The added value of an in-line viscosity measurement in the chemical and cosmetic industry

In numerous production processes in the chemical and cosmetic industry, viscosity plays a key role in controlling the production process. Examples are paint, varnish and coating, silicone mixtures, gelatin (production of capsules for medicines), toothpaste, cough syrup, ointment, plywood etc. The viscosity of a product influences the efficiency of the process and therefore often the production costs. But a viscosity measurement has more (measurable) advantages.

What are viscosity meters used for in the chemical and cosmetic industry?

In the chemical and cosmetic industry, viscosity testing is a very important parameter for quality control. By measuring the viscosity of products such as toothpaste, cough syrup or ointment, ink, paint and coatings, manufacturers can predict how products will behave once they are in the hands of the consumer. But in addition to quality control, knowing the viscosity of a (semi) finished product helps to organize the production process efficiently and to reduce costs. For example, a better flow through tubes can take place and dispensers can be adjusted to the right force to induce flow without the package becoming overfilled.

In a number of production processes it is precisely for each product that a different viscosity is required to give it the correct stability, for example architectural glass and wall elements made of acrylic and/or polymer. Also in the production of complex liquids such as coatings, paints and inks, an in-line viscosity meter is desirable to achieve the desired fluidity, thickness and image characteristics within strict parameters. Especially in this time of rising material costs, the increasing number of competitors, the higher expectations of the customer and the desire to produce in a more environmentally conscious way, chemical and cosmetic companies can make a lot of profit with an (in-line) viscometer.

NL Rolpin: “Every operator feels more comfortable now that the MIVI viscometer has been installed. Employee stress caused by too rapid hardening is now avoided, in addition to the fact that the MIVI sensor offers stability and ensures a consistently high quality of our products. Production efficiency has also increased. Thanks to the Sofraser sensor, unexpected pavements that stop production no longer disrupt the process and production and sales losses are minimized. ”

What are the methods for measuring in-line viscosity for the cosmetic and chemical industry? And how do I choose the right one?

But how do you know what the right in-line viscosity analyzer is for your process? After all, there are different analyzers on the market that use different measuring methods that can be used in-line in chemical and cosmetic processes.

There are various methods for an in-line viscosity measurement suitable for chemical and cosmetic processes, such as rotation, vibration and torsion. These methods are used for all types of liquids, pastes and slurries.

Vibration: A resonator is immersed in a liquid and the degree of damping from the liquid is measured to determine the viscosity. A bar is simply built into the process.

Torsion: in a torsional balance, the deflection is measured between two cylinders, the interior of which rotates at a fixed speed. The liquid to be measured is located in the annular (annular) space between the two cylinders

Rotation: A spindle (cylinder or disk) is immersed in the fluid to be examined and then the force that the spindle needs to overcome the inertia of the fluid is measured. The viscosity meter then determines the viscosity of the measuring liquid.

Rotational techniques are more bothered by process fluctuations or vibrations and flow changes. In addition, the technology is less easy to integrate into the process. Often the entire process needs to be adjusted to make an in-line measurement possible. The vibration technique is very accurate, can be easily integrated into the process (small, pin-shaped) and does not suffer from process vibrations or flow changes.

Our product managers can help you determine the most reliable and best-performing choice. Contact them today!

High-precision in-line viscosity meter for the cosmetic and chemical industry

Sofraser is the inventor of vibration-viscosity meters at resonance frequency that has been providing reliable and flexible viscosity measurements in many different processes for 30 years. There are different types of vibration viscosity meters at resonance frequency in different price ranges; in-tank, online, in-line and at-line.

In addition to the dynamic viscosity, the updated MIVI sensor from Sofraser (inline) also measures the density, after which the kinematic viscosity can be determined. The sensor is ATEX certified, performs under high pressure and at high temperature and is maintenance-free. With the MIVI sensor you make your process more efficient and you ensure a constant high quality of your end product. Whether it concerns paint, ink and coating, toothpaste, creams, plywood or many other Newtonian and non-Newtonian liquids.

The MIVI analyzer from Sofraser is available in various designs and additional options. There are various mounting options such as wall mounting (in a reactor or vessel), in-line (bypass) and in a measuring chamber (for small and flexible pipes).

Are you curious about which (in-line) viscosity meter is best for your process?

Contact our product managers! They are happy to advise you on which meter is best for your process in the chemical or cosmetic industry. They have years of experience in implementing analytical instrumentation in numerous production processes in various sectors. In short; we help you increase your impact by measuring!

Curious what we have to offer you?

Inventech is a specialist in viscosity meters for both the cosmetic and chemical industry