Proceptor® Applications

 Dielectric
    Analyzers

 Viscometers

 Rheometers

 Company
    Information
 

For material producers and processors
In-line, real-time measurements
For process control and product monitoring
Improved yield, reduced manufacturing costs, and product quality

Electrical properties - The Proceptor offers in-line, calibrated measurements of relative permittivity and electrical conductivity over a broad range of frequencies in standard engineering units. These measurements are directly important for many end-uses. Plastics intended for use in electrical connectors and wire insulation require controlled, low conductivity, while the growing class of electrostatic dissipative plastics for clean room manufacturing of integrated circuits require high conductivity. For all these materials, in-line conductivity measurements provide important real-time information for process monitoring and control.

An optional test stand makes the Proceptor useful for laboratory measurements of the electrical properties of fluids. A drain and valve below the sensor housing assembly allows materials to be poured in, measured and drained. When the sensor is mounted on the test stand, the heating system works as usual so laboratory tests can be conducted at controlled, elevated temperatures.

Calibrated permittivity and conductivity measurements

Carbon black in polymers

Additive concentrations - Additives are widely used in polymers to modify material properties. Common additives are antioxidants, flame retardants, slip agents, UV stabilizers, etc. Their concentrations must be accurately controlled to obtain the desired effects. The Proceptor in-line sensor provides continuous measurements of concentrations of additives.

Low-level additive concentrations in polypropylene

Air concentrations - Air bubbles are present in many flowing liquids and it is often necessary to measure their concentration. Few other instruments can make these measurements, but The Proceptor in-line sensor provides continuous measurements of air concentrations in polymers and other fluids.

Air concentration in fluids

Foam density

Chemical composition - In chemical mixtures with three or fewer components, the relative concentrations of ingredients can be quantitatively measured with the Proceptor® in-line sensor. Any chemical reaction whose products have different electrical properties than the reactants can be monitored; the reaction kinetics, product concentration, and degree of reaction can all be studied with the Proceptor in-line sensor.

Mixed solvent concentration in polymeric emulsions

Salt concentration in water

Sugar concentration in water

Methanol, isopropanol, and water; three component determinations

Comonomer Ratio - In copolymers, polymer blends, alloys and grafted polymers the Proceptor facilitates process control by monitoring comonomer ratios. Feasibility in these applications requires that the electrical properties of the different monomers be distinct.

Vinyl acetate concentration in ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers

Chlorination level in progressively chlorinated polyethylene

Filler Concentrations - The Proceptor measures concentrations of fillers in polymer melts. Mineral fillers (calcium carbonate, alumina, clay, etc.) are commonly added to polymers to produce compounds with superior mechanical or other properties. The Proceptor can measure the concentrations of thesee fillers in real-time, ensuring that feeders are properly dispensing the correct materials at the correct concentrations and that the proper product properties are obtained.

Alumina concentration in polystyrene

Calcium carbonate concentration in polystyrene

Clay nanocomposites in nylon

polystyrene beads in polyurethane urethane elastomers

Silica filler concentration in silicone polymers

Carbon black concentration in polymers

Solvent Concentration - Solvents are usually more polar than polymers and their concentrations in polymer dispersions can be measured. In three-component systems with mixed solvents, individual solvent concentrations can be measured.

Mixed solvent concentration in polymeric dispersions

Water concentrations - Water is very polar and has a high dielectric (around 80). The contrast is very good and The Proceptor in-line sensor measures water concentrations very accurately.

Water and methanol in nylon, polyurethane

Other Measurements - The Proceptor's in-line dielectric measurements are useful in a variety of other applications.

Wax and scale formation in water pipes

Metals and contaminants in industrial fluids