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RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH

Operation Manual

Rheometer Series

RHEOTEST ® RN

All rights reserved, the translation included.

Any part of this Operation Manual cannot be reproduced in any form (as printed matter, photocopies,

microfilms or in any other form) or processed, copied or disseminated using electronic system without written

consent of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH. lt does not concern the exceptional cases that are clearly listed

in UrhG §§ 53, 54.

The RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH bears no responsibility for any technical or print technical errors or

incomplete information in this Operation Manual.

We reserve the right to change this Operation Manual without previous announcement.

The reproduction of users' names, trade names, trade marks and so on in this Operation Manual does not

create the necessary prerequisites for their use by anybody; frequently it is a question of protected by law

registered trade marks, even if they are not marked as such.

Printed in Germany

© Copyright by


Rödertalstraße 1

Medingen

D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla (Germany)

© RHEOTEST, HÖPPLER and RN are the trade marks of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH

All rights reserved

Revision 06/2018

Contact


OT Medingen

Rödertalstrasse 1

D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla

Germany

Telefon: +49 35205 58-180

Fax: +49 35205 58-297

E-Mail: info@rheotest.de

www.rheotest.de

2

Contents

1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 7

2 Safety Instructions ....................................................................................................................................... 7

3 Scope of Supply ........................................................................................................................................... 8

3.1 Scope of Supply for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN ............................................................................. 8

3.2 Scope of Supply for DSR Bitumen Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN ...................................................... 8

4 Unpacking and Checking ............................................................................................................................. 8

5 Technical Manual ......................................................................................................................................... 9

5.1 Technical Specifications Rheometer ................................................................................................... 9

5.2 Rheometer Basic Instrument ............................................................................................................ 10

5.2.1 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an automatic distance adjustment (Figure 1) ......................... 10

5.2.2 Adapter for a Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ................................................ 11

5.2.3 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a Fixed Basic Plate ................................................................ 11

5.2.4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate ................................................................................... 12

5.2.5 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with cylindrical measuring systems ............................................... 13

5.3 Control Unit ....................................................................................................................................... 15

5.4 Overview Measuring Systems........................................................................................................... 16

5.4.1 Cylinder Measuring Systems ........................................................................................................ 16

5.4.2 Cone/Plate and Plate/Plate Measuring Systems .......................................................................... 17

5.4.3 Special Measuring Systems ......................................................................................................... 18

5.5 Peltier Tempering System ................................................................................................................. 19

5.5.1 Peltier Control Unit ........................................................................................................................ 19

5.5.2 Handling of Peltier Control Unit .................................................................................................... 20

5.5.3 Filling the Cooling Liquid ............................................................................................................... 21

6 Startup ....................................................................................................................................................... 22

6.1 Instrument Installation ....................................................................................................................... 22

6.2 Instrument Connection ...................................................................................................................... 22

6.2.1 Connection of the Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ........................................ 22

6.2.2 Connection of the Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate ............................................................... 23

6.2.3 Connection of Peltier Temperature Control System for Cylindrical Measuring Systems ............. 23

6.2.4 PC-Connections ............................................................................................................................ 23

7 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager ...................................................................................................... 24

7.1 System Requirements ....................................................................................................................... 24

7.2 Installation of the Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager ................................................................. 24

7.2.1 Login ............................................................................................................................................. 24

7.2.2 Set up the Interfaces ..................................................................................................................... 24

8 Test Preparation and Measurement .......................................................................................................... 25

8.1 Use Cone- Plate / Plate-Plate Measuring Systems .......................................................................... 25

8.1.1 Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ...................................................................... 25

8.1.2 Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate ............................................................................................. 28

8.1.2.1 Preparing the Measurement ................................................................................................ 28

8.1.2.2 Adjusting the Gap Between Cone (Plate) and Basic Plate .................................................. 29

8.1.2.3 Performing the Measurement .............................................................................................. 30

8.2 Use Cylinder Measuring Systems ..................................................................................................... 33

9 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager ...................................................................................................... 35

9.1 User Interface .................................................................................................................................... 35

9.1.1 Inlays ............................................................................................................................................. 35

9.1.2 Tree for Jobs, Samples and Methods ........................................................................................... 35

9.1.3 Help System .................................................................................................................................. 35

9.2 Job ..................................................................................................................................................... 36

9.2.1 Definition ....................................................................................................................................... 36

9.2.2 Settings ......................................................................................................................................... 38

9.2.3 Sample .......................................................................................................................................... 39

9.2.4 Actions .......................................................................................................................................... 40

9.2.5 Information .................................................................................................................................... 41

9.2.6 Main Menu Job ............................................................................................................................. 41

9.2.6.1 New Job ............................................................................................................................... 41

9.2.6.2 Copy Job .............................................................................................................................. 41

9.2.6.3 Paste Job ............................................................................................................................. 41

9.2.6.4 Delete Job ............................................................................................................................ 42

3

9.2.6.5 Samples -> New ................................................................................................................... 42

9.2.6.6 Samples -> Copy ................................................................................................................. 42

9.2.6.7 Samples-> Paste .................................................................................................................. 42

9.2.6.8 Samples -> Delete ............................................................................................................... 42

9.2.6.9 Table Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 42

9.2.6.10 Table Settings -> Copy ........................................................................................................ 43

9.2.6.11 Table Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 43

9.2.6.12 Chart Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.13 Chart Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.14 Chart Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 43

9.2.6.15 Report Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................. 43

9.2.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy ....................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.17 Report Settings -> Paste ...................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.18 Units settings -> Show… ...................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.19 Units settings -> Copy .......................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.20 Units settings -> Paste ......................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.21 Method to Edit ...................................................................................................................... 43

9.2.6.22 Export / Import ...................................................................................................................... 44

9.2.6.22.1 Export / Import -> Export Job ........................................................................................ 44

9.2.6.22.2 Export / Import -> Import Job ........................................................................................ 44

9.2.6.22.3 Export / Import -> Export Job-group ............................................................................. 44

9.2.6.22.4 Export / Import -> Import Job-group .............................................................................. 44

9.2.6.22.5 Explorer to folder Transfers .......................................................................................... 45

9.2.6.23 View Distant Job .................................................................................................................. 45

9.3 Table ................................................................................................................................................. 45

9.3.1 Table Display ................................................................................................................................ 45

9.3.2 Main Menu Table .......................................................................................................................... 45

9.3.2.1 Table Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 45

9.3.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy ........................................................................................................ 45

9.3.2.3 Table Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 45

9.3.2.4 Copy to Clipboard ................................................................................................................ 45

9.3.3 Table Settings ............................................................................................................................... 46

9.3.3.1 Table .................................................................................................................................... 46

9.3.3.2 Tests..................................................................................................................................... 46

9.3.3.3 Head ..................................................................................................................................... 46

9.3.3.4 Print ...................................................................................................................................... 47

9.3.3.5 Font ...................................................................................................................................... 47

9.4 Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 47

9.4.1 Chart Display ................................................................................................................................ 47

9.4.2 Main Menu Chart .......................................................................................................................... 48

9.4.2.1 Chart Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................... 48

9.4.2.2 Chart Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 48

9.4.2.3 Chart Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 48


9.4.2.5 Chart Settings ...................................................................................................................... 48

9.4.2.5.1 Axis.................................................................................................................................. 48

9.4.2.5.2 Grid.................................................................................................................................. 50

9.4.2.5.3 Tests ............................................................................................................................... 51

9.4.2.5.4 Head ................................................................................................................................ 51

9.4.2.5.5 Collection ........................................................................................................................ 51

9.4.2.5.6 Print ................................................................................................................................. 52

9.4.2.5.7 Font ................................................................................................................................. 53

9.5 Report ................................................................................................................................................ 53

9.5.1 Report Display .............................................................................................................................. 53

9.5.2 Main Menu Report ........................................................................................................................ 53

9.5.2.1 Report Settings -> Show… .................................................................................................. 53

9.5.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy ....................................................................................................... 54

9.5.2.3 Report Settings -> Paste ...................................................................................................... 54


9.5.2.5 Settings ................................................................................................................................ 54

9.5.2.5.1 Report ............................................................................................................................. 54

9.5.2.5.2 Head ................................................................................................................................ 55

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9.5.2.5.3 Print ................................................................................................................................. 55

9.5.2.5.4 Font ................................................................................................................................. 55

9.6 Method .............................................................................................................................................. 55

9.6.1 Definition ....................................................................................................................................... 56

9.6.2 Settings ......................................................................................................................................... 57

9.6.3 Table of Tests ............................................................................................................................... 58

9.6.4 Chart of Tests ............................................................................................................................... 58

9.6.5 Method - Individual Test ............................................................................................................... 59

9.6.6 Parameter Settings ....................................................................................................................... 61

9.6.7 Units Settings ................................................................................................................................ 61

9.6.8 Main Menu Method ....................................................................................................................... 62

9.6.8.1 New Method ......................................................................................................................... 62

9.6.8.2 Copy Method ........................................................................................................................ 63

9.6.8.3 Paste Method ....................................................................................................................... 63

9.6.8.4 Delete Method ...................................................................................................................... 63

9.6.8.5 Test -> Show… .................................................................................................................... 63

9.6.8.6 Test -> Copy ......................................................................................................................... 63

9.6.8.7 Test -> Paste ........................................................................................................................ 63

9.6.8.8 Test -> Delete....................................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.9 Parameter -> Show… .......................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.10 Parameter -> Copy ............................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.11 Parameter -> Paste .............................................................................................................. 64

9.6.8.12 Units Settings -> Show… ..................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.13 Units Settings -> Copy ......................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.14 Units Settings -> Paste ........................................................................................................ 64

9.6.8.15 Copy Table of Tests to Clipboard ........................................................................................ 64

9.6.8.16 Copy Chart of Tests to Clipboard ......................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.17 Export / Import ...................................................................................................................... 64

9.6.8.17.1 Export / Import -> Export Method .................................................................................. 65

9.6.8.17.2 Export / Import -> Import Method .................................................................................. 65

9.6.8.17.3 Export / Import -> Export Method-group ....................................................................... 65

9.6.8.17.4 Export / Import -> Import Method-group ....................................................................... 65

9.6.8.17.5 Explorer to folder Transfers .......................................................................................... 65

9.7 Settings ............................................................................................................................................. 65

9.7.1 Measuring Systems ...................................................................................................................... 65

9.7.1.1 Main menu Edit .................................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.1.1 Edit -> New System ........................................................................................................ 67

9.7.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy System ....................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.1.3 Edit -> Paste System ...................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System ..................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.1.5 Edit -> Move up ............................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.1.6 Edit -> Move down .......................................................................................................... 67

9.7.1.2 Main menu Calculate ........................................................................................................... 68

9.7.1.2.1 Calculate -> Constant Tau .............................................................................................. 68

9.7.1.2.2 Calculate -> Constant D .................................................................................................. 68

9.7.2 Global Settings.............................................................................................................................. 68

9.7.3 User Settings ................................................................................................................................ 71

Operation Status ........................................................................................................................................ 73

Creation of a new user ............................................................................................................................... 73

9.7.4 Communication Settings ............................................................................................................... 73

RN .............................................................................................................................................................. 74

Plate Control .............................................................................................................................................. 75

Temperature Controller .............................................................................................................................. 76

Temperature .............................................................................................................................................. 78

9.7.5 Pt100 ............................................................................................................................................. 79

9.7.6 Inertia calibration .......................................................................................................................... 79

9.7.7 Rotation calibration ....................................................................................................................... 79

9.7.8 Oscillation calibration .................................................................................................................... 79

9.8 Main Menu File .................................................................................................................................. 79

9.8.1 Page Setup ................................................................................................................................... 79

9.8.2 Print Preview ................................................................................................................................. 79

9.8.3 Printing .......................................................................................................................................... 80

5

Print Job ..................................................................................................................................................... 80

Print Table .................................................................................................................................................. 80

Print Chart .................................................................................................................................................. 80

Print Report ................................................................................................................................................ 81

Print Method ............................................................................................................................................... 81

General Print Options ................................................................................................................................ 81

9.8.4 Exit ................................................................................................................................................ 82

10 Bitumen measurements ............................................................................................................................. 83

10.1 General Information .......................................................................................................................... 83

10.2 Bitumen measurements using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) RHEOTEST ® RN ...................... 83

10.2.1 Sample Preparation .................................................................................................................. 83

10.2.2 Startup of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) .......................................................................... 83

10.2.3 Available Jobs .......................................................................................................................... 83

10.2.4 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment ................... 86

10.2.5 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with a fixed basic plate ............................................ 89

10.2.5.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCR-

Test according to AL FGSL ................................................................................................................... 89

10.2.5.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175,

AASHTO T 315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T 350-

14, AASHTO M 332-14.......................................................................................................................... 91

10.2.6 Trimming the bitumen sample .................................................................................................. 93

11 Appendix .................................................................................................................................................... 94

11.1 Tests .................................................................................................................................................. 94

11.2 Result ................................................................................................................................................ 94

11.3 Analyses ............................................................................................................................................ 96

11.4 Heading data ..................................................................................................................................... 98

11.5 Calibration of measuring systems ..................................................................................................... 99

11.6 Menu overview Peltier temperature control .................................................................................... 100

11.7 Error messages ............................................................................................................................... 101

11.7.1 Error messages Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager ........................................................ 101

11.7.2 Incorrect display of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager .................................................................. 101

11.7.3 Error messages Peltier control ............................................................................................... 101

11.8 Service ............................................................................................................................................ 102

6

1 Introduction

The Rheometer finds its use in fundamental researches, in development of new products and technologies, as

well as in quality control. Viscosity and flow curves are plotted in very wide ranges of shear stresses and

shear rates and, besides that, comprehensive rheological characterization of a test medium is realized.

The Rheometer Series RHEOTEST ® RN, controlled by PC, uses a measuring motor with high dynamic

characteristics and permits to carry out the rotational measurements with controlled shear rate (CR) and/or

with controlled stress (CS), creep measurements, as well as oscillation measurements. Measurements could

be carried out in a very wide range using only one measuring system owing to a very wide range of torques.

Among other applications, rheometers of the RHEOTEST ® RN series are successfully used to study bitumen

for road construction of various grades and modifications. The device meets all the requirements for the

Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) for asphalt binder and bitumen according to international standards. Quality

problems during construction of roads in the whole world as well as qualitatively new asphalt (bitumen)

mixtures require also new, rheological justified measuring methods. Using a „DSR-Rheometer“ is prescribed

in different binding standards like ASTM D7175-08; ASTM D7405, DIN EN 14770 and PNST.

DSR Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN including Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager completely meets

requirements to the DSR-Rheometer stated in following binding standards:

• ASTM D 4402 / D4402 M, ASTM D7175, ASTM D7405,

• AASHTO T 316, AASHTO T 315, AASHTO M 320, AASHTO T 350, AASHTO M 332, AASHTO R 29,

AASHTO TP 101,

• DIN EN 13302, DIN EN 13702-1(-2), DIN EN 14896, DIN EN 14770, DIN EN 16659, FGSV AL DSR-

Prüfung (T-Sweep), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (MSCRT), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (konstante Scherrate),

• GOST 33137-2014, PNST 87-2016, PNST 85-2016, PNST 88-2016, PNST 82-2016, PNST 86-2016,

PNST 81-2016, PNST 89-2016.

2 Safety Instructions

• Read the Operation Manual before starting operation!

• Take care to ensure a stable and reliable standing of the instrument, because, in the case the instrument

might fall from a table, it would be seriously damaged.

• Never install the instrument in places, where it might be affected by occasional spills of liquids (e.g.

water)!

• Ensure sufficient distance to flammable of highly flammable items!

• Do not adjust or cover the fan, the air supply and discharge must be guaranteed!

• Unplug the power cord before opening the device!

• Connect the device to the voltage specified on the nameplate.

• The built-in gas spring must not be heated, nor be opened!

• In order to ensure safety, the instrument is equipped with the 3-pole plug of protective design, that

matches only mains’ plugs with grounded contact. This kind of connection must be obligatory. The

instrument corresponds to the protection class 1.

• Repairs may only be carried out by authorized persons. Only original parts are to be used!

• Take into consideration that, depending on the temperature set value, some parts of the casing of the

measuring plate are heated partially to a high temperature. It might result in burns in case of a contact.

Therefore, it is recommended to put on heat-insulating gloves during operating, especially during

applying of investigated material on the plate and replacement of the measuring system.

• The measuring system must only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid. The level of liquid

can be read at the coolant reservoirs (see fig.7). During operation, the coolant reservoirs should be filled

to lower edge of screwing-on cap threading. The device must be switched off if there are any leaks!

• The measuring system consists of the stainless-steel brands 1.4305, 1.4057. The material of sealing

(cylinder measuring systems) consists of Fluorine rubber (FKM) with trading designation VITON®. For

special cases it is possible to request the use of other sealing materials.

• By using of heat transfer fluid please pay attention to the safety data sheet.

7

• The basic plate with automatic distance adjustment consists of moveable parts. For avoiding injuries,

please apply samples only during standstill of the device.

Attention!

The instrument should not be put into service in case of considerable external damages or heavy

noise during operation.

3 Scope of Supply

3.1 Scope of Supply for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN

The measuring instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN includes:

• basic instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN (measuring head with highly dynamic measuring drive and

coupling for measuring systems, stand, gas spring and U-shaped support, control unit for power supply,

control of measuring drive, data registration and communication, power cable, USB-Interface cable);

• measuring systems (cylinder– and/or cone/plate and/or plate/plate) - according to the specific order; an

overview of all measuring systems supplied with the instrument is presented in the Overview Measuring

Systems;

• installation data carrier with the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager for CR-, CS-, OSC-Tests and with

module for temperature control - by concrete order;

• packaging;

• user manual;

• PC and accessories (have to be ordered separately).

3.2 Scope of Supply for DSR Bitumen Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN

The scope of supply for a DSR – bitumen rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN consists of:

• Basic instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN;

• Peltier temperature control unit RHEOTEST ® PP (with power cable and USB-Interface cable) incl.

tempered adapter for measuring systems cone-plate / plate-plate;

• Peltier basic plate, two-sided tempered;

• basic plate support;

• exchangeable plate Ø 25 mm;

• exchangeable plate Ø 8 mm ;

• exchange grip;

• measuring plate P3 (Ø 25mm);

• measuring plate P4 (Ø 8mm);

• set of trimming tools (1 spatula, 1 stripper gripper);

• set of rubber moulds;

• Phobya’s coolant with corrosion protection, if distilled water is used as a coolant. This agent must be

diluted with water in the ratio: 5% of the agent and 95% of the water.

4 Unpacking and Checking

After removing the device and accessories of packaging, please check their completeness according to the

attached delivery note.

In case of any transport damage, the carrier and RHEOTEST must be notified and receive a damage report.

Before starting the operation read the Safety Instructions!

8

5 Technical Manual

5.1 Technical Specifications Rheometer

torque range, mNm 0,1 … 150

torque resolution, mNm 0,001

angle range, µrad 0 … 5·10 6

angle resolution, µrad 11,87

angular velocity range, rad/s 0 … 210

speed, rpm 0 … 2000

speed resolution, rpm 0,015

angular frequency range, rad/s 6,28·10 -5 … 628

frequency range, Hz 0,001 ... 100

temperature range, °C – 60* … +375**

temperature range Peltier for PP4, °C –10 … +180***

temperature range Peltier for PP5, °C –15 … +180***

temperature resolution, °C 0,01

normal force range, N – 30 … 30

normal force resolution, N 0,01

electrical supply from the AC mains:

- voltage, V 110 … 240

- frequency, Hz 49 ... 61

power consumption, not more than, W 660

dimensions (length, width, height), not more than, mm

- basic instrument 235 x 240 x 570

- control unit 130 x 295 x 350

- Peltier control unit 180 x 300 x 460

weight (net), kg

- basic instrument 13,5

- control unit 9,6

- cable 0,5

- Peltier control unit 11,5

- adapter 1,7

- plate/plate measuring system 8

Note: The power supply must be protected with a maximum of 10 A!

Notes:

* For measurements at temperatures below –15°C an external cryostat is required.

** The temperature range depends on the tempering system.

*** When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature

control for basic plate, the following coolants are recommended:

temperature range from -15°C to +120°C (from -10°C in the case of PP4) – coolant distilled

water (with corrosion inhibitor Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme);

temperature range from 0°C to +180°C – coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ® X-

T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).

When using the rheometer with the cylinder measuring systems and Peltier temperature

control, the following coolants are recommended:

temperature range from -15°C to +150°C – coolant distilled water (with corrosion inhibitor

Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme);

temperature range from -5°C to +180°C – coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ®

X-T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).

9

5.2 Rheometer Basic Instrument

5.2.1 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an automatic distance adjustment (Figure 1)

The rheometer (Figure 1) consists of a measuring drive (1), which is fastened by means of the knurled screw

(2) on the stand. The test drive is equipped with a quick coupling (3) for measuring systems like rotors, cones

or plates. With this quick coupling measurement systems can be changed quickly and easily.

The coupling (4) is used for fixing the adapter (6), for cone and plate measuring systems (or for fixing

measuring cups of cylinder measuring systems). The mechanism of the adapter is described in Adapter for a

Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment. The coupling of the adapter or measuring cup is performed

by turn of the ball handle (5).

For measuring of samples, a Peltier-temperated basic plate (12) including located exchangeable plate (7) is

used. The basic plate is firmly connected with the basic plate guide (10). The basic plate guide is fixed by a

knurled screw (9) at the guidance rod of the stand. The stand (11) allows a stepless adjustment of the working

height of the measuring drive.

In the case of a device with an automatic distance adjustment, a two-sided temperature control of the sample

is carried out. The plate-plate distance setting is a part of the job to perform the measurements and is done

automatically.

