A critical performance variable for rheology instrumentation is repeatability. Repeatability in tests yields more accurate results over time, with less variance between rounds of testing. The result is better data, which supports better decision-making and, ultimately, better products.
- Hardware upgrades: deeper die grooves, smart die alignment, low-friction seals and a four-post frame
- Enhanced Dynamic Range samples 1024 points per cycle, versus 16 on earlier generations
- Built-in LAOS on the Premier RPA provides the long chain branching (LCB) index
- Automated sample handling with capacities of 5, 36 and 226
The new Alpha Technologies Premier series of rheology instruments has undergone a full overhaul from previous generations to deliver more repeatability over time. From hardware upgrades and usability improvements to superior sample handling and more, every feature of every Premier series instrument supports improved accuracy and efficiency and repeatable data.
Built for Repeatability
The Alpha Technologies team has made strategic upgrades to much of the Premier series’ hardware to improve repeatability, variance, accuracy, and ease of use. These changes include:
Deeper die grooves
Deeper grooves on dies to ensure better sample grip.
Smart alignment
Smart alignment capabilities between upper and lower dies for better seal.
Low-friction seals
Low-friction seals to prevent slippage and leakage.
Larger seal plates
Larger surface areas on seal plates to increase the available cavity pressure.
Four-post design
Four-post design to guide a floating crosshead ensuring parallelity.
Touchscreen
A touchscreen for faster calibrations, temperature changes, and other operations.
Superior Analysis of Modulus
The Premier series has a top-of-the-line hardware bundle designed to ensure greater precision and repeatability when recording the modulus of a sample. These precision hardware features include (* optional):
Pressure transducer
Measures the material’s pressure response.
Programmable pressure regulator*
Increases closing force at various test conditions to combat sample shrinkage, improving die contact and repeatability.
Die gap sensor*
Actively measures shrinkage and expansion to calculate shape factor and modulus for samples of different sizes and expansion coefficients.
Enhanced Dynamic Range
Previous generations
samples per cycle
Premier series with EDR
samples per cycle
The Premier series has a built-in Enhanced Dynamic Range (EDR) providing a sampling rate of 1024 samples per cycle, orders of magnitude greater than previous generations of rheology instruments, which collected just 16 samples per cycle. The result is improved torque sensitivity, improved minimum detectable level, and more accurate testing data. This higher sampling rate allows users to detect even the smallest variations between compounds, with a better signal-to-noise ratio than earlier generations of rheology instruments.
LAOS, Automation and Ease of Use
LAOS capabilities
The Premier RPA has built-in large amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) capabilities, for measuring the harmonics of torque curves and providing the long chain branching (LCB) index. This allows deeper insight into the molecular characteristics of elastomeric materials.
Automated sample handling
Three automated sample handling devices with capacities of 5, 36, and 226 let users queue up larger batches at a time and work more efficiently.
Ease of use
Compression torque standard calibration for easy mounting, and a rapid change MDR eccentric* for quick changes between multiple degrees of strain to optimize testing conditions for soft or stiff materials.
Sub-Zero Technology*
Groundbreaking technology that enables low-temperature testing, so users can assess the glass transition temperature (Tg) of rubber compounds and predict tire tread performance, including wet and snow traction. Learn more about Sub-Zero Technology.
From the Series 2000 to Premier
The Alpha Technologies Series 2000 line of rheology instruments was first introduced in 1986. Some Series 2000 units have been in service for over 30 years. Many replacement parts are no longer being manufactured, forcing Series 2000 users to hunt for older parts and hope for decent quality, so they can prolong the life of an aging unit.
In the years since the 2000 Series was first launched, both laboratory technology and the field of rheology have made tremendous leaps forward. The Premier series marries steadfast rheology principles with cutting-edge technological advancements, creating a line of instruments that is easier to use, more efficient, and delivers superior repeatability.
Alpha Technologies understands that upgrading laboratory instrumentation is a meaningful undertaking. We’re prepared to help you create and implement a long-term laboratory modernization plan that works for your schedule, budget, and other needs. Whether you need to upgrade an entire laboratory or just a couple of instruments, you can count on Alpha Technologies to provide support through every step of the transition.
Bring your laboratory into the 21st century
Talk to a member of our team to schedule a consultation.
*Optional feature; does not come standard.