RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH

Operation manual
DSR Bitumen Rheometer
measuring place RHEOTEST RN 4.3

All rights reserved, the translation included.

Any part of this Operation Manual cannot be reproduced in any form (as printed matter, photocopies,
microfilms or in any other form) or processed, copied or disseminated using electronic system without written
consent of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH. lt does not concern the exceptional cases that are clearly listed
in UrhG 53, 54.
The RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH bears no responsibility for any technical or print technical errors or
incomplete information in this Operation Manual.
We reserve the right to change this Operation Manual without previous announcement.
The reproduction of users' names, trade names, trade marks and so on in this Operation Manual does not
create the necessary prerequisites for their use by anybody; frequently it is a question of protected by law
registered trade marks, even if they are not marked as such.
Printed in Germany
Copyright by
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Rdertalstrae 1
Medingen
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla (Germany)
RHEOTEST, HPPLER and RN, RN4.1, RN 4.3, RN 5.1, RN 5.3 are the trade
marks of the RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
All rights reserved
Revision 01/2015

Contact
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
OT Medingen
Rdertalstrasse 1
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla
Germany
Telefon: +49 35205 58-180
Fax:
+49 35205 58-297
E-Mail: info@rheotest.de
www.rheotest.de

Contents
1
2
3
4
5

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................7
Safety Instructions .......................................................................................................................................7
Scope of Supply...........................................................................................................................................8
Unpacking and Checking.............................................................................................................................8
Technical manual.........................................................................................................................................9
5.1
Technical specifications ......................................................................................................................9
5.2
Rheometer basic instrument (figure 1)..............................................................................................10
5.3
Control unit (figure 3) ........................................................................................................................11
6
Startup .......................................................................................................................................................15
7
Test preparation.........................................................................................................................................16
8
Software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager......................................................................................................18
8.1
System requirements ........................................................................................................................18
8.2
Installation of the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager ................................................................18
8.2.1 Installation of USB-COM-Converter..............................................................................................18
8.2.2 Login .............................................................................................................................................18
8.2.3 Set up the serial interfaces ...........................................................................................................19
8.3
Software concept and structure ........................................................................................................21
8.3.1 Job ....................................................................................................................................................22
8.3.2 Sample..............................................................................................................................................22
8.3.1 Method ..............................................................................................................................................23
8.4 User surface.............................................................................................................................................23
8.4.1 Inlays.................................................................................................................................................24
8.4.2 Tree for jobs, samples and methods ................................................................................................24
8.4.3 Help system ......................................................................................................................................25
8.5 Job............................................................................................................................................................25
8.5.1 Definition ...........................................................................................................................................26
8.5.2 Settings .............................................................................................................................................27
8.5.3 Sample..............................................................................................................................................28
8.5.4 Actions ..............................................................................................................................................28
8.5.5 Information ........................................................................................................................................29
8.5.6 Main Menu Job .................................................................................................................................30
8.5.6.1 New Job.....................................................................................................................................30
8.5.6.2 Copy Job ...................................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.3 Insert Job...................................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.4 Delete Job .................................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.5 Samples -> New ........................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.6 Samples -> Copy.......................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.7 Samples-> Insert .......................................................................................................................31
8.5.6.8 Samples -> Delete.....................................................................................................................32
8.5.6.9 Table Settings -> show ..........................................................................................................32
8.5.6.10 Table Settings -> copy.............................................................................................................32
8.5.6.11 Table Settings -> Insert ...........................................................................................................32
8.5.6.12 Diagram Settings -> Show...................................................................................................32
8.5.6.13 Diagram Settings -> Copy .......................................................................................................32
8.5.6.14 Diagram Settings -> Insert ......................................................................................................32
8.5.6.15 Report Settings -> Show......................................................................................................32
8.5.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy ..........................................................................................................33
8.5.6.17 Report Settings -> Insert .........................................................................................................33
8.5.6.18 Unit settings -> Show...........................................................................................................33
8.5.6.19 Unit settings -> Copy ...............................................................................................................33
8.5.6.20 Unit settings -> Insert ..............................................................................................................33
8.5.6.21 Methods for Change................................................................................................................33
8.5.6.22 Export / Import -> Export Job ..................................................................................................33
8.5.6.23 Export / Import -> Import Job ..................................................................................................34
8.5.6.24 Export / Import -> Export Jobgroup .........................................................................................34
8.5.6.25 Export / Import -> Import Jobgroup .........................................................................................34
8.5.6.26 Explorer for transfer directory..................................................................................................34
8.6 Table ........................................................................................................................................................34
8.6.1 Table Display ....................................................................................................................................34
3

8.6.2 Main Menu Table ..............................................................................................................................35

8.6.2.1 Table Settings -> Show..........................................................................................................35
8.6.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy..............................................................................................................35
8.6.2.3 Table Settings -> Insert .............................................................................................................35
8.6.2.4 Copy to clipboard ......................................................................................................................35
8.6.3 Table Settings ...................................................................................................................................35
8.6.3.1 Table..........................................................................................................................................35
8.6.3.2 Tests..........................................................................................................................................36
8.6.3.4 Printing ......................................................................................................................................36
8.7 Diagram....................................................................................................................................................37
8.7.1 Diagram Display ...............................................................................................................................37
8.7.2 Main Menu Diagram .........................................................................................................................37
8.7.2.1 Diagram Settings -> Show .....................................................................................................37
8.7.2.2 Diagram Settings -> Copy .........................................................................................................37
8.7.2.3 Diagram Settings -> Insert.........................................................................................................37
8.7.2.4 Copy to clipboard ......................................................................................................................37
8.7.2.5 Settings......................................................................................................................................38
8.7.2.5.1 Axes ...................................................................................................................................38
8.7.2.5.2 Grid ....................................................................................................................................40
8.7.2.5.3 Tests ..................................................................................................................................40
8.7.2.5.4 Head...................................................................................................................................40
8.7.2.5.5 Collection ...........................................................................................................................41
8.7.2.5.6 Printing ...............................................................................................................................42
8.8 Report.......................................................................................................................................................42
8.8.1 Report Display ..................................................................................................................................42
8.8.2 Main Menu Report ............................................................................................................................43
8.8.2.1 Report Settings -> Show........................................................................................................43
8.8.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy ............................................................................................................43
8.8.2.3 Report Settings -> Insert ...........................................................................................................43
8.8.2.4 Copy to clipboard ......................................................................................................................43
8.8.2.5 Settings......................................................................................................................................43
8.8.2.5.1 Report ................................................................................................................................43
8.8.2.5.2 Head...................................................................................................................................44
8.8.2.5.3 Printing ...............................................................................................................................45
8.9 Method .....................................................................................................................................................45
8.9.1 Definition ...........................................................................................................................................45
8.9.2 Settings .............................................................................................................................................47
8.9.3 Test-Table.........................................................................................................................................47
8.9.4 Test-Diagram ....................................................................................................................................48
8.9.5 Methods- Individual test....................................................................................................................49
8.9.6 Parameter-Settings...........................................................................................................................50
8.9.7 Unit settings ......................................................................................................................................51
8.9.8 Main menu Method ...........................................................................................................................52
8.9.8.1 New method ..............................................................................................................................52
8.9.8.2 Copy Method .............................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.3 Insert Method.............................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.4 Delete Method ...........................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.5 Test -> Show..........................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.6 Test -> Copy..............................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.7 Test -> Insert .............................................................................................................................53
8.9.8.8 Test -> Delete............................................................................................................................54
8.9.8.9 Parameter -> Show................................................................................................................54
8.9.8.10 Parameter -> Copy ..................................................................................................................54
8.9.8.11 Parameter -> Insert .................................................................................................................54
8.9.8.12 Unit settings -> Show...........................................................................................................54
8.9.8.13 Unit settings -> Copy ...............................................................................................................54
8.9.8.14 Unit Settings -> Insert..............................................................................................................54
8.9.8.15 Copy table of tests to clipboard ...............................................................................................54
8.9.8.16 Copy diagrams of tests to clipboard ........................................................................................54
8.9.8.17 Export / Import -> Export Method ............................................................................................55
8.9.8.18 Export / Import -> Import Method ............................................................................................55
8.9.8.19 Export / Import -> Export method group..................................................................................55
4

8.9.8.20 Export / Import -> Import method group ..................................................................................55

8.9.8.21 Explorer for transfer directory..................................................................................................55
8.10 Settings ..................................................................................................................................................55
8.10.1 Measuring Systems ........................................................................................................................55
8.10.1.1 Main Menu edit ........................................................................................................................56
8.10.1.1.1 Edit -> New Systems........................................................................................................56
8.10.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy system.........................................................................................................57
8.10.1.1.3 Edit -> Insert System........................................................................................................57
8.10.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System ......................................................................................................57
8.10.1.1.5 Edit -> upwards ................................................................................................................57
8.10.1.1.6 Edit -> Downwards...........................................................................................................57
8.10.1.2 Main Menu Calculation............................................................................................................57
8.10.1.2.1 Calculation -> Constant Tau ............................................................................................57
8.10.1.2.2 Calculation -> Constant D ................................................................................................58
8.10.2 General Settings .............................................................................................................................58
8.10.3 User Settings ..................................................................................................................................61
8.10.4 Communication Settings.................................................................................................................63
8.10.5 Pt100 Calibration ............................................................................................................................67
8.10.6 Inertia Calibration............................................................................................................................67
8.10.7 Rotary Calibration ...........................................................................................................................67
8.10.8 Oscillation Calibration .....................................................................................................................67
8.11 Main Menu File.......................................................................................................................................67
8.11.1 Setup page......................................................................................................................................67
8.11.2 Page Preview..................................................................................................................................67
8.11.3 End..................................................................................................................................................76
9. Appendix.........................................................................................................................................................77
9.1 Bitumenwizard..........................................................................................................................................77
9.1.1 General Information .........................................................................................................................77
9.1.2 Sample Preparation ..........................................................................................................................77
9.1.3 Bitumen Tests ...................................................................................................................................78
9.1.3.1 Start up of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) ..........................................................................78
9.1.3.2 Gap adjustment .........................................................................................................................78
9.1.3.3 Available Jobs ..........................................................................................................................79
9.1.3.4 Measurement...........................................................................................................................80
9.1.3.4.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCRTest according to AL FGSL...............................................................................................................80
9.1.3.4.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175,
AASHTO T 315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T
350-14, AASHTO M 332-14 ..............................................................................................................81
9.1.4 Trimming the bitumen sample ..........................................................................................................83
9.2 Tests.........................................................................................................................................................84
9.3 Result .......................................................................................................................................................84
9.4 Analysis ....................................................................................................................................................86
9.5 Heading data............................................................................................................................................88
9.6 Quick access............................................................................................................................................88
9.7 Calibration of measuring systems............................................................................................................91
9.8 Peltier tempering ......................................................................................................................................91
9.8.1 Typical behavior................................................................................................................................91
9.8.1.1 Heating ......................................................................................................................................91
9.8.1.2 Keeping temperature constant ..................................................................................................92
9.8.1.3 Cooling ......................................................................................................................................92
9.8.1.4 Set value....................................................................................................................................92
9.8.2 Control by software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager............................................................................92
9.8.2 Control by software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager............................................................................93
9.8.2.1 Menu operation (lower control level) .........................................................................................93
9.8.2.2 Standard temperature ...............................................................................................................93
9.8.2.3 Ambient temperature.................................................................................................................93
9.8.2.4 Max. Set temperature................................................................................................................93
9.8.2.5 Alarm temperature.....................................................................................................................93
9.8.2.6 Language...................................................................................................................................93
9.8.2.7 Service.......................................................................................................................................93
5

9.8.3 Menu overview Peltier tempering .....................................................................................................94

9.9 Error messages........................................................................................................................................95
9.9.1 Error messages software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager...................................................................95
9.9.2 Incorrect display software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager..................................................................95
9.9.3 Error messages Peltier control .........................................................................................................95
9.10 Maintenance and Service.......................................................................................................................97

Introduction

Quality problems during construction of roads in the whole world as well as qualitatively new bitumen mixtures
require also new, rheological justified measuring methods. Using a DSR-Rheometer is prescribed in different
binding standards.
DSR Bitumen Rheometer RHEOTEST RN 4.3 including Software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager completely
meets requirements to the DSR-Rheometer stated in following binding standards:
DIN EN 14770,
ASTM D7175-08, ASTM D 4402 / D4402 M, ASTM D7405-10a,
AASHTO T350-14, AASHTO M332-14, AASHTO T315-12, AASHTO M320-10
Contact:
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Medingen
Rdertalstr. 1
01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla
Phone: +49 (035205)-58 0
Fax: +49 (035205)-58 297
www.rheotest.de
info@rheotest.de

Safety Instructions
-

Read the Operation Manual before starting operation!

Take care to ensure a stable and reliable standing of the instrument, because, in the case the instrument
might fall from a table, it would be seriously damaged.
Never install the instrument in places, where it might be affected by occasional spills of liquids (e.g.
water).
Ensure sufficient distance to flammable of highly flammable items!
Do not adjust or cover the fan, the air supply and discharge must be guaranteed!
Unplug the power cord before opening the device!
Connect the device to the voltage specified on the nameplate.
The built-in gas spring must not heated, nor be opened!
In order to ensure safety, the instrument is equipped with the 3-pole plug of protective design, that
matches only mains plugs with grounded contact. This kind of connection must be obligatory. The
instrument corresponds to the protection class 1.
Repairs may only be carried out by authorized persons. Only original parts are to be used!

Take into consideration that, depending on the temperature set value, some parts of the casing of the
measuring plate are heated partially to a high temperature. It might result in burns in case of a contact.
Therefore it is recommended to put on heat-insulating gloves during operating, especially during
applying of investigated material on the plate and replacement of the measuring system.

The measuring system must only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid. The level of liquid
can be read at the coolant inlet (see (7)). During operation, the coolant inlet should be filled to lower edge
of of screwing-on cap threading. The device must be switched off if there are any leaks!

The measuring system consists of the stainless steel brands 1.4305, 1.4057. The material of sealings
(cylinder measuring systems) consists of Fluorine rubber (FKM) with trading designation VITON. For
special cases it is possible to request the use of other sealing materials.

Attention!
The instrument should not be put into service in case of considerable external damages or heavy
noise during operation.

Scope of Supply
The DSR Rheometer measuring place RHEOTEST RN 4.3 consists of:
-

basic instrument Rheometer RHEOTEST RN 4.1 (measuring head, stand, control unit);
plate-plate-measuring system, peltier temperated consists of:
peltier control unit RHEOTEST PP 4.1
peltier temperated basic plate, adapter, basic plate support, exchange grip,
exchangeable plate ( 25mm);
measuring plate P3 ( 25mm);
measuring plate P4 ( 8mm);
set of trimming tools (1 spatula, 1 stripper gripper);
CD with software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager for CR-, CS-, OSC-Tests (by concrete order) and/or
modul for temperature control;
2 main supply cable for Rheometer control unit and Peltier control unit
interface cable (Rheometer PC);
USB-Adapter incl. extension cable (Rheometer PC);
interface cable (tempering system PC);
USB-Adapter incl. extension cable (Tempering system PC);
packaging;
user manual (Rheometer and Peltier heating);
set of rubber moulds (has to be ordered separately);
calibration kit (has to be ordered separately);
PC and accessories (have to be ordered separately);

Unpacking and Checking

After removing the device and accessories of packaging, please check their completeness according to the
attached delivery note.
In case of any transport damage, the carrier and RHEOTEST must be notified and receive a damage report.

Technical manual

5.1

Technical specifications

Rheometer
torque
torque resolution
speed range
speed resolution
angle range
angle resolution
frequency
temperature range
supply voltage
electrical performance maximum

0,1 to 150 mNm

0,002 mNm
0 to 1000 rpm
0,015 rpm
-50 ... 300
0,001
0,001 ... 10 Hz
-60... +200 (rotor) / -30... +375 (cone/plate)
230 V 10%; 49... 61 Hz
110 V 10%; 49... 61 Hz
660 W

Note: The power supply must be protected with a maximum of 10 A!

weight (netto)
basic instrument
control unit
cable
peltier control unit
plate/plate measuring system

13,5 kg
9,6 kg
0,5 kg
11,5 kg
3,7 kg

Peltier
temperature maximum
temperature minimum
temperature accuracy
interface
dimensions Peltier control unit (W x D x H)
dimensions basic plate (W x H)
length cable

150C
-10C
0,1 K in the range of -10C to 150C
RS 232 or USB 2.0
180 mm x 300 mm x 460 mm
110 mm x 110 mm
approx. 2 m

5.2 Rheometer basic instrument (figure 1)

The rheometer consists of a measuring drive (1), which is fastened by means of the knurled screw (2) on the
stand. The test drive is equipped with a quick coupling (3) for measuring systems like rotors, cones or plates.
With this quick coupling measurement systems can be changed quickly and easily.
measuring cup for cylinder measuring systems and adapter flanges for cone and plate measuring systems.
The coupling of the measuring cup or adapter is performed by rotating the ball handle (5).
For measuring of samples, a peltier temperated basic plate (7) including locked exchangeable plate is used.
The basic plate (7) lies on the basic plate support (11), which is fixed on the basic plate guide (12) with a
knurled screw (8). The basic plate guide is fixed by a knurled screw (9) at the guidance rod of the stand.
The resilient spring pins (10) are for the correct positioning of the basic plate and locking of the whole
measuring system. To check the gap between measuring plate and basic plate, a microindicator (13) is used.
The basic plate, can be moved upward and downward with the micrometer screw (14).
The stand (15) allows a stepless adjustment of the working height of the measuring drive.

measuring drive

knurled screw
quick connecting coupling
coupling
ball handle
adapter
basic plate
knurled screw
knurled screw
spring pin
basic plate support
basic plate guide
microindicator
micrometer screw
stand

Figure 1 Basic instrument

10

System of exchangeable measuring plate

In road laboratory daily large numbers of samples need to be measured. Therefore a special plate system for
quick replacement was constructed. As a result, much working time for sample preparation and cleaning can
be saved.
For the DSR Rheometer measuring place RHEOTEST RN 4.3 an exchangeable plate with a diameter of 25
mm belongs to the scope of supply. The whole system of exchangeable measuring plate pictured in figure 2
and consists of basic plate support (1), exchange grip (3) and a exchangeable measuring plate (2). More
exchangeable measuring plates are available upon request.
To decouple the exvchangeable plate, place the exchange grip perpendicularly to the exchangeable plate on
the holder (small cuboid at the edge), see figure 2, picture 2. Thereby push the opening at the front of the
exchange grip into the holder so that the pin at the end of the grip points towards the exchangeable plate.
Than, pull the exchange grip in the direction of the user.
Then, the exchange grip can be rotated away from the exchangeable plate. When the exchange grip is placed
in a horizontal position, the grip is pushed to the right and the exchangeable plate is unlocked. Subsequently
the exchangeable plate can be removed upwards.
Note: The the grip an the exchangeable plate should not be rotated 180, both can get in touch to the hand
and cause burns.
For locking the exchangeable plate, set up the plate centric on the holder and firmly twist clockwise. Then the
grip may again turned upwards, and be pushed forward slightly for removing.

Figure 2 System of exchangeable measuring plate

5.3

Control unit (figure 3)

The on/off switch (1) is located at the front panel of the instrument. At the backside are located: interface
Pt100 (2), interface RS 232 for PC (3), both pin-plugs for Rheometer (4) and mains supply (5).

11

Figure 3 Control unit

Peltier control unit (figure 4)

The Peltier temperature control consists of two single devices: a peltier temperated basic plate and peltier
control unit RHEOTEST PP 4.1. Both devices are connected with electric cables and flexible tubes for
cooling medium.
The control unit assures power necessary for temperature control. It operates on the basis of a microprocessor. The micro-processor fulfils all tasks connected with regulation, safety control and software
communication. The software permits control of temperature changes in jump and in ramp.
The device can be active heating and cooling.
In figure 4 the peltier unit is pictured. At the front panel a
100,00
Ist:
65,21
LC-Display (1) is located,
which displays following
MAN
START
65,2 %
parameters:
Set temperature (top left);
Actual temperature (top right);
Operation mode (down left):
MAN = manual operation, REM = Remote, control via (PC); status indication (down center):
START = tempering, STOP = Peltier is switched off; actual tempering performance % (down right).
Manual setting of temperature by pressing the control buttons (2.) The LED-ight (4) displays errors. The
iluminating of the LED-light (5) stands for heating mode, the iluminating of the LED-light (6) cooling mode. At
the front panel of peltier control unit, the coolant expansion tank is located (7). On the top of the tank is the
coolant supply (3) for filling the bath liquid.
The on/off switch (8) is located down.
At the back side are following interfaces and connectors: interface for PC (9), connectors RS 232/USB (10)
and Pt100 (11) for connection with basic plate, mains supply (12) and hose connectors to the basic plate (13).

