Accessories for MCR:
Ball Measuring System & Building Material Cell

Ball measuring system: Open the door to large-particle rheology

The ball measuring system (BMS) is designed to measure the flow properties of samples with large particles, such as many food samples (the typical particle size of such samples ranges between 1 mm and 10 mm). The measuring principle, developed by Müller-Thyrach*, is based on an eccentrically rotating ball (sphere) in a cup which avoids disturbing edges and undesired slipping or gliding. The ball is available in various diameters, enabling measurement of a large range of sample viscosities. Accurate temperature control of the sample is possible in a range between -10 °C to +70 °C. Due to outstanding motor control, a full flow and viscosity curve can be recorded in a single revolution of the measuring system. Integrated analysis of the flow field that is produced allows the online calculation of rheological parameters such as viscosity and shear rate.

Building material cell: Designed for quality control and product development

The building material cell (BMC) enables measurements of suspensions and paste-like materials with a particle size of up to 5 mm, such as building materials (cement, concrete, plaster), providing reliable information on processability, shelf life, and flowability. The exchangeable, robust, and easy-to-clean inset cage and special stirrer are resistant to abrasive materials, preventing sample slippage and providing improved mixing effects to avoid separation. All surfaces which are in contact with the sample are made of stainless steel. The required sample volume is significantly lower than that of the ball measuring system, and Peltier temperature control of the sample is possible in a range from 0 °C to 90 °C. For sophisticated rheological characterization, all typical test modes are available, including dynamic measurements in oscillation. 

Direct rheological characterization of real-life samples

A variety of real-life materials contain large particles by design. These particles can play an important role with regard to the mouthfeel of food products, the general flow properties, setting behavior, and the influence of additives in building materials. 
Typical examples include:

• Building materials (e.g., cement, concrete, plaster)
• Food products (e.g., marmalade with fruit pieces, meat sauce, rice pudding)
• Other coarse suspensions (e.g., slurries and sludges)

Read more about rheological investigations of building materials.