Laboratory Desktop Software

for the

Drop Volume Tensiometer – DVT50

USER MANUAL
V3.2.2-11
Contents page 1

Contents

1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 7
1.1 Explanation of symbols ................................................................................................................................................. 7
1.2 Possible options with LabDesk .................................................................................................................................. 8
1.3 Help and customer service .......................................................................................................................................... 8
1.4 Technical Support ........................................................................................................................................................... 9

2 Installation............................................................................................... 10
2.1 Computer requirements .............................................................................................................................................10
2.2 Carrying out the installation .....................................................................................................................................11

2.2.1 Deactivating the general Data Execution Prevention ......................................................................11

2.2.2 Start and course of the installation program .....................................................................................12
2.2.3 Deactivating the Data Execution Prevention for LabDesk ...........................................................15
2.2.4 Providing full access for users...................................................................................................................17
2.2.5 First-time start of LabDesk as administrator .......................................................................................18

2.3 USB driver installation .................................................................................................................................................19

2.4 Deinstallation ..................................................................................................................................................................19

3 The user interface ................................................................................. 20

3.1 Program start ..................................................................................................................................................................21
3.2 Opening program functions .....................................................................................................................................21
3.3 The toolbar .......................................................................................................................................................................22
3.4 View options ....................................................................................................................................................................23
3.5 Opening an add-in .......................................................................................................................................................23
3.6 Demo database ..............................................................................................................................................................24
3.7 Database Explorer and Project Editor .................................................................................................................25

4 Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument.............. 26

4.1 Adding a measuring instrument .............................................................................................................................26
4.2 Selecting the interface .................................................................................................................................................27
4.3 Validating a measuring instrument ........................................................................................................................27
4.4 Assigning a measuring instrument ........................................................................................................................28
4.5 Options in Device Manager ......................................................................................................................................29

4.5.1 Info.......................................................................................................................................................................29
4.5.2 Settings ..............................................................................................................................................................29

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page 2 Contents

4.6 Entering the acceleration of gravity at the place of use................................................................................30

5 Measurement databases ................................................................... 32

5.1 The data structure (database, project, measurement, evaluation) ............................................................32
5.2 Demo database ..............................................................................................................................................................32
5.3 Note concerning names of databases, projects and measurements .......................................................33
5.4 Managing databases ....................................................................................................................................................33

5.4.1 Creating a new database ............................................................................................................................33

5.4.2 Opening a database ......................................................................................................................................34
5.4.3 Closing a database ........................................................................................................................................34

5.5 Database overview: the Database Explorer .......................................................................................................35

5.5.1 Projects in database file .............................................................................................................................35

5.5.2 Project contents and General information ........................................................................................36
5.5.3 Deleting a project ..........................................................................................................................................36
5.5.4 Deleting a measurement .............................................................................................................................37

5.6 Database services ..........................................................................................................................................................37

5.6.1 Compact database ........................................................................................................................................37

5.6.2 Repair database .............................................................................................................................................38

6 Projects in database file: the Project Editor .............................. 39

6.1 Creating a new project ................................................................................................................................................39
6.2 Opening an existing project......................................................................................................................................40
6.3 Project Editor structure ..............................................................................................................................................40
6.4 Projects pane (Project Explorer) ..............................................................................................................................41
6.5 Parameters & data pane ...........................................................................................................................................42

6.5.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................................42

6.5.2 Identifying outliers and adding comments to measurements ....................................................43
6.5.3 Detailed data list or list with mean values ...........................................................................................44

6.6 Diagrams pane ...............................................................................................................................................................45

6.6.1 View options for diagrams .........................................................................................................................45

6.6.2 Finding measured data from the diagram in the data list ............................................................46
6.6.3 Showing / hiding plots.................................................................................................................................47
6.6.4 Creating a new plot .......................................................................................................................................47
6.6.5 Deleting a self-created plot .......................................................................................................................48

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Contents page 3

7 Creating and taking measurements: general procedure ...... 49

7.1 Selecting a measuring method ................................................................................................................................49
7.2 Defining a measurement (general procedure) ..................................................................................................50

7.2.1 Entering liquid data .......................................................................................................................................50

7.2.2 Procedure tab .................................................................................................................................................51
7.2.3 Plots tab .............................................................................................................................................................52

7.3 Assigning or creating a project ...............................................................................................................................52

7.4 Replicating a measurement ......................................................................................................................................53
7.5 Changing measuring parameters retrospectively ............................................................................................53

7.5.1 Changing a measurement that has not been carried out .............................................................53
7.5.2 Changing a measurement that has been carried out .....................................................................54