Figure 1 Basic Instrument with an Automatic Distance Adjustment

10

5.2.2 Adapter for a Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment

The adapter (Figure 2) serves to ensure a uniform temperature distribution of the specimen. The adapter

consists of a mounting (1) for the connection with the coupling. Furthermore, the adapter has a window ring

(4), which can be rotated by means of a ball handle. Thereby, it’s possible to turn an opening at a desired

location (e.g. for sample trimming). During the measurements the opening has to be turned backwards to

close the measuring chamber. In this measuring position the upper tempering plate (2) will be lowered to

reach an optimal tempering position. In this position, with the help of the windows (5) can be looked into the

measuring chamber. The hose connections (6) and the electric connections (7) are combined to the

corresponding connectors in Figure 1 (8).

Figure 2 Adapter for Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with an Automatic Distance Adjustment

5.2.3 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a Fixed Basic Plate

The rheometer (Figure 3) consists of a measuring drive (1), which is fastened by means of the knurled screw

(2) on the stand. The test drive is equipped with a quick coupling (3) for measuring systems like rotors, cones

or plates. With this quick coupling measurement systems can be changed quickly and easily.

The coupling (4) is used for fixing of measuring cup for cylinder measuring systems and of adapter for cone

and plate measuring systems. The coupling of the adapter or measuring cup is carried out by turning of the

coupling (4) by means of the ball handle (5).

The basic measuring plate (7) is tempered either by a Peltier tempering system or by another external

thermostat. The basic plate can be equipped with a fixable exchangeable measuring plate for a quick cleaning

and sample replacement.

The basic plate (7) lies on the basic plate support (11), which is fixed on the basic plate guide (12) with a

knurled screw (8). The basic plate guide is fixed by a knurled screw (9) at the guidance rod of the stand.

The resilient spring pins (10) are used for correct positioning of the basic plate and locking of the whole

measuring system. To check the gap between measuring plate and basic plate, a microindicator (13) is used.

The basic plate can be moved upward and downward with the micrometer screw (14).

The stand (15) allows a stepless adjustment of the working height of the measuring drive.

11

Figure 3 Basic Instrument with a Fixed Basic Plate

5.2.4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate

In some laboratories (e.g. in road construction laboratories) a large number of samples need to be measured

daily. Therefore, a special plate system for quick replacement was constructed. As a result, much working

time for sample preparation and cleaning can be saved.

The system of exchangeable measuring plate is shown in Figure 4 and consists of a base (1), an

exchangeable plate (2) and a grip (3). If necessary, additional exchangeable plates can be supplied on

request.

To decouple the exchangeable plate, place the exchange grip perpendicularly to the exchangeable plate on

the holder - small cuboid at the edge (see Figure 4). Thereby push the opening at the front of the exchange

grip into the holder so that the pin at the end of the grip points towards the exchangeable plate. Then, turn the

grip with the exchangeable plate to the right (counter clockwise). Now the exchangeable plate can be

removed upwards.

Note: The grip and the exchangeable plate should not be rotated 180°, both can get in touch to the hand and

cause burns.

To connect and fix the exchangeable plate to the basic plate, set up the plate centric on the holder and turn

fixed the grip to the left (clockwise). In this case, turn the exchangeable plate until a stop is reached. If

pressed lightly in the opposite direction, the plate should not come off immediately. Then the grip may again

have turned upwards and be pushed forward slightly for removing.

12

Figure 4 System of Exchangeable Measuring Plate

A basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment with an exchangeable measuring plate and the test

sample is shown in Figure 5. The test specimen is applied on the lower plate. For the DSR - Bitumen

rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN two exchangeable plates with the diameters of Ø25 mm and Ø8 mm belong to

the scope of supply. More exchangeable measuring plates are available upon request.

Figure 5 Plate-plate Measuring System with a Basic Plate with an Automatic Distance Adjustment

5.2.5 Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with cylindrical measuring systems

The rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with a cylindrical measuring system is shown in Figure 6. The device

consists of the measuring drive (1), which is fastened to the stand with the knurled screw (2). The measuring

drive is equipped with a quick connecting coupling (3) for rotors, measuring cones or measuring plates. With

the help of this coupling, the measuring systems can be changed quickly and easily.

With the help of the coupling (4) the measuring cup (7) with the examined sample can be attached to the

device. To fix the measuring cup turn the ball handle (5) to the right.

In order to couple the rotor (6) to the measuring drive (1), it is necessary to insert the rotor head into the

conical opening of the quick connecting coupling (3) with the coupling sleeve pulled up and then let the sleeve

slide back. Subsequently, the entire measuring head with cylinder measuring system can be inserted into the

temperature control vessel (8).

When working with rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN and cylindrical measuring systems, it is possible to use both:

the thermostating with an external liquid thermostat (the thermostating vessel is shown in Figure 6 on the left)

and the thermostating with the Peltier technique (Figure 6 on the right).

13

Figure 6 Rheometer with cylinder measuring system. On the left: a vessel for the thermostating with a

liquid thermostat. On the right: Peltier thermostated vessel.

Note: For ease of use and cleaning the measuring cup is fitted with a screw cap. To assemble this special

closure, introduce it into the lower opening of the measuring cup and held in place by turning the thumbscrew

(see Figure 7). To clean the measuring cup, the screw cap can be removed.

Figure 7 Measuring cup with a screw cap

Note: When measuring bitumen, polymer-modified bitumen and other difficult-to-clean materials, it is

recommended to use disposable measuring vessels.

14

5.3 Control Unit

The on/off switch (1) is located on the front panel of the instrument (Figure 8). On the back side the following

connectors are located: connector for the temperature sensor Pt100 (2), interface connection to the computer

(3), two connectors to the basic plate (4), two connectors to the rheometer (5) and mains connection with

security (6).

Figure 8 Rheometer Control Unit

15

5.4 Overview Measuring Systems

5.4.1 Cylinder Measuring Systems

H-Form: HS, H1, H2, H3, H4

S-Form: S1, S2

rotor HS (measuring cup G1)

measuring cup diameter: 38 mm

rotor diameter: 37,4 mm

rotor length: 54 mm

filling level: 30 ml

recommended viscosity range: 5...10 4 mPa s

shear rate range: 0,67...6700 s -1

gap: 0,3 mm (minimum)

rotor H1 (measuring cup G1)


rotor diameter: 36 mm

rotor length: 70 mm




gap: 1 mm

rotor H2 (measuring cup G1)



rotor length: 70 mm




gap: 5,25 mm (maximum)

rotor H3 (measuring cup M1)



rotor length: 35 mm

filling level: 5 ml



gap: 1 mm

rotor H4 (measuring cup M1)



rotor length: 18 mm

filling level: 5 ml



gap: 3 mm

rotor S1 (measuring cup G1)



rotor length: 52,56 mm




gap: 1,48 mm (standard)

rotor S2 (measuring cup M1)




filling level: 5 ml



gap: 0,7 mm

SD-Form: SD1, SD2

rotor SD1 (measuring cup G1)







gap: 1,48 mm (standard)

rotor SD2 (measuring cup M1)




filling level: 5 ml



gap: 0,7 mm

16

5.4.2 Cone/Plate and Plate/Plate Measuring Systems

cones: K1, K2, K3, K4, K5, K6, K7, K8

cone К1

diameter: 36 mm; angle: 0,3°

gap adjustment: 10 μm*; filling capacity: 0,074 ml


shear rate range: 2...20000 s -1

cone К2





cone К3

diameter: 36 mm; angle: 1°




cone К4



recommended viscosity range: 10 3 ...10 8 mPa s


cone К5





plates: P1, P2, P3, P4, P7

plate P1

diameter: 36 mm

gap adjustment: 0,5 mm*; filling capacity: 0,509 ml


plate P2

diameter: 12 mm



plate P3

diameter: 25 mm

gap adjustment: 1 mm*; filling capacity: 0,491 ml


plate P4

diameter: 8 mm

gap adjustment: 2 mm*; filling capacity: 0,101 ml


plate P7

diameter: 70 mm



cone К6





cone К7





cone К8





* -standard values; in practice, the values for gap adjustment may vary.

17

5.4.3 Special Measuring Systems

In addition to the standard measurement systems according to DIN 53018 and DIN 53019 (cylinder measuring

systems, cone/plate and plate/plate measuring systems P1 to P4) also special measuring systems can be

used. Special measuring tasks can be realized by those measuring systems, e.g. viscosity measurement of

strongly sedimenting suspensions. The main intention of using special measuring systems is to get

reproducible results. With special measuring systems, torque, speed, characteristics or relative viscosities can

be measured. The exact calculation of shear stress and shear rate and its distribution is not possible.

vane rotors: F1, F2, F3, F4

vane rotor F1 (for measuring cup G1 or free rotating)


vane diameter: 34 mm

without holes

(recommended for cosmetics, creams)


vane rotor F2 (for measuring cup M1 or free rotating)



without holes


vane rotor F3 (free rotating, for glass vessel)

long stab

vane diameter: 34 мм

with holes

(recommended for suspensions, starch)


vane rotor F4 (for measuring cup G1 or free rotating)



with holes

(recommended for materials with solids and

suspensions)


Crown sensor

For the investigation of plaster and masonry mortar and

other inhomogeneous products

Claw stirrer

For the investigation of highly solids-containing and

sedimenting materials to be measured

18

5.5 Peltier Tempering System

The precise rheological measurements require the exact keep of the defined temperature conditions for the

measurement method and the measuring material (as the lowest possible temperature gradient). For that

purpose, a highly accurate temperature measurement and a temperature control are necessary. Both can be

guaranteed through a two-sided, precisely controllable Peltier tempering of the measuring chamber, which can

be supplied complete with the rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN.

By using the basic plate an automatic distance adjustment, the upper tempering element is integrated into the

adapter and the lower temperature-regulating element is integrated into the base plate, immediately below the

exchangeable plate with the material to be measured.

5.5.1 Peltier Control Unit

The Peltier control unit assures power necessary for temperature control. It operates on the basis of a microprocessor.

The micro-processor fulfils all tasks regarding the regulation, safety control and software

communication. The software permits control of temperature changes in jump and in ramp.

The device can actively heat and cool.

The general view of Peltier control unit is shown in Figure 9. An LCD-Display (1) is located on the front panel,

which displays the following parameter: set temperature (top

left); actual temperature (top right); operation mode (down 100,00 Ist: 65,21

left): MAN = manual operation, REM = Remote, control via

PC; status indication (down center): START = tempering,

MAN START 65,2 %

STOP = Peltier is switched off; actual tempering in % (down

right).

The temperature can be regulated manually using the operation buttons (2). LED-Light (4) indicates an error.

The glow of the LED-lamp (5) means the heating mode, the LED-lamp (6) – the cooling mode. The coolant

reservoirs (7) is located on the front panel of Peltier control unit. On the top of the coolant reservoir is the

screw-on lid of the reservoir (3) for filling up the cooling liquid.

The on / off switch of the device (8) can be found on the lower side.

Following interfaces and connectors are arranged on the back side of the Peltier control unit: the interface

connection to the computer (9), connections for energy supply (10) and for Pt100 temperature sensor (11) for

connection with the basic plate, mains supply (12) and hose connections to the basic plate (13).

Please note that the hose connections (13) are arranged according to the appropriate label (1 or 2).

19

Figure 9 General View of Peltier Control Unit

5.5.2 Handling of Peltier Control Unit

Operation of the control unit is carried out with the help of four keys (2). Operation structure is divided into two

levels, i.e. each key has two functions. After switching on the device is on the upper user level. The upper

user level comprises commands UP, DOWN, START and STOP:

UP = increasing of set temperature;

DOWN = decreasing of set temperature;

START = starting control, for safety reasons, this button must be pressed for at least 3 seconds, the

display of operation mode changes from STOP to START;

STOP = finishing control or switching into upper control level if button is pressed for at least 3 seconds; in this

control level the set temperature can be set as well as start and stop control process (heating ON or OFF).

Change of a set value with the help of UP and DOWN keys:

Change begins always in decimal digit of a set value. Cursor jumps to the next higher digit (for example to the

unit digit or tens digit) in case of more long hold of key UP or DOWN. Approximately in 3 s cursor

automatically returns to the smallest digit. Entry must not be confirmed. The last entry is used.

Input of digital values:

Input of digits is possible only in case that entry option designated with an arrow (→) has been selected in

menu. Then by means of repeated press of NEXT key digits 1, 2, 3, ..., 9, 0, decimal point and minus sign are

displayed. It is necessary to press ENTER key to confirm selected digit or sign. After that one inputs the next

digit in the same way. The whole number and the end of input are confirmed by double press of ENTER key.

Note: Using this key combination, the device can be restarted from memory data even after a possible loss.

UP + DOWN

It displays software version number and temperature inside instrument

20

Note: The Peltier control unit may only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid*. The level of the

liquid can be read in the coolant reservoirs (7). During operation, the coolant inlet should be filled

to at least 50%.

5.5.3 Filling the Cooling Liquid

For a new installation or even after prolonged operation of the measuring station, it may be necessary to fill

the coolant*:

1. Connect the Peltier temperated basic plate with the Peltier control unit. When using the basic plate with an

automatic distance adjustment, make sure the hose connections are correctly connected (1 – 1; 2 – 2).

2. Connect Peltier control unit to the network, but still not switch it on.

3. Remove the screw cap from the coolant supply (3).

4. Fill the coolant reservoir (7) with the coolant full, till the lower edge of the screw-in thread.

5. Switch on the Peltier control unit while pressing the UP / NEXT key. This will start a special fill mode.

The fluid is sucked cyclically and must be continuously refilled (approx. 1l) until the fill level remains

constant at the lower edge of the screw-in thread.

6. Then press the DOWN / ESC key to return to normal operating mode. If the pumps are not activated

when the control unit is switched on (a ventilator noise should be heard), set a low temperature (for

example 10°C) and start the temperature control for a few seconds. After the pumps have started, the

temperature control must be deactivated again (press the STOP button, the pumps should still continue

running).

7. Careful tilt the Peltier control unit forward and backward to remove any remaining air from the hoses.

Make sure that the temperature control fluid cannot run out from the coolant reservoir.

8. Turn the cylinder- (PCS) but especially the plate-plate- (PP) temperature control system about 180° to

remove any remaining air from the tubing. While turning, make sure that the coolant reservoir is always

filled to about ¾.

9. If there are no more air bubbles in the coolant reservoir, the cap (3) can be screwed on (closed) again.

* as a coolant we recommend to use:

When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for

basic plate, for temperature range from -15°C to +120° and by using the rheometer with the cylinder

measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for the temperature range from -15°C to +150°C

- a distilled water with corrosion protection Phobya ZuperZero Xtreme (this agent must be diluted with

water in the ratio: 5% of the agent and 95% of the water).

When using the rheometer with plate-plate measuring systems and Peltier temperature control for

basic plate, for temperature range from 0°C to +180°C and by using the cylinder measuring systems

and Peltier temperature control for the temperature range from -5°C to +180°C

– coolant heat transfer fluid, e.g. FRAGOLTHERM ® X-T15 (based on polydimethylsiloxane).

21

6 Startup

6.1 Instrument Installation

Install the measuring station in a location, that satisfies the following conditions:

• safe position for basic instrument Rheometer (measuring drive, stand, control unit and cable 1,5 m);

• do not cover the ventilation holes on the backside of the control unit;

• connection between PC and control unit: data cable ca. 2m length;

• position the Peltier control unit on another surface to avoid vibrations.

The working environment of the measuring place should not be extremely hot, cold or clammy. We

recommend working at normal room temperature. Please avoid conditions and rooms where temperature and

humidity are extremely changing.

Always protect the device (complete measuring place) from:

• dirt and dust;

• direct sunlight;

• heat emitting objects (e.g. heaters);

• objects with high electromagnetic field (e.g. loudspeaker, motor);

• fluids and corrosive chemicals.

6.2 Instrument Connection

6.2.1 Connection of the Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment

Couple the upper tempering

• If it’s not already delivered accordingly, turn the upper tempering so, that the ashlar-formed part of the

adapter is located between the stand rods and place it on the ring of basic Peltier Plate with temperature

control;

• the hose, which is located closer to the gas pressure spring, should be bypassed left from the spring,

another one – on the right, rotate the ball handle of the coupling to the left;

• free the knurled screw (2) (Figure 1) and push the measuring drive down till the coupling encloses the

adapter and block the adapter by turning the ball handle to the right;

• plug the hose connections and connectors in lateral bushes of the basic plate (8) (Figure 1).

Making connections between the measuring drive and the control unit

• Connect for it two cables of measuring drive with two connectors to the rheometer (5) of the control

unit (Figure 8);

• furthermore, use two individual cables of the basic plate according to the number of pins to connect

with the control unit, use for it the connector to the basic plate (4) (Figure 8).

Connecting the mains cable

• The mains cable is to be joined to the control unit of the rheometer via the connector (6) (Figure 8).

Note: the cables, that are led with other hoses in a black hose, must be connected to the Peltier tempering.

Startup the plate-plate measuring system

• First, the Peltier-temperated basic plate is to be connected to the Peltier control unit, use for it two

coolant hoses of Peltier-temperated basic plate and put them into the sockets (13) (Figure 9) of the

Peltier control unit. Please note that the hose connections (13) are arranged according to the

appropriate label (1 or 2). The hose with the number 1 must be inserted into the hose connector 1 and

the hose with the number 2 – correspondent to the hose connector 2.

22

• Then contact the energy supply (10) and temperature sensor Pt100 (11) (Figure 9).

Connect power supply cable

• The mains cable is to be connected to the socket (12) of the Peltier control unit (Figure 9).

6.2.2 Connection of the Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate

• Connect the measuring drive to the control unit using two cables, placing them in the connections (5)

(Figure 8) in accordance with the number of contact pins;

• when using an external liquid thermostat, connect the thermostat to a personal computer using an

appropriate interface;

• connect the thermostat to a thermostatic vessel or to a basic measuring plate;

• connect the Pt 100 temperature sensor of the used measuring system to the control unit via the

interface (2) (Figure 8) or to the external sensor socket of the thermostat.

Connecting the mains cable

• The mains cable is to be joined to the control unit of the rheometer via the connector (6) (Figure 8).

Startup the plate-plate measuring system with Peltier tempering

• First, the Peltier-temperated basic plate is to be connected to the Peltier control unit, use for it two

coolant hoses of Peltier-temperated basic plate and put them into the sockets (13) (Figure 9) of the

Peltier control unit.


Connect power supply cable of Peltier tempering system

• The mains cable is to be connected to the socket (12) of the Peltier control unit (Figure 9).

6.2.3 Connection of Peltier Temperature Control System for Cylindrical Measuring Systems

• The thermostatic vessel for cylindrical measuring systems is connected to the Peltier control unit

(Figure 9) using four wires and hoses in a black sleeve. Connect the two coolant cables from the

thermostatic vessel to the corresponding hose connections (13) (Figure 9) on the Peltier control unit;


6.2.4 PC-Connections

• To connect the rheometer to a personal computer, use connector (3) on the rheometer control unit

(Figure 8) and the supplied USB cable;

• to connect the Peltier control unit to the PC, use also USB cable and PC interface (9) (Figure 9).

23

7 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager

7.1 System Requirements

For installation and working with the software, the following requirements have to be met:

• Personal Computer Windows XP SP3, Windows 7 or above;

• Microsoft.NET Framework 3.5 (normally included in operating system Windows);

• Processor: at least Pentium 4 or comparable, frequency of 1,7GHz or above;

• Working storage at least 1 Gbyte;

• The required hard disk space depends on the amount of data to be managed; through an optimal data

structure, the requirement on the hard disk is very low, and there are usually no restrictions due to low

disk store at the current PC systems;

• Either a USB interface or a CD-ROM drive is required for installation (depending on the supplied data

carrier);

• One USB interface for connection to rheometer;

• For temperature control system further USB interface (or COM port) is necessary;

• Optional printer port with printer.

7.2 Installation of the Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager

The software package is included in the data carrier and is installed under Windows.

Note: The software installation should be performed with administrator rights.

• Insert the USB stick into a USB port or insert CD-ROM into a free drive;

• In Windows start menu Run “disk drive:setup” OK or select drive with Explorer and start file SETUP.EXE;

• Perform further installation in accordance with the on-screen instructions, by default the RHEOTEST ® RN

5 Manager is installed in C:\RHEOTEST\RN5 Manager, access violations may occur when using other file

folder;

• Start the program in the Windows Start menu, select Programs RHEOTEST RN or from the desktop.

7.2.1 Login

To log on the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager, different logins with appropriate access rights are

available:

User name Password Rights

Operator no password execution of tests and access to created jobs and methods

Engineer engineer additional to operator, additional set up of communication and creating

of jobs and methods

Administrator rheotest additional to engineer, additional configuration of measuring systems,

creating of new measuring systems as well as change the system

language

7.2.2 Set up the Interfaces

• Switch on all devices;

• Start the program and login, for example, with user: „Engineer “; password „engineer “;

• Select and set up the interfaces for rheometer RHEOTEST RN as well as optional for temperature control

in menu „Settings “– „Communication Settings... “.

• See for it section Communication Settings.

24

8 Test Preparation and Measurement

8.1 Use Cone- Plate / Plate-Plate Measuring Systems

8.1.1 Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment

The rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment is described in the section 5.2.1 and is shown in Figure

1 and Figure 10. Such a device allows an automatic adjustment of the distance between measuring plates,

automatic measurement of normal force and automatic realization of the measurement. The user needs to

follow the on-screen instructions that appear during the experiment.

Figure 10 Basic Instrument with an Automatic Distance Adjustment

To use the basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment, it must be connected to the RHEOTEST ® RN

basic instrument. In principle the procedure is described below.

1. Loosen the knurled screw (9) (Figure 9) and move the plate guide (10) upwards until the distance

between the plate guide and the stand base is approx. 8 to 10 cm. This distance is shown in Figure 11 on

the left with the double arrow.