12

Figure 4 Total view of Peltier control unit

Handling Peltier control unit

Control of the control unit is carried out with the help of four keys. Control structure is divided into two levels,
i.e. each key has two functions. After switching on the device is on the upper control level; press and hold of
the key STOP no less than three seconds invoke a jump to the lower control level. Return to the upper control
level is fulfilled by pressing MENU key. The upper control level comprises commands UP, DOWN, START
and STOP:
UP = increasing of set temperature;
DOWN = decreasing of set temperature;
START = starting control, for safety reasons, this button must be pressed for at least 3 seconds, the
display of operation mode changes from STOP to START;
STOP = finishing control or switching into upper control level if button is pressed for at least 3 seconds; in this
control level the set temperature can be setted as well as start and stop control process (heating ON or OFF).
Change of a set value with the help of UP and DOWN keys:
Change begins always in decimal digit of a set value. Cursor jumps to the next higher digit (for example to the
unit digit or tens digit) in case of more long hold of key UP or DOWN. Approximately in 3 s cursor
automatically returns to the smallest digit. Entry must not be confirmed. The last entry is used.
The low control level comprises functions NEXT, ESC, ENTER and MENU. One operates at this level with
setups concerning parameters of control, communication and service functions.
NEXT

One could scroll in the selected choice with the help of this key. It means in menu (see Appendix 1)
one step downward. Jump to the beginning is fulfilled at the end of the choice.

ESC

It means in menu (see Appendix 1) one level (step) to the left or to the end left to the beginning.
Entry of data on display does not fulfil/ confirm.

ENTER

It means in menu (see Appendix 1) one level (step) to the right, one choice is selected or fulfilled.
It is activated, as well as confirmed digits input in the choice where this value could be set up.

MENU

It accomplishes return to the high control level.

13

Input of digital values:

Input of digits is possible only in case that entry option designated with an arrow () has been selected in
menu.
Then by means of repeated press of NEXT key digits 1, 2, 3, ..., 9, 0, decimal point and minus sign are
displayed. It is necessary to press ENTER key to confirm selected digit or sign.
After that one inputs the next digit in the same way. The whole number and the end of input are confirmed by
double press of ENTER key.
Special key combinations while switching on
The following keys combinations must be press and hold during device switching on till the first page appears:
DOWN + START

Memory reset to default values:

Language: German
Password: 111
Printer interface: 9600 baud; without parity; 8 bit; 1 stop bit;
X-ON/X-OFF protocol

Note: Using this key combination, the device can be restarted from memory data even after a possible loss.
UP + DOWN

It displays software version number and temperature inside instrument

Note: The peltier control unit may only be operated with a sufficient amount of cooling liquid. The level of the
liquid can be read in the coolant expansion tank (7). During operation, the coolant inlet should be filled
to at least 50%.

Filling the bath fluid (coolant)

For a new installation or even after prolonged operation of device, it may be necessary to replenish the liquid:
1. connect peltier temperated basic plate with peltier control unit (connect peltier control unit to network, but
still not switch on)
2. Unscrewing of the lid of cooling supply
3. filling with distilled water (or supplied fluid) until to lower edge of lids winding
4. switch on the peltier control unit, the fluid is sucked immediately and must be replenished continuously as
long until the level remains constant at lower edge of lids winding (ca. 1 l).
Possibly tilt the peltier control unit forward to let the air out from coolant hoses.
5. Furthermore, we recommend the addition of a water protection to distilled water (concentrate to prevent
algae and mould growth).

14

Startup

Installation and connection

Choose a location that fills the following criteria:
- safe position for basic instrument Rheometer (measuring head, stand, control unit and cable 1,5 m)
- do not cover the ventilation holes on the backside of the control unit
- connection between PC and control unit: data cable ca. 2m length
- position the peltier control unit on another surface to avoid vibrations
The working environment of the measuring place should not be extremely hot, cold or clammy. We
recommend working at normal room temperature. Please avoid conditions and rooms where temperature and
humidity are extremely changing.
Always protect the device (complete measuring place) from:
- dirt and dust
- direct sunlight
- heat emitting objects (e.g. heaters)
- objects with high electromagnetic field (e.g. loudspeaker, motor)
- fluids and corrosive chemicals
Connection
-

Connect measuring head with control unit;

Connect control unit with PC (use the cable labeled RN)
Connect peltier control unit with PC;
Connect two flexible tubes for cooling medium with temperated basic plate and peltier control unit;
Connect RS 232 and Pt 100;
Connect power supply cable.

PC-Connections
For a PC with serial interfaces the compounds via a serial data cable according to the standard RS232 are to be
produced. The necessary cables are included.
For a PC with USB interfaces on the included USB adapter is connected to the USB port of the PC. The connection
from the USB adapter to the controller or thermostat is made with the supplied serial data cables.
If it does not fit into the USB port of the USB adapter, because it is too large, the included USB extension cable can
also be used.

To connect peltier control unit with PC please use the cable labeled Peltier.

15

Test preparation

See figure 1
1.

Before the first use, fix the temperature controlled basic plate support (11) by knurled screw (8) (at the
backside) at the basic plate guide (12) . The basic plate support (11) has to lie on the left and right
stopper.

2.

Clean the measuring cone and the basic plate with appropriate solvent and dry them.

3.

Insert basic plate (7) into the basic plate support (11) in the following manner: insert the basic plate (7)
(thermostat branch pipes look forward) into the basic plate support, turn 90 (thermostat branch pipes
look left) and put it onto the joint spring pins (10).

4.

Close the opening of adapter (6) by keep turning the window Square (opposite the stainless steel
base) until the opening if the ring window is closed. Turn the closed opening in direction of stand (15)
and place the adapter on the upper ring of basic plate (7). In showing to the left ball handle (5),
push the basic plate guide (12) uncl. Basic plate and adapter up. Lock it by turning the ball handle (5)
into to the right direction.
Thereafter, the opening of the adapter can be rotated by hand to the front, as shown on fig. 5.

Figure 5 Adapter
5.

Again move down the measurement plate guide without the adapter (6).

6.

Couple cone with measuring drive - to do this, lift the bushing of the quick connecting coupling (3) ,
insert the ball head of the cone into the cone opening of the quick connecting coupling and pull down
the bushing.

7.

Set the basic plate (7) into its lower position, turning the micrometer screw (14) left.

8.
9a.

Lift the plate guide on rails (15) until it stops at the adapter.
Fix measuring head (1) with the help of knurled screw (2). Then press the plate guide up to the adapter
(6) to ensure that joint spring pins (10) are imbedded into the plate support (11) (displacement about 3
mm) and fix by the knurled-head screw (9) or:

9b.

Fix the basic plate (7) by the knurled screw (9). Put down the whole measuring head (1) until the joint
spring pins (10) are imbedded (displacement about 3 mm) and fix by the knurled screw (2).

10.

Adjusting gap between cone (or plate) and basic plate: The microindicator (13) serves to control plate
feed value in m range. (13). In this case it is necessary to ease off clamp screw on micro-indicator
shaft, to lift indicator along longitudinal axis in order to use measuring range completely.
Move the basic plate (7) by micrometer screw (14) carefully upwards (turning right), until basic plate
will nearly touch the cone (or plate).

The gap has to be set only for completely thermostated measuring device, because the gap can
change (thermal expansion). In the case of large temperature changes (thermal expansions), the cone,
plate or measuring shaft bearings might be destroyed.

16

Note: The touch of cone (or plate) and basic plate can not be felt at the micrometer screw (14), but only to
existing torque on the cone/plate. The cone (or plate) does not longer rotate freely.
Set the display of microindicator (13) by turning the outer ring to zero. The specified distance is set by turning
the micrometer screw (14) counterclockwise (to the left). In order to take out backlash, first lower too much
about 10 m and then adjust the precise gap by rotating clockwise (to the right).
In the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager, the value for the trimming distance (e.g.: 0.05 mm) is
predetermined. This has to be in addition to the gap ("window adjust distance: distance: 1.05 mm") set.

Note: The gap is to be checked after every 10th measurement or once a day.
9.

Unlock knurled screw (9) and move basic plate support upwards (11).

10.

Place the sample centric on the basic plate. All bitumen samples have to extracted according to
DIN EN and prepared according to DIN EN 12594. We recommend tu use the rubber moulds for sample
preparation including in scope of supply).

11.

Run the measuring head (1) and the basic plate (7) together again, for it carry out steps 8 and 9a or 9b.

Note: The gap must be completely filled.

12.

The sample has to be be trimmed with a spatula or a trimming tool - the excess material to be
measured removed. For trimming start job preparation_trimming in the software RHEOTEST RN 4
Manager. After finishing the job, please trimm the sample.
The sample may optionally be trimmed with a spatula or trimming tool. The trimming tool is used, as
shown on the Fig.6. Lay the stripper gripper flat on the basic plate. The inward facing ends are applied
to the measuring plate. By simultaneously pressing the brackets and pulling forward the tool, the excess
material is removed.
To ensure all-sided trimming of the sample, the opening of the adapter can be rotated forward (see fig.
6). After trimming, the window is to turn back again to make ready for measurement. After trimming, the
opening has to be turned back again to make ready for measurement.

Figure 6 Trimming of the sample with a trimming tool

15.

After sufficient temperature, the measurement can be performed.

16.

After measurements are finished, move down the basic plate (7) with coupling bushing in upper position
(the measuring cone (or plate) remains "stick" on the basic plate (7), pull the measuring cone forward,
clean the basic plate (7) and the cone.
Subsequently, new sample is applied and after the cone (or plate) was hitched again, a new
measurement can be started.

17

Software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager

8.1 System requirements

For installation and working with the software, the following requirements have to be met:
- computer operating system Windows XP SP3, Windows 7 or above
- Microsoft.NET Framework 3.5 or above (normally included in computer operating system)
- processor: at least Pentium 4 or matchable, frequency of 1,7GHz or above
- working storage at least 1 Gbyte
- free memory space on harddisk of 10 MB
- 1 CD-ROM device
- 2 COM or USB interfaces for rheometer and thermostat / cryostat
- option printer port with printer

8.2 Installation of the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager

The software package is included in the CD and is installed under Windows.
Note: The software installation should be performed with administrator rights.
- Insert installation CD into free disk drive;
- in Windows start menu Run disk drive:setup OK or select drive with explorer and start file SETUP.EXE;
- Carry out further installation according to directions;
- By default, the RHEOTEST RN is 4 Manager installed in C: \ RHEOTEST \ RN Manager, may be able
to access violations when using other file folders occur;
- Starting the program in the Windows Start menu, select Programs RHEOTEST RN4 or from the desktop or
start menu.
T

8.2.1 Installation of USB-COM-Converter

If the PC system has in place the required COM ports only USB ports available, an installation with
administrator rights is required (refer to the User Guide USB converter).
8.2.2

Login

To be able to login the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager, different logins with appropriate access rights
available:
user name
Operator
Engineer

password
none
engineer

Administrator

rheotest

rights
execution of tests and access to created jobs and methods
additional to operator, additional set up of communication and creating
of jobs and methods
additional to engineer, additional configuration of measuring systems,
creating of new measuring systems as well as change the system
language

18

8.2.3

Set up the serial interfaces

switch on all devices;

start the program and login: user: Engineer; password engineer.
Select and set up the interfaces for rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4.1 as well as optional for temperature control
in men set up communication set up... .
RHEOTEST RN 4.1:
activate tab RN:
It is not necessary to make any adjustments to the communication parameters for the rheometer
RHEOTESTRN 4.1 .
Those parameters already are specified for the rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4.1:
Baud-rate:
Data bits:
Parity:
Stop bits:

57600
8
0
1

Setting of Com-Port
1. click Check Port" all available PC interfaces are added to the selection list.
2. Select the interface on which RHEOTESTRN 4.1 is connected.
3. click Init Port" the interface is initialized, that means the hardware receives the
communication parameters.
4. click INIT send" now, a communication to Rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4.1 is established
by sending a special code (send).
5. Typical, the Rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4.1 responds with a special code (receive). If this
code appears, the communication is correctly installed and configured. The user can start
measurements now.
6. If no code appears but an error message, then the communication is not correct. Please
check the cable connections as well the Rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4.1. The following
issues should be reviewed:
selected COM-Port is wrong
RHEOTESTRN 4.1 is not switched on
wrong type of cable
defective cable
(COM USB converter not installed correctly)
defective COM-Port of PC, possibly test on another computer
If communication has once been working correctly, after re-starting the software again no settings are
necessary (if the configuration has not changed).
Integration of a temperature control system for temperature control:
Activate in menu Communication settings the tab Temperature-controller
For the peltier system PP no settings of communication are necessary. All parameters are specified:
Baudrate:
9600
Data bits:
8
Parity:
0
Stop bits:
1

19

Setting of Com-Port
1. Click Check Port all available PC interfaces are added to the selection list.
2. Select the interface on which the peltier control unit is connected.
3. Click Init Port - the interface is initialized, that means the hardware receives the
communication parameters.
4. Select type of temperature control and click Load Types.
5. Now, in the tab Temperature a communication to peltier control unit can be started:
cur. Temp. [C]: by click Read the actual temperature is displayed
settemp. [C]: setting of a target temperature
click Set: send the signal to peltier control unit
click Read: displaying the actual temperature
The peltier control unit as well the temperature control can be started now. Additional,
temperature ramps are possible.
If an error message appears, the following issues should be reviewed:
selected COM-Port is wrong
RHEOTESTRN 4.1 is not switched on
wrong type of cable
defective cable
(COM USB converter not installed correctly)
defective COM-Port of PC, possibly test on another computer
If communication has once been working correctly, after re-starting the software again no settings are
necessary (if the configuration has not changed).
Other types of temperature control systems:
Select controller type, transfer parameters and serial interface for temperature control system. (Before start,
you have to know the transfer parameters of controller type (please see manual or configuration of device).
Note USB interface: Even by using an USB interface, a serial interface must be selected. After installation of
the USB driver serial interfaces are provided in the WINDOWS system. Those serial interfaces can be
determined and checked in WINDOWS system control after installation of the driver software.
During the installation of the USB driver default parameters are setted. If the communication is unstable by
using a USB interface, we recommend to set the parameter waiting time [ms] to 4. (Advanced Connection
Settings).
Exit the program, all settings are saved.

20

8.3 Software concept and structure

Structure of software RHEOTESTRN is described and instructions of its use are given in this chapter.
The software is used for rheometer control (methodology), for data acquisition, evaluation and output of
measuring results. The software is a Windows application. It is based on this technology and should be used
as other Windows programs.
The central data object is a Job.
The Job contains all settings and data that could be referred to a certain analysis theme.
Analysis themes could be the following:
Products analysis in frameworks of researches and development.
Everyday control of products / materials in frameworks of incoming goods control.
Monthly control of materials of a certain production line in frameworks of industrial control /
monitoring.
Development of a proper analysis method for new properties or materials.
Measurements of products / materials for equipment production, e.g. after maintenance carrying
out of an industrial plant.
review of a structure (example)

21

8.3.1 Job
A job contains all components necessary for processing of
one theme, such as:
1. Method for reasonable data generation
(analysis method) as a proper tests sequence
with corresponding test parameters.
2. Settings for data output as tables and
diagrams.
3. Settings for data analysis such as report on
evaluation for determination of rheological
characteristics.
4. Documentation of results and researches such
as printing and archiving.
In job Definition information is contained that describes
the job exactly, e.g. name, commentary.
Further setups are in job Settings as methods of
presentation and calculations for oscillation measurements
and possibilities and print options that will be taken into account during job printing.
Jobs are organized in jobs groups. One jobs group should contain jobs that relate to the upper theme.
It is possible to copy jobs from one group into another. In such a way reorganization of jobs is possible in new
created jobs group when, e.g. boundary conditions have changed or for thematic archive.
One could export jobs groups in order to give excess to them for other users. They could see data, analyse
them or add own measurements.
Besides there is in a job control of measuring results (samples). Any number of samples could be in one job.
A job could be created in any place in jobs group.
Note
It is better to copy available job with the similar theme for a new theme of analysis without measuring results
(samples) and contained inside settings should be adjusted for a new theme.
In this case there is a functional start point that should be optimized only.

8.3.2 Sample
The sample contains measuring results and some information
that is necessary for data analysis.
The sample does not contain information about conditions of
data obtaining or how they
should be represented and analyzed.
Information about representation and analysis should be
controlled in the job because samples in one job relate to one
theme.
In such a way all samples will be represented and analyzed in
the same manner.
One could copy samples from one job to another. After this
settings of the new job are in effect. It means that data will be
represented and analyzed in another way according to setup
of table, plot, report, units of measurement.

22

8.3.1 Method
An important constituent part of a job is method that
should be used for analysis.
Methods are saved in a library because task settings
are repeated mainly.
Due to this it is possible to use already developed
methods time and again. Later on the available
methods could be used as a starting point for
development of own methods.
A method contains a tests sequence or one test only.
This test contains information about operation with
material (shear / deform) and which data should be
measured as a response to load applied.
So, e.g. it is possible to set shear rate during defined time at certain temperature and to measure shear stress
necessary for this.
Method contains parameters necessary for data transfer from rheometer to computer as well as for reliable
measurement. Such as, e.g. time raster, boundary values and interruption value.
Further method contains units of measurement for all parameters. These units could be brought in
correspondence at any time and represented at once in tests table and at a plot.
Methods, as well as jobs, are organized in groups.
Methods could be grouped in accordance with the measurement conditions in the following way:
- Measurements with controlled shear stress - CS
- Measurements with controlled deformation - CD
- Oscillation measurements
-
Or according to analysis themes as:
- Material A
- Material B
-
- Goods supply
- Monitoring
-
It is possible to copy methods from one group into another. In such a way it is possible to reproduce new
thematic situations.
One could export methods in order to render to other users.
Information is in method definition that describes the method exactly, e.g. name, commentary, and sequence
of tests. Printing parameters are in methods settings that will be taken into account during method printing.

8.4 User surface

The software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager corresponds to general standards of MICROSOFT Windows
programs. After login, window appears after start of the program. Additional enquiry could appear concerning
thermostat activation depending upon settings. After this user interface appears.

23

1 Main menu
2 Inlays
3 Job tree
4 Sample tree

8.4.1 Inlays
Presentation is organized in inlays of settings and analysis results. They could be selected by pressing name
of an inlay.
Job: It is shown certain job and settings of the actual selected sample, control keys to begin an analysis
and detailed information about selected sample at the moment.
Table: Table of data is shown in accordance with the settings.
Plot: Plot is shown in accordance with the settings.
Report: Report data are shown as statistic evaluation or calculated rheological parameters.
Method: It is shown job method or methods in methods library.
8.4.2 Tree for jobs, samples and methods
Designators for two trees are at the left side of window in RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager. They
are independent of the selected inlay for job, table, plot or report.
Through the upper tree it is possible to select a job in jobs group that should be presented.
The corresponding image will be activated and active sample will be shown from the selected
job after click.
It is possible to select active sample in the job in the low structural tree.
After selection the corresponding image will be active and data for all tests will be shown.
It is necessary to click + sign in front of sample name, if it is necessary to display only one
test. After this individual tests will be listed. If only one test is selected, so only those datas
are shown in table or graph.
Width and height of structural trees could be adjusted, if necessary.
Methods groups with their methods will be shown at upper tree, if display is activated of
methods library. Method with its settings will be shown after click.

24

8.4.3 Help system

The software gives context help on the basis of the Operating Manual.
This has advantage that information from Operating Manual corresponds to information in Online-Help.
Prerequisite for this function is the fact that Operating Manual (PDF document) is in catalogue where program
RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager is installed. It includes also right language of the Operating Manual.
The following documents are necessary:
German:
BA_De-RN-Manager.pdf
English:
BA_En-RN-Manager.pdf
Russian:
BA_Ru-RN-Manager.pdf
Error massage will be shown, if the required file would not be found.
Own standard Windows programs are used for information presentation.
The program tries to show the help file in Acrobat Reader.
Note
It is recommended to install Acrobat Reader at computer for optimal help presentation. One could load it from
Internet free of charge.
The program tries to use Internet Explorer, if Acrobat Reader is not installed at computer. Help file is
transferred to Windows system, if it is not possible. In this case Windows tries to find appropriate program.
One should activate the required element for selection of necessary help information. It could be done by click
or by simple jump with the help of TAB key. After this one presses F1 key.
Now the Operating Manual will be opened at that page which contains information concerning the required
element.
A further possibility but only available in dialog window, is to use the help-button [ ? ] top left.
After pressing the button, the cursor becomes a question mark. Now you can select the desired
item by clicking on it. The help appears immediately.
The page always will be presented from the top. However the required information could be at the foot of the
page. It is necessary to scroll content of the page downward manually.

8.5 Job
1 Job tree
2 Sample tree
3 Active job definition; inlay behind that
contains further job settings
4 Name of active sample
5 Field of job execution
6 Information about active sample

25

8.5.1 Definition
Job definition contains the job description and information about necessary components such as measuring
system and method.

