Brookfield Engineering

Recent Press

The following list summarizes the News Releases issued by Brookfield. The detailed text of each News Release is then presented in the same order in which the News Releases appear. For further information on News Releases and Feature Articles, contact the Marketing Communications Department at Brookfield.

February 2008:
Brookfield R/S Plus Rheometer has a new look…delivering form and function!

January 2008:
Brookfield Sales Engineer David Moonay, Ph.D., awarded U.S. Patent

November 2007:
On-Site Service Proves to Be Valuable Resource for Brookfield Customers

October 2007:
On-Site Service Proves to Be Valuable Resource for Brookfield Customers

July 2007:
New Texture Pro Lite Software from Brookfield…Now Quicker, Faster, and Better!

June 2007:
Simple, Economical Viscosity Control for Printing Applications including Coatings, and Adhesives

May 2007:
Brookfield Engineering Shows Real-Time Viscosity Instrument at OTC

May 2007:
New EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System Improves Viscosity Testing Speed and Efficiency!

April 2007:
Brookfield Partners with Beijing Tech

February 2007:
New Model Q – Quick Action Viscometer Lab Stand

January 2007:
New Capcalc32 turns CAP2000+ Viscometers into powerful Rheometers

January 2007:
The New DV-I Prime Viscometer…Exciting New Look, New Feel and New Features!

Brookfield R/S Plus Rheometer has a new look…delivering form and function!
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering introduces the New R/S Plus Rheometer, complete with all the features Brookfield customers are familiar with, plus a brand new look. In addition to the modern styling of the instrument, the new R/S Plus features a smaller diameter spindle shaft, smaller size water jacket accessory and direct control of temperature from the keypad on P1 and P2 Cone Plate models.

The R/S Plus is designed for rheological evaluation of materials through the direct measurement of viscosity, yield stress, thixotropic response, creep and other flow properties. It features a temperature range up to 180C, speed range from 0.1 to 1,000 rpm, and measurement sensitivity delivering comprehensive data for modulus and static yield stress as well as information for creep testing.

The R/S Plus operates in both stand-alone mode as well as under PC control. The new R/S Plus running under Brookfield's Rheo3000 software provides powerful flow characterization tools including shear ramp, loop and single point testing.

The R/S Plus is available with cone/plate, plate/plate, or coaxial cylinder measurement geometries. It's engineered to meet the demands of quality control labs and to provide sophisticated flexibility for research environments as well as simple operation on the production floor.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com or call 800.628.8139 (USA and Canada) or 508.946.6200.

January 2008
Brookfield Sales Engineer David Moonay, Ph.D., awarded U.S. Patent
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Sales Engineer and Rheology Lab Supervisor, David Moonay, Ph.D., has been awarded a U.S. patent for an algorithm he developed that provides "multi-decade viscometric or rheologic measurements of a material undergoing state change." According to Dr. Moonay, "This algorithm allows us to use Brookfield instruments to collect data on products that gel or cure over a much wider range of viscosity than ever before." Unfortunately, in the past, the only option for customers was to spend between $30,000 and $50,000 for a high-end rheometer.

Dr. Moonay developed this solution after talking with customers who complained that their gel timers couldn't get the viscosity data they needed. Now, Brookfield customers can monitor gelling over a wide viscosity range at a reasonable price. The "Cure Mode Test" is included in Brookfield Rheocalc Software (Version 3.0 and above), and can run on DV-II+Pro Viscometers, DV-III+ and DV-III Ultra Rheometers.

The Cure Mode Test is ideal for adhesives, advanced composites, polymers, and has possible applications in other food, chemical and petroleum products.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com or call 800.628.8139 (USA and Canada) or 508.946.6200.

November 2007
New 2008 Catalog from Brookfield
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering Laboratories announces the release of their new 2008 full-color catalog, featuring their complete line of Viscometers/Rheometers and Texture Analyzers.

Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering Laboratories announces the release of their new 2008 full-color catalog, featuring their complete line of Viscometers/Rheometers and Texture Analyzers.
AST-100 Process Viscosity Controller Designs - The popular AST-100 in-line viscosity control system now has new flange mount and probe type designs. These instruments have no moving parts and do not require recalibration.