25

Figure 11 Installation of the Plate Guide

2. Place the basic plate with an automatic distance adjustment on the plate guide. For this, the knurled

screw of the basic plate must first be loosened and unscrewed (about 1 cm). By the subsequent insertion

of the basic plate, its coupling must rest on the small surfaces of the plate guide (Figure 11 right).

3. Tighten the knurled screw of the basic plate (Figure 12 left). Thereby the V-shaped gap between the basic

plate coupling and the plate guide disappears (Figure 12 right).

Figure 12 Touchdawn the Basic Plate on the Plate Guide

4. Loosen the knurled screw on the plate guide (9) (Figure 10) and lower the basic plate until it is resting on

the work surface (Figure 13).

26

Figure 13 Setting up the Basic Plate on the Work Surface

27

8.1.2 Rheometer with a Fixed Basic Plate

8.1.2.1 Preparing the Measurement

1. Before the first use, fix the temperature controlled basic plate support (11) by knurled screw (8) (at the

backside) at the basic plate guide (12) (Figure 14). The basic plate support (11) has to lie on the left

and right stopper.

2. Clean the measuring cone (plate) and the basic plate (7) with appropriate solvent and dry them.

3. Insert basic plate (7) into the basic plate support (11) in the following manner: insert the basic plate (7)

(thermostat branch pipes look forward) into the basic plate support, turn 90 (thermostat branch pipes

look left) and put it onto the joint spring pins (10).

Figure 14 Basic Instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN with manually adjustable basic plate

4. Close the opening of adapter (6) by keep turning the window Square (opposite the stainless-steel base)

until the opening if the ring window is closed. Turn the closed opening in direction of stand (15) and

place the adapter on the upper ring of basic plate (7). In showing to the left ball handle (5), push up the

basic plate guide (12) incl. Basic plate and adapter. Lock it by turning the ball handle (5) into to the right

direction.

Thereafter, the opening of the adapter can be rotated by hand to the front, as shown on Figure 15.

28

Figure 15 Adapter

5. Again, move down the measurement plate guide without the adapter (6).

6. Couple cone (plane) with measuring drive - to do this, lift the bushing of the quick connecting coupling

(3), insert the ball head of the cone (plate) into the cone opening of the quick connecting coupling and

pull down the bushing.

7. Set the basic plate (7) into its lower position, turning the micrometer screw (14) left.

8. Push the basic plate guide upwards on the pillars of the stand (15) – until it stops at the adapter.

9. a. Fix measuring head (1) with the help of knurled screw (2) on the stand. Hold the basic plate

guide (12) up, until the basic measuring plate (7) touches the adapter (6). Then press the plate guide up

to the adapter (6) to ensure that joint spring pins (10) are imbedded into the plate support (11)

(displacement about 3 mm) and fix by the knurled-head screw (9) or:

b. Fix the basic plate guide (12) by the knurled screw (9) in the lower part of the stand (15). Put

down the whole measuring head (1) until the joint spring pins (10) are imbedded (displacement about 3

mm) when the adapter and the basic plate come in contact and fix by the knurled screw (2).

8.1.2.2 Adjusting the Gap Between Cone (Plate) and Basic Plate

1. The microindicator (13) serves to control the distance between the plates in m range (13). If

necessary, to ease off clamp screw on micro-indicator shaft, to lift indicator along longitudinal axis in

order to use measuring range completely.

2. Move the basic plate (7) by micrometer screw (14) carefully upwards (turning right), until basic

plate will nearly touch the cone (plate).

Note: The gap has to be set only for completely tempered measuring device, because the gap can

change (thermal expansion). In the case of large temperature changes (therm al expansions), the cone,

plate or measuring shaft bearings might be destroyed.

Note: The touch of cone (plate) and basic plate cannot be felt at the micrometer screw (14), but only to

existing torque on the cone (plate). The cone (plate) does not longer rotate freely.

3. In the Software RN 5 Manager are the Jobs in the job group “gap” available as an assistance by the

gap adjusting. These jobs contain the word “gap” in their names, for example Job „gap_P3“ for the

measuring plate P3. These Jobs serve for gap adjustment including recommended trimming distance.

4. Establish readiness for measurement (see chapter Preparing the measurement);

5. Select correspondent Job (e.g.„gap_P3)“ in Job tree gap (column left);

6. For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in Sample Definition and

click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“,

enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“

(waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”;

7. The screen will display:

29

8. Enter the desired temperature (start temperature of following test) and click the button OK: the screen

will display:

9. Follow the instructions on the display; after clicking OK, the measuring plate starts to rotate at 10 rpm;

10. After running of the first data, click (to see in window Information, right: receive data:) on the tab

Chart. Move the basic plate by rotating the micrometer screw counterclockwise carefully up. You

recognize the contact point by increasing the torque (about 0,1 ... 0,3 mNm);

11. Set the display of microindicator (13) by turning the outer black ring to zero;

12. Then, adjust the gap (including trimming distance), rotating the micrometer screw and removing the

plates from each other to the required distance.

Note: In the software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager, the value for the trimming distance (e.g.: 0.05 mm) is

predetermined. This has to be set in addition to the gap (e.g. for the measuring plate P3 the distance will be

1.05 mm).

13. Cancel/finish the Job by pressing the button „Cancel Analysis“ under the tab Job.

Note: For inspection, check the gap between the plates after every 10 measurements or once a day.

14. Lower the basic measuring plate downwards or raise the measuring drive, disconnecting again the

cone / plate and basic plate from each other.

8.1.2.3 Performing the Measurement

1. Clean the measuring cone (plate) and basic plate with a suitable solvent and dry before the

measurement;

2. Move the measuring head (1) back to the basic plate (7). For it, carry out the steps 8a or 8b.

3. Create or select an appropriate Job in the Job tree (column left);

4. For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition

and click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“,

enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting

until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”;

5. The following notification will be displayed as a reminder to set the zero point:

30

6. After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings the gap and trimming distance and will

display:

7. It is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material

should be removed.

Note: The trimming temperature may differ from the measurement temperature.

The following indication appears on display:

8. Please, enter the required temperature and press OK. After clicking OK, the program asks you to

place and trim a sample and will display:

31

9. Place the sample centric on the basic plate. Application of the sample depends on kind of different

substances by dropping or covering at the center of the basic plate (7).

Note: The gap must be completely filled.

10. Trim the sample. The sample can be trimmed with a spatula or a trimming tool (available on request) -

the excess material to be measured will be removed. The trimming tool is used, as shown on the

Figure 16.

Figure 16 Trimming of the Sample with a Trimming Tool

11. Lay the stripper gripper flat on the basic plate. The inward facing ends are applied to the measuring

plate. By simultaneously pressing the brackets and pulling forward the tool, the excess material is

removed.

12. To ensure all-sided trimming of the sample, the opening of the adapter can be rotated forward (see

Figure 15). After trimming, the window is to turn back again to make ready for measurement. After

trimming, the opening has to be turned back again to make ready for measurement.

13. After clicking OK, the program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will

display:

14. After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the

information window. When the measured data came (see Information window), they can be also

displayed in the Chart and in the Table. The measured values can be viewed and / or evaluated in the

Report.

15. After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2), simultaneously lift the quick

connecting coupling (3) and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic

plates.

16. Subsequently, new sample is applied and after the plate was hitched again, a new measurement can

be started.

32

8.2 Use Cylinder Measuring Systems

When working with rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN and cylindrical measuring systems, it is possible to use both:

the thermostating with an external liquid thermostat (the thermostating vessel is shown in Figure 17 on the

left) and the thermostating with the Peltier technique (Figure 17 on the right).

The vessel for cylindrical measuring systems thermostated with Peltier element is shown in Figure 17 on the

right. When using with one rheometer simultaneously cylinders and measuring systems plate-/cone-plate with

Peltier thermostating, both systems are connected to the same Peltier control unit (see Peltier Tempering

System). When replacing the measuring system, it is necessary to reconnect the two cables of the

temperature control system to the connectors 10, 11 and two hoses of the heat-transfer fluid into the

connectors 13 (Figure 9). The corresponding Peltier temperature control system will be automatically detected

and the corresponding set of temperature calibration constants becomes available during the measurement.

Figure 17 Rheometer with cylinder measuring system. On the left: a vessel for thermostating with a liquid

thermostat. On the right: Peltier thermostated vessel

Working with cylinder measuring systems

1. Before filling the measuring cup of cylinder measuring device, carefully clean it with appropriate solvent

and dry it.

2. After cleaning, fill it with media measured in quantities prescribed (see Overview Measuring Systems).

3. Couple rotor (6) (Figure 17) with the measuring drive (1) - to do this, insert the rotor cone head into cone

opening of quick connecting coupling (3), the coupling bushing is to be in the upper position. Then, shift

the bushing down.

4. Free the measuring cup coupling (4), the ball headed handle (5) is to be turned left, as shown in Figure

17.

5. Carefully assemble the filled measuring cup (7) over the rotor (6) up to the stopper (the vessel yet has to

rotate easily in the stopper).

6. Fix the measuring cup at the stopper, turning right the ball headed handle (5).

33

7. After that, you can insert the whole drive of cylinder measuring device down into the temperature control

vessel (8). Fix the measuring drive on the stand with the knurled screw (2). Carry out measurements

after the necessary tempering of sample. After measurements disassemble is carried out in reverse

order.

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9 Software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager

9.1 User Interface

The software RHEOTEST RN 5

Manager corresponds to general

standards of MICROSOFT ® Windows

programs. After starting the program,

the login window appears. Additional

enquiry could appear concerning

thermostat activation depending upon

settings. After this user interface

appears.

1 – Main menu

2 – Inlays

3 – Job tree

4 – Sample tree

9.1.1 Inlays

Presentation is organized in inlays of

settings and analysis results. They

could be selected by pressing name of an inlay.

• Job: It is shown certain job and settings of the actual selected sample, control keys to begin an analysis

and detailed information about selected sample at the moment.

• Table: Table of data is shown in accordance with the settings.

• Chart: Chart is shown in accordance with the settings.

• Report: Report data are shown as statistic evaluation or calculated rheological parameters.

• Method: It is shown job method or methods in methods’ library.

9.1.2 Tree for Jobs, Samples and Methods

Designators for two trees are at the left side of window in RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager. They

are independent of the selected inlay for job, table, plot or report.

Through the upper tree it is possible to select a job in jobs’ group that should be presented.

The corresponding image will be activated and active sample will be shown from the selected

job after click.

It is possible to select active sample in the job in the low structural tree.

After selection the corresponding image will be active and data for all tests will be shown.

It is necessary to click + sign in front of sample name, if it is necessary to display only one

test. After this individual tests will be listed. If only one test is selected, so only those datas

are shown in table or graph.

Width and height of structural trees could be adjusted, if necessary.

Methods groups with their methods will be shown at upper tree, if display is activated of

methods library. Method with its settings will be shown after click.

9.1.3 Help System

The software gives context help on the basis of the Operating Manual.

This has advantage that information from Operating Manual corresponds to information in

Online-Help.

35

Prerequisite for this function is the fact that Operating Manual (PDF document) is in catalogue where program

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager is installed. It includes also right language of the Operating Manual.

The following documents are necessary:

German: BA_De-RN-Manager.pdf

English: BA_En-RN-Manager.pdf

Russian: BA_Ru-RN-Manager.pdf

Error massage will be shown, if the required file would not be found.

Own standard Windows programs are used for information presentation.

The program tries to show the help file in Acrobat Reader.

Note

It is recommended to install Acrobat Reader at computer for optimal help presentation. One could load it from

Internet free of charge.

The program tries to use Internet Explorer, if Acrobat Reader is not installed at computer. Help file is

transferred to Windows system, if it is not possible. In this case Windows tries to find appropriate program.

One should activate the required element for selection of necessary help information. It could be done by click

or by “simple jump” with the help of TAB key. After this one presses F1 key.

Now the Operating Manual will be opened at that page which contains information concerning the required

element.

A further possibility but only available in dialog window, is to use the help-button [ ? ] top right.

After pressing the button, the cursor becomes a question mark. Now you can select the desired

item by clicking on it. The help appears immediately.

The page always will be presented from the top. However the required information could be at the foot of the

page. It is necessary to scroll content of the page downward manually.

9.2 Job

1 – Job tree

2 – Sample tree

3 – Active job definition; inlay behind

that contains further job settings

4 – Name of active sample

5 – Field of job execution

6 – Information about active sample

9.2.1 Definition

Job definition contains the job description and information about necessary components such as measuring

system and method.

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1 – Job Name: the job name should describe job’s theme. It makes easier the further search. In principal it is

possible to give the same name to many jobs. However, it could lead to confusion very quickly. Therefore, it is

not recommended.

2 – Method: it contains all necessary information for analysis carrying out. For this see Section Method.

Display of method list shows all available methods in the library at the moment. At that method name will be

shown and methods group after it. At present methods groups available in the library are set in Global

Settings.

Method data are saved in the job directly, that is changes in a method in the method library do not influence

the next measurement directly. Neither it is required that set method is available in the library. At this it is

possible to operate with a setting that was obtained and imported from external source, e.g. from engineer of

Rheotest Company.

It is necessary to press R key (see paragraph 5 – R (Reboot)), if you have changed method in the library and

want that this change works during the next measurement.

If a new method is selected from the list, request appears if it is necessary to take over the method’s units of

measurement. Each job and each method have their own settings of the units of measurement that should be

in accordance with the given measuring task.

The request makes it possible a selection, if it is necessary to keep the settings of the job units of

measurement or it is necessary to take over the settings of the job units of measurement from the method.

If you would like to change method that was imported from outside, it is necessary to copy it in the library

through Method to edit.

3 – Measuring System: measuring system that is used for sample measuring. Measuring system data are

copied at start of each measurement from the library of measuring systems. At that changes will be hold true

by every new measurement, e.g. calibration.

Message will appear and it is necessary to select another measuring system, if specified system is not in the

library.

4 – Comment Job: Always it is necessary to record here substantial comments concerning the job. It might be

information about the job’s task such as incoming inspection from supplier A, product B development or

monitoring of the production line XY.

It gives possibilities for other users of quick classification of jobs for their own tasks. Besides that this

information could be used for documentation in table heading, plot heading or in report heading.

5 – R (Reload): At that actual method’s settings will be copied from the library in the job. It has an influence on

all other changes. Button is active only in that case when the specified method could be accessed in the

library.

6 – Product Name: Product name that should be analyzed with the help of this job. However, this field could

be used also for equipment, supplier etc. This information could be used for documentation in table heading,

plot heading or in report heading.

7 – Job created: Date and time when the job was created or when the job was imported.

8 – Job changed: Date and time when the job was changed last time. It relates to all job’s settings.

9 – Last used: Date and time when the job was used last time. It relates to the start of a measurement. It is

unimportant, if the measurement of a sample was interrupted or deleted.

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9.2.2 Settings

Further job’s settings.

1 – Suppress Waittime in data: The first measured value is transferred from rheometer RHEOTEST ® to

computer after defined time depending upon method’s parameters used Trigger time and Time raster.

Measured values could be also presented / displayed starting from the moment when time = 0 with the help of

“Suppress Waittime in data”.

2 – Show Sample Collection: Data from the data list will be also shown at a plot in parallel to the actual data.

Data of the data list are set in chart settings. Data of the data list will be always shown with the line thickness

XS and appeared in legend with their set names. Colors and symbols correspond to colors and symbols of the

actual data.

3 – Osci-Correction: There is a possibility to correct the measuring data during data processing of oscillation

tests; in particular J-correction assumes inertia correction.

4 – Standard temperature: This temperature is set at the following conditions:

• if thermostat is used and it is ready for operation;

• if thermostat could assure this temperature;

• after finishing the measurement;

• after program start if it is indicated in the user settings.

5 – Copy Job to distant folder: The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the

development of the measurement on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement.

For this the function “Copy Job to distant folder” should be selected on the computer that controls the

measurement. Further an appropriate directory (distant folder) should be created and chosen, see for it

section User Settings. Furthermore the View distant job function is to mark on the distant computer.

6 – Show complete during analysis: This option is active in that case only when data list for this job will shown

also. This option acts during one measurement. Chart will be shown and scaled in accordance with the actual

data, if this option is inactive. This concerns X- and Y- axes.

Chart presentation and scaling is defined by the data from the data list before beginning of the measurements,

if this option is active. It means that, if the data list includes measuring results during 300 s the measuring

parameters will be shown completely during this 300 s. Actually, measured data will be added to this image

after analysis.

7 – Set temperature before analysis: For temperature-controlled tests this function enables to set the

necessary temperature for the analysis. If this function is marked, the window for temperature input arises

before measuring.

The temperature query (enter target temperature) is carried out before each test, so that a new temperature

can be set for each individual test. If the job name contains the components: “BINDER”, “RTFO”, “PAV”,

“PNST”, “T_SWEEP”, the query is omitted during the measurement before each individual test.

If the temperature control is activated in the method only in the first test (Const or Jump) and not in the

following tests (none), the query is omitted during the measurement before each individual test. The

temperature is however measured.

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8 – use RN temperature only: Application of this option means that temperature value in the given

measurements will be temperature of an RN thermometer. Otherwise temperature is used measured by

thermostat. However it is possible only in that case when thermostat does not use RN-thermometer

(thermostat should have external sensor option).

Option “use RN temperature only” is useful when a large temperature difference could be expected between

thermostat bath and sample. It is also useful, if quick temperature changes could be expected. Temperature

request from thermostat is fulfilled with a cycle of 1 s. RN temperature is transferred actually with every data

set (minimum 12 ms cycle).

9 – use plate control: One can use this function to activate or deactivate the automatic movement of the lower

basic plate.

10 – Main print options: These settings determine printing, if inlay is displayed Job and File -> Page or File

View -> Printing. One could find details to these settings in Section Print Job.

9.2.3 Sample

Sample for analysis is described by the following data.

1 – Sample Name: This name will be shown in sample tree and could be used for documentation in table

heading, chart heading or in report heading. Name should be indicated before analysis start. Checking is

carried out at every analysis begin. However the name could be changed later.

In order to simplify work the name could be formed automatically, especially if there are a lot of similar

samples. For this see the next Section.

2 – Name Create Mode: It defines how sample name will be formed. Automatic name formation is necessary

for quick start. The following possibilities are at the disposal:

• manually: Sample name input at every analysis start. Quick start is impossible.

• Charge+Index (_000): Here the name will be formed from the charge names and increasing index. For

that the charge should be indicated necessarily. Index begins from 000 and the next free index is used. If

e.g. there are all samples up to the sample _006 and the sample _003 is deleted, the next sample will be

sample _003 and it will be located after the sample _006.

• DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM): The sample name corresponds to actual date and actual time in format YY-

MM-DD-HH-MM-SS (for example 2012-03-18-10:42).

• Charge+DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM): The sample name is formed from the indicated charge, actual date

and actual time (for example CD-Glue 2012-03-18-10:42). One obtains very good documented sample

name with this option.

3 – Comment Sample: Comment concerning the sample. Comment to the sample might be changed after

successful analysis.

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4 – Charge: Name of analyzed charge. At that the charge could describe any other object such as for example

device, supplier, products line, monitoring name. The charge is necessary obligatory in case of using name’s

mode “Charge+Index” and “Charge+DateTime”. The charge could be used for documentation in table

heading, chart heading or in report heading.

5 – Operator Name: setting of operator name. It could be set manually. New recording is impossible before

analysis in case of quick start. The recording could be changed after analysis. It might be indicated in settings

of user control, if this information should be filled automatically at every analysis start.

6 – Sample created: Date and time of sample creation.

9.2.4 Actions

Job actions are related always to the actually selected job.

1 – New Sample: New sample will be prepared for analysis. It is possible only in that case when other sample

is not activated. Request appears after click, if it would be necessary to use available data. It relates first of all

to the sample name, charge and comment. These records will be deleted, if one answers “No” to the request.

Mode of sample name and user are saved.

Now new records could be done, for example a new charge should be analysed. These records will be saved

and will be valid from the beginning for the new sample also, if one answers “Yes” to the request. It is possible

to know about situation that a new sample was created by indication “Active” near button “New Sample”. Now

changes made in sample data will be related to the new sample. All changes in sample data will be in force for

the actual sample, if this mode is inactive at the present moment.

Request follows, if it is necessary to use this sample for a new analysis in special case when the last sample

does not contain any data. For new analysis will be used the last empty sample, if the answer to the request

will be “Yes”.

2 – Check + Create Sample: Input data and system will be

checked after this button pressed. New sample will be

created and data structure for this, if the check was

successful. In case of good creation an inscription “OK”

will be shown near the button “Check + Create Sample”. It

appears in Information message “Press button “Start

Analysis” and it appears new sample in the sample tree.

In other case it appears error message with information

what should be changed.

The following will be checked:

• is there the indicated measuring system in the library;

• are the tests carried out licensed;

• is the sample name set and relates to manual input;

• does the inputting sample name exist already and

relates to manual input;

• was the charge indicated and relates to the name input mode “Charge+Index” and “Charge+DateTime”;

• request about distance between plates; it relates to measuring systems plate-plate only.

3 – Start Analysis: Analysis begins after this button was pressed. Check is carried out. If a thermostat is used:

Connection with thermostat will be checked, if this is indicated in the method.

Then the analysis task will be sent to RHEOTEST RN control unit. After that it is necessary to wait as

RHEOTEST RN control unit sends data and analysis would be completed.

One could follow the sequence of this procedure at Information display.

4 – Easy Start: This version of analysis start is right for a lot of similar samples that are tested one after

another in a sequence. The sample will be prepared and analysis will be started. However start takes place in

that case only when all checks were successful. In other case error message appears.

