Falex introduces the first commercial instrument to accurately measure both the tackiness and adhesion of greases and other viscous or viscoelastic fluids and semi-solids. TAA replaces the subjective finger test and other empirical methods by measuring adhesion force, and thread length (tackiness) between a probe and the grease. separation energy can be calculated from forceindentation curves.

The Falex TAA will give the user consistent data for quality control of greases and other materials for applications where tackiness or adhesion is critical to the functioning of the equipment. The instrument also supports development of tacky products.

In the scientific publications by D. Drees, E. Georgiou et al1, the test method, based on indentation-retraction curves, is presented. The Falex TAA automatically executes and records these curves under variable and well controlled conditions of temperature and retraction speed. This allows for a complete mapping of tackiness under different conditions.

The instrument is designed for ease of use with automatic operation. A wide range of retraction speeds, temperatures and probe materials allow for flexibility and customization in identifying adhesion and tackiness properties under a wide range of test conditions. While a 3mm ball stylus is used for standardization work, other materials and geometric shapes are possible.

» Only instrument that measures the complete approach-retraction curve with high precision and repeatability

» Algorithm computes the thread length, adhesion and separation energy for easy ranking of greases

» Very small amount of grease required per test (5 ml)

» Fully automated test sequences, programmed from user interface with touchscreen

» Programmable indexing table for automation of the tackiness curve measurements

» Variable retraction speeds

» Removable 3-piece sample holder for easy cleaning

» Easily exchangeable sensor stylus

» Temperature testing range from ambient to 100°C

» Hierarchical USER management (operator - superuser)

» Sleek, modern design

» ‘Industry 4.0 ready’ design for integration of data analysis in cloud or network databases

» DMA (Dynamic Measurement Analysis) expansion