Fungilab V-Pad User manual

Rotational Viscometer. Instruction Manual

VPAD Manual 2/47
History inspires us in ways that leave a lasting mark on our ideologies and beliefs. We often
look toward the individuals who have come before us and relish in their accomplishments,
remembering their feats and successes as the reasons we are able to flourish and grow. This
motivates us to move forward, to contribute to our field in ways untapped.
Here at Fungilab, we believe that innovation paves the way for a new reality, an alternate
present that starts our future anew. A path that was laid out so clearly is suddenly lacking; a
new road must be paved to accommodate change in all its forms.
So here we are, ready and anxious to spur a change of our own. Decades of experience has
made us masters of our field, but evolution has pushed us to be even better. With locations
all around the world, our global presence is heightened by our commitment to progression
and ingenuity.
At the core of our values is an indelible need to support our customers with the best
experience possible. In a world that can seem so large, Fungilab is ready to bridge the gap
with a creativity and originality that will unite us unlike ever before.
Let’s move forward together.
Fungilab Team

VPAD Manual 3/47
Software Version: 1.0
Manual Version 1.0
Instruction Manual

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INDEX
INDEX..................................................................................................................................................................4
1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................5
2. Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................................................5
3. Safety Symbols and Precautions ...................................................................................................................6
4. Utilities..........................................................................................................................................................6
5. Specifications ................................................................................................................................................7
6. Conditions for use.........................................................................................................................................7
7. Maintenance...................................................................................................................................................7
8. Equipment presentation.................................................................................................................................9
9. Equipment Description .................................................................................................................................11
9.1 Equipment set-up .......................................................................................................................................13
10. Important rheological information.............................................................................................................14
11. Accessories .................................................................................................................................................19
11.1. Low viscosity adapters (LCP and LCP/B) ..................................................................................................19
11.1.1 Mounting ...............................................................................................................................................20
11.1.2 Dismounting and cleaning .....................................................................................................................21
11.1.3 Technical specification for LCP accessories ...........................................................................................21
11. 2. Small sample adapters APM and APM/B ................................................................................................22
11. 2. 2 Dismounting and cleaning ...................................................................................................................24
11. 2. 3 Technical specifications of APM and APM/B .......................................................................................24
11.3 HELDAL UNIT –Helicoidally Movement Unit ............................................................................................26
12. Model/Spindle correspondence tables.......................................................................................................29
13. Model/spindle/oil calibration tables ..........................................................................................................31
14. VPAD L standard spindle selection table ....................................................................................................32
15. VPAD L Special aerial spindle selection table .............................................................................................33
16. VPAD L Special spindle selection table .......................................................................................................34
17. VPAD L LCP Adaptor table ..........................................................................................................................35
18. VPAD L special Vane spindle selection table...............................................................................................36
19. VPAD L special Heldal spindle selection table ............................................................................................37
20. VPAD R standard spindle selection table....................................................................................................38
21. VPAD R Special spindle selection table.......................................................................................................39
22. VPAD R LCP Adaptor table ..........................................................................................................................40
23. VPAD R special Vane spindle selection table ..............................................................................................41
24. VPAD R special Heldal spindle selection table ............................................................................................42
25. VPAD H standard spindle selection table ...................................................................................................43
26. VPAD H Special spindle selection table.......................................................................................................44
27. VPAD H special Vane spindle selection table..............................................................................................45
28. VPAD H special Heldal spindle selection table............................................................................................46
WARRANTY CERTIFICATE ..................................................................................................................................47

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1. Introduction
Thank you for acquiring the Vpad rotational viscometer model from Fungilab.
The Vpad is a rotational viscometer, based on the torque measurement of a rotating spindle in the sample at
a specified velocity. Three different models (type L, R and H), as well as various accessories, allow it to cover
a wide range of viscosity measurement.
2. Safety Instructions
It is not the purpose of this manual to outline all of the safety instructions recommended for the
use of the rotational viscometer, its accessories and samples. It is the responsibility of the user to
establish health and safety practices and to determine the application’s limits before use.
Fungilab guarantees the satisfactory operation of the viscometers and its accessories if there have
not been any unauthorized adjustments to the mechanical pieces, the electronic components and
the software.
The operator should follow all of the instructions and warnings and of this manual to ensure the
safe and proper operation of the equipment.
Do not use the equipment for any other purpose than those described in this manual.
Do not use any accessory that is not supplied or approved by Fungilab.
Do not use the viscometer or its accessories if there is any suspicion of malfunction. Do not use the
equipment in situations or conditions that can cause personal injuries or material damage.
The rotational viscometer is not flameproof or intrinsically safe (ATEX) instrument and therefore should not
be used in areas where there is an explosion risk.
Before using the viscometer, carefully read and observe the following precautions:
Not following the instructions may cause serious harm or personal injuries.
To avoid an electric shock:
Do not use the rotational viscometer without a solid connection to the ground. The socket by which
the viscometer will be connected should have a ground. Always use a power cable with a ground

