Drick DRK-5S Rotational Viscometer for Paper & Packaging Industry

Overview

The Drick DRK-5S Rotational Viscometer is a precision-engineered instrument designed specifically for routine viscosity assessment in papermaking, corrugated board manufacturing, coating formulation, and packaging material development laboratories. It operates on the principle of rotational viscometry—measuring the torque required to rotate a defined geometry (spindle) at a controlled angular velocity within a fluid sample under steady-state shear conditions. This method conforms to fundamental rheological standards including ASTM D2196 (Standard Test Methods for Rheological Properties of Non-Newtonian Materials by Rotational Viscometer) and ISO 2555 (Plastics — Dilute Solution Viscosity — Capillary and Rotational Methods). The DRK-5S employs a high-resolution stepper motor with microstepping control to ensure stable, low-vibration rotation across its four discrete speed settings (6, 12, 30, and 60 rpm), enabling reproducible shear rate application essential for QC consistency in pulp suspensions, starch binders, aqueous adhesives, and coating slurries.

Key Features

• Four standard spindles (#1–#4) optimized for overlapping viscosity ranges from low-shear aqueous systems (e.g., diluted sizing agents) to high-viscosity dispersions (e.g., pigment-loaded coating formulations)
• Backlit LCD display with real-time readout of viscosity (mPa·s), rotational speed (rpm), sample temperature (°C), torque (%), spindle identification, and full-scale limit at current speed setting
• Integrated temperature monitoring capability (optional external probe supported) for correlation of viscosity with thermal state—critical for hot-melt adhesive qualification or wet-end process control
• 12 V DC power architecture via external adapter, minimizing electromagnetic interference and enhancing operational safety in humid production lab environments
• Robust mechanical housing and precision-machined spindle shaft assembly engineered for long-term dimensional stability and minimal bearing wear over repeated daily use
• Compliance-ready design: supports manual documentation protocols aligned with GLP and internal QA procedures; audit trail functionality available via optional PC interface software

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DRK-5S accommodates standard cylindrical sample containers (e.g., 600 mL Griffin beakers) and is compatible with optional accessories including double-walled sample cups for thermal stabilization and circulating water baths (±0.1 °C control) for ISO 7389-compliant temperature conditioning. It meets the physical test requirements specified in TAPPI TIP 0404-02 (Viscosity Testing of Starch Solutions), ISO 15283 (Adhesives – Determination of Viscosity), and GB/T 2794–2013 (Chinese national standard for adhesive viscosity testing). While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant out-of-the-box, its data output format supports traceable export to validated LIMS or ELN platforms when paired with Drick’s optional RS-232/USB communication module.

Software & Data Management

The DRK-5S operates in standalone mode but supports serial data transmission to Windows-based PCs using Drick’s proprietary ViscoLink™ Lite software (v3.2+). This application enables automated data logging, multi-point time-sweep acquisition, comparative viscosity trend analysis across batches, and PDF report generation with embedded metadata (operator ID, timestamp, environmental conditions). All exported CSV files retain calibrated units (mPa·s), spindle identifier, and measurement uncertainty flags per NIST-traceable calibration certificates supplied with each unit. Firmware updates are distributed via secure download portal and require no hardware modification.

Applications

• Quality control of kraft pulp suspensions and recycled fiber slurries during headbox feed preparation
• Viscosity profiling of starch-based surface sizing formulations pre- and post-gelatinization
• Batch release testing of water-based flexographic inks and barrier coatings used in food-grade packaging
• Stability evaluation of PVA and EVA emulsions employed in cold-seal adhesive laminates
• Routine verification of viscosity drift in biocide-treated white water systems
• Process troubleshooting of calendering nip lubricants and roll cleaning solutions

FAQ

What spindle configuration is recommended for measuring diluted cationic starch solutions (1–3% w/w)?
For this range, #2 spindle at 30 rpm typically yields optimal torque utilization (20–80% full scale); always verify with a blank correction using deionized water.
Can the DRK-5S perform yield stress estimation?
No—it is a steady-shear viscometer without ramped torque or controlled-stress capability; yield point determination requires a controlled-stress rheometer per ASTM D4445.
Is calibration traceable to national standards?
Yes—each instrument ships with a factory calibration certificate traceable to CNAS-accredited reference oils (Brookfield NIST-traceable standards).
What is the minimum sample volume required for valid measurement?
Minimum fill height is 40 mm above spindle tip; for #1–#4 spindles, this corresponds to ~15–35 mL depending on cup geometry.
Does the DRK-5S support continuous rotation at non-standard speeds (e.g., 15 rpm)?
No—only the four fixed speeds (6/12/30/60 rpm) are mechanically and firmware-enabled to maintain torque linearity and thermal equilibrium.