This is the type of query that comes in from customers to instrument
manufacturers on a frequent basis. It may go somewhat like the
following set of statements and questions.
We produce certain thickeners and thinning agents used by the
pharmaceutical industry in their formulation of creams and ointments.
We want to purchase a new viscometer (although our local dealer
suggests a rheometer). In our understanding, the rheometer can
perform the function of the viscometer (and more). A possible
downside may be the inability to match the standard industry protocol
for a specifc QC test method. Is this a correct statement in general
terms? If the rheometer is the better instrument, why cant it match the
standard industry test? Is there any other diference or disadvantage
to consider? Finally, please advise which model of rheometer with
accessories is most suitable for our application.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers generally fnd that rheometers ofer
several major benefts, in particular a broader range of test capabilities
compared to the standard bench top viscometer. (See Figure 1) If
that test capability can be combined with rugged construction of
instrument for use in QC, which lengthens the time interval between
service appointments, then the choice of a rheometer over a viscometer
may be more practical to consider. If cost is afordable, then the same
instrument may prove efective in both applications.
Rheometers, which operate in both controlled stress as well as
controlled rate modes of operation, provide a more general capability
for rheological evaluation of fow behavior. Controlled stress tests are
specifcally applicable to the direct measurement of yield stress and
creep. Yield stress characterizes the force needed to initiate fow of an
ointment; squeezing product out of a tube is a specifc example. Creep
testing measures the fow behavior under a constant force like gravity;
a lotions ability to hold position after application and not drip or run is
the type of situation that you evaluate with this test.
Both viscometer and rheometer can measure viscosity vs. shear rate and
viscosity vs. temperature. These are standard tests common to R&D and
QC. Once the characterization of additives used to thicken or thin has
been accomplished, R&D may specify a single shear rate for use in QC to
perform a pass/fail test.
R&D must always consider whether to have QC perform additional
tests like yield stress and creep for more complete characterization of
fnal product performance. Expanded test standards will eventually
come out from pharma industry organizations which identify these
additional methods and require the use of a rheometer to complete the
measurement. So considering a rheometer purchase in QC does have
some merit.
VISCOMETERS RHEOMETERS TEXTURE ANALYZERS POWDER FLOW TESTERS
ISO 9001 CERTIFIED
T: 800.628.8139 / 508.946.6200
[Link]
Figure 1: Brookfeld RST-CPS Rheometer
with Cone Spindle
Can Characterize Ointment Rheology
Viscometer vs. Rheometer:
Which is the Better Choice?
The spindle types traditionally found in QC may be the disc-type shown
in Figure 2. The rheometer user may recommend the cone spindle
shown on the instrument in Figure 1. This diference in spindle types
may account for the variance in viscosity values that result when
running identical tests for viscosity vs. rotational speed with rheometer
and viscometer. The shearing action imparted by each spindle running
at the same speed will be diferent. Therefore the viscosity values will
also be diferent. Therefore the viscosity
values will also be diferent.
Your decision on choice of rheometer vs. viscometer may ultimately be
determined by answers to questions like the following:
Is it important to have controlled windows for acceptable readings on
yield stress, viscosity, and creep? Are there environmental issues in the
multiple locations where the product is manufactured that could be
afecting these values?
Will this more comprehensive rheological analysis produce a more
consistent product?
Can I peroform this set of tests as easily and quickly as the standard
viscosity test?
Is there a measurable payback that justifes the investment?
While instrument manufacturers can give you lots of recommendations,
ask them to go a step further and provide them with a test sample for
evaluation. Study rheological data for a product that has performed
acceptably and data for a product that has failed. See if the rheology
data shows up the diference in measurement values to clearly single
out the failed product.
One fnal approach is to consult with associates or colleagues in other
companies to compare their experience with expanded test protocols.
If the additional work costs more than the gain in product quality,
then the decision is ovbious. However, if the improvement in product
performance can win new customers, then the added efort is certainly
worth the cost.
VISCOMETERS RHEOMETERS TEXTURE ANALYZERS POWDER FLOW TESTERS
ISO 9001 CERTIFIED
T: 800.628.8139 / 508.946.6200
[Link]
Figure 2: Brookfeld Disc-Type Spindle
Traditionally Used in QC Test
Author: Robert G. McGregor, General Manager Global Marketing
Brookfeld Engineering Laboratories, Inc. 11 Commerce Blvd., Middleboro, MA 02346
Tel: 1.508.946.6200 Fax: 1.508.946.6262
Email: r_mcgregor@[Link] Website: [Link]
