
Model 35 Viscometer Instruction Manual
208878
Revision N, February 2013
5
1
Introduction
Fann Model 35 viscometers are direct-reading instruments which are available in
six- speed and twelve- speed designs for use on either 50 Hz or 60 Hz electrical
power. The standard power source is 115 volts, but all models may be fitted with a
transformer, making operation with 220/230 volts possible.
Fann Model 35 viscometers are used in research and production. These viscometers
are recommended for evaluating the rheological properties of fluids, Newtonian
and non-Newtonian. The design includes a R1 Rotor Sleeve, B1 Bob, F1 Torsion
Spring, and a stainless steel sample cup for testing according to American
Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice for Field Testing Water Based Drilling
Fluids, API RP 13B-1
/
ISO 10414-1 Specification.
1.1
Background
Fann Model 35 viscometers are Couette rotational viscometers. In this viscometer,
the test fluid is contained in the annular space (shear gap) between an outer cylinder
and the bob (inner cylinder). Viscosity measurements are made when the outer
cylinder, rotating at a known velocity, causes a viscous drag exerted by the fluid.
This drag creates a torque on the bob, which is transmitted to a precision spring
where its deflection is measured.
Viscosity measured by a Couette viscometer, such as the Model 35, is a measure of
the shear stress caused by a given shear rate. This relationship is a linear function
for Newtonian fluids (i.e., a plot of shear stress vs. shear rate is a straight line).
The instrument is designed so that the viscosity in centipoise (or millipascal
second) of a Newtonian fluid is indicated on the dial with the standard rotor R1,
bob B1, and torsion spring F1 operating at 300 rpm. Viscosities at other test speeds
may be measured by using multipliers of the dial reading. A simple calculation that
closely approximates the viscosity of a pseudo-plastic fluid, such as a drilling fluid
is described in Section 7.
The shear rate may be changed by changing the rotor speed and rotor-bob
combination. Various torsion springs are available and are easily interchanged in
order to broaden shear stress ranges and allow viscosity measurements in a variety
of fluids.