fann RheoVADR User manual

RheoVADR®Rheometer
Instruction Manual
Manual No. D00845847, Revision E
Instrument No. 102267855
Software Version 1.5
DNA™ System Compatible

D00845847 Revision E, September 2014 2
RheoVADR® Rheometer Instruction Manual
©2014 Fann Instrument Company
Houston, Texas, USA
All rights reserved. No part of this work covered by the copyright hereon may be reproduced or
copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic, or mechanical) without first receiving the
written permission of Fann Instrument Company, Houston, Texas, USA.
Printed in USA.
The information contained in this document includes concepts, methods, and apparatus which may be
covered by U.S. Patents. Fann Instrument Company reserves the right to make improvements in
design, construction, and appearance of our products without prior notice.
FANN®and the FANN logo are registered trademarks of Fann Instrument Company in the United
States and/or other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in the operating instructions are the
exclusive property of the respective manufacturers.
RheoVADR®is a registered trademark of Fann Instrument Company.
Contact Fann Instrument Company
Phone
1-281-871-4482
1-800-347-0450
Fax
1-281-871-4358
Postal Address
Fann Instrument Company
P.O. Box 4350
Houston, Texas, 77210 USA
Shipping Address
Fann Instrument Company
14851 Milner Road, Gate 5
Houston, Texas, 77032, USA
Online
www.fann.com
[email protected]

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Table of Contents
1 Introduction ..............................................................................................................6
1.1 Document Conventions....................................................................................7
2 Safety.......................................................................................................................8
2.1 Safe Electrical Operation..................................................................................8
2.2 Heated Sample Cup.........................................................................................8
3 Features and Specifications .....................................................................................9
3.1 Rheometer Features ........................................................................................9
3.2 Rheometer Specifications ..............................................................................11
3.3 Rotor and Bob Specifications.........................................................................12
3.4 Operating Specifications ................................................................................12
4 Installation..............................................................................................................13
5 Operation ...............................................................................................................14
5.1 Instrument Start-up ........................................................................................16
5.2 Manual Operating Instructions........................................................................18
5.2.1 Choosing speeds.......................................................................................18
5.2.2 Recording and Saving data ....................................................................... 18
5.2.3 Measuring Gel Strength............................................................................. 19
5.2.4 Stopping a test .......................................................................................... 19
5.2.5 Shutting down the rheometer..................................................................... 19
5.3 API Test Profile..............................................................................................20
5.3.1 User Profiles.............................................................................................. 21
5.4 Set-up Mode ..................................................................................................22
5.4.1 Changing temperature units ...................................................................... 22
5.4.2 Initiating temperature calibration................................................................ 23
5.4.3 Initiating sensor calibration........................................................................ 23
5.4.4 Choosing address...................................................................................... 24
5.4.5 Choosing Rotor-Bob Combination ............................................................. 25
5.4.6 Applying Firmware Update ........................................................................ 26
5.4.7 Installing User Profiles...............................................................................28
5.5 Rotor Removal and Installation ......................................................................29
5.6 Bob Removal and Installation.........................................................................29
6 Troubleshooting and Maintenance .........................................................................30
7 Accessories............................................................................................................31

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8 Parts List................................................................................................................32
9 Warranty and Returns............................................................................................36
9.1 Warranty ........................................................................................................36
9.2 Returns ..........................................................................................................36
Appendix A API Profiles...............................................................................................37
Appendix B Viscosity Calculations.............................................................................40

