TQC Stainless Steel DIN Cup VF2015
| Brand | TQC |
|---|---|
| Origin | Netherlands |
| Model | VF2015 |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Orifice Diameter | 4 mm |
| Compliance | DIN 53211 |
| Construction | Precision-Machined, Non-Corrosive, Reusable |
Overview
The TQC Stainless Steel DIN Cup VF2015 is a precision-engineered efflux viscometer designed for the standardized measurement of kinematic viscosity in liquid coatings, paints, varnishes, inks, and related industrial fluids. Based on the principle of gravity-driven flow through a precisely defined orifice, this instrument operates under the DIN 53211 standard—widely adopted across European and global quality control laboratories for its repeatability, simplicity, and traceable methodology. Unlike rotational or capillary viscometers, the DIN cup measures efflux time (in seconds) required for a fixed volume of sample to drain completely through a calibrated orifice under controlled temperature and atmospheric conditions. This efflux time is then correlated to kinematic viscosity (mm²/s or cSt) using standardized conversion charts or digital calculators compliant with ISO 2431 and ASTM D1200. The VF2015 variant features a 4 mm orifice diameter, machined to ±0.01 mm dimensional tolerance, and is constructed entirely from high-grade stainless steel to ensure long-term dimensional stability, chemical resistance, and immunity to thermal expansion drift.
Key Features
- Precision-machined 4 mm orifice per DIN 53211 specification, with certified dimensional traceability
- Full-body stainless steel construction—resistant to corrosion, solvent attack, and mechanical wear
- Individually laser-engraved serial number for instrument identification and calibration record linkage
- Optimized cup geometry (including specified internal taper, wall thickness, and discharge nozzle profile) to minimize surface tension and meniscus effects
- Compatible with standard DIN stand fixtures and temperature-controlled bath setups (23 ± 0.5 °C per ISO 2884-1)
- Reusable design supporting >10,000 test cycles when maintained per TQC cleaning protocols
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The VF2015 DIN cup is validated for Newtonian and near-Newtonian fluids within the kinematic viscosity range of approximately 20–150 mm²/s (cSt), corresponding to efflux times between 30–100 seconds under standard conditions. It is routinely employed in QC labs for architectural paints, automotive OEM coatings, coil coatings, and industrial primers. Regulatory compliance includes full alignment with DIN 53211:2021, ISO 2431:2015, and ASTM D1200–22. Each unit ships with optional NIST-traceable calibration certification (ISO/IEC 17025 accredited), enabling direct integration into GLP and GMP documentation workflows. For audit readiness, TQC provides calibration log templates compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record requirements when used with validated data capture software.
Software & Data Management
While the DIN cup itself is a manual, analog instrument, TQC supports digital workflow integration via its ViscoCalc™ companion software (sold separately). This Windows-based application accepts timed efflux values, applies temperature correction algorithms per ISO 2884-1 Annex A, and outputs kinematic viscosity (mm²/s), Saybolt Universal Seconds (SUS), and Zahn cup equivalents. All entries are timestamped, user-authenticated, and stored with immutable audit trails—including operator ID, ambient temperature/humidity, calibration certificate expiry, and deviation flags for out-of-spec measurements. Raw data exports comply with CSV and PDF/A-2 standards for LIMS ingestion and regulatory submission.
Applications
- Final product release testing in paint manufacturing facilities
- In-process viscosity verification during dispersion and let-down stages
- Supplier material qualification against technical data sheets (TDS)
- Batch-to-batch consistency monitoring in high-volume coating lines
- Reference method validation for inline viscometers (e.g., vibrational or ultrasonic sensors)
- Educational demonstrations of Newtonian fluid behavior and rheological fundamentals
FAQ
What is the recommended temperature for DIN cup measurements?
Standard testing must be conducted at 23 ± 0.5 °C, as defined in ISO 2884-1 and DIN 53211. Temperature deviations beyond ±0.5 °C require correction using the published viscosity–temperature coefficient for the specific fluid.
Can the VF2015 be used for non-Newtonian coatings?
No—it is strictly intended for low-shear-rate, time-independent fluids. Thixotropic or shear-thinning systems require rotational rheometry (e.g., Brookfield or Anton Paar instruments) for accurate characterization.
How often should the cup be recalibrated?
Annual recalibration is recommended; however, recalibration is mandatory after any physical impact, abrasive cleaning, or if efflux time deviates by >2% from baseline using a certified reference oil.
Is cleaning solvent compatibility documented?
Yes—TQC provides a validated cleaning matrix covering xylene, acetone, MEK, ethanol, and aqueous alkaline cleaners. Chlorinated solvents (e.g., chloroform) are prohibited due to stress-corrosion cracking risk in stainless steel.
Does the cup include a calibration certificate by default?
No—certified calibration is an optional add-on. Units shipped without certification bear only the engraved serial number and “DIN 53211” marking.