1 Job name: the job name should describe jobs theme. It makes easier the further search.
In principal it is possible to give the same name to many jobs. However it could lead to confusion very quickly.
Therefore it is not recommended.
2 Method: it contains all necessary information for analysis carrying out. For this see Section Method.
Display of method list shows all available methods in the library at the moment. At that method name will be
shown and methods group after it. At present methods groups available in the library are set in General
Settings.
Method data are saved in the job directly, that is changes in a method in the method library do not influence
the next measurement directly. Neither it is required that set method is available in the library. At this it is
possible to operate with a setting that was obtained and imported from external source, e.g. from engineer of
Rheotest Company.
It is necessary to press R key (see paragraph 4 R (Reboot)), if you have changed method in the library and
want that this change works during the next measurement.
If a new method is selected from the list, request appears if it is necessary to take over the methods units of
measurement. Each job and each method have their own settings of the units of measurement that should be
in accordance with the given measuring task.
The request makes it possible a selection, if it is necessary to keep the settings of the job units of
measurement or it is necessary to take over the settings of the job units of measurement from the method.
If you would like to change method that was imported from outside, it is necessary to copy it in the library
through Method for Change.
3 Measuring System: measuring system that is used for sample measuring. Measuring system data are
copied at start of each measurement from the library of measuring systems. At that changes will be hold true
by every new measurement, e.g. calibration.
Message will appear and it is necessary to select another measuring system, if specified system is not in the
library.
4 R (Reload): At that actual methods settings will be copied from the library in the job. It has an influence on
all other changes.
Button is active only in that case when the specified method could be accessed in the library.
5 Comment Job: Always it is necessary to record here substantial comments concerning the job. It might be
information about the jobs task such as incoming inspection from supplier A, product B development or
monitoring of the production line XY.
It gives possibilities for other users of quick classification of jobs for their own tasks.
Besides that this information could be used for documentation in table heading, plot heading or in report
heading.
6 Product: Product name that should be analysed with the help of this job. However this field could be used
also for equipment, supplier etc. This information could be used for documentation in table heading, plot
heading or in report heading.
7 Created: Date and time when the job was created or when the job was imported.

26

8 Changed: Date and time when the job was changed last time. It relates to all jobs settings.
9 Last used: Date and time when the job was used last time. It relates to the start of a measurement.
It is unimportant, if the measurement of a sample was interrupted or deleted.
8.5.2 Settings
Further jobs settings.

1 Suppress Wait Time at the beginning: The first measured value is transferred from rheometer
RHEOTEST to computer after defined time depending upon methods parameters used Trigger time and
Time raster. Measured values could be also presented / displayed starting from the moment when time = 0
with the help of Suppress Wait Time at the beginning.
2 Show Sample Collection: Data from the data list will be also shown at a plot in parallel with the actual data.
Data of the data list are set in diagram settings.
Data of the data list will be always shown with the line thickness XS and appeared in legend with their set
names. Colours and symbols correspond to colours and symbols of the actual data.
3 Show Complete during Analysis: This option is active in that case only when data list for this job will shown
also. This option acts during one measurement.
Diagram will be shown and scaled in accordance with the actual data, if this option is inactive. This concerns
X- and Y- axes.
Diagram presentation and scaling is defined by the data from the data list before beginning of the
measurements, if this option is active. It means that, if the data list includes measuring results during 300 s the
measuring parameters will be shown completely during this 300 s. Actually measured data will be added to
this image after analysis.
4 Osci-Correction: There is possibility to correct measuring data during data processing of oscillation tests;
in particular J-correction assumes inertia correction.
5 Standard Temperature: This temperature is set at the following conditions:

If thermostat is used and it is ready for operation

If thermostat could assure this temperature

After finishing of the measurement

After program start if it is indicated in the user settings.

Application of option Use RN-temperature means that temperature value in the given measurements will be
temperature of RN thermometer.
Otherwise temperature is used measured by thermostat.
However it is possible only in that case when thermostat does not use RN-thermometer (thermostat should
have external sensor option).
Option Use RN-temperature is useful when large temperature difference could be expected between
thermostat bath and sample. It is also useful, if quick temperature changes could be expected. Temperature
request from thermostat is fulfilled with cycle of 1 s. RN-temperature is transferred actually with every data set
(minimum 12 ms cycle).
6 Printing options: These settings determine printing, if inlay is displayed Job and File -> Page or File View > Printing. One could find details to these settings in Section Print Job.

27

8.5.3 Sample
Sample for analysis is described by the following data.

1 Sample Name: This name will be shown in sample tree and could be used for documentation in table
heading, diagram heading or in report heading. Name should be indicated before analysis start. Checking is
carried out at every analysis begin. However the name could be changed later.
In order to simplify work the name could be formed automatically, especially if there are a lot of similar
samples. For this see the next Section.
2 Name Mode: It defines how sample name will be formed. Automatic name formation is necessary for quick
start.
The following possibilities are at the disposal:

Manually: Sample name input at every analysis start. Quick start is impossible.

Charge+Index (_000): Here the name will be formed from the charge names and increasing
index. For that the charge should be indicated necessarily. Index begins from 000 and the next free index is
used. If e.g. there are all samples up to the sample _006 and the sample _003 is deleted, the next sample will
be sample _003 and it will be located after the sample _006.

DateTime: The sample name corresponds to actual date and actual time in format YY-MMDD-HH-MM-SS (for example 2012-03-18-10:42).

Charge+DateTime: The sample name is formed from the indicated charge, actual date and
actual time (for example CD-Glue 2012-03-18-10:42). One obtains very good documented sample name with
this option.
3 Comment: Comment concerning the sample. Comment to the sample might be changed after successful
analysis.
4 Charge: Name of analyzed charge. At that the charge could describe any other object such as for example
device, supplier, products line, monitoring name The charge is necessary obligatory in case of using names
mode Charge+Index and Charge+DateTime. The charge could be used for documentation in table
heading, diagram heading or in report heading.
5 Operator Name: setting of operator name. It could be set manually. New recording is impossible before
analysis in case of quick start. The recording could be changed after analysis. It might be indicated in settings
of user control, if this information should be filled automatically at every analysis start.
6 Sample Created: Date and time of sample creation.

8.5.4 Actions
Job actions are related always to the actually selected job.
1 New sample: New sample will be prepared for analysis. It is
possible only in that case when other sample is not activated.
Request appears after click, if it would be necessary to use available
data. It relates first of all to the sample name, charge and comment.
These records will be deleted, if one answers No to the request.
Mode of sample name and user are saved.
Now new records could be done, for example a new charge should
be analysed.
These records will be saved and will be valid from the beginning for
the new sample also, if one answers Yes to the request.
28

It is possible to know about situation that a new sample was created by indication Active near button New
Sample. Now changes made in sample data will be related to the new sample.
All changes in sample data will be in force for the actual sample, if this mode is inactive at the present
moment.
Request follows, if it is necessary to use this sample for a new analysis in special case when the last sample
does not contain any data. For new analysis will be used the last empty sample, if the answer to the request
will be Yes.
2 Check + Create Sample: Input data and system will be checked after this button pressed. New sample will
be created and data structure for this, if the check was successful. In case of good creation an inscription OK
will be shown near the button Check + Create Sample. It appears in information message Press button
Start Analysis and it appears new sample in the sample tree.
In other case it appears error message with information what should be changed.
The following will be checked:

Is there the indicated measuring system in the library

Are the carried out tests licensed

Is the sample name set and relates to manual input

Does exist the inputting sample name already and relates to manual input

Was the charge indicated and relates to the name input mode Charge+Index and
Charge+DateTime

Request about distance between plates. It relates to measuring systems Plate-plate only.
3 Start Analysis: Analysis begins after this button was pressed. Check is carried out. If a thermostat is used:
Connection with thermostat will be checked, if this is indicated in the method.
Then the analysis task will be sent to RHEOTESTRN 4 control unit. After that it is necessary to wait as
RHEOTESTRN 4 control unit sends data and analysis would be completed.
One could follow the sequence of this procedure at information display.
4 Easy Start: This version of analysis start is right for a lot of similar samples that are tested one after
another in a sequence. The sample will be prepared and analysis will be started. However start takes place in
that case only when all checks were successful. In other case error message appears.
5 Cancel Analysis: Active analysis will be interrupted at once after pressing. It is possible to cancel analysis
at the stage of analysis preparation. It should be beard in mind that at this error message could appear that
communication is impossible.
After analysis interruption it would be proposed to delete it.
If communication between RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager and RN control unit has been interrupted but the
reliable data of analysis were already obtained, it is possible to interrupt the analysis and one could use data
obtained before this further.
It is possible to identify loss of communication by that feature that data transmission does not take place
during a long period of time. One could check it at information display.

8.5.5 Information
Analysis status is shown at display or sample content is shown for measured samples. Analysis status begins
with pressing button New Sample or Easy Start. The actions fulfilled and their results will be displayed. If
one begins analysis in manual mode, but not easy start, so after each operation instruction appears what to
do next. For example after pressing Check+Create Sample instruction appears that it is possible to start
analysis with the help of Press button Start Analysis.
Tests that are carried out and already obtained data packages are displayed during analysis.
The sample content will be displayed from the point of view
of available data in case of already measured sample.

29

Measuring system in use and its data will be shown.

These values are used for further parameters calculation.
Number of tests carried out and list of tests will be shown.
The list contains test type and number of test points.
It will be shown additionally number of oscillations for
oscillation tests.

8.5.6 Main Menu Job

8.5.6.1 New Job
New job is created in the jobs group that is active at the moment. At that this job could be created at any
place of jobs group. New job has name New Job from the beginning. At once direction appears that this
name should be changed possibly. See for that paragraph Job Name in Section 7.1 Definition.
The job has the first measuring system from the library as a measuring system. Here it is necessary to select
actually used measuring system.
Method is used that is active method from the library at the moment. One takes into account the manner of
action for the method creation that afterwards is attached to the job. In this case it is attached to the new job.
No other samples are yet available.
The job has default settings from the beginning for all its objects (tables, diagrams, report). These settings
should be adapted to your own requirements.
Here is settings set with default values:
Settings

Table

Diagram

Report

Do not show samples list

Oscillation data will be corrected
Print of active job definition

Number of columns 3
Column 1 Time
Column 2 Torque
Column 3 Number of revolutions
All tests will be shown
There is no tables heading
Tables settings would not be printed

X-axis Time, automatic scaling

Left axis Torque, automatic scaling, blue, square
Right axis Number of rotations, automatic scaling, red, triangle
X- and Y main grid, grey
All tests will be shown
There is no diagrams heading
Content of samples list is independent of the job
Report will be added during diagram printing

Mean value/standard deviation of torque for all tests, it is not shown at a diagram
There is no reports heading
Diagram will be added during report printing.

30

8.5.6.2 Copy Job

Selected job (in jobs tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Message appears, if
a job was not selected but for example only jobs group.
8.5.6.3 Insert Job
On condition that job is in clipboard it will be added into actual position in job tree.
Inserted job obtains prefix Copy of .
It is recommended to give to this job a new proper name. In this way name input is activated. See for this
paragraph Job Name in Section 7.1 Definition.
There are two variants of insertion for choice:

Insert complete job It will be inserted the job with all samples. This possibility is useful, if you
want to reorganize the jobs or place them in other jobs groups.

Insert empty job It will be inserted the actual job only. Jobs samples will not be inserted
together with it. This possibility is useful, if you want to start available job with new samples. It
could be for example in that case when monthly you lay together samples for storage in one
job. At the beginning of the month the job is copied without samples and in name new month
is added (For example, Product_A_May2014).
Now all samples for May could be analyzed.
Note: Jobs are inserted after the marked job. In order to obtain the job at the first place in the jobs group it is
necessary to mark the jobs group.

8.5.6.4 Delete Job

Delete of the marked job.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in users settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
There are two variants of deletion for choice:
Delete the actual the marked job will be deleted
Delete all in group all jobs will be deleted in the actual jobs group. This possibility is used if it
is necessary to delete jobs group. It is possible in that case only when there are not other jobs.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in users settings. Cancel function is
inaccessible.
8.5.6.5 Samples -> New
This has the same effect as in job fulfilment New Sample. It starts preparation of a sample manually (not Easy
Start).
8.5.6.6 Samples -> Copy
The marked sample (in sample tree) is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard does not used.
If any sample is marked, message appears with indication.
8.5.6.7 Samples-> Insert
If sample is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in actual place in sample tree. The inserted sample has name.
However it is recommended to give a new proper name. So input of sample name will be activated.

31

8.5.6.8 Samples -> Delete

There are two variants of deletion for choice:

Delete the actual the marked sample will be deleted

Delete all in job all samples will be deleted in the actual job. This possibility is used, if for
example copied job should be used for a new samples series.

Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case only, if it is indicated in users settings. Cancel
function is inaccessible.

8.5.6.9 Table Settings -> show

One shows table settings of the marked job. New settings window opens. Settings details see in Section Table
Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Setup -> Table -> Settings, as well as by
pressing submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.5.6.10 Table Settings -> copy

Table settings of the marked job are transferred to clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.

8.5.6.11 Table Settings -> Insert

If table settings are in clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job.

8.5.6.12 Diagram Settings -> Show

It is shown diagram settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened.
Details of settings see in Section Diagram Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Setup -> Diagram -> Settings, as well as by
pressing submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.5.6.13 Diagram Settings -> Copy

Diagram settings of the marked job are transferred to clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.

8.5.6.14 Diagram Settings -> Insert

If diagram settings are in clipboard they will be inserted in the marked job.

8.5.6.15 Report Settings -> Show

It is shown report settings of the marked job. New setup window will be opened. Details of settings see in
Section Report - Setup. This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Setup -> Report ->
Settings, as well as by pressing submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

32

8.5.6.16 Report Settings -> Copy

Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.

8.5.6.17 Report Settings -> Insert

If report settings are in clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job.

8.5.6.18 Unit settings -> Show

It shows settings of units of measurement of the marked job. New setup window will be opened.
Details of settings see in Section Units of Measurement Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Setup -> Units -> Settings, as well as by
pressing submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.5.6.19 Unit settings -> Copy

Units of measurement settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not
used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.
One could copy units of measurement and insert between jobs and methods.

8.5.6.20 Unit settings -> Insert

If units of measurement settings are in clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job. It could be also
setting of methods unit of measurement.

8.5.6.21 Methods for Change

It is copied method from the job to the method library and changed display for the methods library. One could
find then the copied method in methods group xMethods of Job.
It is possible to repeat this process.
All functions of the methods library could be used, if the method is in the methods library. This method could
be shown for example in details, changed, copied or exported.
The changed method could be also added to the job again. For that it is necessary to select this method (in
method group xMethods of Job) in method selection.
Note: The method group xMethods of Job is not saved. After program closing these methods are not
available more.If the method of the job should be saved permanently, it is necessary to copy available
methods group through Copy/Insert.
Procedure is necessary of method copy from the job; its processing and addition again to the job then only
when the job was obtained from outside and method contained in it is not at the disposal of its own methods
library.

8.5.6.22 Export / Import -> Export Job

The marked job is saved as a file in catalogue of data transfer. Afterwards it is possible to make this file
accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager or this file could be archived for documentation.
The file name for the job file corresponds to the jobs name with the files extension .rjb.
If there is file with the same name in data transfer catalogue, the program asks if it is necessary to overwrite
the file.

33

8.5.6.23 Export / Import -> Import Job

Data menu will be shown that represents data transfer catalogue. It is possible to select from this catalogue a
job, file with extension .rjb.
Given job will be inserted then in actual place in job tree. It might be a new created jobs group or any place
inside existing jobs group.
This job will have then the same functionality as all other jobs.
It could be used for analysis of further samples or for data viewing already existing samples in it.

8.5.6.24 Export / Import -> Export Jobgroup

The marked jobs group is saved as a file in catalogue of data transfer. Afterwards it is possible to make this
catalogue completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager or this catalogue could be
archived for documentation.
The catalogue name corresponds to the jobs group name. If there is catalogue with the same name in data
transfer catalogue, the program asks if it is necessary to overwrite the catalogue.
One could not change the catalogue content. Data safety and program stability could not be guaranteed in
case of any changes of catalogue content.

8.5.6.25 Export / Import -> Import Jobgroup

Data menu will be displayed that represents data transfer catalogue. It is possible to select a catalogue from
this catalogue that is a jobs group for import.
Name of the new jobs group corresponds to the catalogue name.
Imported jobs group is inserted then after the marked jobs group in job tree. This jobs group will have then the
same functionality as all other jobs groups.
Available jobs could be used for further analysis. New jobs could be developed.

8.5.6.26 Explorer for transfer directory

Explorer opens of Windows-Explorer that shows data transfer catalogue. This could be used in order to copy
necessary data or catalogs in clipboard of Windows and for example to e-mail message.

8.6 Table
Table view is used to display measured values and calculated parameters in the form of values list.
8.6.1 Table Display
If inlay Table is active, the measured values and calculated parameters of the active sample will be shown
in the form of a table. Data could not be changed.
Selection of the displayed parameters is fulfilled in Table Settings.
Table dimensions are adjusted to the dimensions of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager window.
Columns width could be varied with the help of a mouse and will be saved. For that it is necessary to put
cursor above the column right border. As soon as arrow left-right appears one could set the column width left
mouse button pressed and hold.
Note: If moves mouse above the right column border, right-left arrow appears. If at this one does two clicks,
the column width is adjusted automatically for optimal size.

34

8.6.2 Main Menu Table

8.6.2.1 Table Settings -> Show
It shows table settings of the selected sample. New setup window is opened.
Settings details see in Section Table Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Tables -> Settings, as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.6.2.2 Table Settings -> Copy

Table settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.

8.6.2.3 Table Settings -> Insert

If table settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job.

8.6.2.4 Copy to clipboard

It copies selected table cells of the selected sample in the Windows clipboard. Then they could be inserted in
document for example Excel, Word.
If it was selected only one cell in the table, complete table will be copied including column headings.
If it was selected some tables cells, just they will be copied in the clipboard. Also columns headings will be
added here.
Table heading is not an integral part of the information copied.
Note: If it is necessary a table general presentation, table heading and table data, one could with the help of
main menu File Print to do printing to file (for example *.pdf). This file will be inserted then as an object
(Insert -> Object) in the desired document.
8.6.3 Table Settings
They serve for setting of table content and appearance. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same
time for all samples in this job.
The settings are divided in three tab pages: Table, Heading, Print.
All changes made will be rejected with the button Cancel and Menu Settings is closed.
The changes will be accepted and they become actual ones with the help of OK button.
8.6.3.1 Table
1 Number of columns: It is possible one column minimum
and ten columns maximum.
2 Column definition: Displayed parameter is defined for
every column. The same parameter could be in a number of
columns. See the parameter meaning in Section Application Result. The column width is adjusted automatically after
selection of a new parameter and exit from the column.
Parameters imaging could be varied in user settings in such a
manner that there is parameters name only, symbol only or
combination of both. See for that User Settings User.
3 OK: All changes will be applied and input display is closed.
4 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.

35

8.6.3.2 Tests
1 Tests: it is possible to select here tests that should
be represented. This setting is active in that case only
when sample is marked in sample tree. It means that all
available tests could be represented.
If only one test was selected in sample tree, this setting
is ignored.
The setting is active during one analysis and in the
following representation. It means that for example in
one analysis and inactivated the 1st test any data will not
be shown until the 1st test is carried out.
For example conditional steps could be hidden with this option.
2 All: All tests will be selected.
3 None: Selection of all tests will be cancelled; data are not represented until the sample is selected.
Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.
8.6.3.3 Head
Table heading will be shown above the table itself. It could contain additional information to analysis.
This table heading could be configured for every job. In this case it is valid for all samples that are in the job.
Table heading makes possible to display 9 different information which is located as a matrix of 3 columns and
3 rows.
1 Column/Row: Information could be assigned from
drop-out list for each field. See in Application Heading
Data details of this selection.
2 Name: If this option will be marked, then the selected
marking will be shown before information itself. So it will
be displayed for example Sample: Sample Date during
selection of the sample date.
3 Free texts: All texts could be saved here that
afterwards will be shown as information in table heading.
It makes possible good documentation of analysis
results.
Settings shown at the figure will be displayed in the table heading in the following way:

Printing
If option Add Settings is marked, then settings will be presented during table printing. See Table Printing for
that.
8.6.3.4 Printing
If option Add Settings is marked, then settings will be presented during table printing. See Table Printing for
that.

36

8.7 Diagram
8.7.1 Diagram Display
If bookmark Diagram is active, it will be displayed measured values and calculated parameters of the active
sample. Any data could not be changed.
The following main settings are possible: displayed parameters, colours, lines thickness, marking, coordinate
grid, scaling, linear/logarithmic and much more.
These settings take place in Diagram Settings that could be displayed by a simple mouse click at a diagram or
could be called through the main menu.
Diagram dimension is adapted to the dimension of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager window.
Image is divided in 2 areas, diagram heading is above and diagram itself is below.
Diagram heading will be shown in that case only when this information has to be displayed.
If any information was not defined for displaying in diagram heading, this area will be used for diagram square.
The diagram itself is depicted under the diagram heading. It is possible to represent 4 parameters. The
corresponding scale is depicted to the right and to the left of the diagram area. Displayed sequence of data
names appear above the diagram square under the diagram heading.
8.7.2 Main Menu Diagram
8.7.2.1 Diagram Settings -> Show
Diagram settings of the selected job are shown. New setup window will be opened.
See settings details in Section Diagram Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Diagram -> Settings, as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.7.2.2 Diagram Settings -> Copy

Diagram settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.

