MEASUREMENT AND TESTING Viscometer
Advancing low- temperature viscosity testing for sustainable fuel performance
Smarter, Faster Lubricity Testing: Unified Imaging and Intelligent Automation
Paltro, a deep tech company specializing in robotic test and measurement platforms, presents the next generation of our advanced, automated lubricity testers such as Modular Traction Tribometer (MTT-2), High Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR- ADV) and Ball on Cylinder Lubricity Evaluator (BOCLE-ADV) that integrate both 2D optical and 3D profilometry imaging systems with mechanical testing. Intelligent workflow automation seamlessly unifies testing, wear measurement and reporting that eliminates process and measurement errors in lubricant and fuel lubricity evaluation.
As the petroleum and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industries evolve to meet efficiency and environmental goals, Cannon Instruments understands the need for accurate viscosity testing at low temperatures has become increasingly vital. Viscosity directly impacts fuel flow, atomisation, and lubrication — all critical to performance and safety, particularly in cold or high-altitude conditions. For aviation fuels, precise low-temperature viscosity data ensures compliance with stringent standards and supports dependable engine performance.
As sustainable and synthetic blends enter the market, laboratories are challenged to characterise new formulations that behave differently from traditional hydrocarbons. Recent innovations in automated viscometry are helping address these challenges. Modern single-bath systems capable of sub-zero operation enable laboratories to achieve precise, repeatable measurements with less manual handling and faster turnaround times. Enhanced temperature control and digital data capture improve accuracy and traceability, supporting both research and quality assurance workflows.
These advances are especially relevant for facilities developing or certifying sustainable aviation fuels. Many renewable blends exhibit unique viscosity profiles, requiring flexible and reliable testing solutions. By streamlining sub- zero analysis, automated viscometers empower labs to validate performance, ensure regulatory compliance, and accelerate the adoption of cleaner fuels. Beyond immediate testing improvements, these technologies also contribute to broader sustainability objectives. Automated systems reduce energy use, minimise waste, and support more efficient laboratory operations — aligning with the industry’s commitment to responsible innovation. As energy producers and labs continue adapting to new fuel standards, advanced viscosity testing will remain essential. The ongoing evolution of precision viscometry reflects a shared focus on quality, safety, and sustainability — ensuring that tomorrow’s fuels perform reliably in even the most demanding conditions.
More information online:
ilmt.co/PL/b8DG 66020pr@reply-direct.com
The modular traction tribometer (MTT-2) is a ball on disc instrument for measuring friction and wear properties of lubricants under rolling sliding conditions. Independently driven upper and lower rotary drives provide variable rolling-sliding motion with slip between 0 to 100%. Stribeck friction and traction protocols can easily setup using two parameters such as entrainment speed and slide-roll ratio. Beyond friction capabilities of MTT-2 include a 3D profilometer that scans the wear track and reports surface topography and depth information to complement friction data and provides better insights. Several other modules such as electrified contact, acoustic emission sensor, fretting drive and microforce sensor, can be configured for applications in electric vehicles, biomedical devices and advanced coatings.
BOCLE-ADV, our next generation Ball on Cylinder Lubricity Evaluator, is a compact, fully automated desktop instrument to assess wear aspects of the boundary lubrication properties of aviation turbine fuels on rubbing steel surfaces in compliance with ASTM D5001. BOCLE-ADV innovative unified system revolutionizes fuel lubricity evaluation by seamlessly integrating mechanical testing, conditioning of air, optical imaging, auto-wear scar analysis and single-click reporting offering unmatched user convenience. Several unique features include
• Fully automated workflow manages the entire sequence, from testing and imaging to measurement and report generation for effortless operation.
• Inbuilt conditioned air unit controls valves, flow rates, humidity and automatic phase switching, simplifying testing and minimizing operator dependency.
• Temperature control module maintains precise adherence to ASTM D5001 requirements, unaffected by ambient lab conditions
• Integrated imaging features an digital microscope that is built-in to the test unit for wear scar analysis, thereby eliminating requirement of separate microscope.
HFRR-ADV, High Frequency Reciprocating Rig, is a fully automated desktop instrument
for ASTM D6079, ISO 12156 and ASTM D7688 to assess lubricity of diesel fuels and biodiesel blends. Its ultra-compact and easy to use design, occupies the lowest lab space, while the automated workflow simplifies testing. A high precision automated humidity control system eliminates manual activities by the operator. The key features include
• Ultra-compact, fully integrated design with vibrator, electronics controller and digital humidity control module in a single unit offering the smallest footprint and lab space requirement.
• Fully automated workflow manages the entire sequence, from testing and imaging to measurement and report generation for effortless operation.
• Clean, salt-free humidity that is electronically controlled requires only distilled water. Air temperature and humidity are measured and recorded for the entire test duration.
• Edge-detect tool powered by AI and ML algorithms precisely measures wear scar diameter without user dependency.
Stay tuned for more news on evolution of lubricity testers to a digital future.
More information online:
ilmt.co/PL/7WOm 66318pr@reply-direct.com
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