7.6 General measurement procedure ...........................................................................................................................54

7.7 Measurement log ..........................................................................................................................................................55

7.7.1 Measurement log in the script monitor ................................................................................................55

7.7.2 Storing and calling-up the measurement log in / from the database .....................................55

7.8 Terminating a measurement prematurely ..........................................................................................................56

7.8.1 Stopping a measurement ...........................................................................................................................56

7.8.2 Aborting a measurement ............................................................................................................................56

7.9 Custom-defined measurements ..............................................................................................................................57

8 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in ....................... 58

8.1 Measuring methods .....................................................................................................................................................58
8.2 Setting up the measuring cell ..................................................................................................................................58
8.3 Opening the measuring method ............................................................................................................................59
8.4 Entering the substance data .....................................................................................................................................59
8.5 Entering procedure parameters ..............................................................................................................................60
8.6 Entering device parameters ......................................................................................................................................63
8.7 Carrying out the measurement................................................................................................................................65

8.7.1 Measuring IFT on rising drops ..................................................................................................................65

8.7.2 Measuring IFT on falling drops.................................................................................................................66
8.7.3 Measuring SFT on falling drops ...............................................................................................................66

9 Reports and data export .................................................................... 68

9.1 Creating a report ...........................................................................................................................................................68

9.1.1 Page view toolbar ..........................................................................................................................................68

9.1.2 Setting up pages ............................................................................................................................................68

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 page 4 Contents

9.1.3 Incorporating a logo .....................................................................................................................................69

9.2 Exporting and importing raw data .........................................................................................................................70

9.2.1 Exporting raw data as a text file (.txt) ....................................................................................................70

9.2.2 Importing raw data ........................................................................................................................................70

9.3 Exporting data to Excel ...............................................................................................................................................70

9.4 Export results using a profile ....................................................................................................................................71
9.4.1 Managing profiles ..........................................................................................................................................71
9.4.2 Carrying out the result export ..................................................................................................................74

9.5 Exporting a diagram as a graphic ...........................................................................................................................75

10 Managing add-ins: The Add-in Manager.................................... 76

10.1 Adding an add-in ..........................................................................................................................................................76
10.2 Removing an add-in.....................................................................................................................................................77
10.3 Add-in state .....................................................................................................................................................................77
10.4 Arranging add-ins on the add-in bar ....................................................................................................................78

11 Utility databases ................................................................................... 79

11.1 Database editing tools ................................................................................................................................................79
11.2 Creating a new entry ....................................................................................................................................................79
11.3 Modifying an existing entry ......................................................................................................................................80
11.4 Deleting an entry ...........................................................................................................................................................81
11.5 View options for utility databases ..........................................................................................................................81

11.5.1 Sorting ................................................................................................................................................................81

11.5.2 Selection and order of columns to be displayed ..............................................................................81

12 LabDesk control options.................................................................... 83

12.1 View and program start options .............................................................................................................................83
12.2 Defining user-defined variables ..............................................................................................................................84
12.3 View licence information ............................................................................................................................................84
12.4 Options for diagrams and plots ..............................................................................................................................85

12.4.1 Defining colours and the order of colours for plots ........................................................................85
12.4.2 Changing the diagram view .......................................................................................................................87

12.5 Behaviour options for an add-in: Specific Preferences.................................................................................93

12.5.1 Measurement Database tab .....................................................................................................................93
12.5.2 Utility Databases tab....................................................................................................................................94
12.5.3 Measurement Log tab ..................................................................................................................................94

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 Contents page 5

12.5.4 Project Editor Options tab ........................................................................................................................95

12.5.5 Diagram Settings tab...................................................................................................................................96
12.5.6 Database Services tab ..................................................................................................................................96
12.5.7 Custom-Defined Dialogs tab ...................................................................................................................97
12.5.8 Data Export tab ...............................................................................................................................................97
12.5.9 Regressions tab ..............................................................................................................................................98

13 Background to the drop volume method ................................... 99

13.1 Measuring principle ......................................................................................................................................................99
13.1.1 Gravity and interfacial tension ..................................................................................................................99
13.1.2 Test set-ups (rising or falling drops) ................................................................................................... 100
13.1.3 The capillary .................................................................................................................................................. 101

13.2 Interfacial tension dynamics .................................................................................................................................. 102

13.2.1 Interface age ................................................................................................................................................. 102

13.2.2 Interface formation with respect to time .......................................................................................... 103

Appendix ....................................................................................................... 104

I Using a customized version of a standard measuring method............................................................... 104

II Surface tension as a function of temperature ................................................................................................ 106

III LabDesk add-in file names ..................................................................................................................................... 108

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Introduction page 7

1 Introduction
Die Software LabDesk software is a sophisticated control and data management software
package for your tensiometer. But it also provides much more: As the name suggests, it is a
virtual laboratory desk – a common working interface for all KRÜSS tensiometers. This manual
contains the information required for the DVT50.

