Tinius Olsen MP1200 - Section 14 - Testing Polymers According to ASTM D 1238 Procedure B (Automatically Timed Flow Rate) when the Melt Density is known

Tinius Olsen MP1200 Extrusion Plastometer Page 14-1
Operation Manual # 02002215
14 Section 14 - Testing Polymers According to ASTM D 1238 Procedure
B (Automatically Timed Flow Rate) when the Melt Density is known.
CAUTION: Do not use a sharp object to press any of the buttons on the Model MP1200
Controller, as this might damage the LCD display.
CAUTION: Prior to shipment, the cylinder of the machine is coated with oil to prevent
rust from forming. When the machine is first turned on, it is normal for the machine to
“smoke” as the cylinder comes to temperature and the oil residue burns off. To reduce the
amount of smoke that forms, clean the cylinder thoroughly before turning the machine on.
Be sure that a ventilation system is operating at this time.
NOTE: The instructions in this Section are based on ASTM D 1238. This test method
should be thoroughly studied by all operators prior to using the MP1200. Copies of the
standard are available from ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-
2959 USA Telephone: (610) 832-9721.
To perform tests to ASTM D 1238 Procedure B, the basic machine is required, along with
the PPDT Automatic Timing Switch option and the appropriate weight(s) for the polymer to
be tested. If the machine is equipped with a PPDT, simply rotate the switch in a counter-
clockwise direction until it is out of the way.
The Melt Density (density of the polymer when it is in its molten stage) is required for a
Procedure B test. The value for the melt density is a multiplier used to convert the volume
measurement into a mass (g/10 min) result.
14.1 Getting Started
14.1.1 The MP1200 is now ready for operation. Check nameplate to verify the
correct voltage is being used. Connect the MP1200 to a suitable power
supply (500 WATT MINIMUM) and turn on the power switch on the side of the
machine (near the power cord). Turn the machine ON using the switch on the
right side of the machine.
14.1.2 When first turned on, the machine will display the Tinius Olsen logo while it is
booting up.
14.1.3 From The main screen, press CONFIGURATION.
14.1.4 Enter the Program Access Code which is 8 3 5, in succession, then DONE.
14.1.5 The next screen that appears is the Machine Settings screen. You can turn
on various features on this screen but the important feature is the PPDT
option, Press ON to activate the PPDT. Press the DONE button when
finished. Other optional items can also be activated at this time.