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

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Contents

1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................7 2 Safety Instructions .......................................................................................................................................7 3 Scope of Supply...........................................................................................................................................8 4 Unpacking and Checking.............................................................................................................................8 5 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

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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

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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 MSCR-Test 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

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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

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1 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.deinfo@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.

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3 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);

4 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.

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5 Technical manual

5.1 Technical specifications

Rheometer torque 0,1 to 150 mNm torque resolution 0,002 mNm speed range 0 to 1000 rpm speed resolution 0,015 rpm angle range -50 ... 300 angle resolution 0,001 frequency 0,001 ... 10 Hz temperature range -60... +200 (rotor) / -30... +375 (cone/plate) supply voltage 230 V 10%; 49... 61 Hz 110 V 10%; 49... 61 Hz electrical performance maximum 660 W Note: The power supply must be protected with a maximum of 10 A! weight (netto) basic instrument 13,5 kg control unit 9,6 kg cable 0,5 kg peltier control unit 11,5 kg plate/plate measuring system 3,7 kg Peltier temperature maximum 150C temperature minimum -10C temperature accuracy 0,1 K in the range of -10C to 150C interface RS 232 or USB 2.0 dimensions Peltier control unit (W x D x H) 180 mm x 300 mm x 460 mm dimensions basic plate (W x H) 110 mm x 110 mm length cable approx. 2 m

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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.

Figure 1 Basic instrument

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

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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).

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100,00 Ist: 65,21 MAN START 65,2 %

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 micro-processor. 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 LC-Display (1) is located, which displays following 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).

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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.

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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).

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6 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.

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7 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. Lift the plate guide on rails (15) until it stops at the adapter. 9a. 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.

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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.

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8 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 T RN4 or from the desktop or start menu.

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 password rights Operator execution of tests and access to created jobs and methods none Engineer engineer additional to operator, additional set up of communication and creating

of jobs and methods Administrator rheotest additional to engineer, additional configuration of measuring systems,

creating of new measuring systems as well as change the system language

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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: 57600 Data bits: 8 Parity: 0 Stop bits: 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

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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-MM-DD-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.

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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.

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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

Do not show samples list Oscillation data will be corrected Print of active job definition

Table

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

Diagram

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

Report

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.

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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.

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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.

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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 t