IKA ROTAVISC hi-vi II Complete Rotational Viscometer

Overview

The IKA ROTAVISC hi-vi II Complete is a high-performance benchtop rotational viscometer engineered for precision viscosity characterization of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids across industrial R&D, quality control, and academic laboratories. Based on the Couette principle—where torque exerted on a rotating spindle immersed in a fluid is measured under controlled shear rate—the instrument delivers traceable, reproducible rheological data without requiring complex calibration routines. Its extended viscosity range (800 to 320,000,000 mPa·s) accommodates highly viscous materials including polymer melts, bitumen, pastes, and gels, while its wide operational temperature span (−100 °C to +300 °C) supports cryogenic and high-temperature testing when paired with compatible external temperature baths and PT100 sensors. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the system complies with DIN EN 60529 (IP40) for dust protection and meets electromagnetic compatibility standards per EN 61326-1.

Key Features

• High-resolution 4.3″ TFT touchscreen interface with intuitive menu navigation, real-time graphical display of viscosity vs. time or shear rate, and integrated electronic level for rapid horizontal alignment.
• Infinitely variable speed control (0.01–200 rpm) with ±0.01 rpm setting accuracy and automatic ramp profiling (RAMP function) for standardized shear history application in thixotropy or yield stress assessment.
• Dual-mode operation: timer-controlled (0.017–6000 min) and continuous run modes, both supporting programmable start/stop triggers and auto-hold functionality.
• Integrated torque measurement up to 5.7496 mN·m with overload protection, ensuring mechanical safety during high-viscosity or high-shear measurements.
• Comprehensive hardware package: includes SP7–SP12 standard spindle set, ROTASTAND manual lift stand (61 mm travel), protective guard frame, and calibrated PT100 temperature probe with ±0.1 K accuracy.
• Full digital connectivity via RS232 and USB ports enables direct data export to LIMS or third-party analysis software; supports GLP/GMP-compliant audit trails when used with validated firmware versions.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ROTAVISC hi-vi II Complete is compatible with standard cylindrical sample containers (up to 600 mL volume) and accepts all IKA SP-series spindles (SP1–SP12), enabling method flexibility per ISO 2555, ASTM D2196, and DIN 53019-1. Its modular design allows seamless integration with Peltier-controlled jackets, circulating baths, or vacuum chambers for controlled environmental testing. The instrument’s mechanical architecture supports dynamic loads up to 5 kg and operates reliably within ambient conditions of 5–40 °C and ≤80% RH. All electrical components conform to IEC 61010-1 safety standards, and firmware supports optional 21 CFR Part 11 compliance modules for regulated pharmaceutical and biotech environments.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and visualization are managed directly through the onboard operating system, eliminating dependency on external PCs for routine measurements. Real-time graphs—including viscosity, torque, speed, and temperature curves—are stored internally and exportable as CSV or PDF. USB mass storage mode permits drag-and-drop file transfer to Windows/macOS systems. For enterprise deployment, optional IKA LabWorld software provides advanced statistical analysis (e.g., Casson model fitting, hysteresis loop evaluation), multi-user access control, electronic signature support, and automated report generation aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements.

Applications

This viscometer serves critical roles in formulation development (paints, adhesives, cosmetics), process validation (food processing, polymer extrusion), regulatory submission support (USP , EP 2.9.35), and material qualification (lubricants, battery electrolytes, ceramic slurries). Its robust spindle geometry and thermal stability make it suitable for measuring apparent viscosity of shear-thinning hydrogels, yield stress of drilling muds, and structural recovery kinetics of thixotropic greases—applications routinely referenced in ASTM D1092, ISO 3219, and DIN 1342-1.

FAQ

Does the ROTAVISC hi-vi II Complete support automatic temperature compensation?
Yes—when connected to a certified PT100 sensor, the system applies real-time temperature correction using built-in viscosity-temperature correlation algorithms compliant with ASTM D445 Annex A1.
Can this instrument perform yield stress estimation?
It supports indirect yield point determination via controlled-stress ramp tests using the RAMP function and post-acquisition torque-vs.-speed curve analysis.
Is calibration traceable to national standards?
Factory calibration is traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt); users may perform two-point verification using NIST-traceable silicone oil standards.
What spindle configurations are recommended for ultra-high-viscosity samples (>10⁶ mPa·s)?
SP11 and SP12 spindles (cylindrical geometry with large surface area) are optimized for such ranges; use with low-speed settings (<1 rpm) and extended equilibration times ensures measurement stability.
Does the device meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements out-of-the-box?
Base firmware does not include electronic signature or audit trail functions; these require optional IKA LabWorld Suite with validated installation and configuration per site-specific SOPs.