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List of Figures
Figure 3-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer (front and back)....................................................10
Figure 5-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer Keypad.................................................................14
Figure 5-2 Start Up Message........................................................................................16
Figure 5-3 System Information......................................................................................16
Figure 5-4 Data Display................................................................................................16
Figure 5-5 API Test Profiles (pages 1 and 2) ................................................................20
Figure 5-6 Test in Progress (API Test Mode)................................................................21
Figure 5-7 Test Results (end of test).............................................................................21
Figure 5-8 SETUP Mode (page 1) ................................................................................22
Figure 5-9 SETUP Mode (page 2) ................................................................................22
Figure 5-10 Fluid Calibration.........................................................................................24
Figure 5-11 Rotor-Bob Combinations............................................................................25
Figure 5-12 Bob and Bob Shaft.....................................................................................29
Figure 8-1 RheoVADR® Rheometer Assembly, View 1 .................................................34
Figure 8-2 RheoVADR® Rheometer Assembly, View 2 .................................................35
List of Tables
Table 3-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer Specifications ........................................................11
Table 3-2 Rotor-Bob Specifications and Constants.......................................................12
Table 3-3 Range of Environmental Conditions..............................................................12
Table 5-1 RheoVADR®Keypad Functions ....................................................................15
Table 5-2 Viscosity Standards for Springs ....................................................................23
Table 7-1 Accessories for RheoVADR®Rheometer......................................................31
Table 8-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer Models...................................................................32
Table 8-2 RheoVADR®Rheometer Parts......................................................................32
Table A-1 API Six Speed & Gel Profile .........................................................................38
Table A-2 API PV/YP & Gel Profile...............................................................................38
Table A-3 API Gel Profile..............................................................................................39
Table A-4 API Cement Profile.......................................................................................39
Table B-1 Rotor-Bob Factor (C)....................................................................................40
Table B-2 Torsion Spring Specifications .......................................................................41

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1 Introduction
The RheoVADR® Variable Automated Digital Rheometer is the latest addition to
the Fann viscometer family. RheoVADR®is a direct-reading instrument for
evaluating the rheological properties of fluids, Newtonian and non-Newtonian. The
advantages of the this rheometer are its digital display, pre-programmed API tests,
data recording feature, and speed range — 12 preset and variable speeds from 0.01
rpm to 999 rpm.
This design includes a rotor, bob, torsion spring, and a stainless steel sample cup
for testing according to American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice. This
instrument is also fitted for universal power supply.
This instruction manual supports software version 1.5.

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1.1 Document Conventions
The following icons are used as necessary in this instruction manual.
NOTE.Notes emphasize additional information that may be
useful to the reader.
CAUTION. Describes a situation or practice that requires operator
awareness or action in order to avoid undesirable consequences.
MANDATORY ACTION. Gives directions that, if not observed,
could result in loss of data or in damage to equipment.
WARNING! Describes an unsafe condition or practice that if not
corrected, could result in personal injury or threat to health.
ELECTRICITY WARNING! Alerts the operator that there is risk of
electric shock.
HOT SURFACE! Alerts the operator that there is a hot surface and
that there is risk of getting burned if the surface is touched.
EXPLOSION RISK! Alerts the operator that there is risk of
explosion.

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2 Safety
Safe laboratory practices and procedures should be observed while operating and
maintaining the rheometer. This section lists some precautions to follow.
2.1 Safe Electrical Operation
This instrument is driven by 100V to 240V, 50/60 Hz electrical power. Heated
sample cups and recirculating sample cups (optional) are electrically heated.
Make sure the power and other wiring associated with this rheometer and
electrically heated sample cups are in good condition and properly grounded.
Make sure the rheometer’s power switch is in the OFF position and
unplugged from the source before cleaning, repairing or performing
maintenance.
Keep hands, clothes and other objects away from the rotating parts of the machine.
2.2 Heated Sample Cup
When using the heated sample cups, wear the proper hand
protection to avoid getting burned.
When using heated sample cups, do NOT exceed 200oF (93oC).

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3 Features and Specifications
This instruction manual supports software version 1.5.
3.1 Rheometer Features
RheoVADR®Rheometer features (Figure 3-1) include the following:
•Preprogrammed API tests— API drilling fluid and API cement
•Data recording at 100, 200, 500 milliseconds, and at 1, 5, 10 sec for observing
trends and analyzing, sharing, printing, or downloading data
•USB port for connecting a flash drive to save test data (CSV) that can be read
in a spreadsheet program
•Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) for 0.5°F accuracy and repeatability
•Secure fit, left-hand turn for rotor and right-hand turn for bob to help prevent
disconnection when measuring high viscosity fluids
•OLED display for high-contrast, making it easier to read
•LED-lighted sample cup for lighting the fluid level
•Pushbutton design for easier operation
•RS485 serial connector for connecting to a computer and instantaneous control
software (optional)
DNA™ System Compatible
The DNA System is a proprietary hardware and software system
which adds capabilities to existing Fann instruments by
connecting them to a computer using Fann’s exclusive Data
Acquisition and Control Software. The system combines
individual instruments into one integrated system.

