Fluid Applicators and the
Diversified Drawdown Platform™

Unlike dyne test markers, bottled surface tension test fluids require a separate applicator to spread the test liquid over the substrate being evaluated. The original - and still most widely used - method is to use cotton-tipped applicator swabs, per ASTM Std. D2578 and TAPPI Test Method T698. This technique is effective, but differences in application pressure and degree of saturation of the swab will contribute to test-to-test variability. A good alternative for flat surfaces in the ACCU DYNE Applicator™, which produces a drawdown 1.5" in width. For broader scale evaluations of films and other flat samples, metering rods are an excellent choice. This method will require a precision platform to produce a quality drawdown.

Cotton Applicator Swabs

• Product Code 51101
(Puritan® Item #869—WC - free of binders and glue)

• The method specified by ASTM Std. D2578 and TAPPI Test Method T698; a time-tested dyne level measurement technique

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The ACCU DYNE Applicator™

This tool’s Teflon^® coated surface makes it ideal for dyne testing – no attraction to or contamination from the applicator affects test results. Remarkably fast and easy cleanup saves time and cleaning supplies.

Description: The blade of this applicator measures only 0.5 x 0.5 x 2.5" (13 x 13 x 64mm). A 1.5" (38mm)wide precision ground gate is centered on each of the four edges. This restricted passage channels the flow of the dyne fluid through the gate while limiting the wet film thickness applied to a maximum of only one half of one mil (0.0005", or 12.5 microns).

This tool can produce high quality drawdowns in a confined area, making direct benchtop testing a reality (for best results, we strongly suggest use on a drawdown platform). All four gates are precision ground to the same clearance to facilitate quicker test-to-test turnaround, and to provide the longest service life. Packed in a cushioned protective container.

Use: To perform the dyne test with an ACCU DYNE Applicator™, first apply a short bead of surface tension test fluid from a dropper bottle directly to the sample surface, as shown above. As soon as possible, the applicator is then drawn down over this bead, spreading it over the surface. Determination of dyne level by wetting vs. beading is identical to the test procedure shown here.

Product Code 53001: $68.50

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Metering Rods

These wire-wound metering rods, when used on a precision surface such as the Diversified Drawdown Platform, will apply a highly uniform wet film thickness, which is ideal for dyne testing. We recommend using rods with #3 wire - these will meter the test fluid to a thickness of about .0003" (0.3 mil, or 7.5 microns). Thinner fluid films are extremely difficult to maintain and see; thicker films will be less sensitive to purely surface effects.

These rods - also widely known as Mayer Rods or drawdown bars - are fabricated from 303 stainless steel; the wire winding is 304 stainless steel.. They are 16" (406mm) in length, with 12" (305mm) of wire wound on center. Rods are available in 1/4" (6.3mm) or 1/2" (12.7mm) diameter. For more details on our full range of metering rods, including production rods, please visit us here.

The Diversified Drawdown Platform™

• Full-width magnetic clamp allows precise sample placement while providing secure grip.

• This 1/2" (12.7mm) float glass platform is large enough for
direct A — B comparisons or evaluation of machine-caused treatment variations.

• 12" x 12"(305mm x 305mm) smoothing pad with closely controlled compressibility is engineered to promote uniform fluid distribution with minimal squirm

• Each unit is meticulously inspected to assure flatness

• Originally designed exclusively for metering rod laboratory tests; also ideal for use with ACCU DYNE Applicators and for other critical sample holding applications

• 5 pre-adjusted shock absorbing leveling feet and surface mounted level ensure precise leveling and firm footing

• Liquid crystal thermometer is accurate within better than +/- 2° F (1° C)

• Pocket wet film thickness gage included with every platform.

• Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed

Product Code 58102: $186.50