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connection! Verify that the voltage and the frequency match with the specifications for the
viscometer. Before turning on the machine, let it sit for some time so that it acclimates to the
surrounding temperature in order to avoid a short-circuit caused by condensation. The fluctuations
of the power source should not surpass ±10 % of the nominal voltage
3. Safety Symbols and Precautions
Safety Symbols
The following symbols are used in this instruction manual:
This symbol warns us of an operational, practical, or similar procedure that, if it is not
carried out properly, may damage the equipment
This symbol indicates hazardous voltages may be present
Precautions
If this instrument is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection
provided by the instrument may be impaired
This instrument is not intended for use in a potentially hazardous environment
In case of emergency, turn off the instrument and then disconnect the electrical
cord from the wall outlet
The user should ensure that the substances placed under test do not release
poisonous, toxic or flammable gases at the temperatures which they are subjected to
during testing
4. Utilities
Input Voltage: Universal Power Supply (100-240V)
Input Frequency: 50 / 60 Hz
Power Consumption: 15 VA
Main supply voltage fluctuations are not to exceed ±10% of the nominal supply voltage

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5. Specifications
Speeds: 0.01 –250 RPM
Temperature Sensing Range: -40 °C to 300 °C (-40 °F to 572 °F)
USB A Port for use with temperature probe
Viscosity Accuracy: ±1.0 % of full scale range
The use of accessory items will have an effect on the measurement
accuracy
Viscosity Repeatability: ±0.2 % of full scale range
Temperature Accuracy: ±0.1 °C | -40 °C to 300 °C (-40 °F to 572 °F)
Operating Environment: +5 °C to 40 °C temperature range (41 °F to 104 °F)
Non condensing humidity
Electrical Certifications:
Conforms to CE Standards:
EN 61010: Safety requirements for electrical equipment, for measurement, control and
laboratory use
EN 61326-1: Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use
Notice to customers:
This symbol indicates that this product is to be recycled at an appropriate collection
center
6. Conditions for use
-Indoor use
-Maximum altitude 2000 m.
-Surrounding temperature range: from +5 to 40ºC.
-The equipment temperature must be kept above the dew point so moisture doesn't condense on or
in it. The power source fluctuations should not surpass 10% of the nominal voltage
-Installation category II
-Pollution level II
7. Maintenance
Always clean all of the parts after each use! Clean and dry the spindles and the spindle guard well.
Make sure that there is not any sample remaining, especially in the delicate zones such as the
spindle connector.
Use detergents or solvents to clean the spindles and the protector:
-For cleaning food samples, use lukewarm water and if necessary, use soft household
detergents

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-Other solvents that generally provide good results are acetone, gasoline, or any solvent
with a high percentage of alcohol
-For the use of any other solvent, make sure that it does not corrode the spindles or the
protector. The spindles are made in AISI 316.
.
Warning: Handle the volatile and flammable solvents with proper cautions. It is the user’s
responsibility to establish safety conditions at work.
Regularly check the spindle’s thread and the viscometer shaft.
During the viscometer’s lifespan, regular maintenance is important. As the manufacturer, we
advise annual check-ups by the technical service of your local distributor.
The viscometer is powered by a MEAN WELL GS25A12-P6J power supply. Do not open, expose,
modify or touch internal circuitry of the power supply.

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8. Equipment presentation
-Once the equipment package is received, check and confirm the delivery note. If some
discrepancy or problem is found, immediately notify the supplier.
-Verify that the viscometer model corresponds to the one that was
ordered.
-Carefully read the instruction manual.
-The manufacturer is not responsible for any damages that may result from
modifications or lack of maintenance of any of the machine’s mechanisms
(directive 89/655/CEE).
Fungilab recommends using the carry-case provided with the equipment for making any kind of
delivery. Please, keep the carry-case in a safe location. In case of transporting the equipment or
during long storage periods, always use the carry-case by placing each part as shown in the picture.
In the attached photograph (Figure 1) the position of each piece inside the equipment’s carry-case is
presented. In the case of incorrect packing, the pieces of equipment can suffer some damage; this
damage will not be covered by Fungilab’s guarantee.
Parts included with the equipment standard delivery:
-Viscometer head, with serial number label and a plastic or metal cap protecting the spindle
connector
-Foot or base with 3 height adjustable knobs
-Nut
-Fastening rod
-Standard spindles
-Spindle guard
-Spindle support
-Carrying case
-Calibration Certificate
-Temperature probe and clip
-Power cable
-MEAN WELL GS25A12-P6J power supply
Do not open the power supply due to electrical shock risk and there are not
serviceable parts inside. In case of suspecting that the power supply malfunctions
please contact FUNGILAB for assistance.
-USB-Memory containing the User Manual (PDF file)
-The USB-Memory might contain also the company catalogues.
-Android tablet to control de VPAD. The tablet model and specifications might vary without
prior notice.
It is mandatory to leave enough free space around the equipment ON/OFF switch,
needs to be reachable at any time, especially in case of an emergency or malfunction.
It is very important to treat the silkscreen printed logos carefully when cleaning the
equipment. Please use a soft cloth, with isopropyl alcohol (70%).

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Standard spindles
Model L: L1, L2, L3, L4
Models R and H: R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7
Fig 1. Viscometer in its carry-case