5 – Cancel Analysis: Active analysis will be interrupted at once after pressing. It is possible to cancel analysis

at the stage of analysis preparation. It should be beard in mind that at this error message could appear that

communication is impossible.

After analysis interruption it would be proposed to delete it.

40

If communication between RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager and RN control unit has been interrupted but the

reliable data of analysis were already obtained, it is possible to interrupt the analysis and one could use data

obtained before this further.

It is possible to identify loss of communication by that feature that data transmission does not take place

during a long period of time. One could check it at Information display.

9.2.5 Information

Analysis status or sample content is shown at display. Analysis

status begins with the pressing button “New Sample” or “Easy

Start”. The actions fulfilled and their results will be displayed. If

one begins analysis in manual mode, but not easy start, so after

each operation instruction appears what to do next.

For example after pressing “Check+Create Sample” instruction

appears that it is possible to start analysis with the help of “Press

button “Start Analysis”.

Tests that are carried out and already obtained data packages

are displayed during analysis.

The sample content will be displayed from the point of view of available data in case of already measured

sample.

Measuring system in use and its data will be shown. These

values are used for further parameters calculation. Number of

tests carried out and list of tests will be shown. The list contains

test type and number of test points. It will be shown additionally

number of oscillations for oscillation tests.

9.2.6 Main Menu Job

9.2.6.1 New Job

New job is created in the jobs’ group that is active at the moment. At that this job could be created at any

place of jobs’ group. New job has name “New Job” from the beginning. At once direction appears that this

name should be changed possibly. See for that Job Name.

The job has the first measuring system from the library as a measuring system. Here it is necessary to select

actually used measuring system (in the Method).

Method is used that is active method from the library at the moment. One takes into account the manner of

action for the method creation that afterwards is attached to the job. In this case it is attached to the new job.

No other samples are yet available.

The job has default settings from the beginning for all its objects (tables, charts, report). These settings should

be adapted to your own requirements.

9.2.6.2 Copy Job

Selected job (in job’s tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Message appears, if

a job was not selected but for example only jobs’ group.

9.2.6.3 Paste Job

In case that job is in clipboard it will be added into actual position in job tree.

Inserted job obtains prefix “Copy of “.

It is recommended to give to this job a new proper name. In this way name input is activated. See for it Job

Name.

There are two variants to insert the job for choice:

• Paste Complete Job – It will be inserted the job with all samples. This possibility is useful, if

you want to reorganize the jobs or place them in other jobs groups.

41

• Paste Empty Job – It will be inserted the actual job only. Job’s samples will not be inserted

together with it. This possibility is useful, if you want to start available job with new samples. It

could be for example in that case when monthly you lay together samples for storage in one

job. At the beginning of the month the job is copied without samples and in name new month

is added (For example, Product_A_May2014). Now all samples for May could be analyzed.

Note: Jobs are inserted after the marked job. In order to obtain the job at the first place in the jobs group it is

necessary to mark the jobs group.

9.2.6.4 Delete Job

Delete of the marked job.

Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Deleted jobs go to the

Deleted Jobs folder in the directory C:\ RHEOTEST \ RN5 Manager.

If the job was deleted by mistake, you can restore it again. To do this, proceed as follows: copy the

deleted job from the folder Deleted Jobs and place it into the folder Transfers. Then, in the main menu

of the software, you need to point the place in the jobs-tree, where you want to insert the job being

restored. Then you need to go to the top menu Job, take the function Export/Import – Import Job and

choose the right job in the folder Transfer, press Open. The job is now restored and can be used.

There are two variants of deletion for choice:

• Delete Active – the marked job will be deleted

• Delete all in group – all jobs will be deleted in the actual jobs group. This possibility is used if

it is necessary to delete jobs’ group. It is possible in that case only when there are no other

jobs.

9.2.6.5 Samples -> New

This has the same effect as in job’s actions New Sample. It starts preparation of a sample manually (not Easy

Start).

9.2.6.6 Samples -> Copy

The marked sample (in sample tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard does not used. If any

sample is marked, message appears with indication.

9.2.6.7 Samples-> Paste

If sample is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in actual place in sample tree. The inserted sample has name.

However, it is recommended to give a new proper name. So, input of sample name will be activated.

9.2.6.8 Samples -> Delete

There are two variants of deletion for choice:

• Delete Active – the marked sample will be deleted

• Delete all in job – all samples will be deleted in the actual job. This possibility is used, if for

example copied job should be used for a new samples series.

Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in user’s settings. Cancel function is

inaccessible.

9.2.6.9 Table Settings -> Show…

Displays the table settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Table Settings.

As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager cannot be operated.

42

9.2.6.10 Table Settings -> Copy

Table settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.

If the job is not marked but only jobs’ group, for example, a message with indication appears.

9.2.6.11 Table Settings -> Paste

If table settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.

9.2.6.12 Chart Settings -> Show…

Displays the chart settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Chart Settings.


9.2.6.13 Chart Settings -> Copy

Chart settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


9.2.6.14 Chart Settings -> Paste

If there are chart settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job.

9.2.6.15 Report Settings -> Show…

Displays the report settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Report Settings.


9.2.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy

Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


9.2.6.17 Report Settings -> Paste

If there are report settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job.

9.2.6.18 Units settings -> Show…

Displays the units settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Units Settings.


9.2.6.19 Units settings -> Copy

Units settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


One can copy and paste units settings between Jobs and Methods.

9.2.6.20 Units settings -> Paste

If there are units settings in a clipboard, they can be inserted into the selected job. It can be also units settings

for a method.

9.2.6.21 Method to Edit

Copies the method from the job into the method’s library and changes the display to the method’s library. The

copied method can be then found in the method’s group „xMethods-of-Jobs“.

It is possible to repeat this process.

43

If there is a method in the method’s library, all functions of the method’s library can be applied. This method

could be shown for example in details, changed, copied or exported. The changed method can be also added

to the job again. For that it is necessary to select exactly this method (in method’s group “xMethods-of-Job”) in

the method’s selection.

Note: The method’s group “xMethods of Job” is not saved. After closing the program, these methods are not

available more. If the method of the job should be saved permanently, it is necessary to copy available

method’s group through Copy/Insert.

The procedure to copy the method from the job, to edit and insert it again into the job is only necessary, if you

get a job from outside and a method contained in it does not have its own method’s library.

9.2.6.22 Export / Import

The “Export / Import” functions are used for archiving data / files. For example, routine jobs where a lot of data

files (Samples) are accumulated can be archived at defined time intervals. For a better clarity, the

measurement data files (Samples) can be then deleted from the Job. This guarantees a secure and fast

operation of the RN 5 Manager.

IMPORTANT! It is strongly recommended, to export jobs with the measurement data regular via the

Export / Import function. First to the Transfer directory, and then copy these jobs from Transfer and

save it in a safe place on the computer. Than the saved samples can be deleted from RN 5 Manager to

ensure fast and problem-free operation of the software. We suggest to transfer and save the data after

every ten measurements and do not have more than ten samples in the job.

In addition, the “Export / Import” functions can be used for exchange the data / files. Thus, e.g. the Jobs of

user can be sent to RHEOTEST for rheological analysis.

9.2.6.22.1 Export / Import -> Export Job

The marked job is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this file accessible

for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this file could be archived for documentation. The file name

for the job file corresponds to the job’s name with the file’s extension “.rjb”.

If there is a file with the same name in the data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to

overwrite the file.

9.2.6.22.2 Export / Import -> Import Job

There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a job, a file

with the file’s extension “.rjb”, from this directory. This job is then inserted in a current position in the job tree. It

might be a new created job’s group or any position inside the existing job’s group. This job will have then the

same functionality as all other jobs.

It could be used for analysis of further samples or for data viewing already existing samples in it.

9.2.6.22.3 Export / Import -> Export Job-group

The marked job’s group is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this

directory completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this directory could be

archived for documentation. The directory name corresponds to the job’s group name.

If there is directory with the same name in data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to

overwrite the catalogue.

One could not change the content of a job’s group directory. Data safety and program stability could not be

guaranteed in case of any changes of directory content.

9.2.6.22.4 Export / Import -> Import Job-group

There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a directory

from this directory that is a job’s group for import. The name of the new job’s group corresponds to the

44

directory name. Imported job’s group is inserted then after the marked job’s group in job tree. This job’s group

will have then the same functionality as all other jobs groups.

Available jobs could be used for further analysis. New jobs could be developed.

9.2.6.22.5 Explorer to folder Transfers

Explorer opens of Windows-Explorer that shows data transfer directory. This could be used in order to copy

necessary data or directories into the clipboard of Windows and for example to e-mail message.

9.2.6.23 View Distant Job

The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the development of the measurement

on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement. For this the function Copy Job to

distant folder in Job Settings should be selected on the computer that controls the measurement. Further an

appropriate directory (distant folder) should be created and chosen on both computers, see for it section

Distant Folder in User Settings. Furthermore, the function View distant folder is to mark on the distant

computer.

9.3 Table

Table view is used to display measured values and calculated parameters in the form of values list.

9.3.1 Table Display

If inlay “Table” is active, the measured values and calculated parameters of the active sample will be shown in

the form of a table. Data could not be changed. Selection of the displayed parameters is fulfilled in Table

Settings.

Table dimensions are adjusted to the dimensions of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window. Columns width

could be varied with the help of a mouse and will be saved. For that it is necessary to put cursor above the

column right border. As soon as arrow left-right appears one could set the column width left mouse button

pressed and hold.

Note: If the mouse is moved over the right column border, right-left arrow appears. If a double click is

performed in this state, the column width is adjusted automatically for optimal size.

9.3.2 Main Menu Table

9.3.2.1 Table Settings -> Show…

Displays the table settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Table Settings.


9.3.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy

Table settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


9.3.2.3 Table Settings -> Paste


9.3.2.4 Copy to Clipboard

The selected table cells of a selected sample are copied in the Windows clipboard. Then they could be

inserted in a document like Excel, Word.

If only one cell in the table was selected, complete table will be copied including the column headings. If some

table cells were selected, just they will be copied in the clipboard. Also, columns headings will be added here.

Table heading is not an integral part of the information copied.

45

Note: If an overall view of the table is necessary, table heading and table data, one could do printing to file

(for example *.pdf) with the help of main menu “File” – “Print”. This file will be inserted then as an object (Insert

-> Object) in the desired document.

9.3.3 Table Settings

Settings for content and look of the table. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all

samples in this job. The settings are divided into five tabs: Table, Tests, Head, Print, Font. All changes made

will be rejected with the button Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be accepted and they

become actual ones with the help of OK button.

9.3.3.1 Table

1 – Number of Columns: one column

minimum and ten columns maximum are

possible.

2 – Column definition: the parameter to

display is defined for each column. The

same parameter can occur in several

columns. For parameter meaning see

section Appendix - Result. The column

width is adjusted automatically after

selection of a new parameter and exit from

the column.

Parameters imaging could be varied in user

settings in such a manner that there is

parameter’s name only, symbol only or

combination of both. See for that Appendix

– Heading data.

3 – Cancel: all changes will be rejected and

input display is closed.

4 – OK: all changes will be applied and input

display is closed.

9.3.3.2 Tests

1 – Tests: it is possible to select here the

tests that should be represented. This setting

is active only in that case when sample is

marked in sample tree. It means that all

available tests could be represented.

If only one test was selected in the sample

tree, this setting is ignored.

The setting is active during one analysis and in the following representation. It means that e.g. at one analysis

and one not activated 1 st test, any data will not be displayed as long as the 1 st test is carried out.

For example, the conditioning steps could be hidden with this option.

2 – Set All: all tests will be selected.

3 – Clear All: selection of all tests will be cancelled; data are not represented until the sample is selected.

Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.

9.3.3.3 Head

Table heading will be shown above the table itself. It could contain additional information to analysis.

This table heading could be configured for every job. In this case it is valid for all samples that are in the job.

46

Table heading makes possible to display 9 different information which is located as a matrix of 3 columns and

3 rows.

1 – Column/Row: Information could be assigned from drop-out list for each field. See in Appendix – Heading

data details of this selection.

2 – Name: If this option will be marked,

then the selected marking will be shown

before information itself. So, it will be

displayed for example “Sample: Sample

Date” during selection of the sample date.

3 – free Texts: All texts could be saved

here that afterwards will be shown as

information in table heading. It makes

possible good documentation of analysis

results.

Settings shown at the figure will be

displayed in the table heading in the

following way:

9.3.3.4 Print

1 – add Job: After the table printout the

currently used job will be added.

2 – add Method: After the table printout the

currently used method will be added.

3 – add Chart: After the table printout the

current chart will be added.

4 – add Report: The current report can be

added to the printout.

5 – add Settings: The Table Settings will be

added.

All 5 options can also be selected in any

combination. See Print Table for that.

9.3.3.5 Font

In tab page Font you can select the font type

and font size for the table display. By default,

the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.

9.4 Chart

9.4.1 Chart Display

47

If a bookmark “Chart” is active, the measured values and calculated parameters of the active sample will be

displayed as a chart. Any data could not be changed. The following main settings are possible: displayed

parameters, colours, lines thickness, marking, coordinate grid, scaling, linear/logarithmic and much more.

These settings take place in Chart Settings that could be displayed by a simple mouse click at a chart or could

be called through the main menu.

Chart dimension is adapted to the dimension of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window. Image is divided into

two areas, chart heading is above and chart itself is below. Chart heading will be shown only in that case

when this information has to be displayed. If any information was not defined for display in chart heading, this

area will be used for chart square.

The chart itself is depicted under the chart heading. It is possible to represent four parameters. The

corresponding scale is depicted to the right and to the left of the chart area. The names of the displayed data

series appear above the chart square, under the chart heading.

9.4.2 Main Menu Chart

9.4.2.1 Chart Settings -> Show…

Displays the chart settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Chart Settings.

As long as the setting window is active, the main window of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager can not be operated.

9.4.2.2 Chart Settings -> Copy

Chart settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


9.4.2.3 Chart Settings -> Paste



The chart of a current sample is copied as an image to the Windows clipboard. Then it could be inserted in a

document like Excel, Word or E-Mail. The current view will be copied, including the chart head.

Note: The greater is the chart at the time of copying (possible maximize the window of RHEOTEST RN 5

Manager), the higher is the image resolution in a clipboard. A high image resolution is preferable, if later this

figure should to be enlarged.

9.4.2.5 Chart Settings

Settings for content and look of the chart.

This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all samples in this job. The settings are divided into

seven tabs: Axis, Grid, Tests, Head, Collection, Print, Font. All changes made will be rejected with the button

Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be accepted and they become actual ones with the

help of OK button.

9.4.2.5.1 Axis

It serves for coordination of displayed parameters with chart axis as well as for definition of that how they have

to be displayed.

1 - Type: Determining of the parameters to be displayed from a selection list for the X-axis. Available

parameters and their meaning one could find here: Appendix - Result.

2 - Scale mode: the scaling regime of X axis will be defined. In case of “Auto” scaling will be fulfilled on the

basis of displayed data. Scaling is carried out from 0 to maximal data value.

In case of “Min-Max” displayed limits could be set. Data that are outside these limits will not be displayed. It is

possible to fix and “zoom” the display in this mode.

48

3 – Min: Minimum value of X axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active only

in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.

4 – Max: Maximum value of X axis. Data higher than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active only

in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.

5 – log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this

option is not selected, linear scaling is

displayed.

6 – Sort: Sorting of all data (all displayed

parameters) takes place according to X axis

parameter in increasing order. At that it is

unimportant at what time and in which test

data were obtained. Sorting occurs by all

actual displayed data (either one single test

or all tests of a sample).

7 – Definition of all Y axes: At the left, at the

right, 2. at the left and 2. at the right.

8 – Type: Definition of displayed parameters from the selection list for the corresponding Y axis. One could

find available parameters and their meaning here: Appendix – Result.

Note: One parameter could be displayed at several axes. It might be used for example in order to have one

parameter with different scaling.

9 – Active: It sets, if this parameter will be displayed (marked) or not. 1. Parameter (at the left) is displayed

always independent from this setting.

10 – Scale mode: the scaling regime of Y axis will be defined. In case of “Auto” scaling will be fulfilled on the

basis of displayed data. Scaling is carried out from 0 to maximal data value.

In case of “Min-Max” displayed limits could be set. Data that are outside these limits will not be displayed. It is

possible to fix and “zoom” the display in this mode.

11 – Minimum value of respective Y axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is

active only in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.

12 – Max: Maximum value of respective Y axis. Data higher than this value, will not be displayed. This value is

active only in the scaling mode “Min-Max”.

13 – log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this option is not selected, linear scaling is displayed.

14 – Color: Color setting for this parameter (Axis). This setting is displayed also in data collection, see for that

Collection. There are following colors for selection:

black

brown

violet

blue

green

red

pink

orange

yellow

grey

white

15 – Width: Lines thickness could be of 5 different values. The following values are possible with the thickness

in pixels:

XS 1

S 2

49

M 4

L 6

XL 7

The line thickness relates to display of actually selected sample. Data collection’s lines will be presented with

thickness = XS always.

Sign’s shape for lines marking could be set by User also. It is possible selection from the following list for lines

marking:

None

Square

Diamond

Triangle

Triangle at the right

Triangle at the left

Triangle inverted

Circle

Line will be shown

only

■

♦

▲

►

◄

▼

●

The mark’s form relates to display of the selected sample as well as to data collection display.

Note: It is recommended to select black colour for line for all parameters and set difference in parameters with

the help of various marking in case of using chart in black and white presentation.

One could vary the marking size also. The following dimensions and values in pixels are possible:

Collection’s parameters markings are one pixel smaller.

XS 3

S 5

M 6

L 8

XL 9

16 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input screen is closed.

17 – OK: All changes will be applied and input screen is closed.

9.4.2.5.2 Grid

1 – X Grid: specifies that a vertical grid is displayed according to X axis. Here, the value range is optimally

divided so that about 7 to 12 sectors are formed.

The X grid is displayed with a width of 2 pixels.

2 – X Grid Minor: specifies that a vertical grid is displayed according to X axis. Here, the value range is

optimally divided so that about 14 to 24 sectors are formed.

The X grid is displayed with a width of 1 pixel.

3 – Y Grid: specifies that a horizontal grid is

displayed according to the left Y axis. Here,

the value range is optimally divided so that

about 7 to 12 sectors are formed.

The Y grid is displayed with a width of 2

pixels.

4 – Y Grid Minor: specifies that a horizontal

grid is displayed according to the left Y axis.

Here, the value range is optimally divided so

that about 14 to 24 sectors are formed.

The Y grid is displayed with a width of 1

pixel.

50

5 – Grid Color: specifies the grid color. Colours are possible that are available by color selection for

parameters. See for that Color.

9.4.2.5.3 Tests

1 – Tests: it is possible to select here the tests that should be represented. This setting is active only in that

case when sample is marked in sample tree. It means that all available tests could be represented.

If only one test was selected in sample tree,

this setting is ignored.

The setting is active during one analysis and

in the following representation. It means that

e.g. at one analysis and one not activated 1 st

test, any data will not be displayed as long

as the 1 st test is carried out.

For example, the conditioning steps could be

hidden with this option.

2 – Set All: all tests will be selected.

3 – Clear All: selection of all tests will be

cancelled; data are not represented until the

sample is selected.

Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.

9.4.2.5.4 Head

Chart heading will be shown above the chart itself. It could contain additional information to analysis.

This chart heading could be configured for every job. In this case it is valid for all samples that are in the job.

Chart heading makes possible to display 9 different information which is located as a matrix of 3 columns and

3 rows.

Since the definition of the chart head corresponds to the table head, see section Table Settings – Head.

9.4.2.5.5 Collection

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager offers an opportunity to show the already analysed samples as a “background”

for currently analysed or represented sample. It is unimportant from what job “background samples” were

taken or they were imported from external source.

This possibility could be used, for instance, for that case if the desired material property should be presented

in the “background” as a target during the development of a material. So, it is possible to compare different

samples very quickly and effectively on the basis of their analysis.

Besides it would be possible to show the permissible limits in routine analysis in the “background”. For it two

samples are shown in the “background”, one of them represents the “lower” limit and another represents the

“upper” limit. Then actual analysed sample

must be presented during measurement

between these two samples. It is possible to

check very quickly, if the actual sample

represents a deviation.

1 – Name: New name could be assigned to

a sample. At first original name will be

inserted after sample addition in the

samples collection. In order to better

distinguish and identify samples in chart

later, a new name could be assigned

according to the theme.

2 – Active: One could select here which

51

samples will be actually displayed. Sample collection could contain more samples than it must be shown. This

enables a quick conversion or turning on / off of different samples.

Marked = Sample will be displayed.

3 – Line style: The „background“-samples are displayed in the chart with the same colour as the current

sample. In order to distinguish the „background“-sample from the current sample, the line type can be set

here.

There are four types of lines available:

dot

dash

dot dash

alt dash

∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

− − − −

− ∙ − ∙ −

− ─ − ─

If more than four samples should be shown, it is not possible to distinguish these by the line type.

4 – Details of Sample: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives a possibility for better samples

classification. The following data will be presented:

• Sample Name

• Date Time

• Charge

• Operator

• Comment

5 – Details of Sample: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives a possibility for better samples

classification. The following data will be presented:

• used Measuring System

• Factor KTau of measuring system

• Factor KD of measuring system

• Correction for Rotation

• Correction oscillation

6 – Copy: Selected sample from the sample collection will be copied into the clipboard. Windows clipboard is

not used. Afterwards this sample could be inserted into another place of sample collection. It gives a

possibility for sorting, if the previous sample will be deleted later. Furthermore, this sample in the clipboard

can be inserted into any job at any position after closing the chart settings.

7 – Paste: Sample from the clipboard is inserted into the sample collection behind the marked sample. It does

not matter, if this sample was copied from the job before this or it is earlier copied sample from the sample

collection. There are no limitations of number of samples saved in the sample collection.

