Overview

Geometry Application Advantage Disadvantage

Cone/plate fluids, melts true viscosities temperature ramp

viscosity > 10mPas difficult

Parallel Plate fluids, melts easy handling, shear gradient across

viscosity > 10mPas temperature ramp sample

Couette low viscosity samples high shear rate large sample volume
< 10 mPas

Double Wall Couette very low viscosity high shear rate cleaning difficult
samples < 1mPas

Torsion Rectangular solid polymers, glassy to rubbery state Limited by sample

composites stiffness
Choosing a Geometry Size

Assess the viscosity of your sample.

When a variety of cones and plates are available, select
diameter appropriate for viscosity of sample

Low viscosity (milk)- 60mm geometry

Medium viscosity (honey)- 40mm geometry

High viscosity (caramel)- 20mm geometry
Examine data in terms of absolute instrument variables
[torque/speed/displacement] and modify geometry
choice to move into optimum working range.
You may need to reconsider your selection after the
first run!
Plate Gaps and Diameters

Shear Stress

20mm

40mm

60mm

Decreases
Gap 0
Increases
Shear Rate Infinity
Cone Angles and Diameters

Shear Stress

20mm

40mm

60mm

Decreases
Angle 0
Increases
Shear Rate Infinity