8.7.2.3 Diagram Settings -> Insert

If diagram settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job.

8.7.2.4 Copy to clipboard

It copies diagram of the actual sample as image to the Windows clipboard. Then it is possible to insert in
document for example Excel, Word or E-Mail.
It is copied actual diagram view including diagram heading.
Note: The larger is diagram during copying (to increase RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager window maximum
possible), the higher is image definition in clipboard. High image definition is preferable, if later this figure
should to be enlarged.

37

8.7.2.5 Settings
They serve for setting of content in form of a diagram. This setup is active for the actual job and with it for all
samples in this job. The settings are divided in 6 tab pages: Axes, Grid, Tests, Heading, Collection, Print.
All changes made will be rejected with the button Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be
accepted and they become actual ones with the help of button OK. Menu Settings is closed.
8.7.2.5.1 Axes
It serves for coordination of displayed parameters with
diagram axes as well as for definition of that how they
have to be displayed.
1 Type: Setting of displayed parameters from the list
of possible variants for X axis.
Available parameters and their meaning one could find
here: Application Parameters X Axis.
2 Scaling: It will be defined scaling regime of X axis.
In case of Auto scaling will be fulfilled on the basis of
displayed data. Scaling is carried out from 0 to
maximal data value.
In case of Min-Max displayed limits could be set. Data that are outside these limits will not be displayed. It is
possible in this mode display fixing and its zooming.
Min: Minimal value of X axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active
only in the scaling mode Min-Max.
Max: Maximal value of X axis. Data will not be displayed that are higher than this value. This value is
active only in the scaling mode Min-Max.
log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this option is not selected, linear scaling is displayed.
3 Sort: Sorting takes place of all data (all displayed parameters) according to X axis parameter in increasing
order.
At that it is unimportant at what time and in which test data were obtained. Sorting occurs by all actual
displayed data (either one single test or all tests of a sample).
4 Definition of all Y axes: At the left, at the right, 2. at the left and 2. at the right.
5 Type: Definition of displayed parameters from the selection list for the corresponding Y axis. One could
find available parameters and their meaning here: Application Parameters Y axis.
Note: One parameter could be displayed at several axes. It might be used for example in order to have one
parameter with different scaling.
6 Active: It sets, if this parameter will be displayed (marked) or not.
1. Parameter (at the left) is displayed always independent from this setting.
7 Scaling: It will be determined mode of Y axis scaling. In case of Auto scaling will be realized on the basis
of displayed data. Scaling occurs between 0 and maximal data value.
In case of Min-Max displayed limits could be determined for each axis. Data beyond these limits will not be
displayed. It is possible display fixing and its zooming in this mode.
Min: Minimal value of X axis. Data smaller than this value, will not be displayed. This value is active
only in the scaling mode Min-Max.
Max: Maximal value of X axis. Data will not be displayed that are higher than this value. This value is
active only in the scaling mode Min-Max.
log: Logarithmic scale is displayed. If this option is not selected, linear scaling is displayed.
38

8 Colours: Colour setting for this parameter (Axis). This setting is displayed also in data collection, see for
that Collection.
There are following colours for selection:
Black
Brown
Violet
Blue
Green
Red
Pink
Orange
Yellow
Grey
White

9 Thickness: Lines thickness could be of 5 different values. The following values are possible with the
thickness in pixels:
XS
S
M
L
XL

1
2
4
6
7

The line thickness relates to displaying of actually selected sample. Data collections lines will be presented
with thickness = XS always.
Signs form for lines marking could be set by User also. It is possible selection from the following list for lines
marking:
None

Line will be shown

only

Square
Diamond
Triangle
Triangle at the right
Triangle at the left
Triangle inverted
Circle

The mark form relates to displaying of the selected sample as well as to data collection displaying.
Note
It is recommended to select black colour for line for all parameters and set difference in parameters with the
help of various marking in case of using diagram in black and white presentation.
One could vary the marking size also. The following dimensions and values in pixels are possible:
XS
S
M
L
XL

3
5
6
8
9

Collections parameters markings are one pixel smaller.

OK: All changes will be applied and input screen is closed.
Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input screen is closed.

39

8.7.2.5.2 Grid
1 X grid: one sets that vertical grid will be shown
corresponding to X axis. At that values range will be
optimally divided in order that appear about 7 to 12
portions.
X grid is displayed with width of 2 pixels.
X subgrid: one sets that vertical grid will be shown
corresponding to X axis. At that values range will be
optimally divided in order that appear about 14 to 24
portions.
X subgrid is displayed with width of 1 pixel.
2 Y grid: one sets that horizontal grid will be shown
corresponding to left Y axis. At that values range will
be optimally divided in order that appear about 7 to 12 portions.
Y grid is displayed with width of 2 pixels.
Y subgrid: one sets that horizontal grid will be shown corresponding to left Y axis. At that values range
will be optimally divided in order that appear about 14 to 24 portions.
Y subgrid is displayed with width of 1 pixel.
3 Grid colour: Setting of grid colour. Colours are possible that are available by colour selection for
parameters. See for that section Colours.
8.7.2.5.3 Tests
1 Tests: here tests could be marked that should be
displayed. This setting is activated in that case only
when sample is marked in sample tree, that is to say
all available tests could be represented.
This setting is ignored, if in the sample tree one
selects single test only.
The setting is in effect during analysis and further
displaying. It means that, for example, at one analysis
and one nonactivated 1. test, any data will not be
displayed until 1. test is fulfilled.
Conditional steps could be hidden, for example, with
this option.
2 All: all tests will be selected.
3 None: Selection of all tests will be cancelled; data are not represented until the sample is selected.
Representation is still active in case of selection of single tests.

8.7.2.5.4 Head
Diagram heading will be shown directly above the diagram. It could contain additional information about
analysis.
This diagram heading could be configured for each job. It is valid afterwards for all samples that are in the job.
Diagram heading makes possible to display 9 different informations which are located as a matrix of 3
columns and 3 rows.
Since the heading specification corresponds to the table heading, see for that Section Table Settings
Heading.

40

8.7.2.5.5 Collection
RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager proposes possibility to show samples that had been already analyzed as a
background for analyzing or displaying sample. It is unimportant from what job background samples were
taken or they were imported from external source.
This possibility could be used, for instance, that case when during material changes the desired characteristic
of the material always presents against the background as a target. So it is possible to compare different
samples very quickly and effectively on the basis of their analysis.
Besides it would be possible to show permissible limits in routine analysis against the background. At that
two samples were shown against the background, one of them represents the lower limit and another
represents the upper limit.
Then actual analyzed sample must be presented during measurement between these two samples. At that
there is possibility to check very quickly, if the actual sample represents a deviation.
1 Name: New name could be assigned for a
sample. At first original name will be inserted after
sample addition in the samples collection. In order
better to distinguish and identify samples at diagram
later, a new name could be assigned according to
the themes.
2 Active: Here one could select which samples will
be actually displayed.
Sample collection could contain more samples than
it must be shown. With the help of this it is possible
quick switching over or turning on/ turning off of
different samples.
Marked = Sample will be shown.
3 Line type: Displaying parameters of background samples will be presented at a diagram with the same
colour, such as actual sample. It is possible to set here line type in order to distinguish the background
sample from the actual sample.
There are four lines types:
Dot
Dash
Chain line
Dotted line

If it should be displayed more than four samples, it will not be possible to distinguish them by lines type.
4 Sample details: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives possibility for better samples classification.
The following data will be presented:
Original sample name
Date of sample creation
Field recording Charge
User name
Comment to sample
5 Sample details: Sample definition data will be shown. It gives possibility for better samples classification.
The following data will be presented:
Measuring system in use
Factor KTau of measuring system
Factor KD of measuring system
Correction factor for rotary tests
Correction factor for oscillation tests
Number of tests carried out

41

6 Copy: Selected sample from samples collection will be copied in the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not
used.
Afterwards this sample could be inserted in another place of samples collection.
It gives possibility for sorting, if the previous sample is deleted later.
Later on one could insert this sample in the clipboard I any job, in any place after closing of diagram setting.
7 Insert: Sample from the clipboard is inserted after the selected sample in the samples collection. At this it
is unimportant, if this sample was copied from the job before this or it is earlier copied sample from the
samples collection.
There are not limitations concerning number of samples that will be saved in the sample collection.
8 Delete: Marked sample is deleted from the sample collection.
9 Delete all: All samples are deleted in the sample collection.
8.7.2.5.6 Printing
1 Add Report: Actually set report will be added
after diagram printing.
2 Add Table: It will be added actual table after
printing of diagram or as well as a report
(optionally).
3 Add Settings: It will be added diagram
settings after printing of diagram or as well as a
report (optionally) or a table.
All 3 options could be selected in any
combination. See for that Diagram Printing also.

8.8 Report
8.8.1 Report Display
Certain evaluations of the actual sample will be shown, if inlay Report is active. These could be statistical
parameters such as: Mean value, Standard deviation, Minimal and maximal value. Besides, these could be
calculated, rheological parameters for analysis such as flow limit, models parameters etc.
Calculated data could not be changed.
Report is subdivided into reports heading and
report itself.
One could see in the report certain data as
grey lines. One grey line exists for each
evaluation. Results are below the grey line.
1 Heading: Reports heading according to
Settings.
See for that also Section Table Table
Settings Heading.
2 Index: Current evaluations index. It serves
exceptionally for orientation in case of too long reports.
3 Symbols: Certain type of analysis results evaluation is displayed in the grey line. Results parameters are
displayed including. There are a different number of results parameters depending upon the type of
evaluation. Indication will appear, if reasonable results evaluation is impossible.

42

4 Parameters / Results: Certain parameter to which the report relates is displayed in grey line. Results will
be shown as a list according to symbols that are in previous column.
5 Test / Units of measure: Certain text of evaluation is displayed in grey line. Units of measure including
provided that measuring results have units of measure.
6 Comment: Certain comment for evaluation is displayed in grey line. Margins under that could be described
with additional information to results. Then they appear in printing.
Attention: Saving of this information does not take place. This information is lost again in case of selection of
another sample.
Reports length depends on number of certain evaluations. Selection of displayed evaluation takes place in
Report Settings.
8.8.2 Main Menu Report
8.8.2.1 Report Settings -> Show
Report settings of the selected job are shown. New setup window will be opened.
See settings details in Section Report Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Report -> Settings, as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.

8.8.2.2 Report Settings -> Copy

Report settings of the marked job are transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the job was not activated and for example jobs group is activated only, message appears with indication.
8.8.2.3 Report Settings -> Insert
If report settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the marked job.
8.8.2.4 Copy to clipboard
It copies selected report cells of the selected sample in the clipboard. The report is copied as text in the form
of a table. Then it could be inserted in document, for example Excel, Word.
If it was selected only one cell in the report, complete report will be copied including column headings.
If it was selected some report cells, they will be copied in the clipboard exactly. Also columns headings will be
added here.
Report heading is not an integral part of the information copied.
Note: If it is necessary, a report general presentation, report heading and report data it is possible to
print to file (for example *.pdf) with the help of main menu File Print. This file will be inserted then
as an object (Insert -> Object) in the desired document.

8.8.2.5 Settings
They serve for setting of report content. This setup acts for the actual job and at the same time for all samples
in this job. The settings are divided in three tab pages: Report, Heading, Print. All changes made will be
rejected with the button Cancel and Menu Settings is closed. The changes will be accepted and they become
actual ones with the help of OK button. Menu Settings is closed.
8.8.2.5.1 Report
It serves for setup of necessary results evaluations, for which tests they should be implemented and should
this results be presented at diagram as additional information.

43

1 Calculation: It sets results evaluations that

should be done. Necessary evaluation type
could be selected from the selection list. See list
Application
of possible evaluations in:
Evaluation.
2 Parameter 1: Parameter is set for which
evaluation should be carried out. This parameter
could be determined from the selection list.
If for this parameter the evaluation is impossible
as for instance mean frequency value in CSconst test, it appears message as a result that
such evaluation is impossible. Also it will be
informed, if evaluation was carried out for test
which is absent in the analysis, as for example the 5th test in method with three tests.
3 Test: It sets for which test evaluation should be carried out. Tests are possible from 1 to 20. So, for each
test it could be determined one or several evaluations.
Besides, indication all is possible. In this case evaluation is carried out of all available tests of the sample.
4 Parameter 2: These input data depend upon type of evaluation.
There are not input data: Parameter 2 is not necessary, as for example Mean value / Standard
deviation.
Number: Input of one number, as for instance by upper limit.
List for selection: It appears list during data input in this area for the second measured parameter, as
for example by correlation.
Automatically: Evaluation type determines this parameter by itself, as for instance flow limit.
5 Description: Short description will be shown of the actual selected evaluation.
Note: This display will be actualized in case of selection from the selection list. So it is possible movement
upwards and downwards in the list with the help of cursor key and one could see meaning of evaluation types.
This is very useful by choosing simulation method.
6 Copy: Actually selected evaluation is copied into the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Afterwards
this evaluation could be inserted and setup in other place of this report. Besides it is possible to insert this
evaluation in report of other job.
7 Insert: Evaluation from the clipboard will be inserted in the report under actual position provided that it is in
the clipboard. At that the evaluation may be from this report or from other report of other job.
8 Delete: Actually selected results evaluation will be deleted. Request appears for approval of this operation
depending upon User settings.
OK: All changes will be applied and input display is closed.
Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
8.8.2.5.2 Head
Report heading will be shown above the report itself. It could contain additional information about analysis.
This report heading could be configured for every job. Then it is valid for all samples that are in the job.
Diagram heading makes possible to display 9 different informations which are located as a matrix of 3
columns and 3 rows.
As heading specification corresponds to the table heading see for that Section Table Settings Heading.

44

8.8.2.5.3 Printing
1 Add diagram: diagram will be added after the report.
Note Diagram dimensions are determined by available
place at the page. The larger is the report the smaller
will be diagram. If report dimensions exceed the bounds
of the page, diagram printing will not be done.
2 Add table: Actual table will be added after report or
diagram (optionally).
3 Add settings: Report settings will be added after
report, diagram (optionally) or table.
All three options could be selected in arbitrary
combination. See for that Print report.

8.9 Method
Method will be shown, if inlay Method is
active. It includes definition, settings and
certain single tests of a method.
The inlay serves for displaying method of
the actual selected job and active method of
the method library.
One method contains at least one test. One
test describes conditions of sample
measurements, as for instance number of
revolutions, time and temperature.
1 Method tree.
2 Specification of displayed method. Inlay
after it contains further settings for the
method.
3 Single tests are presented in form of a
table.
4 Single tests are presented at a diagram.
5 Tests displacement in a table or at a diagram.

8.9.1 Definition
Method definition contains information concerning description of analysis carried out.

45

1 Name: Method name should describe the method theme. This facilitates subsequent search.
In principle it is possible to give the same names for a lot of methods. However it could lead to confusion
quickly and it is not recommended to do so.
2 Group: Group displays methods group in which displayed methods which are saved or has been saved. If
display Method from the library is active, group will be shown where this method was saved.
If display Setup Method is active, group will be shown from which this method was copied into the job.
Therefore it could occur that this group is no longer in the method library. It might be for example renamed,
deleted or is inactive. The job could be imported also and thus the method in it.
3 Comment: Always it ought to write here useful and factful instructions to analysis. It could be information
about the task of analysis such as: input control of supplier A, product B development or monitoring of
products line XY. It is possible to set name according to rheological sense, such as measurements with
controlled shear rate, temperature dependence, determination of flow limit.
During method development it is useful also to comment development steps in this area, i.e. to fix changes in
comparison with previous version. It gives possibility for other Users for quick method classification for their
tasks. Besides this information could be used for documentation in table heading, diagram heading or in report
heading.
4 Method created: Date and time of method creation or when the method was imported.
5 Method changed: Date and time when method was changed last time. It relates to all method settings.
6 New test: New test will be inserted in the last position of the tests table. At that settings of active test at the
moment will be applied. Thereupon these settings could be corrected.
7 Copy test: Actual test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
8 Insert test: Test from the clipboard will be inserted after the actual test.
9 Delete test: Selected test will be delayed.
Note: Request arises about confirmation of deletion, if this is defined in User settings. Cancel function is not
foreseeing.
10 Test details: it shows actual test settings in details. See for that Test Settings. One cannot use inlay
methods while test settings window is active.
11 Display mode: Inlay Method serves for imaging of the actual job method and actual method from the
methods library.
This display serves for distinction of imaging modes. Besides, this mode is displayed in status line of
RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager.

Jobs method display

Display mode at
inlay Method
Jobs method

Methods display of the

Method library

Method from the

library

RN-Manager Status line

Tree display

Jobs display
Job x from y
Methods display
Method x from y

Job tree and Samples

tree
Methods tree

Display mode switching: The jobs display is active after program start. If now one switches to inlay Method,
jobs method will be displayed.It is necessary to select choice Method in RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager main
menu in order to switch imaging mode. At that switching takes place to the inlay Method and method display
is activated. This will be active until one of the choices or one of the inlays Table, Diagram or Report will not
be selected in the main menu. After this display mode is switched again to the jobs display.
Note: It is necessary to press and hold the left button of mouse in the main menu, if you are in jobs display
and want to see parameters of the jobs method in details. With pressed mouse button one could now move to
the menu choice Parameters -> Show
Now parameters will be displayed of jobs method.
46

8.9.2 Settings
Further methods settings.

1 Special function: one could see this choice only during method look through and when registered User
has rights of administrator.
Special function is used for start of certain evaluations after analysis fulfilment.
There are following possibilities for choice:

None Special evaluation will not be fulfilled.

Pt100 calibration Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings -> Pt100 calibration.
Inertia calibration Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings -> Inertia calibration.
Rotary calibration Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings -> Rotary calibration.
Oscillation calibration Data will be evaluated automatically after analysis was carried out. Process will be
performed according to menu choice Settings -> Oscillation calibration.

This setting is also used for check-up of possibility of the special evaluation in case of calibration selection in
the main menu. Here could be used the samples for Pt100 calibration or inertia calibration only that were
measured with the correspondingly adjusted method.
2 Printing parameters: These settings determine printing, if inlay Method is displayed and if one selected
File -> Page view or File -> Printing. One could find details of these settings here Print Method.
8.9.3 Test-Table
It is certain tests presentation in form of a table according to the order of their fulfilment.
Maximum 65 tests could be defined.
Main data of tests will be displayed. Further settings could be done in Test Settings.

1 Tests table: The most important parameters of a single test are displayed. Values that are obligatory
necessary for test are shown as white areas for input. Values that are not necessary for the corresponding
test are marked in grey. Showed here values do not have influence on the test.
The necessary values are determined by test type selection.
Data could be marked by one click and changed afterwards.
Note: However it is recommended to carry out changes in input mask Test settings.

47

It will not be shown unit of measure and it is not necessary to input it in the changes mode.
Column width is optimal, fixed and could not be changed. So the width of test table is fixed also.
One could find in Section Test settings values of columns together with set values.
2 Tests displacement in table or diagram: Marked test is moved in the limits of the table one line upwards or
downwards. In such a way it could be corrected the tests sequence.
8.9.4 Test-Diagram
Graphic display of certain tests.
1 It displays time variation of the
set values.
Here it is used start or end values
depending upon test type. Initial
conditions
could
not
be
determined previously for some
types of tests.
It becomes apparent in that case
when, for example a transfer
takes place from one CS-test to
another CD-test in form of a ramp.
Here the last condition in CS-test
is decisive where the start value is
of CD-ramp. However it could
differ from reality.
The following 4 physical values are displayed:
Blue: Shear stress and/or torque, it is valid also for oscillation measurements.
Red: Shear rate and/or number of revolutions.
Green: Deformation.
Orange: Frequency by oscillation measurements.
2 Estimated time: this is time necessary for test carrying out. Set tests time will be used.
Development of a process in time in some cases is only an approximation since in some tests, for example in
equilibrium experiments when time is not fixed.
3 Set values range: Physical values used in tests will be presented. Scaling is defined by the highest
encountered value and could not be changed.
The same scale is used during simultaneous display, for example of shear stress and number of revolutions.
Recalculation does not take place of shear stress in number of revolutions.
4 Displaying of single tests areas. Each test is limited by vertical lines at time axis. If there is enough room
for image, so it will be indicated test type.
The actual test, i.e. marked test in a table will be designated with some other colour and arrow before test type
name.
In such a way the marked test is moved then during Tests Displacement. Here displacement takes place to
the left (upwards key) or to the right (downwards key).

48

8.9.5 Methods- Individual test

It determines parameters of one single test.
1 Type: Test type, see for that Applications ->
Tests. Test type determines which further settings
values are necessary. Afterwards they will be
represented as white input areas. Input areas that
are not necessary for this type of test will be
displayed in grey. Besides this, physical value is
determined by test type. So, for instance for CStest it must be set shear stress and for CR-test it
must be set shear rate.
2 Short description of the selected test.
3 Constant or initial value of test. If test type is const, it means that this value is constant and is set for the
test fulfilment period. If test type is sweep, this value is initial value of a ramp.
4 End test value: End value of a ramp, it is valid for the tests types sweep.
5 Time: Time duration for a test. It is for the test types with definite behaviour in time. Number of measuring
points during this time depends upon the methods parameters: trigger and measuring time raster (Number =
Time duration Trigger time / Measuring time raster).
6 Fixed parameter: It is valid for test types Oscillation. This value represents constant amplitude of
oscillations at OSC const and OSC fsweep only. Constant frequency is set here at OSC asweep.