8 – Delete: Marked sample is deleted from the sample collection.

9 – delete all: All samples are deleted in the sample collection.

9.4.2.5.6 Print

1 – add Job: After the chart printout the information to the job will be added.

2 – add Method: After the chart printout the

used method will be added.

3 – add Report: Actually, set report will be

added after chart printing.

4 – add Table: It will be added actual table

after printing of chart or as well as a report

(optionally).

52

5 – add Settings: It will be added chart settings after printing of chart or as well as a report (optionally) or a

table.

All 5 options could be selected in any combination. See for that Print Chart also.

9.4.2.5.7 Font

In tab page Font you can select the font type and font size for the chart display, analogue to Font by Table

Settings. By default, the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.

9.5 Report

9.5.1 Report Display

The defined evaluations of a current sample will be displayed if the tab „Report“ is active.

These may be statistical parameters, such as: mean value, standard deviation, minimum and maximum

values. Besides, these could be calculated, rheological parameters for analysis, such as: yield point, model’s

parameters etc. In the case of asphalt binder, the displayed report will be evaluation according to applied

asphalt binder standard.

The calculated data could not be changed.

The report is divided into a report head and a report itself. The specified data can be seen in the report as

grey lines. There is one grey line for each evaluation. The

results are placed below the grey line.

1 – Head: Report’s head according to Settings. See also

section Table Settings – Head.

2 – Index: It is a running index of evaluations. It serves

exceptionally for orientation in case of too long reports.

3 – Description: The defined evaluation type is displayed

in the grey line. The result parameters are shown below.

There is a different number of result parameters

depending on the evaluation type. If the reasonable

evaluation results are not possible, an indication appears.

4 – Parameter / Results: The defined parameter is

displayed in the grey line, to which the report relates. The

results are listed below according to the terms in the

previous column.

5 – Test / Units: The defined test of the evaluation is displayed in the grey line. The units of the results are

listed below, provided that measured results have units.

6 – Comment: The defined comment for the evaluation is shown in the grey line. The fields below can be

described with additional information to results. They appear then in the printout.

Report’s length depends on the number of defined evaluations. Selection of displayed evaluations takes place

in Report Settings.

9.5.2 Main Menu Report

9.5.2.1 Report Settings -> Show…

Displays the report settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Report Settings.


53

9.5.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy

Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.


9.5.2.3 Report Settings -> Paste

If report settings are in a clipboard, they will be inserted into the selected job.


The selected report cells of a selected sample are copied in the Windows clipboard. The report is copied as a

text in tabular form. Then it could be inserted in a document like Excel, Word or E-Mail.

If only one cell in the report was selected, complete report will be copied including the columns headings.

If some report cells were selected, just they will be copied in the clipboard. Also, columns headings will be

added here.

Chart heading is not an integral part of the information copied.

Note: If an overall view of the report is necessary, report heading and report data, one could do printing to file

(for example *.pdf) with the help of main menu “File” – “Print”. This file will be inserted then as an object (Insert

-> Object) in the desired document.

9.5.2.5 Settings

Settings for content of the report. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all samples in this

job. The settings are divided into four tabs: Report, Head, Print, Font. All changes made will be rejected with

the button Cancel and Menu Settings is

closed. The changes will be accepted and

they become actual ones with the help of

OK button.

9.5.2.5.1 Report

It serves for setup of necessary results

evaluations, for which tests they should be

implemented and should these results be

presented at the chart as additional

information.

1 - Calculation: Determining the evaluation

to be carried out. Necessary evaluation

type could be selected from the selection list. See list of possible evaluations in: Appendix – Analyses.

2 – Parameter 1: Parameter, for which the evaluation to be carried out. This parameter could be determined

from the selection list. If the specified evaluation is not possible for this parameter, as e.g. the mean value of

the frequency by a CS-const Test, the message appears, that this evaluation is impossible. Also, you will be

informed, when the evaluation has been defined for a test, which does not exist in the analysis, e.g. 5 th test in

method with three tests.

3 – Test: Determining for which test the evaluation should be carried out. There are tests 1 to 65 possible. So,

for each test one or several evaluations could be determined. Besides, indication “all” is possible. In this case

evaluation is carried out of all available tests of the sample.

4 – Parameter 2: This input data depends on the evaluation type.

• There are not input data: Parameter 2 is not necessary, as for example Average / Standard deviation.

• Number: Input of one number, as for instance by upper limit.

• List for selection: The list for the second measured parameter appears here during data input, as for

example by correlation.

• Automatically: Evaluation type determines this parameter by itself, as for instance yield point.

5 – Description: Short description will be shown for the actual selected evaluation.

54

Note: By a choice from the selection list this display will be updated. So, it is possible to move up and down in

the list with the cursor keys and to recognize the meaning of evaluation types. This is very helpful by choosing

the modelling method.

6 – Copy: Actually, selected evaluation is copied into the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Afterwards

this evaluation could be inserted and setup in other place of this report. Besides it is possible to insert this

evaluation in a report of another job.

7 – Paste/New: Evaluation from the clipboard will be inserted in the report below the actual position provided

that it is in the clipboard. The evaluation may be from this report or from other report of other job.

8 – Delete: The currently selected evaluation will be deleted. Depending on user settings, a confirmation of the

operation is requested.

9 – Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.

10 – OK: All changes will be applied and

input display is closed.

11 – Range: The range limits of the

Parameter 2 are here selectable. Default is

Auto – evaluation over the entire range of

the Parameter 2. By the choice of Man you

can limit the range of Parameter 2 manually.

12 – Min: Minimum value of selected range.

13 – Max: Maximum value of selected

range.

14 – Show in Chart: the evaluation to be

carried out is shown in the chart.

15 – Comment: The comment to the report can be added here.

9.5.2.5.2 Head

Report heading will be shown above the report itself. It could contain additional information about analysis.

This report heading could be configured for every job. Then it is valid for all samples that are in the job.

Chart heading makes possible to display 9 different information which are located as a matrix of 3 columns

and 3 rows.

As heading specification corresponds to the table heading see for that Section Table Head.

9.5.2.5.3 Print

This function is analogue to Print Chart.

9.5.2.5.4 Font

In tab page Font you can select the font type and font size for the report display, analogue to Font by Table

Settings. By default, the font MS Sans Serif is pre-set.

9.6 Method

Method will be shown, if inlay “Method” is active. It includes definition, settings and certain single tests of a

method.

The inlay serves for displaying the method of the actual selected job and active method of the method library.

55

One method contains at least one test. A test

describes the conditions, on which the sample

should be measured, such as rotational speed,

time, temperature.

1 – Method tree.

2 – Specification of displayed method. Inlay

after it contains further settings for the method.

3 – Single tests are presented in form of a

table.

4 – Single tests are presented as a chart.

5 – Tests displacement in a table or in a chart.

9.6.1 Definition

Method definition contains an information describing the analysis to be carried out.

1 – Name: Methods name should describe the method’s subject. This facilitates subsequent search. In

principle it is possible to give the same names for a lot of methods. However, it could lead quickly to confusion

and it is not recommended to do so.

2 – Group: Methods group, in which the indicated method is stored or was stored. If the display „Method from

library“ is active, the group will be shown, where this method is saved. If the display „Method of Job“ is active,

the group will be shown, from which this method has been copied to the job. Therefore, it could occur that this

group is no longer in the method library. It might be e.g. renamed, deleted or is inactive. The job could be

imported also and thus the method in it.

3 – Measuring System: used measuring system.

4 – Comment: You should write here always a significant reference to the analysis. It could be information

about the task of analysis such as: input control of supplier A, development product B or monitoring of

products line XY. A designation according to rheological sense is possible, such as measurements with

controlled shear rate, temperature dependence, determination of yield point.

During the method development it is useful also to comment the development steps in this field, i.e. the

changes to the previous version. It gives a possibility for other user for quick method classification for his

tasks. Besides this information could be used for documentation in table heading, chart heading or in report

heading.

5 – Method created: Date and time of method creation or when the method was imported.

6 – Method changed: Date and time when method was changed last time. It relates to all method settings.

7 – New Test: New test will be inserted in the last position of the tests table. The settings of active test will be

applied at that moment. These settings can be then adjusted.

56

8 – Copy Test: The actual test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.

9 – Paste Test: Test from the clipboard will be inserted after the actual test.

10 – Delete Test: Selected test will be delayed.


inaccessible.

11 – Details of Test: Shows the actual test settings in details. See for that Method – Individual test. One

cannot use inlay methods while test settings window is active.

12 – Display mode: Inlay Method serves for imaging of the actual job method and actual method from the

methods library.

This display serves for distinction of imaging modes. Besides, this mode is displayed in status line of

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager.

Display mode in

inlay „Method“

Status line of

RHEOTEST ® RN 5

Manager

Job’s method display Job’s method Job’s display

Job x from y

Method’s display of the Method from the Method’s display

Method library

library

Method x from y

Tree display

Job tree and Samples

tree

Methods tree

Display mode switching: The job’s view is active after the program start. If now one switches to inlay “Method”,

job’s method will be displayed. It is necessary to select the menu item Method in the main menu of

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager in order to switch the display mode. It will be changed to the inlay “Method” and

method display is activated. This will be active until one of the menu items or one of the inlays Table, Chart or

Report will not be selected in the main menu. After that the display mode is switched again to the job’s

display.

Note: If you are in the job display and you want to look at the methods parameters in detail, you have to click

on Method in the main menu and hold the left mouse button. With the pressed mouse button, one could now

move to the menu item Parameter -> Show… Now the methods parameter of the job are displayed.

9.6.2 Settings

Further settings of method.

1 – special function: This function is only visible in the methods view and if the registered user has the

administrator rights. Special function is used to perform the specific evaluations after the analysis is finished.

There are following possibilities for choice:

• none – special evaluation is not fulfilled.

• Pt100 calibration – Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be

performed according to menu choice Settings – Pt100 calibration.

• Inertia calibration - Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be

performed according to menu choice Settings – Inertia calibration.

• Rotation calibration - Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be

performed according to menu choice Settings – Rotation calibration.

57

• Oscillation calibration − Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be

performed according to menu choice Settings – Oscillation calibration.

This setting is also used to verify, if a special evaluation is possible, when the calibrations are selected in a

main menu. Only the samples for Pt100 calibration or inertia calibration can be used here, that were

measured with the correspondingly adjusted method.

2 – Use Torque Limit: in all CD OSC tests (deformation-controlled oscillation test) this function is marked

through a tick mark here. A value of 0.5 mNm is used in this case by default (is set in Method / Parameter /

Advanced Parameters under Torque Limit). For all other tests, the function Use Torque Limit is not applied.

3 – Trim.dist.[mm]: The distance between the measuring plate and basic plate, that should be adjusted in

addition to the recommended plate distance to trim the sample (removing the excess of measured material).

4 – Main print options: These settings determine printing, if inlay Method is displayed and if one selected File -

> Print preview or File -> Print. One could find details of these settings here Print Method.

9.6.3 Table of Tests

Presentation of certain tests in table form in the order of execution.

Maximum 65 tests could be defined.

Main data of tests will be displayed. Further settings could be done in Method – Individual test.

1 – Table of Tests: The most important parameters of a single test are displayed. Values that are obligatory

necessary for test are shown as white areas for input. Values that are not necessary for the corresponding

test are marked in grey. Showed here values do not have influence on the test. The necessary values are

determined by test type selection.

Data could be marked by one click and changed afterwards.

Note: However, it is recommended to carry out changes in input mask Test settings.

The measuring unit will not be shown in the change mode and it is not necessary to input it.

The column width is optimal, fixed and could not be changed. The width of the test table is fixed also.

The meaning of the columns and thus the set values could be found in the section Method – Individual test.

2 – Tests displacement in the table or in the chart: Marked test is moved in the limits of the table one line

upwards or downwards. In such a way the

tests sequence could be corrected.

9.6.4 Chart of Tests

Graphical representation of defined tests.

1 – Display of the time profile of specified

values. The start and end values are used

here depending on the test type. Initial

conditions could not be determined

previously for some types of test.

It occurs e.g. by the changing from CS-

Test to CD-Test as ramp. The last state in

58

CS-Test decides on the start value of the CD-ramp. However, it could differ from reality.

The following 4 physical values are displayed:

• Blue: Shear stress and/or torque, it is valid also for oscillation measurements;

• Red: Shear rate and/or rotation speed;

• Green: Deformation;

• Orange: Frequency by oscillation measurements.

2 – Estimated time: this is time necessary for test carrying out. Time specification of the tests is used.

Time profile of a process is only an approximation in some tests, because in some tests, for example, in

equilibrium experiments the time is not fixed.

3 – Set values range: Physical values used in tests will be presented. Scaling is defined by the highest

encountered value and could not be changed.

The same scale is used during simultaneous display, for example of shear stress and rotation speed.

Recalculation of shear stress in rotation speed does not take place with a measuring system.

4 – Display of single tests areas. Each test is limited by vertical lines at time axis. If there is enough space to

display, the test type is specified.

The actual test, i.e. marked test in a table will be designated with some other colour and arrow before test type

name. In such a way the marked test is moved then by Tests displacement. Here displacement takes place to

the left (upwards key) or to the right (downwards key).

9.6.5 Method - Individual Test

It determines parameters of one single test.

1 – Type: Test type, see for that Appendix - Tests. Test type determines which further settings values are

necessary. Afterwards they will be represented as white input areas. Input areas that are not necessary for

this type of test will be displayed in grey. Besides this, physical value is determined by test type. So, for

instance for CS-test it must be set shear stress and for CR-test it must be set shear rate.

2 – Short description of the selected test.

3 – Constant or initial value of test. If test type is “const”, it means that this value is constant and is set for the

test fulfilment period. If test type is “sweep”, this value is initial value of a ramp.

4 – End test value: End value of a ramp, it is valid for the tests types “sweep”.

5 – Time: Time duration for a test. It is for the test types with definite behaviour in time. Number of measuring

points during this time depends on

the method’s parameters: trigger

and measuring time raster

(Number = Time duration –

Trigger time / Measuring time

raster).

6 – Fixed parameter: It is valid

only for test types Oscillation. This

value represents constant

amplitude of oscillation by „OSC

const“ and by „OSC fsweep“.

By „OSC asweep“ the constant

frequency is entered here.

7 – Measuring points: It is a

number of measuring points at

test types without defined time

behaviour, for instance oscillation tests or equilibrium measurements.

In case of oscillation tests this value gives a number of oscillations that will be done. Then result of

measurements contains also time information about oscillations duration and duration of complete test.

59

Y

In case of equilibrium measurements this value determines a number of measuring points.

8 – Use geometric spacing: At “sweep”-tests ramp is not divided into

linear portions but into geometric segments. As an example, at figure

ramp has been divided into 9 segments from 1 to 10.

Linear division is shown in blue colour, all portions are equal.

Geometric division shows unequal portions on Y axis. Each individual

value is a x-fold of the previous value. This setting is recommended

for sweep tests in very wide ranges.

9 – Triggertime: This time in s causes delayed data recording after

the start of testing. It can be used to hide the transient effects.

12,00

10,00

8,00

6,00

4,00

2,00

linear

geometrisch

0,00

0 2 4 6 8 10 12

10 – Timeraster: This time in s determines the sampling time of the measurement during the test. The

smallest theoretically possible value is 0.004 s (4 ms). Formally, only multiples of this value are possible.

Deviating entries are adjusted to the required value. To ensure secure and continuous data transmission, we

recommend the smallest value of 0,04 s (40 ms).

X

11 – Temperature Control: It sets with which temperature control test should be carried out.

The possibilities are as follows:

• None: Temperature control is unnecessary for this test. Measured temperature is displayed along with

the measuring result.

• Const: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.

After that one waits achievement of the required value and then test is executed. This temperature is

maintained constant during the whole test.

• Jump: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.

Test starts at the same time. Temperature approaches to the set value as soon as possible and for

this reason is not constant during the test. Achievement of set value is independent of the carried test.

• Ramp: The temperature is brought to the specified target value within the test period. Temperature

control is activated. It will be pre-set the earlier actual target value. It could be target temperature

value from the previous test. Waiting takes place until this value stabilized. Only after that a new

target temperature value is set and test starts up. Now temperature changes so rapidly in order to

achieve a new target temperature exactly at the end of the test. Temperature ramp and test run

synchronous during test period.

All temperature ramps depend on the used temperature control techniques. So, it is technically impossible for

example, to realize a set temperature ramp from 20C to 100C in 10 s with the help of liquid thermostat,

especially for negative temperature ramps (cooling).

At the beginning of test, it is checked if temperature control is necessary and is it possible to reach set

temperature values with the help of the specified temperature controller. Error message appears, if it is

impossible.

12 – Temperature: Temperature value will be pre-set which is necessary to set at constant temperature or

temperature value that should be reached at temperature ramps or temperature jumps.

13 – Abort Criteria: it defines when the test should be interrupted. The following settings are possible:

• None: Interruption criterion has not been defined.

• Angle: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set angle. The angle value is set in method’s

parameters. This criterion is valid for CD-tests only.

• Viscosity: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set viscosity. The viscosity value is set in

method’s parameters.

• Speed: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the pre-set rotation speed. The speed value is set in

method’s parameters. This criterion is valid for CR- and CS-tests only.

14 – Previous: Transfer to the previous test in the limits of the test’s row, if it is possible.

15 - Next: Transfer to the next test in the limits of the test’s row, if it is possible.

16 – use end value of previous test as start value: If this option is active, initial value of this test will be taken

automatically from the previous test. The start value can also be a constant value at a constant test. This

60

option gives an automatic concatenation of transmitted values in such a way that during changing of the

previous test this value will be changed also. This option is possible from the second test only, if the previous

test has the end value and tests’ types match to each other, for instance both tests are CR tests.

17 – Test ... of ...: indicates, the parameters of which test are determined.


19 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

As long as a window for the test settings is active, you cannot do any inputs in the inlay Method.

9.6.6 Parameter Settings

Method Parameter

1 – use average: If this option is active, floating mean value will be formed in the control unit of RN. This

option enables a low noise result.

2 – Angle Abort Limit: This value in ° gives

possibility to interrupt test at achievement of

the definite angle. It is necessary to select

interruption criterion “Angle” in test settings.

3 – Viscosity Abort Limit: This value in Pas

gives possibility to interrupt test at

achievement of the definite viscosity. It is

necessary to select interruption criterion

“Viscosity” in test settings.

4 – Speed Abort Limit: This value in 1/min

gives possibility to interrupt test at

achievement of the definite speed. It is

necessary to select interruption criterion

“Speed” in test settings.



Interruption conditions could be used for protection of material to be measured, the instrument and User from

damages or dirt.

So, it would be possible to obtain such high speeds with a torque ramp that the measuring material is ejected

from the measurement arrangement. This could be prevented with the help of function Speed Abort Limit.

Advanced Parameters

Using the advanced parameters, the internal rheometer parameters are described. They are assigned for

each specific device and can only be changed by the RHEOTEST service staff with special administrator

rights.

9.6.7 Units Settings

The units of the parameters are specified by units settings. It relates to the method definition as well as to

displaying of measuring results in table, chart or report. Each settings change has a direct influence on the

presented numeric values, if these changes are confirmed with OK key.

61

No. Parameter Possible Units

1 Torque mNm, µNm

2 Speed 1/s, 1/min

3 Time ms, s, min

4 Temperature °C, K, °F

5 Shear Rate 1/s, 1/min

6 Shear Stress Pa, mPa, dyn/cm²

7 Viscosity Pa s, mPa s

8 Normal Force μN, mN, N, kN

9 Deformation arb.unit *1 , %

10 Angle ° (Grad), rad

11 Frequency Hz, 1/s

12 Angular Frequency Hz, 1/s

13 Modul Pa, kPa, MPa

14 Compliance 1/Pa, 1/kPa, 1/MPa

*1

arb.unit represents dimensionless value relative to the initial value



9.6.8 Main Menu Method

9.6.8.1 New Method

A new method is created in active methods group at the moment. At that this method could be created in any

place of the methods group.

New method has name “New method” from the beginning. At once guideline appears that it is necessary to

change this name if possible. See for that Section Method-Name.

Such test is set that could be adapted to the new requirements.

Parameters and units settings should be coordinated also.

Output values of a new method:

Test

Type: Speed const;

Start: 0 1/min;

Time: 10 s;

Temperature: none temperature control;

Triggertime: 1 s;

Timeraster: 1s

Abort Criteria: none.

Method Parameter

Use average: ON;

62

Angle Abort Limit: 360°, not required as interruption criterion is absent;

Viscosity Abort Limit: 1000 Pas, not required as interruption criterion is absent;

Speed Abort Limit: 2100 1/min, not required as interruption criterion is absent.

Units Settings

Torque

mNm

Speed

1/min

Time

s

Temperature °C

Shear Rate 1/s

Shear Stress Pa

Viscosity

Pa s

Normal Force N

Deformation %

Angle

rad

Frequency 1/s

Angular Frequency 1/s

Modul

Pa

Compliance

1/Pa

9.6.8.2 Copy Method

Marked method will be transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.

If the method is not marked but only methods group, for example, a message with indication appears.

9.6.8.3 Paste Method

If method is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in the actual position of the method tree.

Inserted method has in its name prefix “Copy from..”.

It is recommended to give to this method new appropriate name.

Therefore, name input is activated. See for that also Section Method – Name.

Note: Methods are inserted after the marked method. It is necessary to mark methods group in order to obtain

method at the first position in the methods group.

9.6.8.4 Delete Method

The marked method is deleted.


inaccessible.

9.6.8.5 Test -> Show…

Displays settings of the marked test. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see section

Test Settings.


