Parallel-plate Viscometer (Spread Meter) - OpTest

The spread meter is one of methods for measuring fluidity of lithography and printing inks. This instrument is used to determine ‘spread’ of ink. Test principle: a certain amount of ink is placed between two parallel plates, to deform the ink by dead weight of the plates. Along with time elapsed, the ink spreads in circular shape. With increase of the circular area, pressure applied on the ink decreases. After a certain length of time, the diameter of the spread ink is measured. Yield value is determined from the ink spreading speed.