7 Measuring points: It is number of measuring points at test types without definite behaviour in time, for
instance oscillation tests or equilibrium measurements.
12,00
In case of oscillation tests this value gives number of oscillations
that will be done. Then result of measurements contains also time
linear
10,00
geometrisch
information about oscillations duration and duration of complete
geomtretic
8,00
test.
In case of equilibrium measurements this value determines
6,00
number of measuring points.
4,00

2,00
8 Geometric division: At sweep-tests ramp is not divided into
linear portions but into geometric segments. As an example at
0,00
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
figure ramp has been divided into 9 segments from 1 to 10.
X
Linear division is shown in blue colour, all portions are equal.
Geometric division shows unequal portions on Y axis. Each
individual value is a x-fold of the previous value. This setting is recommended for sweep tests in very wide
ranges.
9 Temperature control: It sets with which temperature control test should be carried out.
The possibilities are as follows:
None: Temperature control is unnecessary for this test. Measured temperature is displayed along with
measuring result.
Const: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.
After that one waits achievement of the required value and then test is executed. This temperature is
maintained constant during the whole test.
Jump: Temperature control is activated, set temperature will be specified as a new required value.
Test starts at the same time. Temperature approaches to the set value as soon as possible and for
this reason is not constant during the test. Achievement of set value is independent of the carried test.
Ramp: During test temperature will be reduced to the set target value. Temperature control is
activated. It will be preset the earlier actual target value. It could be target temperature value from the
previous test. Waiting takes place until this value stabilized. Only after that a new target temperature
value is set and test starts up. Now temperature changes so rapidly in order to achieve a new target
temperature exactly at the end of the test. Temperature ramp and test run synchronous during test
period.

49

All temperature ramps depend upon temperature control techniques. So it is technically impossible for
example to realize a set temperature ramp from 20C to 100C in 10 s with the help of liquid thermostat.
Especially it has to do with temperatures below zero (cooling).
At the beginning of test it is checked if temperature control is necessary and is it possible to reach set
temperature values with the help of the specified temperature controller. Error message appears, if it is
impossible.
10 Temperature: Temperature value will be preset which is necessary to set at constant temperature or
temperature value that should be reached at temperature ramps or temperature jumps.
11 Interruption criterion: it defines when the test should be interrupted. The following settings are possible:
None: Interruption criterion has not been defined.
Angle: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the preset angle. The angle value is set in methods
parameters.
This criterion is valid for CD-tests only.
Viscosity: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the preset viscosity. The viscosity value is set in
methods parameters.
Speed: Test will be interrupted at achievement of the preset number of revolutions. The speed value
is set in methods parameters. This criterion is valid for CR- and CS-tests only.
12 Use end value of the previous test as initial value. If this option is active, initial value of this test will be
taken automatically from the previous test. Initial value could be also a constant value in test with constants.
You obtain automatic combination of the transmitted values in such a way that during changing of the previous
test this value will be changed also.
This option is possible from the second test only, if the previous test has the end value and tests types match
to each other, for instance both tests are CR tests.
13 Backwards: Transfer to the previous test in the limits of the tests row, if it is possible.
14 Further: Transfer to the next test in the limits of the tests row, if it is possible.
15 Display test: It will be shown which test from the test row is active at the moment.
16 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
17 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Any recordings could not be done in the inlay Methods until window for test settings is active.
8.9.6 Parameter-Settings
Method parameters
1 Triggertime: This time in s causes delayed data recording after the start of the tests. This can be used to
hide transients or transient phenomena.
2 Time Raster 1: This time in s determines the
sampling of data during the test. The smallest
theoretically possible value is 0.004 s (4 ms).
Formally, only multiples of this value are
possible. Different inputs are adapted to the
required value. To ensure a secure and
continuous data transfer, we recommend a
minimum value of 0.04 s (40 ms).

50

3 Time Raster 2: corresponds to that of Time Raster 1. A second time intervals are specified to have two
different sampling rates available within a method here.
4 Viscosity Raster: This percentage value determines the next data transfer, provided that "viscosity" was
specified as the grid type.
5 Temperature Raster: This percentage value determines the next data transfer, provided that "temperature"
was specified as the grid type. This value is valid only for temperature jumps or temperature ramps.
6 Averaging: If this option is active, floating mean value will be formed in the control unit of RN. This option
allows obtain result with small noise.
7 Angle Abort Limit: This value in gives
possibility to interrupt test at achievement of
the definite angle. It is necessary to select
interruption criterion Angle in test settings.
8 Viscosity Abort Limit: This value in Pas
gives possibility to interrupt test at
achievement of the definite viscosity. It is
necessary to select interruption criterion
Viscosity in test settings.
9 Speed Abort Limit: This value in 1/s gives
possibility to interrupt test at achievement of
the definite speed. It is necessary to select
interruption criterion Speed in test settings.
10 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
11 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
Interruption conditions could be used for protection of material to be measured, the instrument and User from
damages or dirt.
So it would be possible at ramp of a torque obtain such high speed that the sample under study will be thrown
out of the instrument. This could be prevented with the help of function Interruption speed.
8.9.7 Unit settings
Parameters units are set with the help of units of measure settings. It relates to the method definition as well
as to displaying of measuring results in table, diagram or report.
Each settings change has a direct influence on the presented numeric values, if these changes are confirmed
with OK key.
No.
Parameter
Possible Units
1
Torque
mNm, Nm
2
Speed
1/s, 1/min
3
Time
ms, s, min
4
Temperature
C, K, F
5
Shear rate
1/s, 1/min
6
Shear stress
Pa, mPa, dyn/cm
7
Viscosity
Pa s, mPa s
8
Deformation
arb.unit*1, %
9
Angle
, rad
10
Frequency
Hz, 1/s
11
Angular frequency
Hz, 1/s
12
Modulus
Pa, kPa, MPa
13
Elasticity
1/Pa, 1/kPa, 1/MPa
*1
arb.unit represents dimensionless value relative to the initial value
51

14 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.

15 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

8.9.8 Main menu Method

8.9.8.1 New method
A new method is created in active methods group at the moment. At that this method could be created in any
place of the methods group.
New method has name New method from the beginning. At once guideline appears that it is necessary to
change this name if possible. See for that Section Method-Name.
Such test is set that could be adapted to the new requirements.
Parameters and units settings should be coordinated also.
Output values of a new method:
Test
Type: Speed const;
Start: 0 1/min;
Time: 10 s;
Temperature: none temperature control;
Raster type: Time raster 1;
None interruption criterion.
Parameter (here methods parameters only)
Trigger time: 1 s;
Time raster 1: 1 s;
Time raster 2: 10 s;
Viscosity raster: 5 %, not required as time raster 1 is used
Temperature raster: 5 %, not required as time raster 1 is used
Mean value formation: ON;
Angle Interruption value: 10 rad, not required as interruption criterion is absent;
Viscosity Interruption value: 10 Pas, not required as interruption criterion is absent;
Speed Interruption value: 3600 1/min, not required as interruption criterion is absent

52

Units
Torque
Speed
Time
Temperature
Shear rate
Shear stress
Viscosity
Deformation
Angle
Frequency
Angular frequency
Modulus
Elasticity

mNm
1/min
s
C
1/s
Pa
Pa s
%
rad
1/s
1/s
Pa
1/Pa

8.9.8.2 Copy Method

Marked method (in method tree) will be transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used.
If the method is not marked and for example methods group is marked only, message appears with
indication.

8.9.8.3 Insert Method

If method is in the clipboard, it will be inserted in the actual position of the method tree.
Inserted method has in its name prefix Copy from...
It is recommended to give to this method new appropriate name.
Therefore name input is activated. See for that also Section Method Name.
Note: Methods are inserted after the marked method. It is necessary to mark methods group in order to obtain
method at the first position in the methods group.

8.9.8.4 Delete Method

The marked method is deleted.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case if it is determined in Users settings. Cancel function is not
foreseeing.
8.9.8.5 Test -> Show
It shows settings of the marked test. New settings window will be opened.
See settings details in Section Test Settings.
This function acts in the main menu with the help of pressing Method -> Test as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
It is impossible to control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until settings window is active.
8.9.8.6 Test -> Copy
Marked test is transferred to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. It is possible to transfer tests inside
the method as well as from one method to another one. If there is no method marked, it appears message
with indication.
8.9.8.7 Test -> Insert
If test is in the clipboard, it will be inserted after the actual test into tests table.
Note: If it is necessary to insert this test in the first position, at first it should be inserted after the first test and
then displace upwards with the help of key Arrow Up.
53

8.9.8.8 Test -> Delete

The marked test is deleted.
Note: Inquiry follows for deletion in that case if it is determined in Users settings. Cancel function is not
foreseeing.

8.9.8.9 Parameter -> Show

Method parameters settings are shown. New setup window will be opened.
See settings details in Section Parameters Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Method -> Parameters, as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.
8.9.8.10 Parameter -> Copy
Method parameters settings are transferred to the clipboard. So parameter settings could be moved from one
method to another one. Windows clipboard is not used.
8.9.8.11 Parameter -> Insert
If parameter settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.
8.9.8.12 Unit settings -> Show
Method units settings are shown. New setup window will be opened.
See settings details in Section Units Settings.
This function acts in main menu as with the help of pressing Method -> Units, as well as by pressing
submenu Show.
One could not control the main window of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager until setup window is active.
8.9.8.13 Unit settings -> Copy
Method units settings are transferred to the clipboard. So units settings could be moved from one method to
another one or to the job also. Windows clipboard is not used.
8.9.8.14 Unit Settings -> Insert
If units settings are in the clipboard, they will be inserted in the actual method.
8.9.8.15 Copy table of tests to clipboard
It copies selected cells of the test table to Windows clipboard. This could be then inserted to a document, for
instance Excel, Word.
If only one cell was selected in test table, the whole table is copied columns headings including.
If one selects only some table cells, then they only will be copied to the clipboard. Here columns headings will
be added also.
Depending on chose test type unused values will not be added here.

8.9.8.16 Copy diagrams of tests to clipboard

It copies diagram of the method test as image into Windows clipboard. Later it is possible to insert it in
document, for example Excel, Word or E-mail.
Current view will be copied.
Note: The larger is diagram size at the moment of copying (to do RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager window
possibly maximal), the higher will be image resolution in the clipboard. High image resolution is an advantage
if afterwards this image should be enlarged.
54

8.9.8.17 Export / Import -> Export Method

The actual method is saved as a file in catalogue of data transfer. Afterwards it is possible to make this file
accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager or this file could be archived for documentation.
The file name corresponds to the method name with the files extension .rmb.
If there is file with the same name in data transfer catalogue, inquiry appears if it necessary to overwrite the
file.
8.9.8.18 Export / Import -> Import Method
Data menu will be shown that displays data transfer catalogue. From this catalogue it is possible to select
method, file with extension .rmb.
This method will be inserted then to the actual place in method tree. It could be new created method group or
any place inside existing methods group. Afterwards this method will have exactly the same functionality as all
other methods.
8.9.8.19 Export / Import -> Export method group
The marked methods group is saved as a file in catalogue of data transfer. Afterwards it is possible to make
this catalogue completely accessible for other users of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager or this catalogue could be
archived for documentation.
The catalogue name corresponds to the methods group name.
If there is catalogue with the same name in data transfer catalogue, inquiry appears if it necessary to overwrite
the catalogue.
One could not change the methods group catalogue content. Data safety and program stability could not be
guaranteed in case of any changes of catalogue content.

8.9.8.20 Export / Import -> Import method group

Data menu will be displayed that represents data transfer catalogue. It is possible to select a catalogue from
this catalogue that represents a methods group for import.
Name of the new method group corresponds to the catalogue name.
Imported methods group is inserted then after the marked methods group in method tree. This methods group
will have then the same functionality as all other method groups.
8.9.8.21 Explorer for transfer directory
One opens Windows explorer that opens data transfer catalogue. It could be used to copy necessary data or
catalogues to Windows clipboard and, for instance to copy in e-mail.

8.10 Settings
Measuring systems could be edited in this choice of the main menu, as well as specific settings. Besides,
calibrations could be fulfilled in case of corresponding rights.
8.10.1 Measuring Systems
RHEOTESTRN 4 could be used with different measuring systems. In selection one should follow samples
under study and analysis purpose. Various measuring systems are necessary in order to cover a wide range
of measurements for very different tasks.
For RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager are necessary certain characteristics that describes the measuring system in
order to calculate rheological parameters.
Control of these data is fulfilled in measuring systems library. One could select from available measuring
systems the measuring system in use at the moment. One does this before analysis in actually used job (see
also Job Measuring System).
For specific special jobs one could determine and add new measuring systems also.
55

1 Main menu: Access to supplementary functions.

2 Measuring systems tree: Overview of available measuring systems. There are two groups of measuring
systems:
Rheotest: They are predetermined and coordinated with the supplied measuring systems;
User: Here it is possible to define own measuring systems.
Here one could not add groups, delete or rename them.
For selection one should mark with mouse the necessary measuring system.
3 Name: measuring system name. For Rheotest measuring systems name is fixed and could not be
changed.
4 System type: Name of measuring system type. Rheological measuring systems are standardized details
that are subdivided into some main types. See for that Application -> Measuring Systems.
5 Commentary: Commentary on the measuring system.
6 Constant Tau: This constant is used for calculation of shear stress or torque. This value is read
automatically from the geometric data. It is possible to input constant manually in case of corresponding
rights availability.
7 Constant D: This constant is used for calculation of shear rate and speed or deformation from the rotation
angle. This value is calculated automatically from the geometric data. It is possible for special measuring
systems to input constant manually in case of corresponding rights availability.
8 Inertia moment: Its inertia moment of the measuring system. It is necessary for correction of measured
torque. In this case additional torques are compensated that appears as a result of accelerations and
brakings during oscillations. This value could be set or input manually or automatically through ServiceJob.
9 Rotation correction factor: These are constants for conversion of torque to shear stress and speed to
shear rate accordingly. Also they are used for conversion of rotation angle to deformation on the basis of
an ideal flow conditions in the shear clearance (especially one-dimensional laminar flow). Deviations of
flow field for example due to influence of a surface, eccentricity could be taken into account with the help
of rotation correction factor. Correction factor is determined automatically with the help of reference liquid
and calibration job or it could be input manually.
10 Oscillation correction factor: is the same as rotation correction factor but serves for oscillation
measurements.
11 Geometric data of measuring systems: Settings of geometric data of the measuring system. One fulfils
setup of necessary data on the basis of the measuring system type. These values should be input
manually according to the measuring system. They are used for calculations of constant Tau and
constant D.
12 Graphic display: One presents corresponding type of measuring system with set geometric data.
13 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
14 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

8.10.1.1 Main Menu edit

8.10.1.1.1 Edit -> New Systems
It adds a new measuring system in actual position in measuring systems tree. It is possible for Users with
rights of administrator only for group of measuring systems Rheotest. User with rights of engineer could do a
new measuring system in group of measuring systems User.
New measuring system has name New from the beginning. This name must be changed obligatory. For that
window appears with proposition to change name.
New measuring system has the following settings:
56

Type:
Constant Tau:
Constant D:
Inertia moment:
Rotation correction factor:
Oscillation correction factor:
Rotor diameter:
Rotor length:
Measuring vessel diameter:

Cylinder S
1.0
1.0
0
1.0
1.0
0
0
1.0

These data should be changed for data of a new measuring system.

8.10.1.1.2 Edit -> Copy system
One copies actual measuring system to the clipboard. Windows clipboard is not used. Copying from each
group of measuring systems is possible for User with rights of engineer.
8.10.1.1.3 Edit -> Insert System
Measuring system is inserted from the clipboard in actual place in measuring systems tree, if before it was not
copied. Name of the inserted measuring system is Copy of. This name must be changed at once.
Only User with rights of administrator could add measuring systems into the group of measuring systems
Rheotest. User with rights of engineer could add measuring systems in group of measuring systems User.
8.10.1.1.4 Edit -> Delete System
The actual measuring system will be deleted.
Only User with rights of administrator could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems
Rheotest. User with rights of engineer could delete measuring systems from the group of measuring systems
User.
Note: Inquiry appears about confirmation of deletion in case, if this was set in User settings. Cancel function is
not foreseeing.
8.10.1.1.5 Edit -> upwards
The actual measuring system will be shifted one position upwards in measuring systems tree. This function
serves for sorting of measuring systems according with the own criteria.
Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
Rheotest. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
User.
8.10.1.1.6 Edit -> Downwards
The actual measuring system will be shifted one position downwards in measuring systems tree. This function
serves for sorting of measuring systems according with the own criteria.
Only User with rights of administrator could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
Rheotest. User with rights of engineer could shift measuring systems in the group of measuring systems
User.

8.10.1.2 Main Menu Calculation

8.10.1.2.1 Calculation -> Constant Tau
It will be calculated Tau constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for
User with administrator rights only.

57

Calculation rules correspond to the regulations in force and depend upon measuring system inserted. Also
see for that Applications Measuring Systems.
8.10.1.2.2 Calculation -> Constant D
It will be calculated D constant on the basis of the geometric data of measuring system. It is possible for User
with administrator rights only.
Calculation rules correspond to the regulations in force and depend upon measuring system inserted. Also
see for that Applications Measuring Systems.
8.10.2 General Settings
In order to achieve optimal use of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager some view options could be adjusted to
individual requirements.
These settings are valid for all users of the software and hence have global character.
1 Inlays: Jobs, Methods, Print and System. Content
is described in details below.
Inlay Job
2 It is a list of actually available jobs groups. This list
includes all jobs groups that are in the system
catalogue of RN-Manager at present.
In case of General Settings invocation checking is
fulfilled which jobs groups are available.
If new jobs groups will be found, message appears
with indication and they will be added to this list.
If one jobs group from the list will not be found in RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager system catalogue, it will be
informed and this jobs group will be deleted from the list.
This jobs group is displayed in jobs tree of the main display with the help of a mark before jobs group name.
Due to this possibility unnecessary at present jobs groups could be hidden in jobs tree. It was done for better
image clarity.
3 New group: New empty jobs group will be created. It contains preset name from input area under this
button. If the name was not set, message appears with indication.
4 Input area for jobs group: Here one could set name of jobs groups which afterwards is used to create a
new jobs group or to rename available jobs group.
5 Rename group: Existing jobs group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in the
input area (3). Then it is necessary to select jobs group from the name list (6) which it is necessary to rename.
Now name of jobs group could be changed with the help of Rename Group button.
6 List of groups names: it is a list of available jobs groups. Selection in this list is necessary for functions
Rename Group and Delete Group.
7 Delete group: Selected jobs group will be deleted in the list of groups names. It takes place in that case
only, if this jobs group is empty, i.e. there are no more jobs in this jobs group. It will be informed, if selected
jobs group is not empty.
However if this jobs group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that it is
necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager view window a job in the group that has to be
deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Job -> Delete Job -> Delete all in Group through the main menu.
Now jobs group is empty and could be deleted completely in general settings. For that in inlay Job one
selects group name in names list (6) and then the jobs group is deleted with the help of Delete Group.
8 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
9 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.
58

Note: By creation, renaming or deletion of the jobs group in every case only one function could be fulfilled for
the jobs group. It means for example that new created jobs group could not be renamed or deleted at once.
For that it is necessary to escape from General settings and recall them again. In this case only it might be
fulfilled the second function.
It refers to the inlay Methods also.
Inlay Methods

1 It is a list of actually available methods groups. This

list includes all methods groups that are in the system
catalogue of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager at present.
In case of General Settings invocation checking is
fulfilled which methods groups are available.
If new methods groups will be found, message appears
with indication and they will be added to this list.
If one methods group from the list will not be found in
RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager system catalogue, it will be
informed and this methods group will be deleted from
the list.
This methods group is displayed in methods tree of the
main display with the help of a mark before methods group name.
Due to this possibility unnecessary at present methods groups could be hidden in methods tree. It was done
for better image clarity.
2 New group: New empty methods group will be created. It contains preset name from input area under this
button. If the name was not set, message appears with indication.
3 Input area for methods group: Here one could set name of methods groups which afterwards is used to
create a new methods group or to rename available methods group.
4 Rename group: Existing methods group will be renamed. For that it is necessary to input a new name in
the input area (3). Then it is necessary to select methods group from the name list (6) which it is necessary to
rename. Now name of methods group could be changed with the help of Rename Group button.
5 List of groups names: it is a list of available methods groups. Selection in this list is necessary for functions
Rename Group and Delete Group.
6 Delete group: Selected methods group will be deleted in the list of groups names. It takes place in that
case only, if this methods group is empty, i.e. there are no more methods in this methods group. It will be
informed, if selected methods group is not empty.
However if this methods group should be deleted, at first it is necessary to escape from this setting. After that
it is necessary to select in the main RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager view window a method in the group that has
to be deleted. It is necessary to fulfil Method -> Delete method in order to delete one method after another
through the main menu.
Now methods group is empty and could be deleted completely in general settings. For that in inlay Methods
one selects group name in the names list (6) and then the methods group is deleted with the help of Delete
Group.
7 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
8 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

59

Inlay Print
One defines heading form for printing.
It will be determined how should be represented heading
of each printout. This includes text information as well as
company logo.
1 User heading for printing. If this function is active, it will
be output for each printout heading in accordance with the
following settings.
2 Free text 1: Main text in heading. It is output with large
type in the first line of the printout. It might be for example name of an enterprise.
3 Free text 2: as addition to the heading. It will be considerably smaller than the main text and is situated in
the second line of the printout. This might be for example a department.
Note to 2 and 3: Texts will be aligned to the left edge and be in a frame. If text should be wider than the frame
or page, so the text will be shown as it is possible.
It is recommended to check texts image through Page View and if necessary correct text in accordance with
the page parameters.
4 Logo name: here it could be determined name of a graphic file (*.bmp, *.jpg) that represents logo. It might
be logo of enterprise or branch.
If possible graphics should have size 100 pixels x 100 pixels. Other dimensions are used but it could result in
images distortion.
If file was set that was not found, so the logo would not be presented. Message with indication does not
appear.
Logo appears in heading at the right side.
5 Show heading at all pages: If this function is active, heading will be presented at every printed page. If it is
not active, so it will be at the first page only.
Inlay System
It serves to set or display of system significant settings.
1 Identification: These are codified numbers to check
compatibility of RN Manager and the instrument.
Identification numbers are set in RHEOTEST and could
be changed by administrator only.
It is necessary to inform Rheotest about this number in
order to identify instrument and software correctly.
2 Language: Settings of software language. After new
language has been installed it is necessary to reset the
software to activate these settings.
3 Pt100 calibration: It will be displayed saved in the system data about Pt100 calibration. They will be
updated if fulfil Service-Job xPt100-Calibration in the jobs group xJobs-for-Service.
Reference temperature will be shown at which calibration was carried out. Correction factor is a calibration
itself. Measured temperatures will be corrected with this value.
4 Time correction: This value is used for correction of measuring data by oscillation measurements. The
value is inserted in Rheotest and could be changed with the rights of administrator only. One wrong change
could lead to distortion of measuring data.

