Fungilab V•Pad Advanced Rotational Viscometer

Overview

The Fungilab V•Pad is a high-precision, microprocessor-controlled rotational viscometer engineered for laboratory and industrial quality control environments requiring reliable, traceable, and repeatable viscosity measurements across an exceptionally broad dynamic range—from 1 cP (water-like fluids) up to 320 million cP (highly structured gels, polymer melts, and bituminous materials). Based on the classical Couette principle, the instrument measures torque generated by rotational shear between a spindle immersed in the sample and the surrounding fluid, converting it into absolute viscosity (cP or mPa·s) under defined shear conditions. Its modular architecture supports interchangeable spindles (LVP, RVP, HVP) and optional temperature-controlled accessories—enabling compliance with standardized test methods including ASTM D2196 (non-Newtonian fluids), ISO 2555 (resins and plastics), and BS 6075 (paints and varnishes).

Key Features

• Integrated high-resolution color touchscreen with intuitive graphical user interface supporting real-time viscosity vs. time curves, shear rate/shear stress profiles, and % torque monitoring
• Wi-Fi-enabled remote operation and secure data export (CSV, PDF, XML) via Fungilab’s proprietary PC software—fully compatible with networked lab infrastructures
• Multi-language support (English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese) for global deployment in multinational R&D and manufacturing sites
• On-device firmware upgradability ensuring long-term compatibility with evolving regulatory requirements and analytical workflows
• PT100 Class A temperature probe with ±0.3 °C accuracy and −40 °C to +300 °C operational range—validated for use with external Peltier or oil-bath thermostats
• Spindles fabricated from corrosion-resistant AISI 316 stainless steel; certified calibration traceable to NIST standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The V•Pad accommodates diverse sample types—including Newtonian and non-Newtonian liquids, suspensions, emulsions, pastes, and thermosetting resins—through three dedicated spindle families: LVP (low-viscosity), RVP (routine viscosity), and HVP (high-viscosity). Optional accessories extend capability: the APM micro-sample adapter (as low as 2 mL), LCP low-viscosity cup, Heldal high-viscosity adapter, and rotary sample stage enable precise handling of limited, volatile, or temperature-sensitive materials. All measurement protocols adhere to internationally recognized standards referenced in its certification portfolio—including ASTM D115 (asphalt), D789 (nylon solutions), D1638 (rubber latex), D2983 (low-temp grease), and USP (pharmaceutical viscosity testing). The system meets GLP documentation requirements and supports audit-ready data integrity through timestamped metadata, operator ID logging, and electronic signature readiness.

Software & Data Management

Fungilab’s proprietary V•Pad PC Software provides full method development, execution, and reporting functionality. Users define multi-step programs—including ramped speed profiles, timed dwell periods, and mathematical model fitting (e.g., Power Law, Casson, Bingham)—with immediate visualization of raw and processed data. The software enforces 21 CFR Part 11 compliance via role-based access control, electronic audit trails, and immutable record archiving. Export formats include CSV (for LIMS integration), PDF (PDF/A-1a compliant reports), and XML (for ERP synchronization). All datasets retain embedded metadata: ambient conditions, calibration certificate IDs, spindle geometry, temperature history, and uncertainty estimates per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.

Applications

• Quality assurance of coatings, inks, adhesives, and sealants per ASTM D1076 and ISO 2555
• Rheological profiling of pharmaceutical suspensions, ointments, and injectables under USP and Ph. Eur. 2.9.35
• Process validation of food products (ketchup, dressings, dairy creams) per ISO 10426-2 and AOAC 981.12
• Characterization of lubricants, greases, and bitumen binders per ASTM D2983, D3232, and EN 13302
• Research-grade flow analysis of polymer melts, nanocomposites, and battery slurries using controlled shear rate sweeps

FAQ

Is the V•Pad suitable for non-Newtonian fluid characterization?
Yes—the instrument supports programmable shear rate ramps, yield stress determination, and time-dependent thixotropy testing via customizable measurement sequences.
Can I integrate the V•Pad into an existing LIMS or MES platform?
Yes—CSV and XML exports are structured for automated ingestion; optional OPC UA and REST API modules are available for direct system-level integration.
What temperature control options are certified for use with the V•Pad?
The system is validated with Fungilab’s TE-2000 Peltier thermostat (−20 °C to +150 °C), TC-3000 circulating bath (−40 °C to +300 °C), and third-party ISO 17025-accredited units meeting PT100 input specifications.
Does the V•Pad support GMP-compliant electronic records?
Yes—software configuration includes 21 CFR Part 11 mode with electronic signatures, audit trail review, and data retention policies aligned with FDA and EMA guidance.
How often does the instrument require recalibration?
Annual calibration is recommended; however, daily verification using NIST-traceable silicon oils (included in calibration kits) satisfies ISO/IEC 17025 intermediate checks.