  • DV-I Prime Viscometer - Exciting new features include "Timed Option" and "Print" buttons. Optional WINGATHER software allows use of a PC to collect, analyze and record viscosity test data. Continuous torque sensing and data display easily make the DV-I Prime Viscometer one of the best values in the market!
  • Quick Action Lab Stand - Simply push a button for quick positioning of the viscometer head and faster testing. Perfect for environments with heavy workloads, multiple users and varied testing situations.
  • EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System - Safely attach spindles quickly and efficiently with this innovative, spring-loaded spindle coupling design.
  • New Protective Keypad Covers - Protect keypads against dirt, scratches, spillage and dust with our new "peel and stick" flexible covers.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com or call 800.628.8139 (USA and Canada) or 508.946.6200.

October 2007
On-Site Service Proves to Be Valuable Resource for Brookfield Customers
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering Laboratories' on-site service engineers have proven to be a valuable resource for many Brookfield customers. Throughout the past year, customer requests for on-site service have continued to increase at a rapid pace.

Brookfield customers request on-site service because they can't afford to stop production while their instruments are at Brookfield for repair. On-site service technicians go directly to the customer's facility and put their instruments in top running order without a major interruption in production schedules. In addition to performing all necessary repairs and adjustments, Brookfield technicians often provide valuable tips and techniques for taking good viscosity measurements.

For customers that don't require on-site service, the skilled service team at Brookfield can get the job done, repairing and calibrating thousands of instruments per year.

For additional information about Brookfield on-site or in-house service, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

July 2007
New Texture Pro Lite Software from Brookfield…Now Quicker, Faster, and Better!
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering Laboratories has introduced a new version of TexturePro Lite Software for the Brookfield LFRA Texture Analyzer. TexturePro Lite software simplifies repetitive sample testing and provides immediate texture profiles for comparison and analysis.

This new version of TexturePro Lite includes enhanced data acquisition options providing much faster test times. Once test parameters are selected, the click of a mouse starts the test cycle; when the test is complete, you can save, plot, compare and print test data.

Additional new features of TexturePro Lite include: a results table with filename information for easy data identification, an enhanced tutorial providing a guide to test methodology, menu shortcut buttons that appear on the data graphs and the ability to precisely position cursors on data graphs.

TexturePro Lite is a handy tool for use in both QC and R&D labs. The Brookfield LFRA Texture Analyzer is ideal for food products, adhesives, personal care products, pharmaceuticals and more.

Many texture parameters are available for automatic calculation and flexible user-defined calculations may be added. Instrument control, data analysis and graphics are embedded in this powerful, easy-to-use program.

To learn more about New TexturePro Lite software, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

June 2007
Simple, Economical Viscosity Control for Printing Applications including Coatings, and Adhesives
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering, the world leader in viscosity measurement offers simple in-line viscosity control for industrial applications. The AST-100 is available with single and multi station controllers for applications including printing ink, coatings and adhesives.

The AST-300SY single station viscosity controller is designed for use with the Brookfield AST-100TSY system to control viscosity and temperature, interlock with other process devices, and accurately control fluid viscosity in a variety of applications.

The AST-300SY is a precise, programmable controller with timed closing intervals. Its intuitive screen layout allows for quick selection of setup and menu items. At a glance, set point and alarm status are displayed as are viscosity in cP, mPa.s, cSt or cup-seconds, and temperature in C or F. Additional features include:

  • Viscosity trending
  • Feed pump interlock
  • Multi-level password protection
  • Viscosity high/low alarms

The NEW AST-400SY multi-station controller exhibits the same features with the ability to control up to 10 units.

Both controllers work with the AST-100TSY viscosity sensor to provide consistent viscosity control for your process needs. Whether you are using inks, coatings or adhesives, the AST-100 can help maintain the quality of your product to meet your customer’s needs.