60

8.10.3 User Settings

User settings are supported in certain volume with software. Login window appears after software launching.
Here User has to identify himself with the help of name and password.
Information input here will be used in further operation in program. See for that Section User Login.
Control of registered Users occurs in this input window in users settings.
They are divided in two inlays. One inlay contains settings for one user. The second inlay contains settings of
the registered users.
1 Inlays: User, Admin. Content is described in detail below.
Inlay User
2 Delete with confirmation: at each deletion at
first enquiry appears for confirmation of deletion. If
one answers to this enquiry No, deletion process
will be cancelled.
3 Fill in user data automatically: at creation of a
new sample user name will be filled in
automatically. It will be used the registered user
name.
4 Begin with the last used job, method: at
program launching job is selected that was
selected the last and the last selected method.
5 Enquiry of temperature control at program launching: If this option is active at program launching and user
login, an enquiry appears if it is necessary to start temperature control. This option is useful if samples must
be measured at temperatures that differ considerably from room temperature, it will be set definite
temperature for measuring system and the sample with the help of temperature control launching. At the same
time settings are made with the software.
6 Parameters are presented: Parameters (labelling of measured values / results) could be corrected in
accordance with personal requirements. Parameters names appear in different menu of parameters selection,
in table, diagram and report.
The following options exist:
1. Name: it will be shown parameters name only, for shear stress.
2. Symbol: it will be shown parameters symbol only, for instance .
3. Name-Symbol: for example, shear stress .
4. Symbol (Name): for example, (shear stress).
Note: Settings from (2) to (6) registered user could make by himself. Further it is possible that the user with
higher status (see below) could change the settings.
7 Input field for own password, i.e. the user password that was registered at program launching. It is
impossible to change password of other user. Neither could the password be shown.
8 Input field for password repetition. It is necessary to exclude misprints.
9 New/Change: Registered user could change his own password after input of a new password and
repetition. Already existed password will be changed for a new one.
10 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
11 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

61

Inlay Admin
It is possible to control registered users in inlay Admin.
1 Users list: All registered users are listed in the list.
One might start RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager with one
of these names only.
2 New: New user is created. For that it will be used
name for login from the input field (4). If no name was
indicated, message appears about this.
3 Delete: Actually selected user will be deleted.
Afterwards he could not launch RHEOTEST RN 4
Manager. User with higher status could delete other
user only. Also it is impossible to delete oneself by
oneself.
4 Input field Name for login: Here one sets name for login of a new user. New user will be registered, if one
presses New (2).
5 Name: Full name of user. It appears then as operator name during sample creation. Operator name could
be output later in headings of table, diagram or report.
6 Department: Input of user department. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does
not use later.
7 Phone: input of phone number of user. It serves for user identification exclusively. This information does
not use later.
8 User level or status also: These settings serve for determination of software use. It is reasonable to permit
to some users not to do all changes. It could assure prevention of errors, accidental data deletion, error
measurements and in such a way incorrect analysis.
It is possible 4 users levels, see for that the following Section Operation Status.

Operation Status
Designation User level
1.
Operator 0: Measurements (jobs) could be started and results could be printed.
2.
Engineer 1: It could be created and changed methods and jobs including formation of displaying and
output of measured values and report settings.
3.
Admin 2: It could be done settings connected with the system, for example measuring constants,
parameters, constants of measuring systems and control of user. These settings require detail
knowledge as in such a way measurements precision and rheometer functions are determined.
Incorrect input data could lead to erroneous measurements results or to instrument damage also.
4.
Super-Admin 3: here it could be set special parameters which determine instrument functioning.
These settings are fulfilled by Rheotest before delivery and then they are saved by the service of
Rheotest.
User status change is possible only in such volume that he could change other user status that is smaller than
his own status.

Creation of a new user

It is necessary user login with status Admin in order to create a new user.
Input form Settings -> User-Settings is called in the main menu. New user name could be input in the inlay
Admin at the right side of the section All Users. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that certain
signs are allowed only. Invalid signs will not be accepted. Besides this name must not have more than 20
characters.
62

This new user will be added to the users list with the help of pressing New. Now additional information could
be input such as full name, department, phone number and user status.
It is possible to do settings of specific user in inlay User.
However password could not be entered. Password input is always related to the password itself.
Afterwards as all settings were done it is possible to exit from the input form with the help of OK. All settings
will be saved.
Now new user has to login with his registration name.
As far as a password was not created it is impossible to enter any password.
After program was launched it is necessary to define password in input form Settings -> User Settings.
The user opens the input form enters twice his password in inlay User and confirms it with the help of
Set/Change.
After exit from the input window using OK this password is active. It is necessary to enter login and password
at the next registration during program launching.
Note: Only registered user could change own password also.
One could refuse from password entering, if only one person works with the program or it is unnecessary to
use different users rights.
Simply password is not determined for new users. Password could not be deleted directly for existing users.
Here it is necessary to give possibility to delete user and then create a new one.
8.10.4 Communication Settings
Prerequisite for functioned working place is correct communication between computer, RHEOTESTRN 4
and connected temperature controller.
Communication is carried out through interface COM. Connection of RN-control unit and temperature
controller is fulfilled with RS232 cable or with RS232 cable and transducer USB-Serial.
One could do necessary settings for this in 3 inlays.
1 Inlays:
RN
Plate control
Temperature controller
Temperature

Communication settings for RN control unit

Communication settings for temperature controller
Control panel for temperature controller

Content is described in detail below.

RN
Used data protocol between PC and RN control unit was developed specially for this task. It is impossible to
set communication with the help of other software. Settings of used interfaces are saved constantly in the
program. It must be determined only COM-port number.
2 COM port: Number of used COM-port. If one uses USBadapter here, it is necessary to input number of virtual COMport of USB transducer.
3 Data bit: Number of data bits for one sign 8
4 Baud rate: 57600
5 Stop bit: Number of stop bits in data protocol 1
6 Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic 0
7 Transmission: Transmitted signs sequence from RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager to RN-control unit.
63

8 Receive: Received signs sequence from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager.

9 Data reception: Data receipt during analysis.
10 Check port: All available COM-port will be detected that could be used for communication.
11 Initialize port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are
transmitted to interface.
12 Transmit INIT: Signs sequence is output for RN-control unit initialization. In case of correct
communication answer follows from RN-control unit in form of determined signs sequence.
13 Cancel: All changes will be rejected and input display is closed.
14 OK: All changes will be accepted and input display is closed.

Startup RN-interface
The following sequence exists in order to setup and commissioning of interface:
1. Press Check port: all available COM-ports are entered into selection list.
2. Read in PC to which COM-port is connected the RN-control unit. It is not so easy in case of use of
USB cables. Here one should see and check equipment settings in PC system.
3. Select from the list COM-interface.
4. Press Init. Port: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters.
5. Press Transmission INIT to check communication: now definite command is sending to RNcontrol unit. Sent text one could read on display Transmission.
6. If communication was set correctly, it appears text with answer on display Receiving.
7. If error arises, it means that communication was set incorrectly.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. So it is not necessary to carry out
commissioning again in case of changeless complete set of working place for measurements.

Temperature Control
Used data protocol is adjusted according to producer of temperature controller. There are some commands or
data structures that are the same for all temperature controllers but every controller type has its own special
commands. It is related with technical progress and different functionality.
Only definite commands are used in the software in order to correspond to this circumstance. They meet
requirements of rheological studies. Moreover there is freedom of actions due to this and it is possible to use
practically every temperature controller with this software.
Settings for link with temperature controller are made in inlay Temperature Controller.
1 COM-port: Number of used COM-port. If one uses USBadapter here, it is necessary to input number of virtual
COM-port of USB transducer.
2 Controller type: Selection of available thermocontroller. It
will be shown thermocontrollers that are recorded in file
ThermoControl.set.
3 Data bit: Number of data bits for one sign 8
4 Baud rate: 9600. This value is in Operating Manual of the
thermocontroller.

64

5 Stop bit: Number of stop bits in data protocol 1. This value is in Operating Manual of the
thermocontroller.
6 Parity: Bits state as parity characteristic 0. This value is in Operating Manual of the thermocontroller.
7 Transmission: Here signs are represented that should be transmitted. These symbols could not be entered
directly but they are determined with the software. This display is necessary for service or for experienced
user in case of troubleshooting.
8 Receive: Here received signs are presented. This signs are sent from RN-control unit to RHEOTEST RN
4 Manager and are answer to command sent. This display is necessary for service or for experienced user
in case of troubleshooting.
9 Check port: All available COM-port will be detected that could be used for communication.
10 Initialize port: Actual COM-port is initialized with the standard settings. It means that setup data are
transmitted to interface.
11 Types loading: Available thermocontrollers will be read from file ThermoControl.set and put into the list
(2).
Parameters and commands for thermocontrollers are indicated in file ThermoControl.set.
File is in the same catalogue where the software is. If this file does not exist, the program could not be started.
All available in the file thermocontrollers are loaded at program launching. If the file contains wrong data, the
loading will be stopped and there will not be available thermocontroller.

Startup Thermocontroller
The following sequence exists in order to setup and commissioning of thermocontroller:
1. Press Types loading: file ThermoControl.set is loading. If file contain errors, it will be shown. If
load took place without faults, then message appears Available.
2. Select connected thermocontroller from the list. Now parameters and commands are transferred
to display.
3. Press Check port: all available COM-interfaces are put in the list for selection.
4. Read in PC to which COM-port is connected the thermocontroller. It is not so easy in case of use
of USB cables. Here one should see and check equipment settings in PC system.
5. Select from the list COM-interface for thermocontroller. COM-interface that is used by RN-control
unit could not be selected.
6. Press Init. Port: Interface is initialized with fixed parameters.
7. Communication check is carried out in inlay Temperature.
Commands and replies are shown on displays Transmission and Receive, if communication took place.
They are necessary for service in troubleshooting.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. So it is not necessary to carry out
commissioning again in case of changeless complete set of working place for measurements.

65

Temperature
It is possible remote control of thermocontroller in inlay Temperature, if communication was set correctly.
Commands are divided in two groups: fixed temperature and temperature ramps.
The following commands are for fixed temperatures:
1 Enquiry: Actual temperature will be displayed. If it
concerns the internal controller, temperature or the
external temperature is determined by Init-commands or
through a command. Actual temperature appears on
display Act.Temp.[C].
2 New: setup of new target temperature. Input of new
value in input field Target Temp.[C]. Afterwards this
value will be transmitted to thermocontroller as new set
value.
3 Enquiry: It is enquiry of actual set target temperature. Enquired value will be shown in input field Target
Temp.[C].
4 - START: Temperature control starts, i.e. the set temperature is reached by cooling or heating. At that it is
necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high, dangerous temperatures could arise
in the measuring system.
5 STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.
Note It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!
The following commands are for temperature ramp:
6 Set Ramp: It is transferred information necessary for temperature ramp. At that value on display Target
Temp.[C] is transferred as a target temperature. The value on display Time[min] is the ramp time. Then
ramp slope is calculated in thermocontroller from these two values.
7 Time [min]: It is field for input of temperature ramp duration. Setup of this value is used for temperature
ramp settings (6).
8 - Status: Thermocontroller status is read out. Reply is different for each controller type and must be taken
from the Operating Manual of the thermocontroller.
9 - START: Temperature ramp starts, i.e. new temperature will be reached in preset time from the actually set
value. At that it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that at command START very high, dangerous
temperatures could arise in the measuring system.
10 - STOP: Temperature control is off. Heating or cooling takes place no more.
Note It could be still very high temperatures in the measuring system under certain circumstances!
11 Init.1: Optionally commands could be sent to the thermocontroller with the help of this. These commands
could fulfil certain settings in the thermocontroller. This command is fulfilled one time at program launching.
The commands could be the following: readings precision, internal / external temperature, pump ON/OFF. The
commands must be stored in setup file of the thermocontroller.
12 Init.2: It is such as Init.1 for further commands.
Note: Enquiry is a simple command to check communication. Act.Temp.[C] (actual thermocontroller
temperature) appears on display as a reply on this command.
At launching the program tries to use the last communication settings. So it is not necessary to carry out
checking again in case of changeless complete set of working place for measurements.
All settings will be accepted by pressing OK. If one pushes Cancel, all changes will be rejected.
66

8.10.5 Pt100 Calibration

Pt100 calibration could be carried out with this action.
As a rule this calibration is fulfilled after ending of the corresponding job with the actual sample.
However it could happen that it is necessary to carry out calibration again without new measurement. In this
case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If it is a wrong case and other sample is active,
message appears with indication. See also 1-Special Function.
8.10.6 Inertia Calibration
Calibration of moment of inertia of the measuring system could be carried out with this action.
As a rule this calibration is fulfilled after ending of the corresponding job with the actual sample.
However it could happen that it is necessary to carry out calibration again without new measurement. In this
case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If it is a wrong case and other sample is active,
message appears with indication. See also 1-Special Function.
8.10.7 Rotary Calibration
Correction factor of the measuring system could be done for rotary tests with this action.
As a rule this calibration is fulfilled after ending of the corresponding job with the actual sample.
However it could happen that it is necessary to carry out calibration again without new measurement. In this
case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If it is a wrong case and other sample is active,
message appears with indication.
See also 1-Special Function.
8.10.8 Oscillation Calibration
Correction factor of the measuring system could be done for oscillation tests with this action.
As a rule this calibration is fulfilled after ending of the corresponding job with the actual sample.
However it could happen that it is necessary to carry out calibration again without new measurement. In this
case it is necessary to select this action.
At that one should activate the sample that has to be used. If it is a wrong case and other sample is active,
message appears with indication.
See also 1-Special Function.

8.11 Main Menu File

The following functions are possible:
Page Setup
Page Preview
Print
End exit from program

8.11.1 Setup page

It is setup of used paper size, paper format and page margins.
8.11.2 Page Preview
It permits to preview pages that must be printed. So it is possible to check version for printing. If necessary
one could do changes, for instance print parameters or width of table columns.

67

The following functions are possible:

Direct printing of preview
Preview Zoom
Display of one page
Display of two pages
Display of three pages
Display of four pages
Display of six pages
Close preview
Printout content is described in the following section.
Printing is fulfilled depending upon the output for printing parameters selected.
The following contents and options are possible for printing:
Bookmark Job Printing of active job or list of available jobs at the moment.
Bookmark Table Printing of data table, with table settings optionally.
Bookmark Diagram Printing of diagram, with report, table, diagram settings optionally.
Bookmark Report Printing of report, with diagram optionally.
Bookmark Method Printing of active method or of list of available methods at the moment.
Parameters and data values are presented in the corresponding chapters.
Print Job
It is necessary to select inlay Job, sub-inlay Settings.
One could select if it is necessary to print the active job or list of available jobs at the moment.
Jobs list
The list is output of all jobs. Such jobs are taken into account that could be selected in the selection tree at the
moment. Jobs will not be taken into account that is in the jobs groups that are not displayed.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.
List content:
Jobs group
. . .

Job name
. . .

Measuring
system
. . .

Method of
analysis
. . .

Date of
change
. . .

Number of
samples
. . .

Number of lines depends upon available jobs.

Active job
Data of actually active job will be printed. Moreover exact content could be selected optionally.
The following options are possible:
Definition
Data of jobs definition such as:
Job name
Product name
Measuring system
Method
Commentary

Date of creation
Date of changing
Date of the last use

Setting
Settings from the inlay Settings
Suppress wait time
Show sample collection
Active job
Measuring system
Samples list
Method
Table settings
Report settings

Show complete sample in process of analysis

Jobs list
Units
Active sample
Method parameters
Diagram settings

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Measuring system
Here are data of measuring system that is actually indicated in the job. It must not be obligatory the measuring
system that was used for previous measurements.
Measuring system name
Commentary
Constant Tau
Inertia moment
Correction factor

Measuring system type

Constant D
Correction factor for oscillation

The following geometric data are based on the type of displayed measuring system. Here is example
for cylinder H
Rotor diameter
Measuring vessel diameter

Rotor length

Samples list
Here is list of samples that are in the job.
Samples group

Charge

. . .

. . .

Date
creation
. . .

of

Editor name

Tests number

. . .

. . .

Lines number depends upon the settings.

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.
Active sample
Here are data of the active selected sample with the following content:
Sample name
Name creation regime
Commentary
Date of creation
Measuring system name
Constant Tau
Correction factor

Charge
Editor name
Tests number
Inertia moment
Constant D

Tests list in the sample

Test number

Test type

. . .

. . .

Number
points
. . .

of

data

Number of lines depends upon the settings.

Units of measure
Here is list of actually used units in the job for:
Torque
Time
Shear rate
Viscosity
Deformation
Frequency
Modulus

Speed
Temperature
Shear stress
Angle
Angular frequency
Elasticity

Method
Here is method that is stored in the active job at the moment. It must not be the method used for previous
measurements. The following is listed:

Test type

Beginning

End

Time

Points

Geometric

Fixed
parameter

Temperature
type

Temperature

Raster type

Interruption
type

Use data of
previous test

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

Date of creation
Date of change

. . .

Method name
Methods group
Commentary
List of tests in the method

Number of lines depends upon the settings.

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.
69

Method parameters
Here is list of parameters for RN control.
Method parameters
Trigger time
Time raster 1
Time raster 2
Viscosity raster
Temperature raster

Mean value
Limit angle
Limit viscosity
Limit speed
Reference temperature

Extended parameters
-DynamicsParameter 0
Parameter 1
Parameter 2
Parameter 30

-RheologySampling filter
Tolerance
Mean number
Interruption time

Table settings
List of all table settings
Number of columns
Parameter 1

Parameter 2

Parameter x

. . .

Number of columns depends upon the settings.

Displayed tests
Test1
Test6
Test2
Test7
Test3
Test8
Test4
Test9
Test5
Test10

Test11
Test12
Test13
Test14
Test15

Test16
Test17
Test18
Test19
Test20

Table heading (It consists of 3 lines and 3 columns)

Data 11
Show
Data 12
Show
designation
designation
11
12
Data 22
Show
Data 21
Show
designation
designation
22
21
Data 32
Show
Data 31
Show
designation
designation
32
31
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Data 13

Data 23

Data 33

Show
designation
13
Show
designation
23
Show
designation
33

Print
Add setting

Diagram settings
List of all diagram settings
Axis X
Type

Scaling

Min.
value

Max.
value

log

Axis X sorting
Axes Y
Left

Type

Scaling

Right

Type

Scaling

2.left

Type

Scaling

2.right

Type

Scaling

Grid Settings
X-grid
Y-grid
Grid colour

Min.
value
Min.
value
Min.
value
Min.
value

Max.
value
Max.
value
Max.
value
Max.
value

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

X-small grid
Y

Displayed tests
Test1
Test6
Test2
Test7

Test11
Test12

Test16
Test17

70

Test3
Test4
Test5

Test8
Test9
Test10

Test13
Test14
Test15

Test18
Test19
Test20

Diagram heading (It consists of 3 lines and 3 columns)

Line 1
Show
Line 1
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
12
11
Line 2
Show
Line 2
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
22
21
Line 3
Show
Line 3
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
32
31
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Line 1
Column 3
Line 2
Column 3
Line 3
Column 3

Show
designation
13
Show
designation
23
Show
designation
33

Print
Add report
Add table
Add setting

Note: It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.

