an associated liquid reservoir positioned intermediate of the capillaries. A common feed line feeds a first liquid to both fluid flow circuits. With the valve set in one operating position, the first liquid flows through all four (4) capillaries and no pressure differential is established across the bridge. With the valve set in a second operating position, the first liquid exiting the first capillary of the second fluid flow circuit flows into the liquid reservoir and displaces a second liquid stored therein which then flows through the second capillary of the second fluid flow circuit. A differential pressure is established across the bridge which is a function of the viscosity of the second liquid.