9.6.8.6 Test -> Copy

Marked test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. It is possible to transfer tests inside

the method as well as from one method to another one. If there is no method marked, it appears message

with indication.

9.6.8.7 Test -> Paste

If test is in the clipboard, it will be inserted after the actual test into tests’ table.

Note: If it is necessary to insert this test in the first position, at first it should be inserted after the first test and

then displace upwards with the help of key Arrow Up.

63

9.6.8.8 Test -> Delete

The marked test is deleted.


inaccessible.

9.6.8.9 Parameter -> Show…

Displays settings of the methods parameters. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see

section Parameter Settings.


9.6.8.10 Parameter -> Copy

Method parameters settings are transferred to the clipboard. So, parameter settings could be moved from one

method to another one. Windows clipboard is not used.

9.6.8.11 Parameter -> Paste

If parameter settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.

9.6.8.12 Units Settings -> Show…

Displays units settings of the method. New settings window will be opened. For details of settings see section

Units Settings.


9.6.8.13 Units Settings -> Copy

Method units’ settings are transferred to the clipboard. So unit’s settings could be moved from one method to

another one or to the job also. Windows clipboard is not used.

9.6.8.14 Units Settings -> Paste

If units’ settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.

9.6.8.15 Copy Table of Tests to Clipboard

It copies selected cells of the test table to Windows clipboard. This could be then inserted to a document, for

instance Excel, Word.

If only one cell was selected in test table, the whole table is copied columns headings including.

If one selects only some table cells, then they only will be copied to the clipboard. Here columns headings will

be added also.

Unneeded values that depend on the selected type of test will not be issued.

9.6.8.16 Copy Chart of Tests to Clipboard

It copies chart of the method test as image into Windows clipboard. Later it is possible to insert it in document,

for example Excel, Word or E-mail.

Current view will be copied.

Note: The larger is the chart size at the moment of copying (to do RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager window

possibly maximal), the higher will be image resolution in the clipboard. High image resolution is an advantage

if afterwards this image should be enlarged.

9.6.8.17 Export / Import

The “Export / Import” functions are used for archiving the data / files. For example, routine methods can be

archived at defined time intervals. For a better clarity, some methods may be deleted. This guarantees a

secure and fast operation of the RN 5 Manager.

64

In addition, the “Export / Import” functions can be used for exchange the data / files. Thus, e.g. Methods can

be sent from the user to RHEOTEST for the rheological analysis.

9.6.8.17.1 Export / Import -> Export Method

The actual method is saved as a file in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make this data file

completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this file could be archived for

documentation. The files name corresponds to the methods name with the file extension “.rmb”.

If there is already a file with the same name located in the data transfer directory, the program asks if it is

necessary to overwrite the file.

9.6.8.17.2 Export / Import -> Import Method

There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a method, a

file with the file’s extension “.rmb”, from this directory. This method is then inserted in a current position in the

method tree. It might be a new created method’s group or any position inside the existing method’s group.

This method will have then the same functionality as all other methods.

9.6.8.17.3 Export / Import -> Export Method-group

The marked method’s group is saved as a directory in the transfer directory. Afterwards it is possible to make

this directory completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager or this directory could be

archived for documentation. The directory name corresponds to the method’s group name.

If there is directory with the same name in data transfer directory, the program asks if it is necessary to

overwrite the directory.

One could not change the content of a method’s group directory. Data safety and program stability could not

be guaranteed in case of any changes of directory content.

9.6.8.17.4 Export / Import -> Import Method-group

There is a file menu displayed, which represents the data transfer directory. It is possible to select a directory

from this directory that is a method’s group for import. The name of the new method’s group corresponds to

the directory name. Imported method’s group is inserted then after the marked method’s group in methods

tree. This method’s group will have then the same functionality as all other methods groups.

9.6.8.17.5 Explorer to folder Transfers

Explorer opens Windows-Explorer that shows data transfer directory. This could be used to copy necessary

data or directories in clipboard of Windows and for example to e-mail message

9.7 Settings

In this item of the main menu both measuring systems as well as specific settings can be edited. Besides,

calibrations can be fulfilled here in case of corresponding authorization.

9.7.1 Measuring Systems

RHEOTEST RN could be used with different measuring systems. In selection one should follow samples

under study and analysis purpose. Various measuring systems are necessary in order to cover a wide range

of measurements for very different tasks.

RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager requires certain characteristics that describe the measuring system to calculate

the rheological analysis parameters.

Control of these data is fulfilled in measuring systems library. One could select from available measuring

systems the measuring system in use at the moment. One does it before analysis in actually used job (see

also Job – Measuring System).

Also new measuring systems can be defined and inserted for special tasks.

65

1 – Main menu: Access to

supplementary functions.

2 – Measuring systems tree:

Overview of available measuring

systems. There are two groups of

measuring systems:

Rheotest: They are

predetermined and coordinated with

the supplied measuring systems;

User: Here it is possible to define

own measuring systems.

Here one could not add groups,

delete or rename them. For selection

one should mark with mouse the

necessary measuring system.

3 – Name: Measuring system name.

For Rheotest measuring systems name is fixed and could not be

changed.

4 – Type of System: Name of measuring system type. Rheological measuring systems are standardized parts,

which are divided into several basic types.

5 – Comment: Comment to the measuring system.

6 – Constant Tau: Constant to calculate the shear stress from the torque. This value is automatically

calculated from the geometric data. With appropriate authorization the constant can also be entered manually

for special measuring systems.

7 – Constant D: Constant to calculate the shear rate from the rotational speed or the deformation from the

rotation angle. This value is calculated automatically from the geometric data. With appropriate authorization

the constant can also be entered manually for special measuring systems.

8 – Filling Quantity: Optimum capacity for measuring system.

9 – System torsion [°/Nm]: own rotation of the entire motor shaft and a separate measuring system (rotor,

cone or plate). Especially plays an important role in the measurement of very hard samples. Such samples

are deformed minimally, even at very high shear stresses. In this case, the own torsion of the system will be

taken into account / corrected.

10 – Moment of Inertia: Moment of inertia of the measuring system. It is required to correct the measured

torque. Additional torques are compensated here, which arise from the accelerating and braking at

oscillations. This value could be set or input manually or automatically through Service-Job.

11 – Correction for Rotation: These are constants for conversion of torque to shear stress and speed to

shear rate, respectively, of rotation angle to deformation on the basis of an ideal flow conditions in the shear

gap (especially one-dimensional laminar flow). Flow field deviations, for example due to front surface

influence, eccentricity could be taken into account with the help of rotation correction. Correction for rotation is

determined automatically with the help of reference liquid and “calibration job” or it could be input manually.

12 – Correction oscillation: is the same as correction for rotation but serves for oscillation measurements.

13 – Geometric data of measuring systems: Settings of geometric data of the measuring system. One fulfils

setup of necessary data on the basis of the measuring system type. These values should be input manually

according to the measuring system. They are used for calculations of constant Tau and constant D.

14 – Graphic display: One presents corresponding type of measuring system with set geometric data.



66

9.7.1.1 Main menu Edit

9.7.1.1.1 Edit -> New System

It adds a new measuring system in actual position in measuring systems tree. It is possible for Users with

rights of administrator only for group of measuring systems „Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could do a

new measuring system in group of measuring systems “User”.

New measuring system has name “New” from the beginning. This name must be changed obligatory. For that

window appears with proposition to change name.

New measuring system has the following settings:

Type:

Cylinder S

Constant Tau: 1.0

Constant D: 1.0

Moment of Inertia: 0

Correction for Rotation: 1.0

Correction oscillation: 1.0

Rotor Diameter: 0

Rotor Length: 0

Cup Diameter: 1.0

These data should be changed for data of a new measuring system.

9.7.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy System

One copies actual measuring system to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Copying from each

group of measuring systems is possible for User with rights of engineer.

9.7.1.1.3 Edit -> Paste System

Measuring system is inserted from the clipboard in actual place in measuring systems tree, if before it was not

copied. Name of the inserted measuring system is “Copy of…”. This name must be changed at once.

Only User with rights of administrator could add measuring systems into the group of measuring systems

„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could add measuring systems in group of measuring systems “User”.

9.7.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System

The actual measuring system will be deleted.

Only User with rights of administrator could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems

„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems

“User”.

Note: Inquiry appears about confirmation of deletion in case, if this was set in User settings. Cancel function is

not foreseeing.

9.7.1.1.5 Edit -> Move up

The actual measuring system will be shifted one position upwards in measuring systems tree. This function

serves for sorting of measuring systems according to the own criteria.

Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems

„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems

“User”.

9.7.1.1.6 Edit -> Move down

The actual measuring system will be shifted one position downwards in measuring systems tree. This function

serves for sorting of measuring systems according with the own criteria.

Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems

„Rheotest“. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems

“User”.

67

9.7.1.2 Main menu Calculate

9.7.1.2.1 Calculate -> Constant Tau

It will be calculated Tau constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for

User with administrator rights only.

Calculation rules correspond to the regulations in force and depend upon measuring system inserted.

9.7.1.2.2 Calculate -> Constant D

It will be calculated D constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for User

with administrator rights only.

Calculation rules correspond to the

regulations in force and depend upon

measuring system inserted.

9.7.2 Global Settings

In order to achieve an optimal use of

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager some view

options could be adjusted to individual

requirements. These settings are valid for all

users of the software and hence have global

character.

1 – Inlays: Jobs, Methods, Print and System.

Content is described in details below.

Inlay Jobs

2 – It is a list of actually available job groups. This list includes all jobs groups that are in the system catalogue

of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager at present.

When you call the „Global Settings“, a check is made, which job groups are available. If new job groups will be

found, a message with indication appears and they will be added to this list. If one jobs group from the list will

not be found in RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager system catalogue, it will be informed and this jobs group will be

deleted from the list.

This jobs group is displayed in the jobs tree of the main display by marking before the name of the job group.

Due to this possibility the unnecessary at present jobs groups could be hidden in the jobs tree. It was done for

better image clarity.

3 – Set New Group: New empty jobs group will be created. It contains pre-set name from the input area under

this button. If the name was not set, a message with indication appears.

4 – Input area for jobs group: Here one could set the name of jobs groups which afterwards is used to create a

new jobs group or to rename available jobs group.

5 – Rename Group: Existing jobs group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in the

input area (4). Then it is necessary to select jobs group from the name list (6) which it is necessary to rename.

Now the name of jobs group could be changed with the help of “Rename Group” button.

6 – List of groups names: it is a list of available jobs groups. A choice in this list is necessary for functions

“Rename Group” and “Delete Group”.

7 – Delete Group: Selected jobs group will be deleted in the list of groups’ names. It takes place in that case

only, if this jobs group is empty, i.e. there are no more jobs in this jobs group. It will be informed, if selected

jobs group is not empty.

However, if this jobs group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that it is

necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager view window a job in the group that has to be

deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Job -> Delete Job -> delete all in group through the main menu.

Now jobs group is empty and could be deleted completely in global settings. For that in inlay “Job” one selects

group name in names list (6) and then the jobs group is deleted with the help of “Delete Group”.

68



Note: By creation, renaming or deletion of the jobs group in every case only one function could be fulfilled for

the jobs group. It means for example that new created jobs group could not be renamed or deleted at once.

For that it is necessary to escape from “Global settings” and recall them again. Only then the second function

can be performed. It refers to the inlay

“Methods” also.

Inlay Methods

1 – It is a list of actually available methods

groups. This list includes all methods groups

that are in the system catalogue of

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager at present.

When you call the „Global Settings“, a check

is made, which method groups are available.

If new methods groups will be found, a

message with indication appears and they

will be added to this list. If one methods

group from the list will not be found in

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager system

catalogue, it will be informed and this methods group will be deleted from the list.

This methods group is displayed in methods tree of the main display by marking before the name of the

methods group.

Due to this possibility unnecessary at present methods groups could be hidden in methods tree. It was done

for better image clarity.

2 – Set New Group: New empty methods group will be created. It contains pre-set name from input area

under this button. If the name was not set, a message with indication appears.

3 – Input area for methods group: Here one could set name of methods groups which afterwards is used to

create a new methods group or to rename available methods group.

4 – Rename Group: Existing methods group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in

the input area (3). Then it is necessary to select methods group from the name list (5) which it is necessary to

rename. Now name of methods group could be changed with the help of “Rename Group” button.

5 – List of groups names: it is a list of available methods groups. A choice in this list is necessary for functions

“Rename Group” and “Delete Group”.

6 – Delete Group: Selected methods group will be deleted in the list of groups’ names. It takes place in that

case only, if this methods group is empty, i.e. there are no more methods in this methods group. It will be

informed, if selected methods group is not empty.

However, if this methods group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that

it is necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager view window a method in the group that has

to be deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Method -> Delete Method in order to delete one method after another

through the main menu.

Now methods group is empty and could be deleted completely in general settings. For that in inlay “Methods”

one selects group name in the names list (5) and then the methods group is deleted with the help of “Delete

Group”.


8 – OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed

Inlay Print

Defines heading form for printing.

69

It will be determined how the heading of each printout should be represented. This includes text information as

well as company logo.

1 – User-specific heading for printouts. If this

function is active, it will be output for each

printout heading in accordance with the

following settings.

2 – free Text 1: Main text in heading. It is

output with large font in the first line of the

printout. It might be for example the

company.

3 – free Text 2: As addition to the heading. It

will be considerably smaller than the main

text and is situated in the second line of the

printout. This might be for example a

department.

Note to 2 and 3: Texts will be aligned to the left edge and be in a frame. If text should be wider than the frame

or page, so the text will be shown as it is possible.

It is recommended to check texts image through Page Preview and if necessary correct text in accordance

with the page parameters.

4 – Name of Logo: Here it could be determined name of a graphic file (*.bmp, *.jpg) that represents logo. It

might be logo of enterprise or branch. If possible graphics should have size 100 pixels x 100 pixels. Other

dimensions are used but it could result in images distortion.

If file was set that was not found, so the logo would not be presented. Message with indication does not

appear.

Logo appears in heading at the right side.

5 – Show Head on all Pages: If this function is active, heading will be presented at every printed page. If it is

not active, so it will be at the first page only.

6 – Select Font: Select the font and font size for the title.

Inlay System

It serves to set or display of system significant settings.

1 – Identification: These are codified numbers to check the compatibility of RN 5 Manager and the instrument.

Identification numbers are set by RHEOTEST and could be changed by administrator only.

In the case of a service it is necessary to inform Rheotest about this number in order to identify instrument and

software correctly.

2 – Mode: Description of the mode in which the rheometer works. 0 corresponds to the rheometer to perform

CR-Tests; 1 – CR-, CS-Tests; 2- CR-, CS-, Oscillation-Tests.

3 – Plate Control: Activating and deactivating of the plate control. When using of cylinder or cone-plate

measuring systems with another tempering

system, the plate control can be disabled.

4 – Temp. Control: Possibility, to manage

and to control the temperature via the

software RN 5 Manager.

5 – Language: Settings of software

language. After new language has been

installed it is necessary to restart the

software to activate these settings.

Pt100 calibration: The data stored in the

system for Pt100 calibration are displayed.

70

They will be updated when Service-Job „xPt100-Calibration“ in the jobs group „xJobs-for-Service“ was

performed.

6 – Reference temperature: corresponds to the temperature at which the temperature calibration was carried

out.

Correction factor is a calibration itself. Measured temperatures will be corrected with these values.

7 – Pt100 constant for temperature control vessel G.

8 – Pt100 constant for temperature control vessel M.

9 – Pt100 constant for basic plate system temperature controlled by liquid thermostat.

The temperatures measured for respective measurement systems are corrected with these values, the right

Pt100 constant is used automatically. This requires the activation of the option use RN temperature only in the

job settings.

10 – Time correction: This value is used for correction of measuring data by oscillation measurements. The

value is inserted by RHEOTEST and could be changed with the rights of administrator only. One wrong

change could lead to distortion of measuring data.

11 – Plate Control: The calibration data for the normal force measurement of the base plate have been

entered here. The values are inserted by RHEOTEST and could be changed with the rights of administrator

only. An improper change can lead to distortion of the measured normal force or even to disruption of the

automatic plate control.

9.7.3 User Settings

The software supports to some certain extent user-specific settings. When starting the software, the login

window appears. The user has to identify himself by a login name and a password. Information input here will

be used in further operations in program. See for that section Login.

The management of registered users occurs in this input window in User Settings. They are divided in two

inlays. One inlay contains settings for one user. The second inlay contains settings of the registered users

1 – Inlays: User, Admin. Content is described in detail below.

Inlay User

2 – delete with confirmation: At each deletion at first enquiry appears for confirmation of deletion. If one

answers to this enquiry NO, deletion process will be cancelled.

3 – auto fill in user data: At creation of a new sample user name will be filled in automatically. It will be used

the registered user name.

4 – start with last used Job, Method...: By start-up of the software the last selected job and the last selected

method is chosen automatically. Thereby the

work can be quickly continued.

5 – ask for temperature control at program

start: If this option is active, by start-up of the

program and user login an enquiry appears if

it is necessary to start the temperature

control. This option is useful if samples must

be measured at temperatures that differ

considerably from room temperature. By the

start of the temperature control, the

measuring system and the sample is already

thermally conditioned while still adjustments

are to be made in the software.

71

6 - Parameters handled by: Parameters (designation of measured values / results) could be corrected in

accordance with personal requirements. Parameters names appear in different menus of parameters

selection, in table, chart and report.

The following options exist:

1. Name – it will be shown parameter’s name only, for example, shear stress;

2. Symbol – it will be shown parameter’s symbol only, for instance τ;

3. Name-Symbol – for example, shear stress – τ;

4. Symbol (Name) – for example, τ (shear stress).

Note: The registered user can define the setting (2) to (6) for himself. Further it is possible that the user with

higher status (see below) could change the settings.

7 – Input field for own password, i.e. the user password that was registered at program start. It is impossible to

change the password of another user. The password cannot be displayed.

8 – Input field for password repeat. It is necessary to exclude the typing errors.

9 – Set/Change: Registered user could change his own password after input of a new password and repeat.

Already existed password will be changed for a new one.

10 – Distant Folder: The Software RN 5 Manager enables the user to observe / to monitor the development of

the measurement on a computer that different from the one for carrying out the measurement. To use this

function, one should create an appropriate directory (distant folder) and chose it through the button Select

distant folder on both computer: on the computer which controls the measurement as well as on the computer

for following / monitoring the measurement.

Also, the function Copy Job to distant folder should be selected on the computer that controls the

measurement. Furthermore the View distant Job function is to mark on the distant computer.



Inlay Admin

It is possible to manage registered users in inlay Admin.

1 – all users: All registered users are listed in the list. One might start RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager with one of

these names only.

2 – Set New: New user is created. For that it will be used the name for login from the input field (3). If no name

was indicated, message appears about this.

3 – Input field for login name: The login

name of a new user is entered here. New

user will be registered, if one presses New

(2).

4 – Delete: Actually, selected user will be

deleted. Afterwards he could not start

RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager. Only one user

with higher status could delete another user.

Also, it is impossible to delete oneself by

oneself.

5 – full Name: Full name of user. It appears

then as operator name during sample

creation. Operator name could be output

later in headings of table, chart or report.

6 – Department: Input of user department. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does

not use later.

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7 – Phone: Input of phone number of user. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does

not use later.

8 – Level of rights: This setting serves for determination of software use. It is reasonable to permit to some

users not to do all changes. It could assure prevention of errors, accidental data deletion, error measurements

and in such a way incorrect analysis.

It is possible 4 user’s levels, see for that the following section Operation Status.



Operation Status

Designation – Level of rights

1. Operator – 0: Measurements (jobs) could be started and results could be printed.

2. Engineer – 1: It could be created and changed methods and jobs including formation of displaying and

output of measured values and report settings.

3. Administrator – 2: It could be done settings connected with the system, for example measuring constants,

parameters, constants of measuring systems and control of user. These settings require detail knowledge

as in such a way measurements precision and rheometer functions are determined. Incorrect input data

could lead to erroneous measurements results or to instrument damage also.

4. Super-Admin – 3: here it could be set special parameters which determine instrument functioning. These

settings are fulfilled by Rheotest before delivery and then they are reserved by the service of Rheotest.

Change of the operating status: you can change other user status only if it is smaller than your own status.

Creation of a new user

It is necessary user login with status Admin in order to create a new user.

The input mask „Settings“ -> „User Settings...“ is called in the main menu. New user name could be input in

the inlay Admin at the right side of the section All Users. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that

certain signs are allowed only. Not allowed signs are not accepted. Besides this name must not have more

than 20 characters.

This new user will be added to the users list with by pressing “New”. Now additional information could be input

such as full name, department, phone number and user status.

In inlay User the user-specific settings can be made.

However, password could not be entered. The password entry always relates to the own password.

Afterwards as all settings were done it is possible to exit from the input form with the help of OK. All settings

will be saved.

Now new user has to login with his registration name. As far as a password was not created, no password

must be entered.

After the program was launched it is necessary to define password in input form “Settings -> “User – Settings”.

The user opens the input form and enters twice his password in inlay “User” and confirms it with the help of

“Set/Change”.

After exit from the input window using OK this password is active. It is necessary to enter login and password

at the next registration during the program launching.

Note: Only registered users can only change their own password.

One could refuse from password entering, if only one person works with the program or it is unnecessary to

use different users’ rights.

For new users, no password will be defined. Password could not be deleted directly for existing users. Here it

is necessary to give possibility to delete user and then create a new one.

9.7.4 Communication Settings

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Prerequisite for functioned working place is correct communication between computer, RHEOTEST RN and

connected temperature controller.

The connection between the computer and the RHEOTEST RN is carried out via a USB port, using a USB

cable. The connection of the temperature control system depends on the device used. When using the Peltier

temperature control RHEOTEST PP, communication takes place also via USB port.