Report settings
List of all report settings
Calculation 1

Parameter 1

Test 1

Parameter2 1

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

Show at
diagram 1
. . .

Commentary 1
. . .

Lines number depends upon necessary calculations.

Report heading (It consists of 3 lines and 3 columns)

Line 1
Show
Line 1
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
12
11
Line 2
Show
Line 2
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
22
21
Line 3
Show
Line 3
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
32
31
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Line 1
Column 3
Line 2
Column 3
Line 3
Column 3

Show
designation
13
Show
designation
23
Show
designation
33

Print
Add diagram
Add table
Add setting

Print Table
For that it is necessary to select pointer Table.
Table of the active job is displayed always. At that tables actual settings are taking into account such as:
Displayed parameters (number of columns)
Selected tests
Table heading settings
Columns width
See for that menu Table settings.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon number of
parameters and number of columns set. It is necessary to use preview function in order to obtain optimal
printing result. At that it is possible to see necessary corrections of columns width or page format.

71

The following printing options are possible:

Table settings
List of all table settings
Number of columns
Parameter 1

Parameter 2

Parameter x

. . .

Number of columns depends upon the settings.

Displayed tests
Test1
Test6
Test2
Test7
Test3
Test8
Test4
Test9
Test5
Test10

Test11
Test12
Test13
Test14
Test15

Test16
Test17
Test18
Test19
Test20

Table heading (It consists of 3 lines and 3 columns)

Data 12
Show
Data 11
Show
designation
designation
12
11
Data 22
Show
Data 21
Show
designation
designation
22
21
Data 32
Show
Data 31
Show
designation
designation
32
31
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Data 13

Data 23

Data 33

Show
designation
13
Show
designation
23
Show
designation
33

Print
Add settings

Print Diagram
For that it is necessary to select pointer Diagram.
Diagram of the active job is displayed always. At that diagrams actual settings are taking into account such
as:
Displayed parameters (number of Y axes)
Selected tests
Diagram heading settings
Sample collection settings
Report parameters settings
See for that menu Diagram settings.
Printed diagram size is adjusted to the page format used. It will be printed maximal possible format, without
changing proportions of the diagram page. It means that page width is decisive for A4-portrait. In contrast with
this page height is dominant for A4-album. One could setup pages proportions with the help of window
change for diagram preview.
It is necessary to use page preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is possible to
see necessary corrections of page format.
The following printing options are possible:
Report
Report is displayed directly under the diagram. So it is possible visual presentation of results on paper.
Here the report is output without its heading. Settings correspond to ones stated in the Section Report.
Table
Table is displayed directly under the diagram or under the report, if it was selected. So it is possible visual
presentation of all results on one paper sheet.
Here the table is output without its heading. Settings correspond to ones stated in the Section Table.

72

Diagram settings
List of all diagram settings
Axis X
Type

Scaling

Min.
value

Max.
value

log

Axis X sorting
Axes Y
Left

Type

Scaling

Right

Type

Scaling

2.left

Type

Scaling

2.right

Type

Scaling

Grid Settings
X-grid
Y-grid
Grid colour

Min.
value
Min.
value
Min.
value
Min.
value

Max.
value
Max.
value
Max.
value
Max.
value

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

log

Colour

Width

Marking

Size

X-small grid
Y

Displayed tests
Test1
Test6
Test2
Test7
Test3
Test8
Test4
Test9
Test5
Test10

Test11
Test12
Test13
Test14
Test15

Test16
Test17
Test18
Test19
Test20

Diagram heading (It consists of 3 lines and 3 columns)

Line 1
Show
Line 1
Show
Column 1
Column 2
designation
designation
11
12
Line 2
Show
Line 2
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
22
21
Line 3
Show
Line 3
Show
designation
designation
Column 2
Column 1
32
31
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Line 1
Column 3
Line 2
Column 3
Line 3
Column 3

Show
designation
13
Show
designation
23
Show
designation
33

Print
Add report
Add table
Add setting

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.

Print Report
For that it is necessary to select pointer Report.
Report of the active job is displayed always. At that reports actual settings are taking into account such as:
Displayed calculations
Report heading settings
See for that menu Report settings.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation depending upon columns width of
the report set. It is necessary to use page preview function in order to obtain optimal printing result. At that it is
possible to see necessary corrections of columns width or page format.
The following printing options are possible:
Diagram
Diagram is output directly under the report. At that it is possible visual presentation of all results on one sheet.
Diagram is output with its heading. If printing is necessary without heading, it must be done in the diagram
settings.
Diagram size depends on free place on the first sheet. If there is less place than necessary, diagram printing
does not take place. If necessary one should use diagram printing with the counting option.
The diagram is displayed in such a way as it is indicated in the settings.
73

Table
Table is displayed directly under the report or under the diagram, if it was selected and there is enough room.
So it is possible visual presentation of all results on one paper sheet.
The table is output without its heading. Settings correspond to ones stated in the Section Table.

Print Method
For that it is necessary to select pointer Method.
One could select print active method or list of available methods at the moment.
Methods list
List of all methods is displayed. The methods are taken into account that one could actually select in the
selection tree. Methods from the methods groups that are not shown will not be taken into account.
It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.
List content:
Methods group

Method name

. . .

. . .

Date
creation
. . .

of

Date
changing
. . .

of

Tests number
. . .

Lines number depends upon available methods.

Active method
Data are printed of the actual active method, at that it is possible to select exact content optionally.
The following options are possible:
Definition
Data of method definition such as:
Method name
Methods group
Commentary

Date of creation
Date of changing

Settings
Output of settings from the pointer Method:
Active method
Definition
Test diagram
Methods parameters
Method

Methods list
Settings
Tests list
Units
Methods parameters

Test diagram
Tests diagram is output. Diagram size is fixed well-defined.
Tests list
List is output with defined tests.

Test type

Beginning

End

Time

Points

Geometric

Fixed
parameter

Temperature
type

Temperature

Raster type

Interruption
type

Use data of
previous test

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

List of tests in the method

Number of lines depends upon the settings.

It is recommended to use paper format A4 across for better presentation.
Method parameters
74

Here is list of parameters for RN control.

Method parameters
Trigger time
Time raster 1
Time raster 2
Viscosity raster
Temperature raster
Extended parameters
-DynamicsParameter 0
Parameter 1
Parameter 2
Parameter 30

Mean value
Interruption criterion Angle
Interruption criterion Viscosity
Interruption criterion Speed
Reference temperature

-RheologySampling filter
Tolerance
Mean number
Interruption time

Units of measure
Here is list of actually used units in the method for:
Torque
Time
Shear rate
Viscosity
Deformation
Frequency
Modulus

Speed
Temperature
Shear stress
Angle
Angular frequency
Elasticity

General Print Options

One could determine specific heading for User in order to printout corresponds own requirements. It consists
from two lines and logo.
If complete printout does not fit into one page, the inscription appears see next pages.
The source is indicated at the end of each printout:
RHEOTEST RN-Manager, and then date of printout follows.

Settings of the specific for the User heading are

carried out in general settings in the inlay Print.
The following functions are possible:
User heading for printing
Free text 1
Free text 2
Logo name
Show heading at all pages
User heading for printing
It is displayed specific for User heading, if this option is active. Then it appears in a frame at the upmost
possible place of the page. At that all other information that is printed will be shifted downwards.
Width depends upon selected sheet width.
Free text 1
This text is output in the upper line with left alignment and bold type. This text could be used for enterprise
name.
Free text 2
This text is output in the lower line with left alignment. This text could be used for department name.
If the texts should be positioned in the middle of the page, it is necessary to insert blanks before texts. It is
possible to check with the help of the page preview.
Logo name
This is name of graphic file that contains enterprise logo.
This logo is displayed to the right at the top of the page.
75

Logo size is fixed and is 50 x 50 pixels. If the picture in file is of other size, it will be recalculated to this size.
Possible files types are .bmp or .jpg. This file must be saved in the same place as file RN Manager.
Show heading at all pages
This option permits to display at every sheet specific for User print heading.
The heading is output at the first sheet only, if this option is inactive.
8.11.3 End
End of RN-Manager operation. All settings are saved.
Note: Current analysis must be interrupted before end of RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager operation.

76

9. Appendix
9.1 Bitumenwizard
9.1.1 General Information
The Bitumen Wizard is a handling instruction to carry out the measurements to determine the deformation
behaviour of bitumen according to:
T

DIN EN 14770 Bitumen and bituminous binders Determination of complex shear modulus and phase
angle using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) (German version EN 14770:2012);

Instruction sheet DSR-Test (T-Sweep) edition 2014 and additional descriptions of TL Bitumen-StB 07/13;

Instruction sheet MSCR-Test (DSR) edition 2012;

ASTM D7175-08 Standard Test Method for Determining the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder
Using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer;

ASTM D7405 Standard Test Method for Multiple Stress Creep an Recovery (MSCR) of Asphalt Binder
Using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer;

AASHTO T 315-12 Determining the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder Using a Dynamic Shear
Rheometer (DSR) and AASHTO M 320-10 Performance-Graded Asphalt Binder;

AASHTO T 350-14 Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) Test of Asphalt Binder Using a Dynamic
Shear Rheometer (DSR) and AASHTO M 332-14 Performance-Graded Asphalt Binder Using Multiple
Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) Test.

The Bitumen Wizard is used for explaining a bitumen measurement including sample preparation, handling
instructions and test procedure with the Rheometer RHEOTEST RN 4.3

9.1.2 Sample Preparation

Extract samples according to DIN EN 58 and prepare the samples according to DIN EN 12594.
A short instruction for sample preparation is included in the instruction sheet DSR-test (T-Sweep), edition
2014. The bitumen samples must be prepared for the measurement as follows: An unnecessarily prolonged
heating of the laboratory sample of the binder is to avoid and the specified heating periods (according to DIN
EN 12594) are used before the removal of one or more test samples as the maximum duration. The laboratory
sample shall be homogenized before taking single samples for tests. The test sample has to be protected
from air access and provided in a heating cabinet. This heating cabinet is controlled at 85C +/- 5C above
softening point ring or ball of binder or at 180C, depends on which temperature is lower.
For polymer modified binders, the heating cabinet has to be controlled at 180C to 200C above softening
point ring or ball of polymer modified binder. 200C should not be exceeded. Binder samples should not be
reheated more than twice.
For sample preparation we recommend to use rubber moulds with diameter of 25mm and diameter of 8mm
(Fig.7). Then, pour 0,6g-0,8g of sample bubble-free into the rubber mould with diameter 25mm. Then, pour
about 0,2 g of sample bubble-free into the rubber mould with diameter 8mm. Subsequently the test material
is cooled down (for a maximum period of 30 min, temperature controlled at 5C to 10C in a refrigerator).

77

Figure 7 Rubber moulds for sample preparation

9.1.3 Bitumen Tests
9.1.3.1 Start up of Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR)
The Rheometer has to be installed according to chapter 6 Start up. Switch on the control unit of Rheometer
and Peltier control unit and start the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager.

9.1.3.2 Gap adjustment

In the Job group gap is the Job gap_P3 for gap adjustment including recommended trimming distance for
measuring plate P3.
-

Establish readiness for measurement (see chapter 7 Test preparation);

Select Job gap_P3 in Job tree gap (column left);
For easy start select the Name Create Mode DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM) in Sample Definition and click
the button Easy Start in Actions for Job;
or:
Choose in the Name Create Mode manually, enter consecutive New sample, then give the Sample
Name, press Check+Create Sample (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click
the button Start Analysis;
the screen will display:

Enter the desired temperature (start temperature of following bitumen test) and click the button OK: the
screen will display:

Follow the instructions on the display; after clicking OK, the plate P3 starts rotating at 10 rpm;
78

After running of the first readings, click (to see in window Information, right: receive data:) on the tab
Chart;
Move the basic plate by rotating the micrometer screw counterclockwise carefully up;
You recognize the contact point by increasing the torque (about 0,1 ... 0,3 mNm);
Then, adjust the gap (including trimming distance);
Cancel/finish the Job by pressing the button Cancel Analysis under the tab Job.

9.1.3.3 Available Jobs

For bitumen tests according to requirements of DIN EN - and ASTM / AASHTO - Standards, the software
RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager has various test sequences as preset Jobs.

Following Jobs are available in the Job group Bitumen:

Jobs like OSC_T_Sweep_StB50_70 (the Jobs are named after the type of bitumen, e.g. Job for road
pavement bitumen 50/70) for execution of temperature sweeps of different bitumen types according to the
instruction sheet DSR-Test (T-Sweep). They are used for determination of complex shear modulus and
phase angle with DSR at different temperatures under defined oscillating stress according to DIN EN
14770 and instruction sheet DSR-Test (T-Sweep). The temperatures are rising during measurement
stepwise from 30C to 90C in 10C step. The sample is oscillating stressed at a frequency of 1,59 Hz.

Jobs like MSCR_AL_FGSV are used for determination of deformation behavior of bitumen and
bituminous binders according to FGSV-instruction sheet for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). A MSCRTest (Multiple Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term static shear stress and subsequent
recovery of the test sample to determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well its notrecoverable content.

The MSCR-Test according to FGSV_AL is executed in three load levels as follows: with the shear stress
levels of 100 Pa; 1600 Pa and 3200 Pa.

Jobs available in the Job group AASHTO according to binding standards of ASTM / AASHTO:

Jobs OSC_RTFO, OSC_Binder, OSC_PAV_S, OSC_PAV_H (the Jobs are named after the type of
bitumen, e.g. RTFO=Rolling Thin-Film Oven Residue) for execution of temperature sweeps of different
bitumen types according to ASTM D7175; AASHTO T 315-12; AASHTO M 320-10 are used for
determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle with DSR at different temperatures under
defined oscillating stress. The start temperature depends on the Performance Grade (e.g. PG64: start
temperature 64C). The binder sample is oscillated at a frequency of 1,59 Hz, the temperature is
increased in 6C increments. After crossing of the termination criteria, the Job is automatically terminated.

Jobs MSCR_RTFO_V, MSCR_RTFO_E, MSCR_RTFO_S, MSCR_RTFO_H are used for

determination of deformation behavior of bitumen and bituminous binders according to ASTM 7405;
AASHTO T 350-14; AASHTO M 332-14 for execution of MSCR-Test (DSR). The MSCR-Test (Multiple
Stress Creep Recovery Test) is the repeated short-term static shear stress and subsequent recovery of
the test sample to determine the percent recovery of the binder sample as well its not-recoverable content.
The PASS/FAIL conditions for the respective type of bitumen (S, H, V or E) are considered in the Report.

Job MSCR_RTFO_DETERMINE is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the
type of bitumen. The PASS requirements only for the most significant bitumen type (S, H, V or E) will be
shown in the Report.

Job MSCR_ RTFO_GENERAL is used to determine the deformation behavior independent from the type
of bitumen. All PASS/FAIL requirements for all types of bitumen (S, H, V or E) will be shown in the Report.

The MSCR-Test according to ASTM / AASHTO is executed in two stress levels as follows: with the shear
stress levels of 100 Pa and 3200 Pa.

79

9.1.3.4 Measurement
9.1.3.4.1 DSR-Test (T-Sweep) according to DIN EN 14770, AL DSR-Test (T-Sweep) and MSCR-Test
according to AL FGSL
-

Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;
Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_T_Sweep_StB50_70 or MSCR_AL_FGSV) in the Job tree Bitumen
(column left);
For easy start select the Name Create Mode DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM) in the Sample Definition and
click the button Easy Start in Actions for Job;
or:
Choose in the Name Create Mode manually, enter consecutive New sample, then give the Sample
Name, press Check+Create Sample (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click
the button Start Analysis;
The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:

After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will
display:

After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim a sample and will display:

Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the
program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:

80

After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the
information window (bottom right).

9.1.3.4.2 Determination of complex shear modulus and phase angle according to ASTM D7175, AASHTO T
315-12, AASHTO M 320-10 and MSCR-Test according to ASTM 7405, AASHTO T 350-14, AASHTO M 332-14

Clean the measuring and basic plates with a suitable solvent and dry before the measurement;
Select an appropriate Job (e.g. OSC_BINDER or MSCR_RTFO_S) in the Job tree AASHTO (column left);
For easy start select the Name Create Mode DateTime (YYMMDDHHMM) in the Sample Definition and
click the button Easy Start in Actions for Job;
or:
Choose in the Name Create Mode manually, enter consecutive New sample, then give the Sample
Name, press Check+Create Sample (waiting until the sample name appears in the Job tree) and click
the button Start Analysis; the following notification will be displayed:

Enter the temperature corresponding to the Performancee Grade of the binder type (PG) and click OK;
the Peltier temperatured basic plate starts tempering to the predetermined temperature;
The program reminds you of the setting of zero point and will display:

After clicking OK, the program reminds you of the settings of the gap and trimming distance and will
display:

81

After clicking OK, the program asks you to place and trim a sample and will display:

Put the sample on the basic plate and trim it using e.g. spatula or trimming tool. After clicking OK, the
program asks you to set the distance between the plates (e.g. 1,00 mm) and will display:

After clicking OK the measurement starts. The progress of the measurement can be seen in the
information window (bottom right).

All Jobs start with appropriate tempering of the measured material. During this time (10 min) there is no
measurement. After 10 min the first measured data arrive. When the measured data of the second partial test
came, they can be also displayed in the Chart and in the Table.
The completion of the analysis will be displayed in the status line. Now, the measured values can be viewed
and / or evaluated in the Report.
If the termination criteria are exceeded (for OSC_Jobs), the Job is automatically terminated. The
evaluation/output of the measured results is stored in the Report according to the appropriate AASHTO
Standards.
After the measurement is completed, loosen the knurled screw (2), simultaneously lift the quick connecting
coupling and move the measuring drive upwards. Clean the measuring and basic plates.

82

9.1.4 Trimming the bitumen sample

The sample can be trimmed with a spatula or trimming tool (Fig. 8). For trimming of the material, one can
rotate the open window of the adapter in a circle, to ensure the all-sided trimming. After it, turn the window to
the back side if the rheometer to make ready for measurement.

Figure 8 Trimming tools

83

9.2 Tests
Two test methods are available: rotary tests and oscillating tests.
In the rotation tests, the rotational direction is not changed. The default value is either torque or speed or the
angle. The other value is measured as the response of default value then.
In the oscillating test, the rotational direction is changed. Generally for an oscillation dataset, a sine wave is
executed and evaluated. In doing so, the torque is given as a sine wave and the angle is measured in
response.

test
CR const
CR sweep
CR equilibrium
CS const
CS sweep
CS equilibrium
CS OSC const
CS OSC fsweep
CS OSC asweep
CD OSC const
CD OSC fsweep
CD OSC asweep
CD const
CD sweep
Creep
Speed const
Speed sweep
Torque const
Torque sweep

description
constant shear rate
shear rate sweep
shear rate equilibrium
constant shear stress
shear stress sweep
shear stress equilibrium
oscillation at a constant frequency and
amplitude
oscillation at a frequency sweep and
constant amplitude
oscillation at an amplitude sweep and
constant frequency
oscillation at an constant frequency and
amplitude
oscillation at an frequency-ramp and
constant amplitude
oscillation at an amplitude ramp and
constant frequency
constant deformation
deformation sweep
constant shear stress
constant speed
shear rate sweep
constant shear stress
torque sweep

set value
shear rate
shear rate
shear rate
shear stress
shear stress
shear stress
shear stress

response
shear stress
shear stress
shear stress
shear rate
shear rate
shear rate
deformation

shear stress

deformation

shear stress

deformation

deformation

shear stress

deformation

shear stress

deformation

shear stress

angle
angle
shear stress
shear rate
shear rate
shear stress
shear stress

shear stress
shear stress
deformation
shear stress
shear stress
shear rate
shear rate

9.3 Result
The results of tests are divided into three categories: raw measuring datas, rheological measuring datas and
model parameters.
The Rheometer RHEOTESTRN 4 generates data sets, which belong to the category raw measuring datas.
These are the basis of all other values.
The rheologial measuring datas are derived from the raw measuring datas. In principle, these can be
distinguished into two groups:
1. CR/CS-, measuring data: result from rotary tests
2. Oscillating measuring datas: result from Oscillating tests, that is the torque is changed sinusoidal, the
rotation direction changed, too / (see Tests)
The availability depends on the performed test. Thus, a value of the group two only is generated by an
oscillation test. The raw measuring datas and some internal parameters are generated at each test
(Gr. = 1,2).

