ND023
This paint viscometer is an essential instrument used to measure the viscosity, or resistance to flow, of paints, coatings, inks, and similar fluids. Accurate viscosity control is critical in the coatings industry as it directly impacts application properties, film thickness, finish quality, and overall performance.
These instruments operate on various principles. Rotational viscometers are common, where a spindle rotates in the sample; the torque required to overcome the fluid’s resistance provides the viscosity measurement. Other types include capillary (efflux cup) viscometers, which measure the time for a fixed volume of fluid to flow through an orifice, and Stormer viscometers, which use paddle rotation to determine Krebs units (KU) specific to paints.
Using a paint viscometer ensures product consistency, optimizes application methods, and helps in formulating recipes that meet specific standards. It is a fundamental tool for quality control in both manufacturing laboratories and on-site applications, guaranteeing that the paint behaves correctly during and after application, thus preventing issues like sagging, poor leveling, or inadequate coverage.
