Abstract: The invention relates to a measuring device and a method for determining rheological properties of a viscous, polymeric mass, wherein the measuring device comprises a rheometer with a container containing the mass and a rotation element that is positionable inside the container, wherein the measuring device provides a relative between the rotation element and the container about an rotation axis that defines an axial direction parallel to the rotation axis and a radial direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, wherein the measuring device comprises one or more normal force sensors for detecting at least a component of the normal force that is exerted onto the container or the rotation element in the axial direction and a radial force sensor for detecting a radial force exerted onto the container in the radial direction.

Abstract: A couette viscometer used to determine the rheological properties of Newtonian or non-Newtonian solid-laden or non-solid-laden fluids used as completion or treatment fluids in oil and/or gas wells. The instrument is capable of measuring the properties of a heated, e.g., 600° F./316° C., and pressurized sample, e.g., 30,000 psig/207 MPa, at a variety of temperatures, pressures, and shear rates. The pressure vessel is mounted in the chassis of the instrument and the vessel plug containing the viscometer components and sample may be removed as an assembly. This arrangement reduces the mass of the plug assembly, eliminating the need to transport the pressure vessel and assists in separating the sample from the pressurizing fluid. Ultimately, this arrangement improves the usability, convenience and maintenance associated with operating the instrument.

Abstract: This invention provides methodology for the measurement of both low and high levels of scattered radiation produced by decorative and barrier coatings and plastics. Measurements of low levels are especially important for coatings used in automotive applications. The method is based on the illumination of the sample with radiation and collection of only the portion of the radiation scattered from the coating before, during and after the testing step and relating the optical signal from the tested portion of the sample material to the untested portion of the material and/or a standard. Through the practice of the invention, a large number of coating samples, as in an array, may be analyzed for their optical quality, principally haze, either after coating and curing, and/or after subjection of such coatings samples to elongation stresses, and/or abrasion testing, solvent exposure, hydrolytic stability testing, and temperature exposure.

Abstract: A library of materials is screened for viscosity. A library of materials is provided. The library is contacted with at least one capillary for applying a force through the materials. The relative flow resistance of the materials is measured in response to the force; and the materials in the library are ranked based on the monitored flow resistance.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for testing the properties of chemicals in a reaction flow stream. In the method, chemicals from the reaction flow stream are directed to the apparatus for testing the physical properties of the chemicals, which is an indication of the state of the chemical reaction. Data measured by the apparatus is stored in a computer, and the computer may be used to analyze the data and to control the reaction parameters based on the analysis of the data. The apparatus used for the analysis comprises a rheometer having an actuated shaft and a concentric container, wherein the shear properties of the material sampled in the apparatus are measured when the actuator shaft is oscillated within the container. Various unique configurations of the apparatus are described.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for testing the properties of chemicals in a reaction flow stream. In the method, chemicals from the reaction flow stream are directed to the apparatus for testing the physical properties of the chemicals, which is an indication of the state of the chemical reaction. Data measured by the apparatus is stored in a computer, and the computer may be used to analyze the data and to control the reaction parameters based on the analysis of the data. The apparatus used for the analysis comprises a rheometer having an actuated shaft and a concentric container, wherein the shear properties of the material sampled in the apparatus are measured when the actuator shaft is oscillated within the container. Various unique configurations of the apparatus are described.

Abstract: A viscometer for sensing or characterizing the stress required to shear a fluid at a given rate includes a pair of members coaxially mounted for relative rotation. Between the members is an annular gap defining a flow path for the fluid. The flow path is configured such that during differential rotation of the members, fluid is caused to flow through the annular gap that is a function of the differential rotation and the viscosity of the fluid. A sensor measures the torque or torque equivalent required to achieve such differential rotation between the members.

Abstract: A viscometer for sensing or characterizing the stress required to shear a fluid at a given rate includes a pair of members coaxially mounted for relative rotation. Between the members is an annular gap defining a flow path for the fluid. The flow path is configured such that during differential rotation of the members, fluid is caused to flow through the annular gap that is a function of the differential rotation and the viscosity of the fluid. A sensor measures the torque or torque equivalent required to achieve such differential rotation between the members.