84

data

Gr.

meaning

calculation

unit

time- t

1,2

1,2

raw measuring
data
raw measuring
data

s (SI), min

speed N
or
angle-
torque -M

elapsed time since the start of the

test
speed or angle of the measuring
system at the time

1,2

temperature - T

1,2

shear stress -

1,2

torque, which acts on the

measuring system at the time
temperature of sample or of the
thermostating unit
on the surface acting force, which is
in parallel direction to the working
surface

shear rate - D

speed change vertical to the flow

direction

deformation -

1,2

degree of deformation of a material

under the influence of force
internal resistance of flow at steady
shearing
complex resistance of flow at
oscillating stress
describes the viscous component of
deformation (dissipation)

raw measuring
data
raw measuring
data
= KTau * M
(KTaumeasuring
system)
D = kD * N
(KD measuring
system)
= kD *
(KD measuring
system)
=/D

dynamic viscosity -

complex viscosity -

real part of complex

viscosity -

imaginary part of
complex viscosity -

describes the elastic component of

deformation (storage)

shear modulus G
complex modulus
Modul G*
storage modulus G

1
2

x
x

rotation
oscillation

oscillation

loss modulus G

oscillation

compliance J

rotation

complex compliance
J*
storage compliance J

oscillation

oscillation

loss compliance J

oscillation

phase angle -

phase shift between torque

oscillation and angel oscillation

tangent phase angle

tan
frequency f

tangent value of phase angle

angular frequency -
torque_max M
angle_max -
test
index
index cumulative

2
2
2
1,2
1,2
1,2

x
x
x

time cumulative t
system result 0 SR

1,2
1,2

status Mode - SM
result Mode - RM

1,2
1,2

reciprocal of the period duration of

an oscillation
frequency value as
maximum torque of an oscillation
maximum angle of an oscillation
number of test of the method
number of data set of test
number of data set of method
(accumulated over all tests)
expiration, since start of analysis
intrasystem datas, among others
temperature values
intrasystem datas
intrasystem datas

= _max /
_max *
= _max /
_max * *
sin()
= _max /
_max * *
cos()
G=/
G = _max /
_max
G = _max /
_max * cos()
G = _max /
_max * sin()
J=/
J = _max /
_max
J = _max /
_max * cos()
J = _max /
_max * sin()
phase shift
between torque
and angle

N: 1/s (SI), 1/min

: (grad), rad (SI)
Nm, mNm
K, C, F
Pa (SI), mPa, dyn/cm

1/s (SI), 1/min

%, no unit
Pa s (SI), mPa s
Pa s (SI), mPa s
Pa s (SI), mPa s

Pa s (SI), mPa s

Pa (SI), kPa, MPa

Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
Pa (SI), kPa, MPa
1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
1/MPa
1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
1/MPa
1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
1/MPa
1/Pa (SI), 1/kPa,
1/MPa
(grad), rad (SI)
(grad), rad (SI)

f=1/T

Hz, 1/s (SI)

= 2 f

Hz, 1/s (SI)

Nm, mNm
(grad), rad (SI)
no
no
no
no
no
no
no

column X: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the x-axis.

column Y: These parameters may be assigned in the graph of the y-axis.

85

9.4 Analysis
Overview of available evaluations to determine statistical and rheological characteristics of a sample.

name
MW/StdAbw
Min / Max /
spreading
upper limit
lower limit
target value
correlation
yield point Tau
thixotropy

Newton

function / formula
average and
standard deviation
minimum value,
maximum value,
spreading (Max
Min)

application
statistics

chart

statistics

upper limit value as a marker in the graph

lower limit value as a marker in the graph
target value as a marker in the graph
correlation factor
determination of yield
point; premise is a
CS-sweep
hysteresis area
premise is a test
sequence of CR (or
CS) with sweep up hold sweep down.
calculation of
hysteresis area
(difference of
integrals between up
and down)

determination of necessary shear stress to

start a sample flowing (shear rate > 0)
difference of the areas corresponds to a
volume-related power which is necessary for
the structural destruction

water, mineral oil,

all Newtonian materials
readout:

Ostwald de
Waele

viscosity
empirical function for formal adjustment to the
flow curvature
readout:

De Haven

- consistency factor k
- flow exponent n
polymer melts
readout:
-

Carreau

polymer solution
readout:
-

Cross

viscosity _0 0
taumax m
exponent n

viscosity infinite
viscosity _0 0
shear rate Db
exponent n

generally valid
readout:
-

viscosity infinite
viscosity _0 0
shear rate Db
exponent n

generally valid
Golub

readout:
-

viscosity infinite
viscosity _0 0
exponent factor k

86

Reiner Phillippoff

generally valid
readout:
-

viscosity infinite
0

- viscosity _0
- taumax m
generally valid

Meter

readout:
-

viscosity infinite
viscosity_0 0
taumax m
exponent n

paste, cream

Bingham

readout:

- yield point 0
- viscosity
empirical function for formal adjustment to the
flow curvature

Herschel Bulkley

readout:
-

yield point 0

- factor k
- exponent n
suspensions (paint, varnish, chocolate)

Casson

readout:

- yield point 0
- viscosity
suspensions

Casson allgm.

readout:
yield point 0
- viscosity
- exponent denominator n

Tscheuschner
allgm.

OSC-T-Sweep
MSCR-Test

MSCR-AASHTO

chocolate
readout:
-

G* and as a
function of
temperature
determination of
percent recovery and
Non recovery creep
compliance at the
creep stress levels
100 Pa; 1600 Pa and
3200 Pa
determination of
percent recovery at
the creep stress
levels 100 Pa and
3200 Pa

bitumen

yield point 0
viscosity infinite
viscosity str
exponent n
shear rate Dr

bitumen

bitumen

As a prerequisite for application of the evaluations of "Newton" to "Tscheuschner allgm." is the presence of a
sample which was measured as a flow curve. Flow curves arise from CR or CS test, executed a sweep or as
an equilibrium. Necessary are datas which describe the dependence of the shear stress as a function of shear
rate ( = f (D)).

87

9.5 Heading data

Heading data could be selected for displaying in Table heading, Diagram heading or Report heading.
There are at disposal the following possibilities for selection:
Designation
None
Job name
Setting-Group name
Product
Method
Methods group
Commentary to product
Measuring system
Sample
Charge
User
Sample date
Commentary to sample
Free text 1
Free text 2
Free text 3

Meaning
nothing is displayed
job name from Job definition
group and job name from Job definition
record from the field Product from Job definition
name of method used
group and name of method used
commentary to product / Setting from Job definition
measuring system used
sample name from Sample definition
record from the field Charge from Sample definition
user from Sample definition
date of sample creation
commentary to sample from Sample definition
it will be shown free text 1
it will be shown free text 2
it will be shown free text 3

9.6 Quick access

In this Section sequence of operations is presented for creation of job and sample analysis carrying out.
It is an example and could serve as a template for own operations.
Job: Measurement of hysteresis curve with the measuring system S1 in order to determine shear rate
relationship and time relationship.
Diagram should present shear stress and viscosity as a function of the shear rate.
Report should present curve evaluation as functions according to Ostwald de Waele and hysteresis area
should be as numerical value.
Subjobs
It is necessary to take a
hysteresis curve with the
measuring system S1. Method
consists of tests:
CR sweep from 0 s-1 to 250 s-1
during 120 s. Then CR const at
250 s-1 during 30 s. After that CR
sweep again backwards to 0 s-1
during 120 s.
This method should be fulfilled
with the trigger time 1 s and time
raster1 equals 1 s, without
temperature control. No one
interruption criterion should be
active.
Control of used method
Hysteresis should be fulfilled in
the methods group Thixotropic
methods.
Control of a sample is carried out
in the job Hysteresis1 in the
jobs group Thixotropic jobs.
The following columns should be

Description
CR sweep: during 120 s with shear rate from 0 s-1 to 250 s-1
CR const: 30 s at constant rate 250 s-1
CR sweep: during 120 s from 250 s-1 to 0 s-1

Method parameters:
Trigger time: 1 s
Time raster1: 1 s
None interruption criteria
Method control

Job control
Table settings
88

displayed in a table: shear rate

[s-1]; shear stress [Pa]; viscosity
[Pas].
Diagram should represent shear
stress and viscosity as a function
of the shear rate.
Report should represent
hysteresis curve evaluation in
such a way that hysteresis area
will be displayed as a numerical
value.
1. Compile a new method in
new methods group
Methods group is compiled in
Settings General Settings in
the inlay Methods.
New method is compiled through
main menu.

Parameters setting through

settings menu Parameters.
Units of measure setting through
settings menu Units.
Setting of tests sequence.

Diagram settings
Report settings

1.
2.
3.
1.

Main menu: Settings -> General Settings -> Methods.

Name input: Thixotropic methods -> Button New group.
OK.
Be sure that the method tree is really displayed on the left
(press Method in main menu).
2. Select methods group Thixotropic methods in the method
tree.
3. Main menu: Method -> New method.
4. Change method name to Hysteresis
1. Main menu: Methods -> Parameters -> Show -> Method
parameters.
2. trigger time = 1, Time raster1 = 1
3. OK
1. Main menu: Methods -> Units setting -> Show
2. Time = s, Shear rate = 1/s, Shear stress = Pa, Viscosity =
Pas
3. OK
1. In test table: select type CR sweep
2. Input data 1. Test: End = 250, Time = 120
3. Button New test
4. Select type CR const
5. Input data 2. Test: End = 250, Time = 30
6. Button New test
7. Select type CR sweep
8. Input data 3. Test: End = 0, Time = 120
All tests: Temperature type = None, Raster type = Time raster1
Result: at test diagram.

89

2. Compile a new method in

new methods group
Jobs group is compiled in
general settings in the inlay
Jobs.
New job is compiled through
main menu.

3. Enter job data

Enter measuring system,
method.
4. Table setup
Table setting through settings
menu Table

5. Diagram setup
Diagram setting through settings
menu Diagram

6. Report setup
Report setting through settings
menu Report

7. Create sample and analysis

start
Main view in the inlay Job

1.
2.
3.
1.

Main menu: Settings -> General settings -> Jobs.

Name input: Thixotropic jobs -> Button New group .
OK
Be sure that the job tree is really displayed on the left (press
Job in main menu).
2. Select jobs group Thixotropic jobs in the method tree.
3. Main menu: Setting -> New setting
4. Change job name to Hysteresis1.
1. List of measuring systems -> Rheotest S1
2. List of methods -> Thixotropic methods Hysteresis1.
1. Main menu: Job -> Table setting -> Show -> Table
2. Number of columns: 3
3. Column1 = Shear rate, Column2 = Shear stress, Column3 =
Viscosity
4. OK.
1. Main menu: Job -> Diagram settings -> Show -> Axes
2. X-axis -> Type = Shear rate
3. Y-axis -> Left -> Type = Shear stress (active, automatic
scaling (Auto))
4. Y-axis -> Right -> Type = Viscosity (active, automatic scaling
(Auto))
5. OK.
1. Main menu: Job -> Report settings -> Show -> Report
2. If report is empty, it is necessary to create new report line
(New or Copy / Insert)
3. Calculation: selection Ostwald de Waele; Test: Selection 1;
Show at diagram: active
4. Create new report line
5. Calculation: select Thixotropy; Test: select all; Show at
diagram: active
6. OK.

1. Button New sample

2. Sample name input: Sample1
3. Button Check and create sample
If message appears in the information window Press Start
analysis, then
4. Button Start analysis Now analysis starts. One could follow
the process in information window.

Corresponding operations are displayed in the information window. During data obtaining they could be shown
with the help of inlays activation Table or Diagram. All single tests are displayed together in case of
activation of the whole sample (in sample tree). Only one single test will be shown in case of activation of this
single test. In state row (inlay Job is active) status is displayed and measurement end (end of analysis)
respectively.

90

9.7 Calibration of measuring systems

Every Rheometer RHEOTEST RN4.3 including measuring systems are calibrated before shipment. If larger
deviations appear in control measurements, all measurement systems can be recalibrated. Certain constants
of measuring systems already are saved in storage by manufacturer in order to calculate rheological values of
shear stress, shear rate and viscosity by measured values of torque and speed. Those constants arise from
geometry of measuring systems (e.g. DIN 53018 and DIN 53019). By reason that for calculation of the
measurement system constants ideal conditions (such as one-dimensional, laminar flow) are provided and the
measurement systems have manufacturing tolerances, correction factors must be determined. This is done by
measurements with calibration fluids.
Correction factor rotation. See 8.10.7 Rotary Calibration.
Important methods parameters:
Dynamic: 1/1/1/80
Trigger time = measuring time period 1: 1s
average: true
proposal graph (Job graph): M/Eta/N = f(t)
description
Measuring plate P3
diameter 25mm;
Measuring plate P4
diameter 8mm;

Calibration fluid
NF 5000000
(appr. 5.000.000 mPas, at 25C)
NF 5000000
(appr. 5.000.000 mPas, at 25C)

Job
KalRotP3
KalRotP4

Correction factor Oscillation. See 8.10.8 Oscillation Calibration

Standard value for Frequency f
description
Measuring plate P3
diameter 25mm;
Measuring plate P4
diameter 8mm;

Calibration fluid
NF 5000000
(appr. 5.000.000 mPas, at 25C)
NF 5000000
(appr. 5.000.000 mPas, at 25C)

Job
KalOSCP3
KalOSCP4

9.8 Peltier tempering

9.8.1 Typical behavior
Heizen
Heating

9.8.1.1 Heating
105

Ramprate to T = 95 C: appr. 3,5 K/s

T95%(99 C) scored after 40s

85
Temperatur [C]

Jump
Start T = -10 C to Tsoll = 105 C
Set value with the maximum possible temperature

65
45
25
Sprung
-10C auf 105C
Jump from 10C to 105C
to 105C
Ramp from10C
Rampe
von -10C
auf 105C

Ramp
Start T = -10 C toTsoll = 105 C in 600 s
Controlled temperature increase within a predetermined time.
This corresponds to a ramp rate of appr. 0,19 K/s.

-15
0

100

200

300
Zeit [s]

400

500

600

91

HHeating
eizen
2
130

90

0,5

70

50

-0,5

30

-1

10

9.8.1.2 Keeping temperature constant

-1,5

-10
-30

Measured temperature deviation from the set temperature in a

closed system.

200

Abweichung zur Solltemperatur [K]

Average deviation from the setpoint ramp: ca. 0,89 K.

1,5

110

Temperatur [ C]

Due to the thermal inertia of the system, a deviation raises

from the theoretical set temperature of the temperature ramp
The theoretical set value of control results from the ramp rate
multiplied by time.

-2
600

400

Zeit [s]

Average deviation for a time of t = 1000 s:

Konstant

deviation [K]

0,1

-10

-0,009

0,08

30

-0,002

0,06

105

-0,012

0,04

9.8.1.3 Cooling

Temperatur [C]

T [C]

Constant

0,02
0
-0,02
-0,04
Deviation at - 10C bei -10C
Abweichungen
Abweichung
Deviation at 30Cbei 30C
Deviation at 105C bei 105C
Abweichungen

-0,06

Jump
Start T = 105 C to Tsoll = -10 C
set value with the maximum possible temperature

-0,08
-0,1
0

200

400

600

800

1000

Zeit [s]

Ramprate to T = 23 C: appr. 1,37 K/s

T95%(-4 C) scored after 265 s
Khlen
Cooling

Due to the thermal inertia of the system, even by cooling a

deviation raises from the theoretical set temperature of the
temperature ramp.
The theoretical set value of control results from the ramp rate
multiplied by time.

105

Sprung 105C auf -10C

-10C

Jump from 105C to 10C

from 105C
to 10C
Ramp
Rampe
105C
auf

85
Temperatur [C]

Ramp
Start T = 105 C toTsoll = -10 C in 600 s
Temperature controlled descent within a specified time.
This corresponds to a rampenrate of appr. -0,19 K/s.

65
45
25
5
-15
0

100

200

Average deviation from the setpoint ramp: appr. 0,94 K.

Starting control

300

400

500

600

Zeit [s]

Khlen
Cooling

9.8.1.4 Set value

3
130

2,5

110

90

1,5

70

50

0,5

30

10

-0,5

-10
-30
0

200

400

Abweichung zur Solltemperatur [K]

By pressing UP- or DOWN-button the set value is

adjusted
Starting by pressing the button START, at least for a time
of 3 seconds
A change in setpoint only is possible in the STOP mode

Temperatur [C]

-1
600

Zeit [s]

92

9.8.2 Control by software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager

Set values, Profiles and the commands START and STOP are specified by the software, it is not
necessary to operate manual on the control unit.
Before starting the software RHEOTEST RN 4 Managers, all cables have to be connected, the control
unit as well as the mains have to be switched on.
After finishing th e software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager, place the control unit into STOP mode. There is
no temperature control / regulation anymore, now, the control unit can be switched off.

9.8.2.1 Menu operation (lower control level)

After switching on the device is on the upper control level; press and hold of STOP key no less than three
seconds invoke a jump to the lower control level. At the same time control (heating) is turned off from safety
considerations.
One could scroll in this menu choice with the help of NEXT key. It is possible to enter parameters indicated
below with ENTER key.
Return to the upper control level is fulfilled by pressing MENU key.
9.8.2.2 Standard temperature
This is the default target temperature, which is displayed at power-up. This temperature is the current set
temperature by switching on the unit.
9.8.2.3 Ambient temperature
Average value for the room temperature. This value is required for the regulation of the Peltier. The
temperature difference between setpoint and ambient temperature is a parameter for controlling the heating or
cooling capacity. This parameter is very important for regulation temperature which corresponds to the
ambient temperature.
9.8.2.4 Max. Set temperature
The maximum set temperature which can be entered via the keyboard.
9.8.2.5 Alarm temperature
Temperature, above which stops any heating; The status is indicated by the red indicator LED.
9.8.2.6 Language
Set the language, possible languages are German, English, French.
9.8.2.7 Service
To make changes of the control unit; Changes only can be performed by authorised and trained service
personnel.

93

9.8.3 Menu overview Peltier tempering

94

9.9 Error messages

9.9.1 Error messages software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager
The software is a Windows application and is based on this technology. Therefore, error messages may come
from both the system software and the Rheometer software.
How to treat system error messages, please follow instructions in Windows. The error messages of the
Rheometer software are self-explanatory. When error messages occur, please remove the named causes.

9.9.2 Incorrect display software RHEOTEST RN 4 Manager

If the size of some menu items of RHEOTEST RN Manager 4 are displayed to large, please reset the
Windows to the recommended standard size.
-

right click on the empty space of Windows Desktop

click menu Adapt (the last point)
under display: set the font size at 100%

9.9.3 Error messages Peltier control

Mentioned below error messages could appear during measurements or maintenance of the device. These
messages indicate to user that precise measurement or some function are impossible or false.
Error message:

SENSOR BROKEN!

Red alarm LED lights and no heating of the device.

Cause of trouble:
One or both thermal elements do not output signal
Troubleshooting:
Check correct connection of connectors to the control unit or
Inform service of RHEOTEST

Error message:

Too high device temperature

Temperature is monitored permanently inside the device and error message appears after excess of a limit
value.
Cause of trouble:
Inadmissible heat source was emerged in the control unit device failure
Device is in operation at too high ambient temperature
Device fan is closed
Troubleshooting:
Assure acceptable environment conditions and necessary cooling
Inform service of RHEOTEST

95

Error message: Programm-Stop Program - Stop

Temperature control is off.
Cause of trouble:
Program of microprocessor control does not respond
Troubleshooting:
Switch off the device and switch on again in 10 seconds. This method should not be used more than three
times successively. If the device does not operate after this, it says about serious fault. It is necessary to
inform service of RHEOTEST.

Error message:

Incorrect Value!

Range of permissible values is prescribed for each menu choice where input of numerical values is possible.
This error message appears and input value is ignored if input value is above or below this range.
Cause of trouble:
Input numerical value was rejected during checking of plausibility.
Troubleshooting:
Input permissible value.

96

9.10 Maintenance and Service

The Rheometer is a very robust and, at the same time, a very sensitive measuring instrument. It does not
need a special maintenance, if the following rules are fulfilled:
Avoid sharp kicks or shocks (especially of the measuring shaft).
Do not leave particles of substance on the measuring shaft or cone coupling.
Avoid sharp changes of air temperature and humidity.
Avoid strong dirt or dust.
Prevent direct sun radiation.
Do not use it near strong heat sources (e.g., heating radiators).
Do not use it near the objects with strong electromagnetic fields (e.g., loudspeakers, motors etc.).
Do not use chemicals, such as strong solvents or acids for the instrument cleaning.
Do not permit penetration of liquids in the measuring head, bearings of the measuring drive or in the control
unit.
Do not bend the mains cable and connecting cable, exclude strong stretching loads and high temperatures.
In case of service or repair, please contact RHEOTEST directly:
RHEOTEST Medingen GmbH
Medingen
Rdertalstr. 1
D-01458 Ottendorf-Okrilla
Germany
phone:
+49 (035205)-580
fax:
+49 (035205)-58297
email:
info@rheotest.de
Repairs may only be carried out by specialists who have been authorized by the manufacturer.
Never open the device itself.
In any kind of damage report, please pass the on the nameplate engraved device name and desciption as
well as device number.

97