The necessary settings are made in 4 inlays.

1 – Inlays:

RN –

Communication settings for RN control unit

Plate Control –

Panel for plate control

Temperature Controller – Communication settings for temperature controller

Temperature –

Control panel for temperature controller

Content is described in detail below.

RN

This tab shows the communication settings with the rheometer control unit. The parameters are fixed for

RHEOTEST ® RN. It refers to data bits, baudrate, stop bits and parity.

The data protocol used between the PC and RN controller has been specially developed for this task. It is

impossible to set communication with the help of other software.

The settings of the used interface are

permanently stored in the software. Only the

number of the virtual COM-port must be

defined.

2 – COM-Port: Number of used virtual COMport.

3 – Data bits: Number of data bits for one

sign – 8

4 – Baudrate: Speed of transmission –

1500000

5 – Stop bits: Number of stop bits in data

protocol – 1

6 – Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic – 0

7 – Send: Transmitted signs sequence from RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager to RN-control unit.

8 – Receive: Received signs sequence from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager.

9 – Rec. stream: Data intake during analysis.

10 – Check Port: All available COM-port will be detected that could be used for communication.

11 – Init Port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are

transmitted to interface.

12 – Send INIT: Signs sequence is output for RN-control unit initialization. In case of correct communication

answer follows from RN-control unit in form of determined signs sequence.



Start-up RN-interface

74

The following procedure exists for setting and commissioning of the interface:

• Press “Check Port”: all available COM-ports are entered into selection list;

• At the control computer (PC) read, to which port the RN-control unit is connected. This is not so

easy when using USB cables. Here one should check in the Device Manager in PC system;

• Select from the list the right interface;

• Press ”Init Port”: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters;

• Press „Send INIT“ to check communication: now definite command is sending to RN-control unit.

Sent text one could read on display “Send”;

• If communication was set correctly, it appears text with answer on display “Receive”;

• If error arises, it means that communication was set incorrectly. In this case, you need to check the

connecting cable and RHEOTEST ® RN. The following possible causes of the error should be

checked:

- the wrong COM-port is selected;

- RHEOTEST ® RN is not on;

- wrong type of cable;

- damaged cable;

- defect USB-port on the computer, if possible, check on another computer.

At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. So, it is not necessary to carry out

commissioning again in case of changeless complete set of working place for measurements.

Thus, the start-up must not be carried out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.

Plate Control

The manual operation of the plate control is of

particular interest for test measurements and

by the creation of new methods. By plate

control various plate distances can be entered

manually and parameters for operation of the

plate control can be changed.

1 – Target [mm]: Input of the absolute value

for cone-plate or plate-plate distance.

2 – Time to Move [s]: Input the time, in which

the plate should reach the target position from

the current position.

3 – Force limit [N]: The value for the force limit should be changed only by authorized staff. Using this input,

the precision of the zero point definition can be set.

4 – System is moving: If the system is moving, it is represented by a tick here. During the moving the control

commands are inadmissible, except „STOP“.

5 – Zero [mm]: This indicator is only relevant for service tasks.

6 – Current [mm]: Displays the current value of the cone-plate or plate-plate distance. This is referenced to the

last zero position.

7 – Force [N]: Display of the current measured normal force, which is set by default to zero by moving to the

zero position.

8 – STOP: The current movements can be stopped with this button.

9 – to Zero: After activating of this button, the zero point is automatically determined. The position of the

current zero point will be overwritten. Subsequently, the base plate moves automatically to the lower limit.

10 – to Target: The specified target will be reached in the specified time, starting from the current position.

11 – to Limit: The base plate is moved completely down, and thus the maximum distance between the plates

will be set.

75

12 – Reset F: It is possible to set the normal force manually to zero at any position. This can be done

exclusively by the authorized service staff.



Temperature Controller

Used data protocol is determined by the manufacturer of the thermostat. There are some commands or data

structures that are the same for all temperature controllers but every controller type has its’ own special

commands. It is related with technical progress and different functionality.

Only certain commands are used in the software in order to correspond to this circumstance. They meet

requirements of rheological studies. Moreover, there is freedom of actions due to this and it is possible to use

practically every temperature controller with this software.

The settings for communication with the temperature controller are made in the inlay „Temperature

Controller“. For thermostating systems

Heizplatte_HP (heating plate) and

Peltierplatte_PP (Peltier plate) you don’t

need to make any changes to the

communication parameter settings. It refers

to data bits, baudrate, stop bits and parity.

1– COM-Port: The number of used COMport

(or virtual COM-port).

2 – Controller type: Selection of available

thermocontroller. It will be shown

thermocontrollers that are recorded in file

„ThermoControl.set“.

3 – Data bits: Number of data bits for one

sign – 8.

4 – Baudrate: Speed of transmission – 9600. This value is given in the operating instructions of the

temperature controller.

5 – Stop bits: Number of stop bits in data protocol – 1. This value is given in the operating instructions of the


6 – Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic – 0. This value is given in the operating instructions of the


7 – Send: the signs to be sent are displayed here. These symbols could not be entered directly but they are

determined by the software. This display is necessary for service or for experienced user in case of

troubleshooting.

8 – Receive: Here received signs are presented. These signs are sent from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST

RN 5 Manager and are answer to command sent. This display is necessary for service or for experienced user

in case of troubleshooting.

9 – Check Port: All available COM-ports will be detected that could be used for communication.

10 – Init Port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are

transmitted to interface.

11 – Load Types: Available temperature controllers will be read from file „ThermoControl.set“ and put into the

list (2).

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Parameters and commands for temperature controllers are indicated in file „ThermoControl.set“. The file is in

the same catalogue where the software is. If this file does not exist, the program could not be started.

All temperature controllers available in the file are loaded at program launching. If the file contains wrong data,

the loading will be stopped and there are no temperature controller available for selection.

Start-up Temperature Controller

The following procedure exists for setting and commissioning of the temperature controller:

• Press „Load Types“: file „ThermoControl.set“ is loading. If file contains errors, it will be shown. If

the reading is performed without error this is indicated by the display “Available”.

• Select connected temperature controller from the list. Now the parameters and commands are

transferred to display.

• Press „Check port“: all available interfaces are put in the list for selection.

• Read in PC to which port the temperature controller is connected. Here one should see and check

equipment settings in PC system.Select from the list the interface for temperature controller.

• Press ”Init Port”: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters.

• Communication check is carried out in inlay “Temperature”.

Commands and replies are shown on displays “Send” and “Receive”, if communication took place. They are

necessary for service in troubleshooting.

If you have problems, you should check and fix the following possible errors:

- the wrong COM-port is selected;

- RHEOTEST ® RN is not on;

- wrong type of cable;

- damaged cable;

- defect USB-port on the computer, if possible, check on another computer.

At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. Thus, the start-up must not be carried

out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.

When working with other thermostats

Select controller type (thermostat type), transmission parameters and COM-interface for the thermostat

(before setting up the thermostat, the transmission parameters must be known). Refer to the Operating

Instructions or the instrument configuration.

Note for the USB interface: even by using the USB interface, a serial port must be chosen. After the USB

driver is installed, serial ports are available in

the Windows system. They can be installed

and checked in the control panel after

installing the driver software for USB

adapter.

When setting up the USB driver, the

standard settings are used. If communication

with the USB interface is not secure, we

recommend, in particular, to set the wait time

[ms] of 4 (Advanced parameters) in the

parameter for corresponding interface.

By exit the program the settings will be

saved.

77

Temperature

It is possible to operate the temperature controller by remote control in inlay „Temperature“, if communication

was set correctly. The commands are divided in two groups: fixed temperature and temperature ramps.

The following commands for fixed temperatures are available:

1 – Read: Actual temperature will be displayed. If it concerns the internal controller, temperature or the

external temperature is determined by Init-commands or through a command. Actual temperature appears on

display “Cur.Temp.[°C]“.

2 – Set: Setup of new target temperature. Input of new value in input field “Settemp.[°C]“. Afterwards this

value will be transmitted to temperature controller as new set value.

3 – Read: It is enquiry of actual set target temperature. Enquired value will be shown in input field

“Settemp.[°C]“.

4 - START: Temperature control starts, i.e. the set temperature is reached by cooling or heating. At that it is

necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high, dangerous temperatures could arise

in the measuring system.

5 - STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.

Note: It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!

The following commands for temperature-ramp are available:

6 - Set Ramp: The information will be transferred that are necessary for a temperature ramp. Thereby the

value on display „Targettemp.[°C]“ and the value on “Ramptime [min]” as a ramp time are transferred. From

these two values, the ramp rate is then calculated in the temperature controller.

7 – Ramptime [min]: It is a field for input of temperature ramp duration. This input is used for determination of

the temperature ramp (6).

8 - Status: The status of the temperature controller will be readout. Reply is different for each controller type

and must be taken from the Operating Manual of the temperature controller.

9 - START: The temperature ramp starts, i.e. new temperature will be reached in pre-set time from the

actually set value. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high,

dangerous temperatures could arise in the measuring system.

10 - STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.

Note: It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!

11 - Init1: The commands could be sent optionally to the temperature controller. These commands could fulfil

certain settings to the temperature controller. This command is fulfilled one time at program launching. The

commands could be the following: display accuracy, internal / external temperature, pump ON/OFF. The

commands must be stored in setup file of the temperature controller.

12 - Init2: It is such as Init1 for further commands.



Note: “Read” (3) is a simple command to check the communication. “Cur. Temp.[°C]“ (actual temperature on

the temperature controller) appears on a display as a reply on this command.

At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. Thus, the start-up must not be carried

out again with an unchanged structure of the measuring station.

78

9.7.5 Pt100

Pt100 calibration could be carried out with this action. As a rule, this calibration is fulfilled after the ending of

the corresponding job with an actual sample.

However, it could happen that it is necessary to carry out the calibration again without a new measurement. In

this case it is necessary to select this action.

At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If this is not the case and other sample is active,

message with indication appears. See also 1-Special Function.

9.7.6 Inertia calibration

Calibration of moment of inertia of the measuring system could be carried out with this action. As a rule, this

calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.




message with indication appears. See also 1-Special Function.

9.7.7 Rotation calibration

Correction factor of the measuring system could be determined for rotation tests with this action. As a rule,

this calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.




message with indication appears.

See also 1-Special Function.

9.7.8 Oscillation calibration

Correction factor of the measuring system could be done for oscillation tests with this action. As a rule, this

calibration is fulfilled after the ending of the corresponding job with an actual sample.




message with indication appears.

See also 1-Special Function.

9.8 Main Menu File

The following functions are possible:

• Page Setup

• Print Preview

• Print

• Exit

•

9.8.1 Page Setup

Setting of the used paper size, paper format and page margins.

9.8.2 Print Preview

It permits to preview pages that must be printed. So, it is possible to check version for printing. If necessary

one could do changes, for instance print parameters or width of table columns.


• Direct printing of preview

• Preview Zoom

79

• Display of one page

• Display of two pages

• Display of three pages

• Display of four pages

• Display of six pages

• Preview close

The content of the printout is described in the next section.

9.8.3 Printing

A printing is performed depending upon the selected

view, that is currently displayed bookmark.

The following contents and options are possible for

printing:

Bookmark Job – Printing of active job or list of

available jobs at the moment;

Bookmark Table – Printing of data table, with table

settings optionally;

Bookmark Chart – Printing of chart, with report, table,

chart settings optionally;

Bookmark Report – Printing of report, with chart optionally;

Bookmark Method – Printing of active method or of list of available methods at the moment.

The meaning of the parameters and specifications is to take from the respective chapter.

Print Job

It is necessary to select inlay Job, sub-inlay Settings.

One could select an active Job or a list of available at the moment jobs to be printed.

Print Table

For that it is necessary to select the inlay Table.

Table of the active job is displayed always. At that table’s actual settings are taking into account such as:

• Displayed parameters (number of columns)

• Selected tests

• Table heading settings

• Columns width

See for that menu – Table settings.

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon number of

parameters and number of columns set.

It is necessary to use preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is possible to see

necessary corrections of columns width or page format.

Print Chart

For that it is necessary to select inlay Chart.

Chart of the active job is displayed always. At that chart’s actual settings are taking into account such as:

• Displayed parameters (number of Y axes)

• Selected tests

• Chart heading settings

• Sample collection settings

• Report parameters settings

See for that menu – Chart settings.

The printed chart size is adjusted to the page format used.

80

It will be printed maximal possible format, without changing proportions of the chart page. It means that in A4

portrait format, the sheet width is crucial. On the other hand, in A4 landscape the sheet height dominates. By

changing the display window of the chart, the width-to-height ratio can be set.

Print Report

For that it is necessary to select inlay Report.

Report of the active job is displayed always. At that report’s actual settings are taking into account such as:

• Displayed calculations

• Report heading settings

See for that menu – Report settings.

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon columns width of

the report set. It is necessary to use page preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is

possible to see necessary corrections of columns width or page format.

Print Method

For that it is necessary to select inlay Method.

One could select print active method or list of

available methods at the moment (in a bookmark

Settings).

General Print Options

One could determine specific heading for User in order to printout corresponds own requirements. It consists

from two lines and logo.

If complete printout does not fit into one page, the inscription appears “see next pages”.

The source is indicated at the end of each printout:

RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager, and then date of printout follows.

Settings of the specific for the User heading are carried out in Global Settings in the inlay Print.


• user defined Head for Print

• free Text 1

• free Text 2

• Name of Logo

• Show Head on all Pages

user defined Head for Print

It is displayed specific for User heading, if

this option is active. Then it appears in a

frame on the highest possible position in the

printable sheet. At that all other information

that is printed will be shifted downwards.

Width depends upon selected sheet width.

free Text 1

This text is output in the upper line with left

alignment and bold type. This text could be used for enterprise name.

free Text 2

This text is output in the lower line with left alignment. This text could be used for department name.

If the texts should be positioned in the middle of the page, it is necessary to insert blanks before texts. It is

possible to check with the help of the page preview.

81

Name of Logo

This is a name of graphic file that contains enterprise logo.

This logo is displayed to the right at the top of the page.

Logo size is fixed and is 50 x 50 pixels. If the picture in file is of other size, it will be recalculated to this size.

Possible files types are .bmp or .jpg. This file must be saved in the same path as a file RN 5 Manager.

Show Head on all Pages

This option permits to display specific for User print heading at every sheet.

The heading is output at the first sheet only, if this option is inactive.

9.8.4 Exit

End of RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager operation. All settings are saved.

Note: Current analysis must be interrupted before the end of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager operation.

82

10 Bitumen measurements

10.1 General Information

Measurements of bitumen using the rheometer RHEOTEST ® RN can be carried out according to the following

international standards:

• ASTM D 4402 / D4402 M, ASTM D7175, ASTM D7405,

• AASHTO T 316, AASHTO T 315, AASHTO M 320, AASHTO T 350, AASHTO M 332, AASHTO R 29,

AASHTO TP 101,

• DIN EN 13302, DIN EN 13702-1(-2), DIN EN 14896, DIN EN 14770, DIN EN 16659, FGSV AL DSR-

Prüfung (T-Sweep), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (MSCRT), FGSV AL DSR-Prüfung (konstante Scherrate),

• GOST 33137-2014, PNST 87-2016, PNST 85-2016, PNST 88-2016, PNST 82-2016, PNST 86-2016,

PNST 81-2016, PNST 89-2016.

10.2 Bitumen measurements using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) RHEOTEST ® RN

10.2.1 Sample Preparation

Bitumen samples should be prepared according to a relevant instruction or standard.

For sample preparation we recommend to use silicone molds with diameter of 25mm and diameter of 8mm

(see Figure 18). The silicone mold must be filled with a sample in an amount sufficient for: setting the

necessary gap between the measuring plates, trimming the sample and for the measurement itself.

Figure 18 Rubber Molds for Sample Preparation

10.2.2 Startup of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR)

The Rheometer has to be installed according to chapter 6 Startup. Switch on the control unit of Rheometer

and Peltier control unit and start the software RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager.

10.2.3 Available Jobs

For bitumen tests according to requirements of ASTM / AASHTO and DIN EN Standards, the software

RHEOTEST ® RN 5 Manager has various test sequences as pre-set Jobs.

• Jobs available in the Job group AASHTO according to binding standards of ASTM / AASHTO:

- “OSC_BINDER_CS”- for Original Binder, with controlled shear stress,

- “OSC_BINDER_CD” - for Original Binder, with controlled shear strain,

- “OSC_RTFO_CS”- for Rolling Thin-Film Oven Residue, with controlled shear stress,

- “OSC_RTFO_CD” - for Rolling Thin-Film Oven Residue, with controlled shear strain,

83

- “OSC_PAV_S_CS” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Standard

Traffic “S” Grade, with controlled shear stress,

- “OSC_PAV_S_CD” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Standard

Traffic “S” Grade, with controlled shear strain,

- “OSC_PAV_H_CS” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Heavy

Traffic “H” Grade, Very Heavy Traffic “V” Grade and Extremely Heavy

Traffic “E” Grade, with controlled shear stress,

- “OSC_PAV_H_CD” - for Pressurized Aging Vessel Residue Heavy

Traffic “H” Grade, Very Heavy Traffic “V” Grade and Extremely Heavy

Traffic “E” Grade, with controlled shear strain,

These jobs for execution of temperature sweeps of different bitumen types

according to ASTM D7175; AASHTO T 315-12; AASHTO M 320-10 are

used for determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle with

DSR at different temperatures under defined oscillating stress. The start

temperature depends on the Performance Grade (e.g. PG64: start

temperature 64°C). The binder sample is oscillated at a frequency of 1,59

Hz, the temperature is increased in 6°C increments. After crossing of the

termination criteria, the Job is automatically terminated.

- “ASTM123_A” – for measurements according to AASHTO TP 123,

method A,

- “ASTM123_B” – for measurements according to AASHTO TP 123,

method B.

- „MSCR_RTFO_DETERMINE“ is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the type

of bitumen; the PASS requirements only for the most significant bitumen type (S, H, V or E) will be shown

in the Report,

- „MSCR_RTFO_E” (Extremely Heavy Traffic),

- „MSCR_ RTFO_GENERAL” is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the type of

bitumen; all PASS/FAIL requirements for all types of bitumen (S, H, V or E) will be shown in the Report,

- „MSCR_RTFO_H” (Heavy Traffic),

- „MSCR_RTFO_S“ (Standard Traffic),

- „MSCR_RTFO_V“ (Very Heavy Traffic).

These jobs are used for determination of deformation behavior of bitumen and bituminous binders according

to ASTM 7405; AASHTO T 350-14; AASHTO M 332-14 for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). The MSCR-Test

(Multiple Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term static shear stress and subsequent recovery

of the test sample to determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well it’s not-recoverable content.

The PASS/FAIL conditions for the respective type of bitumen (S, H, V or E) are considered in the Report.

The MSCR-Test according to ASTM / AASHTO is executed in two stress levels as follows: with the shear

stress levels of 100 Pa and 3200 Pa.

• Following Jobs are available in the Job group Bitumen:

For road pavement bitumen. The jobs are named after the type of asphalt binder:

- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB20_30”,



- “OSC_T_Sweep_StB70100”

- “OSC_T_Sweep_160_220”.

For polymer modified bitumen. The jobs are named after the type of asphalt binder:

- “OSC_T_Sweep_10_40_65” (PmB bitumen 10/40-65 A),



- “OSC_T_Sweep_12020040” (PmB bitumen 120/200-40 A),

- “OSC_T_Sweep_4010065” (PmB bitumen 40/100-65 A).

They serve for execution of temperature sweeps of different bitumen types according to the instruction sheet

DSR-Test (T-Sweep). They are used for determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle with DSR

at different temperatures under defined oscillating stress according to DIN EN 14770 and instruction sheet

84

DSR-Test (T-Sweep). The temperatures are rising during

measurement stepwise from 30°C to 90°C in 10°C step. The sample is

oscillating stressed at a frequency of 1,59 Hz.

- „MSCR_AL_FGSV“ Job is used for determination of deformation

behavior of bitumen and bituminous binders according to FGSVinstruction

sheet for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). A MSCR-Test

(Multiple Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term

static shear stress and subsequent recovery of the test sample to

determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well its notrecoverable

content.

The MSCR-Test according to FGSV_AL is executed in three load

levels as follows: with the shear stress levels of 100 Pa; 1600 Pa and

3200 Pa.

IMPORTANT!

It is strongly recommended, to export jobs with the measurement

data regular via the Export / Import function. This especially

concerns the MSCR Jobs, where there is very large amount of

measured data.

First to the Transfer directory, and then copy these jobs from

Transfer and save it in a safe place on the computer. Than the

saved samples can be deleted from RN 5 Manager to ensure fast and problem-free operation of the

software. We suggest to transfer and save the data after every ten measurements and do not have

more than ten samples in the job.

