IKA ROTATEMP SBS me-vi Package, viscometer set (SBS bearing), 300 °C, 0010013993

Anyone who regularly tests temperature-sensitive samples with varying compositions is best advised to combine two features in a single instrument: robust bearings to withstand frequent spindle changes and a heating system that reliably brings the sample up to the target temperature. The ROTATEMP SBS me-vi Package combines the SBS ball bearing system from the ROTAVISC range with the IKA ROTATEMP high-temperature system, which heats samples to up to 300 °C in around 16 minutes. The drive, stand, heating system and spindle set are designed to work together as a complete package and do not need to be assembled individually.

SBS ball bearings in the me-vi range

The SBS version (Steel Ball Bearing, Suspended) replaces the jewel bearings found in standard instruments with ball bearing technology, which is better suited to high sample throughput, frequent spindle changes and harsh environments. The measuring range extends up to 40,000,000 mPas; the spring torque of the measuring spring is 0.7187 mNm; the SP set-2 spindle set is supplied as standard. Accuracy and repeatability remain unchanged at 1 % and 0.2 % of the measuring range respectively, as with the other ROTAVISC instruments in the range.

ROTATEMP heating system on the boom

The heating system is mounted directly onto the ROTASTAND stand and heats the sample in the cantilever vessel using magnetic stirring technology, eliminating the need for a separate external water bath. According to the manufacturer, the system reaches the target temperature in around 16 minutes, in a controlled manner and without overheating the sample. The stand’s telescopic stroke is 200 mm with a permissible dynamic load of 5 kg, which is significantly more than with the standard ROTAVISC Complete packages without a heating system. According to the data sheet, the sample’s working temperature ranges from -100 to 300 °C; the heated upper range is of practical relevance.

Operation, calibration and connection

The TFT display allows you to set the speed (0.01 to 200 rpm), timer (0.017 to 6,000 min) and measured values directly; a ramp function automates recurring test sequences, and the graph function displays the viscosity curve during the heating phase. The instrument can be calibrated at the test station and connected via RS 232 or USB-B to the labworldsoft laboratory software for control, automation and documentation of the test series. An external PT-100 temperature sensor with a resolution of 0.1 K supplements the internal measurement.

Operating conditions

The unit is designed for an ambient temperature of 5 to 40 °C with a maximum relative humidity of 80 % and operates in both timer and continuous modes. The base vessel holds 600 ml of sample; the motor delivers 4.8 W at the output, rotates clockwise as standard and is protected against overload.

Typical applications

The combination of a robust bearing and a heating system is suitable wherever there is frequent switching between different, temperature-sensitive samples.

• Viscosity measurement of asphalt, bitumen and similar road construction materials with high sample throughput
• Waxes, hot-melt adhesives and other temperature-sensitive compounds in continuous operation
• Quality control involving frequent spindle changes and varying test media
• Test series with a defined heating phase up to 300 °C
• Operations across multiple sites or in multiple consecutive shifts
• Automated measurement sequences via labworldsoft and RS 232 or USB-B

Technical details

Scope of delivery

The drive, stand, heating system and spindle set are supplied as a pre-assembled set; each component can be reordered individually using its own identification number if required, for example to obtain a second spindle set for parallel measurement series.

• 1 x ROTAVISC SBS me-vi control
• 1 x ROTASTAND (ID No. 0020116428)
• 1 x ROTATEMP high-temperature system (ID No. 0020113825)
• 1 x SP set-2, spindle set (ID No. 0025000329)
• 1 x PT 100.8 temperature sensor (ID No. 0025000413)

Regulatory information

This device is an electrical appliance within the meaning of the German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG). The WEEE registration number of the manufacturer, IKA, is DE 66784213. Information on the return of old appliances can be found on our page Environment and disposal.

Warranty and procurement service

IKA manufacturer’s warranty: 2 years, extended to 10 years if registered at ika.com/register within 90 days of purchase. If you do not require SBS ball bearings, the ROTATEMP me-vi Package offers the same combination on a standard jewel bearing, which is generally sufficient for samples that are changed less frequently. For lower-viscosity samples within the same temperature range, the ROTATEMP lo-vi Package is available. Anyone who needs cooling as well as heating, for example, for samples between -25 and 125 °C, will find the CBC ROTAVISC lo-vi Package better suited; there, a circulation thermostat with a bath takes care of the temperature control. Anyone looking for the SBS ball bearing without a heating system will find it in the ROTAVISC SBS me-vi Complete. We can advise you on choosing the right system and the correct measurement range, and can supply additional accessories such as replacement spindles via the procurement service.