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Figure 3-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer (front and back)

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3.2 Rheometer Specifications
Table 3-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer Specifications
Category Specification
Torsion Spring F1, F2, F0.2
Rotors R1, R2, R3, R1 Closed End, R2 Closed
End
Bobs B1, B2, B3, B4, B5
Operating Temperature Range 40°F to 125°F (4.44°C to 51.7°C)
Automatic Tests 4 Pre-programmed API tests
Sample Cup Volume 350 ml
Sample Temperature 200°F (93°C)
Temperature Measurements RTD
Temperature Accuracy 0.5°F
Speed Range Variable 0.01 to 999.9 rpm
12 Preset: 600, 300, 200, 100, 60, 30,
20, 10, 6, 3, 2, 1
Speed Accuracy 0.001 rpm
Shear Rate 0.01 sec-1 to 1700 sec-1
Dial Resolution 0.1
Dial Accuracy 0.5
cP Range (R1, B1, F1) 0.1 to 9M (displays 9999 cP max)
Ports Power, RS485 Serial, USB
Data Port USB Flash Drive
Data Recording Speeds (intervals) 100, 200 & 500 ms; 1, 5, & 10 sec
Dimensions 16 x 5 x 9.5 inches
40.6 x 12.7 x 24 centimeters
Weight 15 lb (6.8 kg)
Power Requirement 100V to 250V, AC, 50/60 Hz, 75W

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3.3 Rotor and Bob Specifications
Table 3-2 Rotor-Bob Specifications and Constants
ROTOR-BOB R1 B1 R2 B1 R3 B1 R1 B2 R1 B3 R1 B4 R1B5
Rotor Radius, R0 (cm) 1.8415 1.7588 2.5866 1.8415 1.8415 1.8415 1.8415
Bob Radius, Ri(cm) 1.7245 1.7245 1.7245 1.2276 0.8622 0.8622 1.59829
Bob Height, L (cm) 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 1.9 3.8
Shear Gap in Annulus
(cm) 0.117 0.0343 0.8261 0.6139 0.9793 0.9793 0.2432
Radii Ratio, Ri /R00.9365 0.9805 0.667 0.666 0.468 0.468 0.8679
Maximum Use
Temperature (oC) 93 93 93 93 93 93 93
Minimum Use
Temperature (oC) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Overall Instrument
Constant, K
Standard F1 Torsion
Spring, η= Kfθ/N
300 94.18 1355 2672 7620 15,200 703
Shear Rate Constant k3
(sec-1 per rpm) 1.7023 5.4225 0.377 0.377 0.268 0.268 0.8489
Shear Stress Constant for
Effective Bob Surface k2
(cm-3) 0.01323 0.01323 0.01323 0.0261 0.0529 0.106 0.01546
3.4 Operating Specifications
Table 3-3 Range of Environmental Conditions
Maximum Altitude 6562 ft (2000 m)
Temperature Range 39oF to 122oF (4oC to 50oC)
Maximum Relative Humidity (RH)
80% RH at 87.8oF (31oC) or less
50% RH at 104
o
F (40
o
C)

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4 Installation
The rheometer should be placed where there is easy access to the power cord plug
for disconnection.
Consideration should be given to the location where samples are prepared and
equipment is cleaned when the test is completed. There should be sufficient storage
area nearby for commonly used tools, as well as consumables.

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5 Operation
To start a test, add 350 ml of sample to the stainless steel sample cup. The sample
cup has a line that marks 350 ml. A scribed line on the rotor indicates proper
immersion depth.
Damage to the bob shaft bearing may occur if the immersion depth
is exceeded.
If other sample holders are used, the space between the bottom of the rotor and the
bottom of the sample holder should be one-half inch (1.27cm) or greater.
This instrument is operated through a keypad (Figure 5-1). The keypad functions
are summarized in Table 5-1 and described fully in the following sections.
Figure 5-1 RheoVADR®Rheometer Keypad