• Jobs available in the Job group Mixing_Compaction_T according to standards of ASTM / AASHTO:

- “MCT_Equiviscous_SD1”- for determining the viscosity of

asphalt binders using a cylindrical measuring system at 2

temperatures and 1 shear rate; temperature range corresponding

to 0,17±0,02 Pa s is chosen for mixing and a temperature range

corresponding to 0,28±0,03 Pa s is chosen for compaction,

- “MCT_steady_shear” – for measurements of steady state

viscosity of asphalt binder using the measuring plate P3 with the

plate distance of 0,5 mm at 76°C, 82°C and 88°C over a range of

0,16 to 500 Pa stress; the viscosity values at 500 Pa are plotted

versus temperature and mixing and compaction temperature

ranges are determined at target values of to 0,17±0,02 Pa s and

to 0,35±0,03 Pa s, respectively,

- “MCT_phase_angle_PG46” - for measurements of the phase

angle and complex shear modulus of asphalt binder with PG 46

using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in

oscillatory shear at angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s

at 50°C, 60°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a

master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle

with a reference temperature set to 80°C, the frequency that

corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic

behavior (represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction

temperatures,

- “MCT_phase_angle_PG52” - for measurements of the phase angle and complex shear modulus of

asphalt binder with PG 52 using the measuring plate P3 and a 1-mm gap set up in oscillatory shear at

angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 50°C, 60°C and 80°C, the results are combined to create a

master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to 80°C,

the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented by a

phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,





85

















angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 90°C and 100°C, the results are combined to create

a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set to

80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented

by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,



angular frequencies from of 0,1 to 100 rad/s at 80°C, 100°C and 110°C, the results are combined to

create a master curve using the time-temperature-superposition principle with a reference temperature set

to 80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior

(represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,





to 80°C, the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior

(represented by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures,





to 80°C the frequency that corresponds to the transition from viscous to viscoelastic behavior (represented

by a phase angle of 86°) is then correlated to the mixing and compaction temperatures.

10.2.4 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with an automatic distance adjustment

• Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement.

• Select an appropriate Job in the Job tree (column left).

• For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and

click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job; or: choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter

consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the

sample name appears in the Job tree) and click the button „Start Analysis”.

• Following display arises on the screen:

86

Please make sure that there is no sample for measurement in the device between the measuring plates. After

that, click Yes. The basic plate moves down to the lower limit. After that, a dialog box will appear on the

screen:

The window means that data is being transferred from the software to the rheometer and it is necessary to

wait a certain time.

• Next, the following dialog box appears:

• Couple the measuring plate P3 for Original Binder or RTFO aged material (Jobs OSC_BINDER,

OSC_RTFO and all MSCR AASHTO Jobs) and the measuring plate P4 for PAV aged material (Jobs

OSC_PAV_H and OSC_PAV_S) with measuring drive - to do this, lift the bushing of the quick connecting

coupling, insert the ball head of the plate into the cone opening of the quick connecting coupling and pull

down the bushing.

• Resolve the knurled screw (2) (Fig. 1) and push the whole measuring drive (1) so, until the springy ring

backs down (displacement about 3 mm) and fix the knurled screw.

• Press OK button.

• In the next window “RN User Input” enter the temperature of the measurement according to the

Performance Grade of the binder (PG) or its PG and press OK.

87

•

• The Peltier- temperated basic plate begins with the tempering to the appropriate temperature.

• In the next window enter the tempering time which is to be sustained for sufficient temperature control of

the sample and then from the sample trimming until the measurement starts. Click OK.

• In the information window at the bottom right starts the countdown. Then there is an automatic setting of

the contact between the plates (zero point). The lower basic plate moves down. The following massage

appears on the screen:

• In this window, enter the temperature for the sample trimming and click OK. You will se the next dialog

box:

• The following actions must be performed:

- Resolve the knurled screw (2) and move the measuring drive upwards;

- Position the bitumen sample centred on the elevation of exchangeable measuring plate;

88

- Resolve the knurled screw (2) (Fig. 1) and push the whole measuring drive (1) so, until the springy ring

backs down (displacement about 3 mm) and fix the knurled screw;

- Press OK button.

• The display „Trimming Sample“ means, that the plate-plate measuring system was placed to a trim

position. Now the excessive material to be measured can be removed. In the Jobs of RHEOTEST ® RN5

Manager the value for the trim distance is given (e.g. 0,05mm). It means, the distance between the upper

and the lower measuring plates is 1,05mm (Plate P3) and 2,05mm (Plate P4) in the trimming position.

This distance is set automatically.

• After trimming press OK button and the measurement starts automatically. The progress of the

measurement can be seen in the information window (bottom right).

All Jobs start with an appropriate tempering of the measured material. During this time (e.g. 10 min) there is

no measurement. After that the first measured data arrive. When the measured data of the second partial test

came, they can be also displayed in the Chart and in the Table

The completion of the analysis will be displayed in the status line. Now, the measured values can be viewed

and / or evaluated in the Report.

If the termination criteria are exceeded (for OSC_Jobs), the Job is automatically terminated. The

evaluation/output of the measured results is stored in the Report according to the appropriate AASHTO

Standards.

The PASS/FAIL criteria for different asphalt binder are shown below. Material satisfies the PASS criterion if

the following condition is fulfilled:

- Original binder G * sin 1. 0kPa

- RTFO residue G * sin 2. 2kPa

- PAV residue G* • sin 5000kPa

for “S” Grade

- PAV residue G* • sin 6000kPa

for “H”, “V”, “E” Grades.

After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2), simultaneously lift the quick connecting

coupling and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic plates.

10.2.5 Measurements using a DSR Rheometer with a fixed basic plate

10.2.5.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCR-Test

according to AL FGSL

- Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;

- Set a distance between the measuring plates as described in section 7.2.2.2.;

- Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_T_Sweep_StB50_70 or MSCR_AL_FGSV) in the Job tree Bitumen

(column left);

- For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and

click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job;

or:

- Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample

Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click

the button „Start Analysis”;

- The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:

89

- After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will

display:

- it is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material

should be removed.



Please, enter the required temperature and press OK.

- After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim the sample and will display:

90

- Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the

program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:

- After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the

information window.

10.2.5.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175, AASHTO T

315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T 350-14, AASHTO

M 332-14

- Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;

- Set a distance between the measuring plates as described in section 7.2.2.2.;

- Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_BINDER or MSCR_RTFO_S) in the Job tree AASHTO (column left);

- For easy start select the Name Create Mode „DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM)“ in the Sample Definition and

click the button „Easy Start“ in Actions for Job;

or:

- Choose in the Name Create Mode „manually“, enter consecutive „New sample“, then give the Sample

Name, press „Check+Create Sample“ (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click

the button „Start Analysis”; the following notification will be displayed:

- Enter the temperature corresponding to the Performance Grade of the binder type (PG) and click OK; the

Peltier temperated basic plate starts tempering to the predetermined temperature;

- The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:

- After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will

display:

91

- it is possible to set the temperature, at which the sample should be trimmed, i.e. the excess material

should be removed.



- After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim a sample and will display:

- Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the

program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:

- After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the

information window (bottom right).

92

All Jobs start with appropriate tempering of the measured material. During this time (10 min) there is no

measurement. After 10 min the first measured data arrive. When the measured data of the second partial test

came, they can be also displayed in the Chart and in the Table.

The completion of the analysis will be displayed in the status line. Now, the measured values can be viewed

and / or evaluated in the Report.

If the termination criteria are exceeded (for OSC_Jobs), the Job is automatically terminated. The

evaluation/output of the measured results is stored in the Report according to the appropriate AASHTO

Standards.

After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2) (fig. 3), simultaneously lift the quick

connecting coupling and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic plates.

10.2.6 Trimming the bitumen sample

The sample can be trimmed with a spatula or trimming tool (Figure 19). For trimming of the material, one can

rotate the open window of the adapter in a circle, to ensure the all-sided trimming. After it, turn the window to

the back side if the rheometer to make ready for measurement.

Figure 19 Trimming Tools

93

11 Appendix

11.1 Tests

There are two categories of tests possible: rotation tests and oscillation tests. In the rotation tests, the

rotational direction is not changed. The default value is either torque / shear stress or speed / shear rate, or

angle / deformation. Another value is then respectively measured as a response.

In the oscillation tests, the rotational direction is changed. Generally, a sine wave is performed and evaluated

for an oscillation dataset. Thereby either torque / shear stress or angle / deformation is defined as a sine wave

and the response is measured.

test description set value response

CR const constant shear rate shear rate shear stress

CR sweep shear rate sweep (ramp) shear rate shear stress

CR steps stepwise change in shear rate shear rate shear stress

CR equilibrium shear rate equilibrium shear rate shear stress

CS const constant shear stress shear stress shear rate

CS sweep shear stress sweep (ramp) shear stress shear rate

CS steps stepwise change in shear stress shear stress shear rate

CS equilibrium shear stress equilibrium shear stress shear rate

CS OSC const oscillation at a constant frequency and shear stress deformation

amplitude

CS OSC fsweep oscillation at a frequency sweep and shear stress deformation

constant amplitude

CS OSC asweep oscillation at an amplitude sweep and shear stress deformation

constant frequency

CD const constant deformation deformation shear stress

CD sweep deformation sweep (ramp) deformation shear stress

CD OSC const oscillation at constant frequency and deformation shear stress

amplitude

CD OSC fsweep oscillation at frequency ramp and constant deformation shear stress

amplitude

CD OSC asweep oscillation at an amplitude ramp and deformation shear stress

constant frequency

Creep constant shear stress shear stress deformation

Speed const constant speed shear rate shear stress

Speed sweep speed sweep (ramp) shear rate shear stress

Speed steps stepwise change in speed shear rate shear stress

Torque const constant shear stress shear stress shear rate

Torque sweep shear stress sweep (ramp) shear stress shear rate

Torque steps stepwise change in shear stress shear stress shear rate

11.2 Result

The results of tests are divided into three categories: raw measuring data, rheological measuring data and

model parameters.

The Rheometer RHEOTEST RN generates data sets, which belong to the category raw measuring data.

These are a basis of all other values.

The rheological measuring data are derived from the raw measuring data. In principle, these can be

distinguished into two groups:

1. CR/CS - measuring data: are produced during tests in which the rotation direction is not changed, the

rotation tests.

2. Oscillation measuring data: are produced during oscillation tests, that is the torque is changed

sinusoidal, rotation direction is changed (see also Tests).

94

data Gr. X Y meaning calculation unit

time- t 1,2 x x elapsed time since the start of the raw measuring s (SI), min

test

data

speed – N

or

angle-

1,2 x x speed or angle of the measuring

system at the time

raw measuring

data

N: 1/s (SI), 1/min

: °(grad), rad (SI)

torque -M 1,2 x x torque, which acts on the

raw measuring µNm, mNm

measuring system at the time data

temperature - T 1,2 x x temperature of sample or of the raw measuring K, °C, °F

thermostating unit

shear stress - 1,2 x x on the surface acting force, which is

in parallel direction to the working

surface

shear rate - D 1 x x speed change vertical to the flow

direction

deformation - 1,2 x x degree of deformation of a material

under the influence of force

data

= KTau * M

(KTaumeasuring

system)

D = kD * N

(KD – measuring

system)

= kD *

(KD – measuring

system)

= / D

Pa (SI), mPa, dyn/cm²

1/s (SI), 1/min

%, no unit

dynamic viscosity - 1 x internal resistance of flow at steady

shearing

Pa s (SI), mPa s

complex viscosity - 2 x complex resistance of flow at = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s

oscillating stress

_max *

real part of complex 2 x describes the viscous component of ’ = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s

viscosity - ’

deformation (dissipation)

_max * *

sin()

imaginary part of

2 x describes the elastic component of ’’ = _max / Pa s (SI), mPa s

complex viscosity - ’’

deformation (storage)

_max * *

cos()

shear modulus– G 1 x rotation G = / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa

complex modulus – G* 2 x oscillation G = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa

_max

storage modulus – G’ 2 x oscillation G’ = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa

_max * cos()

loss modulus – G’’ 2 x oscillation G’’ = _max / Pa (SI), kPa, MPa

_max * sin()

compliance – J 1 x rotation J = / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,

1/MPa

complex compliance – 2 x oscillation J = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,

J*

_max

1/MPa

storage compliance – J’ 2 x oscillation J’ = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,

_max * cos() 1/MPa

loss compliance – J’’ 2 x oscillation J’ = _max / 1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,

_max * sin() 1/MPa

phase angle - 2 x phase shift between torque

phase shift °(grad), rad (SI)

oscillation and angel oscillation between torque

and angle

tangent phase angle – 2 x tangent value of phase angle °(grad), rad (SI)

tan

frequency – f 2 x x reciprocal of the period duration of f = 1 / T

Hz, 1/s (SI)

an oscillation

angular frequency - 2 x x frequency value as = 2 f Hz, 1/s (SI)

torque_max – M 2 x maximum torque of an oscillation µNm, mNm

angle_max - 2 x maximum angle of an oscillation °(grad), rad (SI)

test 1,2 number of test of the method no

index 1,2 number of data set of test no

index cumulative 1,2 number of data set of method

no

(accumulated over all tests)

time cumulative – t 1,2 expiration, since start of analysis no

system result 0 – SR 1,2 intrasystem datas, among others

no

temperature values

status Mode - SM 1,2 intrasystem datas no

result Mode - RM 1,2 intrasystem datas no

column X: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the x-axis.

column Y: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the y-axis.

95

11.3 Analyses

An overview of available evaluations to determine statistical and rheological characteristics of a sample.

name function / formula application chart

Avg/StDev Average and Statistics

standard deviation

Min / Max / Minimum value, Statistics

Range

maximum value,

spread (Max – Min)

Upper Limit

Upper limit value as a marker on the chart

Lower Limit

Lower limit value as a marker on the chart

Target

Target value as a marker on the chart

Correlation

Yield point Tau

Thixotropie

Newton

Ostwald de

Waele

De Haven

Carreau

Cross

Golub

Reiner -

Phillippoff

Correlation factor

Determination of

yield point; premise

is a CS-sweep.

„Hysteresis area“;

premise is a test

sequence of CR (or

CS) with sweep up -

hold – sweep down.

Calculation of

hysteresis area

(difference of

integrals between up

and down).

Determination of necessary shear stress to

start a sample flowing (shear rate > 0)

Difference of the areas corresponds to a

volume-related power, which is necessary to

structure destruction.

Water, mineral oil,

all „Newtonian“ materials

readout:

- viscosity

Empirical function for formal adjustment to the

flow curve curvature

readout:

- consistency factor k

- flow exponent n

Polymer melts

readout:

- viscosity _0 0

- tau max m

- exponent n

Polymer solution

readout:

- viscosity infinite ∞

- viscosity _0 0

- shear rate Db

- exponent n

Universal

readout:


- viscosity _0 0

- shear rate Db

- exponent n

Universal

readout:


- viscosity _0 0

- exponent factor k

Universal

readout:


- viscosity _0 0

- tau max m

96

Meter

Bingham

Herschel Bulkley

Casson

Casson gen.

Tscheuschner

gen.

OSC-T-Sweep

MSCR-Test

MSCR-AASHTO

G* and as a

function of

temperature

Determination of

percent recovery and

non-recovery creep

compliance at the

creep stress levels

100 Pa; 1600 Pa and

3200 Pa

Determination of

percent recovery at

the creep stress

levels 100 Pa and

3200 Pa

τ_0_OSC Determination of τ =

τ_0 when G’=G’’

TTS (Time

Temperature

Superposition)

BTSV (Bitumen-

Typisierungs-

Schnell-Verfahren)

TPT (according to

the working

instruction FGSV AL

Using master curves,

rheological behavior of

materials and aging effect

can be characterized in a

wider range of time or

frequency at a given

temperature

The test determines the

temperature at which the

bitumen in OSC mode by

increasing the temperature

has a definite module G*

and determines the

corresponding phase

angle δ

Determination of the

phase transition

temperature of modified

Universal

readout:


- viscosity _0 0

- tau max m

- exponent n

Paste, cream

readout:

- yield point 0

- viscosity

Empirical function for formal adjustment to the

flow curve curvature

readout:

- yield point 0

- factor k

- exponent n

Suspensions (paints, varnishes, chacolate)

readout:

- yield point 0

- viscosity

Suspensions

readout:

- yield point 0

- viscosity

- exponent denominator n

Chocolate

readout:

- yield point 0


- viscosity str

- exponent n

- shear rate Dr

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Paste, unguents, sealant

Universal

Evaluation of the deformation behavior of

bitumen at increased temperatures

Determination of the temperature of asphalt

binder, at which they have a markedly different

behavior of the material due to the applied

97

DSR-Prüfung

(konstante

Scherrate))

MSCR_2016

(according to the

working instruction

FGSV AL DSR-

Prüfung (MSCRT)

PNST88_MSCR

(according to PNST

88-2016)

GOST_33137

(according to GOST

33137)

TP 123 A

asphalt binder

Determination of percent

recovery and non-recovery

creep compliance at the

creep stress level 3200 Pa

Determination of percent

recovery at the creep

stress levels 100 Pa and

3200 Pa

Determination of dynamic

viscosity of bitumen

Determination of binder

yield energy and ductility

according to AASHTO TP

123, method A

TP 123 B Determination of DSR -

elastic recoveryaccording

to AASHTO TP 123,

method B

MCT Equiviscous

MCT Steady Shear

MCT Phase Angle

Determining the viscosity

of asphalt binders using a

cylindrical measuring

system at two

temperatures

Determining the laboratory

mixing and compaction

temperature of asphalt

binders using DSR Steady

Shear Flow

Determining the laboratory

mixing and compaction

temperature of asphalt

binders using DSR Phase

Angle Method

shear

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen

As a prerequisite for application of the evaluations from "Newton" to "Tscheuschner gen." is the presence of a

sample which was measured as a flow curve. Flow curves arise from CR or CS test, executed as a sweep or

as an equilibrium. The data are necessary which describe the dependence of shear stress as a function of

shear rate ( = f (D)).

11.4 Heading data

Heading data could be selected for displaying in Table head, Chart head or Report head.

The following options are available:

Designation

Meaning

None

nothing is displayed

Job name

job name from Job definition

Setting-Group name

group and job name from Job definition

Product

record from the field Product from Job definition

Method

name of method used

Methods group

group and name of method used

Comment Job

comment to Job from Job definition

Measuring system

measuring system used

Sample

sample name from Sample definition

Charge

record from the field Charge from Sample definition

Operator

operator name from Sample definition

Sample created

date of sample creation

Comment sample

comment to sample from Sample definition

Free text 1 it will be shown free text 1



98

11.5 Calibration of measuring systems

Each Rheometer RHEOTEST RN ® including provided measuring systems will be delivered in calibrated

state. The measuring systems can be recalibrated if great deviations occur by control measurements with

calibration substances.

For calculation of rheological parameters Shear Stress, Shear Rate and Viscosity from the measured

parameters Torque and Speed, the constants of measuring systems are already determined by the

manufacturer and stored for each measuring system. Those constants arise from geometry of measuring

systems (e.g. DIN 53018 and DIN 53019). Since the ideal conditions (like one-dimensional, laminar flow) are

assumed by the calculation of measuring systems constants and measuring systems exhibit fabrication

tolerances, correction factors must be determined. This is done by measurements with calibration standards.

Correction factor Rotation. See Correction for Rotation and Rotation Calibration.

Correction factor Oscillation. See Correction Oscillation and Oscillation calibration.

99

11.6 Menu overview Peltier temperature control

Note: The changes in the temperature control can be made in the menu item Service. This item can be used

only by the authorized staff.

100

11.7 Error messages

11.7.1 Error messages Software RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager

The software is a Windows application and is based on this technology. Therefore, error messages may come

from both the system software and the Rheometer software. How to treat the system error messages, please

follow instructions in Windows. The error messages of the Rheometer software are self-explanatory. When

error messages occur, please remove the named causes.

11.7.2 Incorrect display of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager

If the size of some menu items of RHEOTEST RN 5 Manager are displayed to large, please set the Windows

display to the recommended standard size.

- right click on the empty space of Windows Desktop;

- depending on the Windows version, click the menu item „Adapt“ or „Display Settings“;

- under display set the font size to 100%.

11.7.3 Error messages Peltier control

Mentioned below error messages could appear during measurements or operation of the device. These

messages indicate the user that precise measurement or some function are impossible or incorrect.

Error message:

“SENSOR BROKEN!“

The red LED-signal light is on and it is not heated.

Cause of trouble:

• One or both thermal elements do not deliver signal.

Troubleshooting:

• Check correct connection of connectors to the control unit or

• Inform service of RHEOTEST.

Error message:

“Too high device temperature”

The internal temperature of the control unit is monitored permanent. When the limit value is exceeded, an

error message appears.

Cause of trouble:

• Unacceptable heat source is formed in the control unit – device failure.

• The device is operated at too high ambient temperature.

• Device fan is closed.

Troubleshooting:

• Provide acceptable environment conditions and necessary cooling.

• Inform service of RHEOTEST in case of defect.

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Error message:

“Program-Stop“

Temperature control is off.

Cause of trouble:

• Program of microprocessor control does not respond.

Troubleshooting:

• Switch off the device and switch on it again in 10 seconds. This method should not be used more than

three times successively. If the device does not operate after this, it says about serious fault. It is necessary to

inform the service of RHEOTEST.

Error message: “Incorrect Value!”

Range of permissible values is prescribed for each menu choice where input of numerical values is possible.

This error message appears and input value is ignored if input value is above or below this range.

Cause of trouble:

• Input numerical value was rejected during checking of plausibility.

Troubleshooting:

• Input permissible value.

11.8 Service

A Rheometer is a very robust and, at the same time, a very sensitive measuring instrument. It does not need a

special maintenance, if the following rules are fulfilled:

• especially of the measuring shaft

•

•

•

•

• Do not use it near strong heat sources (e.g., heating radiators)

• Do not use it near the objects with strong electromagnetic fields (e.g., loudspeakers, motors etc.)

• Do not use chemicals, such as strong solvents or acids for the instrument cleaning

• Do not permit penetration of liquids in the measuring head, bearings of the measuring drive or in the control

unit

• Do not bend the mains cable and connecting cable, exclude strong stretching loads and high temperatures

In case of some defect or deviations from nominal values, please contact our dealer or RHEOTEST directly:


Medingen

Rödertalstr. 1

D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla

Telefon: +49 – (035205)-580

Fax: +49 – (035205)-58297

mailto:info@rheotest.de

Repairs may only be carried out by specialists who have been authorized by the manufacturer.

Never open the device itself.

For any kind of damage report, please always specify the engraved on the nameplate the exact device name

and the unit number.

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Rheotest english

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