LAUDA Viscocool ET Constant-Temperature Viscometry Bath
| Brand | LAUDA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | Viscocool ET |
| Temperature Range | 20–100 °C |
| Temperature Stability | ±0.01 °C |
| Bath Volume | 15 L |
| Heating Power | 2.6 kW |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 428 × 130 × 532 mm |
Overview
The LAUDA Viscocool ET is a precision-engineered constant-temperature bath specifically designed for viscometric applications requiring high thermal stability and reproducible temperature control. Unlike general-purpose water baths, the Viscocool ET integrates a robust heating system with advanced PID-controlled thermal regulation—optimized for use with capillary, rotational, and automated viscometers in compliance with ASTM D445, ISO 3104, and ISO 12210-1 standards. Its 15 L stainless-steel-lined bath chamber ensures uniform heat distribution and minimal thermal stratification, critical for accurate kinematic viscosity measurements across extended test durations. The unit operates within a controlled range of 20–100 °C, making it suitable for both ambient and elevated-temperature testing of mineral oils, synthetic lubricants, polymer solutions, and pharmaceutical formulations.
Key Features
- High-stability temperature control with ±0.01 °C accuracy over the full operating range—achieved via dual-sensor feedback and adaptive PID algorithm
- 2.6 kW high-efficiency heating system enabling rapid thermal equilibration and consistent setpoint maintenance under load
- Compact vertical footprint (428 × 130 × 532 mm) optimized for benchtop integration in QC labs and R&D facilities with space constraints
- Corrosion-resistant bath chamber with reinforced polypropylene insulation and stainless-steel internal lining for long-term chemical compatibility
- Dedicated mounting interface for LAUDA iVisc and S5 automated viscometry stands, supporting GLP-compliant unattended operation
- Optional dual magnetic stirrer integration (via auxiliary ports) to ensure homogeneous sample temperature during manual capillary measurements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Viscocool ET accommodates standard Ubbelohde, Cannon-Fenske, and Ostwald capillary viscometers, as well as LAUDA’s iVisc and S5 automated measurement platforms. Its bath geometry supports simultaneous operation of up to three glass capillary viscometers or two iVisc/S5 units—enabling parallel viscosity determinations without cross-contamination risk. The bath is compatible with aqueous, hydrocarbon, silicone oil, and mildly aggressive media (e.g., chlorinated solvents), provided appropriate bath fluid selection (e.g., silicone oil for >60 °C operation). All configurations meet requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories and support audit-ready documentation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with LAUDA’s WinVisco software.
Software & Data Management
When integrated with LAUDA WinVisco software (sold separately), the Viscocool ET enables full traceability of temperature profiles, run logs, and calibration history. WinVisco provides automated calculation of kinematic and dynamic viscosity per ASTM D445 and ISO 3104, including automatic correction for capillary constant, density, and efflux time. The software enforces electronic signatures, user access levels, and immutable audit trails—fully compliant with GMP/GLP environments. Temperature data can be exported in CSV or XML format for LIMS integration, and real-time monitoring is supported via Ethernet or RS232 interfaces.
Applications
- Quality control of lubricants, transformer oils, and hydraulic fluids per ASTM D445 and IP 71
- Routine viscosity verification in pharmaceutical manufacturing (USP , EP 2.2.34)
- Research-grade rheological screening of polymer melts and thermosetting resins
- Calibration and verification of primary viscometers in metrology laboratories
- Stability testing of emulsions, suspensions, and colloidal dispersions under controlled thermal conditions
FAQ
Can the Viscocool ET be used with non-LAUDA viscometers?
Yes—it is mechanically and thermally compatible with all standard capillary and rotational viscometers requiring external temperature control.
Is external cooling required for operation below ambient temperature?
No—the Viscocool ET is a heating-only bath; for sub-ambient operation, LAUDA recommends the Viscocool 6 Peltier-cooled model.
What bath fluids are recommended for operation above 60 °C?
Silicone oil (e.g., LAUDA Therminol VP-1 or equivalent) is required above 60 °C to prevent evaporation and oxidation.
Does the unit include calibration certification?
A factory-issued temperature calibration certificate (traceable to PTB) is available upon request and is recommended for ISO/IEC 17025 compliance.
How is temperature uniformity validated across the bath volume?
LAUDA specifies axial and radial uniformity of ≤±0.02 °C at 40 °C and 100 °C, verified per ASTM E1137 and ISO 17025 procedures using NIST-traceable probe arrays.