It’s a matter of maintaining optimum coverage

A problem with ink film that’s too light is easily seen; but ink film that’s too heavy cannot be detected by the eye. Once mass-tone is achieved, ink film does not change as it becomes thicker. To the unaided eye the top of a .001" thick film will appear little different from a film of the same ink .0001" thick. Without sophisticated viscosity control it’s possible to waste a lot of expensive ink. The same is true of other coatings and adhesives as well.

Brookfield's AST-100 Automatic Viscosity Control maintains ink/coating/adhesive thickness at correct levels throughout the run.

This is an automatic control system that continuously senses viscosity, transmitting a signal when additional solvent is required, thus preventing wasteful material buildup.

Sensitive control is the key

Control of the slightest change in viscosity makes all the difference to successfully applying material - particularly in the low viscosity region of the thin inks currently in use. The Brookfield Ast-100 has a simple, rugged design that allows it to maintain accurate control at low viscosities. With an economical price, no moving parts, and no calibration required, other viscosity control systems can’t match it.

For more information on the sanitary AST-100 with single station or multi-station control, go to www.inkviscosity.com or contact Moses Mendez at 800.628.8139.

May 2007
Brookfield Engineering Shows Real-Time Viscosity Instrument at OTC
Middleboro, MA – Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc., a world leader in process viscometers for oilfield service recently showcased their TT100 in-line viscometer at the OTC Show in Houston, April 30th-May 3rd. Brookfield created great interest with this device for continuous real-time drilling fluid Viscosity measurement.

Brookfield showed the audience how to obtain continuous real-time Viscosity measurements and how to do so at multiple RPM speeds/shear rates. This instrument provides data that allows customers the potential to determine real-time annular hydraulics as well. With this information, Drilling Engineers have the ability to reduce drilling cost, prevent well control problems and drastically increase efficiency.

Brookfield’s TT100 with Couette geometry now provides a way to create and communicate a new level of data for Rig Operators, Owners, and Drilling Fluid Suppliers that is extremely valuable and provides new efficiency while reducing time and costs. The viscometer, combined with a data logging system can provide real-time Yield Point, Plastic Viscosity, and Apparent Viscosity information, which gives customers the opportunity to view Power Law and other calculations continuously. This instrument, which has been the workhorse of the stimulation industry for decades, has been adapted over the past few years to meet the needs of the drilling fluids applications. It is currently in use at various drilling sites throughout the world.

Brookfield also displayed their PVS High Temperature/High Pressure Viscometer, and DVII/LSRV viscometer.

For more information about the TT100 Drilling fluids' Viscometer or Brookfield's fracturing fluid TT100 real-time viscometers contact Brookfield at 1-800-628-8139,or 508-946-6200, or visit the Brookfield website at www.drillingfluidviscosity.com.

May 2007
New EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System Improves Viscosity Testing Speed and Efficiency!
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering introduces the new EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System for retrofit to standard digital Viscometers and Rheometers. The new EZ-Lock System was designed to improved both speed and convenience when testing viscosity.

Brookfield showed the audience how to obtain continuous real-time Viscosity measurements and how to do so at multiple RPM speeds/shear rates. This instrument provides data that allows customers the potential to determine real-time annular hydraulics as well. With this information, Drilling Engineers have the ability to reduce drilling cost, prevent well control problems and drastically increase efficiency.

The first step is to attach the EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling to a spindle. Then slide the spring-loaded knurled sleeve up, insert the spindle and slide the sleeve back down.

With the new EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System, technicians can quickly and easily attach spindles in busy laboratory environments, improving productivity. The EZ-Lock System also helps protect the pivot point and jewel and may reduce the chance of cross threading.

The EZ-Lock System can be retrofitted to many existing Brookfield Viscometers and Rheometers, including the following models: DV-I+, DV-I Prime, DV-II+, DV-II+ Pro, DV-II+ Programmable, DV-III+ and DV-III Ultra. Additional EZ-Lock Spindle Couplings are also available from Brookfield.

For more information on how the new EZ-Lock Spindle Coupling System can improve speed and efficiency in your lab or on the production floor, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

April 2007
Brookfield Partners with Beijing Tech
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering Laboratories and Beijing Technical University have recently joined together in a collaborative agreement. Brookfield has loaned an LFRA Texture Analyzer and a DV-II+ Pro Viscometer (complete with a Small Sample Adapter System and operational software) to Beijing Technical University. The instruments will be used for student training and industrial consulting work that takes place at the university.