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Table 5-1 RheoVADR®Keypad Functions
Key name
Use
Preprogrammed
Speeds Press white number keys to activate speeds of 1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 20, 30, 60, 100, 200, 300, or 600 rpm
Function fn
Press to activate blue second function keys
Use as Enter key ↵
Press and hold ~ 5 seconds to ZERO the dial reading.
See NOTE below.
Blue Second
Function
Speed: Press fn key and then press blue number keys to
enter speed. Press fn key again as Enter key.
Backspace ←: When fn key is active, this key acts as
backspace to delete last digit entered
Decimal
.
: When fn key is active, use decimal key to
enter decimal point
API Press this key to open API menu.
Record/Pause Press once to record; press again to pause
Record data at these rates: 100, 200, 500 milliseconds;
and 1, 5,10 seconds
PK
Press and hold STOP for ~ 5 seconds to activate peak
mode. The unit displays the peak dial reading (gel
strength). To leave peak mode, press STOP again.
STOP
Press to stop the Rheometer or stop a test or recording in
progress.
Press to exit a program or step
Press to turn on light
Zero the dial reading without fluid and then perform the
calibration to obtain the most accurate measurements.

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5.1 Instrument Start-up
Plug the power supply into a 100V to 240V, 50/60 Hz power source. Connect the
power supply to rear of the rheometer. Turn on the power switch.
The sample cup will illuminate and the following screens will appear (Figures 5-2
and 5-3). The system information shows the current software version, temperature
units, communication address, spring, and rotor-bob combination. These settings
can be revised in set-up mode (Section 5.4).
The LED light (over the sample cup) will blink 5 times before the screen will
change to the operating mode (Figure 5-4).
Figure 5-2 Start Up Message
Figure 5-3 System Information
Figure 5-4 Data Display
Continuous Counter
(seconds) that
increments every
second.

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The data display (Figure 5-4) lists the temperature (oF), speed (RPM), dial reading
(DIAL), and the viscosity in centipoise (cP) in real-time. In the lower right corner
of the display, a counter (seconds) shows how long a set speed is running.
The temperature units can be set to degrees Fahrenheit or
Celsius. See Section 5.4 Set-up Mode for instructions.
The counter resets to Zero and starts counting again whenever
you press STOP, any speed key, or enter an action.

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5.2 Manual Operating Instructions
A flash drive (not provided) must be connected to save data.
5.2.1 Choosing speeds
•Press white number keys to select preset speeds: 600, 300, 200, 100, 60, 30,
20, 10, 6, 3, 2 or 1
•Press fn key and blue keys (and decimal key if needed) to enter manual
speeds. Then, press fn to activate the speed entered.
5.2.2 Recording and Saving data
•A flash drive must be connected to save data.
•In API mode, test results are automatically recorded to a flash drive. The
last test data from API programs is always available to view.
•Press Record/Pause key once to begin recording.
•Select recording rate by using blue second function keys.
•Press Record/Pause again to pause recording.
•Press Record/Pause again to continue recording.
•While recording, data is saved in the same file.
•To save data in another file (different name), press STOP, and then
Record/Pause to record.
•To end recording and not file press STOP.
File name includes the serial number of the RheoVADR.

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5.2.3 Measuring Gel Strength
•Press the STOP button and hold it for 5 seconds. This activates the peak
mode (PK) dial reading (shown below).
•The instrument displays the peak dial reading for subsequent speed.
•To get out of peak mode, press STOP.
5.2.4 Stopping a test
•Press STOP.
5.2.5 Shutting down the rheometer
•Press STOP.
•Turn the power switch (back of instrument) to OFF position (Figure 3-1).
Peak mode,
PK
Record/Pause

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5.3 API Test Profile
Refer to Figure 5-5 and Table 5-1.
Figure 5-5 API Test Profiles (pages 1 and 2)
This instrument automatically records API test data. Make sure a
flash drive (not provided) is connected to the USB port (back of
instrument) to save this data.
API Mode only. Last test results are stored in the machine
memory. Select 1 to view the data (Figure 5-5, page 1).
API profiles are located in Appendix A API Profiles.
1. Select the API key. The menu will appear (Figure 5-5, left).
2. To start a test, press the corresponding blue function key on the keypad. To see
more tests, press fn to go to the next page.
3. Wait for the instrument to complete the test profiles. See Appendix A for tables
listing the profile steps.
4. While in progress, the screen displays the current values, file number, test
sequence, and current step (Figure 5-6).
5. When the test ends, the results will show in the data display screen (Figure 5-7).