LabDesk provides you with automated measuring procedures, which only require manual
intervention in rare cases. You will find the necessary information relating to all the activities to
be undertaken directly at the measuring instrument in the measuring instrument manual. These
range from set-up and installation via preparation for the measurement and preparation of the
sample to maintenance and care.
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1.1 Explanation of symbols

Certain symbols, which indicate the function of a text passage, are used in KRÜSS manuals:

Information and tips

Warning sign. For your own safety, please observe the sections marked with this symbol.

! Important information, which if ignored can lead to measuring errors, loss of data or
undesirable behavior of the software or the measuring instrument.

 Hints and tricks, information and explanations.

Troubleshooting – rectify or remove undesirable behavior of the software or the measuring

instrument.

 Glossary - explanation of technical terms and terms used in the software or in the manual.

Note which instrument or software components are required to use the functions described in
the concerning chapter.

Instructions

 Individual handling instructions.

1. Handling sequence, Step 1.

2. Handling sequence, Step 2.

3. Handling sequence, Step 3.

4. …

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page 8 Introduction

Structural assistance

 List of aspects.

 Reference to passages in this manual or other manuals.

Typography

 Terms and text citations from the software user interface are typographically emphasized.

 The names of keys of the computer keyboard are written between the symbols < >.

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Example: Press the <Esc> key.

1.2 Possible options with LabDesk

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LabDesk for DVT50 provides you with the following options:

 Measurement of interfacial tension as a function of interface age

 Measurement on rising or falling drops

 Display of dependency on interface age or volume flow

 Measurement of surface tension on falling drops in air


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Measurement at different sample temperatures

You can manage measurements made using different methods and even measurements from a
different KRÜSS measuring instrument in the same project.

1.3 Help and customer service

Help menu

The Help menu provides you with information on how to use LabDesk as well as tips on problem
solving.

 The structure of the Help text is shown under Contents.

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Introduction page 9

 An alphabetical index of key words opens under Index.

 You can use Find to search through the complete Help text for a particular term.

In Windows Vista, a note appears against the first three items on the menu that the Help
function is not available for these items.

 Follow the link in the note text to the Microsoft homepage. Download the winhelp32.exe
program according to the instructions on the Microsoft homepage and install it.

 KRÜSS is not allowed to supply the winhelp32.exe file on the LabDesk CD.

 You can visit the homepage of our web site or our support page, which contains information
on the software (Online Support), under Internet. You can contact our technical service
department by e-mail under Contact Support. You can send requests, critique and opinions
relating to LabDesk directly to us under Send feedback.
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1.4 Technical Support

If your KRÜSS product should not work as expected, please consult our Technical Support office
responsible for your area. You can contact them at:

KRÜSS GmbH KRÜSS USA

Technical Support (for areas Technical Support (CAN, USA)
not mentioned elsewhere) 1020 Crews Road, Suite K
Borsteler Chaussee 85 Matthews, NC 28105, USA
22453 Hamburg, Germany Phone: +1 704 847 8933
Phone: +49 40 514401-55 Email: service@krussusa.com
Fax: +49 40 514401-98
Email: service@kruss.de

KRÜSS China KRÜSS France

Technical Support Technical Support (FR, IRL, UK)
Room 1603, Fangheng Building B 14, avenue du Québec
No. 6 Futong East Street, Wangjing, Bâtiment Kerria 3 – Silic 605
Chaoyang District 91140 Villebon sur Yvette, France
Beijing 100102, China Phone: +33 1 60 14 94 04
Phone: +86 10 6184 2095 Fax: +33 1 60 14 95 48
Fax: +86 10 6184 2207 Email: service@kruss.fr
Email: service@krusschina.cn
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page 10 Installation

2 Installation
! For installation, please follow the instructions in this chapter under any circumstances.


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You can skip this chapter if the software has already been installed by a KRÜSS engineer.