The Brookfield LFRA Texture Analyzer combines simplicity of operation with a load capacity to 4.5 Kg. It is a world standard for the Gelatin Bloom Strength Test and is ideal for analyzing products including: butter and cheese, sauces, doughs and baked goods, gels, vegetables, meat products, candies, yogurts and puddings. The versatile DV-II+ Pro Viscometer is Brookfield’s most popular instrument. It is used around the world to measure the viscosity of many types of fluids.

This partnership between Beijing Technical University and Brookfield Engineering allows the university to offer the latest technology to their research students. It also gives Brookfield customers in the Beijing area an opportunity to visit the university’s world-class laboratory to see the instruments in action and to ask the professors technical questions. Brookfield plans to continue this program in other cities across China.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

February 2007
New Model Q – Quick Action Viscometer Lab Stand
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering introduces the new Quick Action Lab Stand for laboratory viscometers. This newly designed spring loaded lab stand makes taking measurements easier than ever. The Model Q is one more example of how Brookfield is working to simplify your testing process! With the push of a button, the viscometer glides up and down, allowing for quick positioning and faster measurements.

The Model Q is ideal for lab environments with multiple operators and those with frequent testing needs. It is available as an option on new Brookfield Viscometers or as a retrofit for existing instruments. Model Q is designed for use with Brookfield DV-I Prime or DV-I+, DV-II+, DV-E and Dial Reading Viscometers.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

January 2007
New Capcalc32 turns CAP2000+ Viscometers into powerful Rheometers
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering introduces Capcalc32 Software, a powerful new tool for use with Brookfield’s CAP2000+ Cone & Plate Viscometers. Brookfield’s CAP2000+ is a variable speed (5-1000 rpm) instrument ideal for R&D as well as more detailed QC testing.

    This new version of Capcalc32 features Test Wizards that make setting up and running tests easier than ever. Once set up, at the push of a button the program can be run completely and correctly, avoiding costly errors. Test Wizards can be used to set up a variety of tests including:

  • Time to Stop – Collects a number of data points at one speed.
  • Time to Torque – Collects data until a target torque is reached.
  • Ramp – Collects data at several different speeds.
  • Temperature Profile – Collects data at several different temperatures.
  • Curing – Characterize curing behavior using a series of speeds.
  • Thix Index – Calculates thixotropic index using two speeds.

Capcalc32 also features several new BEAVIS commands including: Condition Loop (repeating the commands until one of the chosen conditions is met), Reporting Options (choose actions such as graphing, printing, exporting and analysis to be carried out automatically), Data Averaging (average a given number of points over a given time interval), and Set Spindle (user will be prompted to attach the correct spindle at the beginning of the test, and all calculations will be based on this spindle).

Capcalc32 has an attractive new interface with menus, toolbars, and dockable control windows that can be resized and moved to create a custom display, and a new plot component with a second Y-axis for more plotting and display options.

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.

January 2007
The New DV-I Prime Viscometer…Exciting New Look, New Feel and New Features!
Middleboro, MA - Brookfield Engineering introduces the new DV-I Prime Viscometer featuring a totally new look and feel with several exciting new features. The shape, color scheme and keypad layout have all been improved. New “Timed Option” and “Print” buttons have also been added to the easy-to-use keypad (for comparison see inset featuring original DV-I+ Viscometer).

The new DV-I Prime now includes an RS-232 PC interface for use with optional Wingather Software. Featuring tabular and graphical display, Wingather allows the user to collect, analyze and record test data within the application or export data files to Excel. There is also a new printer output connection so the operator can send data directly to a printer or file.

The DV-I Prime now features direct access to timed mode, greatly enhancing time test functionality. And, DV-I Prime Viscometers ordered with the temperature sensing option have a new temperature offset capability to ±5°C.

With these dynamic new features plus continuous sensing and data display, the DV-I Prime Viscometer is best value on the market!

For more information, please contact marketing@brookfieldengineering.com.