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Abstract
Abstract This study explores recent advancements in viscometry techniques for precise viscosity measurements, focusing on automating the widely used Ubbelohde capillary viscometer. Previous attempts at automation utilising single-camera and infrared laser techniques demonstrated initial promise; however, these approaches exhibited significant limitations. This research introduces the design and validation of a new automated kinematic capillary viscometer system utilising real-time computer vision for simultaneous meniscus detection and timing up to three viscometers. The system incorporates two waterproof cameras per Ubbelohde viscometer connected to a computer running custom-made ViscoCheck software, with temperature control managed by an Arduino microcontroller. It maintains the water bath temperature within ± 0.5 °C and measures flow time with ± 0.01 s resolution. The system was validated by measuring the viscosity of a binary ethanol–hexane mixture across the entire mole fraction range at a constant pressure of 101.325 kPa and a temperature of 298.15 K. Results were compared with literature values and correlated using the Grunberg–Nissan (G–N) and McAllister three-body models. Excess molar volumes (V E ) and viscosity deviations (Δƞ) were calculated to assess accuracy in capturing complex liquid mixture behaviour. Findings revealed general agreement between experimental and reference data. The G–N model showed excellent agreement, exhibiting a low standard deviation (0.036) and absolute average deviation (1.648%). These results demonstrate the system's potential as a reliable tool for precise automated viscosity measurements across various industrial applications.
Highlights
Viscosity is a crucial parameter in various industrial applications, spanning sectors such as food, chemicals, and pharmaceutical industries [1]
The impact of ViscoCheck software parameters on flow measurement was assessed by exploring different region of interest (ROI) and threshold level combinations
With the camera-to-viscometer distance fixed at 40 mm, the effective ROI range was constrained to 20—40%
Summary
Viscosity is a crucial parameter in various industrial applications, spanning sectors such as food, chemicals, and pharmaceutical industries [1]. For instance, the viscosity of substances like xanthan gum is essential for their use as thickeners [2]. Controlling shear viscosity during production stages in the glass industry is critical for ensuring product quality and process efficiency [3]. In medicine, the viscosity of formulations like ophthalmic suspensions can significantly impact drug absorption and bioavailability [4]. Accurate measurement and modulation of viscosity are vital for designing industrial equipment, optimising processes, and ensuring the desired performance of materials and fluids [5]. Scientists have dedicated significant effort to refining viscosity measurement techniques to achieve
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