Falling-Ball Viscometer / Hoeppler manual

The classic falling-ball viscometer works according to the Hoeppler principle. It measures the time a ball takes to move through the sample liquid. To obtain viscosity values, a calibration with a viscosity reference standard and the sample's density are required. The Hoeppler principle defines a falling angle of 80°. A liquid bath thermostat is responsible for temperature control. The reading is done manually by the operator.

Physics

  • Measured quantity: Time
  • Calculated quantity (sample density required): Dynamic viscosity

Learn more about the Falling Ball Principle.

Performance

The measuring range of the falling-ball viscometer depends on the ball used. With all available balls a wide measuring range can be covered. The precision also depends on the ball used.

  • Viscosity measuring range - with 6 different balls: 0.5 mPa.s to 70,000 mPa.s
  • Accuracy: 0.5 % to 2.0 % depending on the ball used
  • Temperature measuring range: -60°C (-76°F) to 150°C (302°F)

Temperature control

Temperature control is done with a liquid bath thermostat.

Sample

  • Typical sample volume: 40 mL
  • Suitable for transparent samples.

Standards and Norms

DIN 53015, ISO 12058

Overview

Viscometer type Hoeppler Viscometer
Measuring principle Falling-Ball Viscometer
Manual
Hoeppler
Measured quantity time
Calculated quantity dynamic viscosity (density required)
Viscosity range - min 0.5 mPa.s
Viscosity range - max 70,000 mPa.s
Temperature - min -60°C
Temperature - max +150°C
Liquid bath thermostat required yes
Temperature change with same filling no
Automation possible no
Sample volume - typical 40 mL
Solvent volume - typical ---
Sample throughput - max / h 2
Measuring accuracy < 1 %
Shear rate control no
Shear rate calculation no
Lab space < 0.25 m²
Standards and norms DIN 53015, ISO 12058

We offer typical values which are based on the values in brochures and standards but are not related to specific instruments.