2.1 Computer requirements

The following is a list of the minimum requirements to enable LabDesk to run without any
problems:

 IBM-AT or compatible computer

 CD-ROM drive

 Hard disc with at least 1 GByte free memory

 Interface: Serial or USB

 Parallel or serial interface for printer operation (optional)

 Mouse

 Colour graphics display with at least 600  800 pixels

Operating systems

Operating system Working memory Processor

Windows 7 (32 or 64 bit) min. 2 GByte Dependent on the operating

recom. 4 GByte system version. The processor
performance recommended by
Microsoft is adequate.
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Installation page 11

2.2 Carrying out the installation

! You must be logged in with administrator rights to carry out the installation.

! Please carry out all steps from Chapter 2.2.1 to Chapter 2.2.5 inclusively. Otherwise, errors in
the program run occur. A failed installation may be difficult to repair.

2.2.1 Deactivating the general Data Execution Prevention

The installation does not run properly if the Data Execution Prevention is activated for all
programs and services. Therefore it is necessary to check and eventually change the Data
Execution Prevention settings.

1. Open the Control Panel in the Windows start menu.

2. Select the item System.

3. Depending on the view settings, select the Advanced tab or the shortcut Advanced System
Settings on the left.

4. Click on the upper button Settings.

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page 12 Installation

5. Select the Data Execution Prevention tab. Select the upper option. Click on OK.

6. Reboot the computer. Log-in with administrator privileges again after rebooting.

 You can omit this step if the upper option was already set in step 5.

2.2.2 Start and course of the installation program

1. Close all running applications with the exception of Explorer.

2. Insert the LabDesk CD. Select the folder LABDESK.

3. Open the context menu of the file Setup.exe. Select the menu item Run as Administrator.

4. The User Account Control dialog box appears

with a safety prompt concerning changes at the
computer. Click Yes.

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Installation page 13

5. Choose the language which is used for the

installation dialogue and for texts in
measurement scripts. Click Next.

6. A Welcome window will appear. Click Next.

7. The operating system requirements will be listed.

Check whether additional components need to
be installed for your Windows version. If this is
the case, click Cancel and install the necessary
Microsoft components from the LabDesk CD.
Click Next if the requirements are fulfilled.

8. Read the licence agreement. You must agree to

the conditions of the licence agreement in order
to be able to proceed. Click on Next.

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page 14 Installation

9. Enter the Product key and the Activation key for

your LabDesk version. Click Next.

10. Enter the user name specified in the registration

documents for your LabDesk version. Click Next.

11. Enter a company name (optional). Click Next.

12. You can include or exclude software components

by checking or unchecking the boxes. KRÜSS
recommends that you install all available
components. After making your selection, click
Next.

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Installation page 15

13. Confirm the proposed installation directory with

Next or choose a different directory using
Browse.

 Be sure to use the proposed directory.

14. A name for a LabDesk program folder in the

Windows Start Menu will be proposed. Click
Next to accept the name or enter a name of
your own.

15. The directories created will be listed. Start the

installation with Install

16. When the installation process is complete, click Finish.

2.2.3 Deactivating the Data Execution Prevention for LabDesk

1. Open the Control Panel in the Windows start menu.

2. Select the item System.

3. Depending on the view settings, select the Advanced tab or the shortcut Advanced System
Settings on the left.

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page 16 Installation

4. Click on the upper button Settings.

5. Select the Data Execution Prevention tab. Select the lower option. Click on the Add button.

6. Select the folder BIN in the LabDesk installation folder. Select the file LABDESK.EXE. Click on
Open. Click on OK two times.

7. Reboot the computer. Log-in with administrator privileges again after rebooting.

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Installation page 17

2.2.4 Providing full access for users

In the LabDesk installation folder

1. Start the Windows Explorer.

2. Open the installation folder selected for LabDesk. Usually, this is the folder c:\Program
Files\kruss (or c:\Program Files (x86)\kruss for 64 bit).

3. Select Properties from the context menu of the LabDesk folder.

4. Select the tab Security. Click on Edit.

5. Give reading and writing permissions for the group Users.

In the Registry

1. Open the Registry Editor. In order to do this, enter Regedit in the search box of the Windows
start menu. Click on the found item Regedit.

The User Account Control dialog box appears with a safety prompt concerning changes at
the computer. Click on Yes.

2. Open the following folder in the folder tree:

 Windows 7 (32 bit):

HKEY_LocalMachine\Software\KRUSS

 Windows 7 (64 bit):

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\KRUSS

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page 18 Installation

3. Open the context menu of the KRUSS folder. Select Permissions from the menu.

4. Select the group Users from the list. Set a tick under Allow in the line Full control. Click on
OK.

2.2.5 First-time start of LabDesk as administrator

1. Open the context menu of the LabDesk program icon

on the desktop.

2. Select the menu item Run as Administrator.

3. On the left side, click on any add-in shortcut (e.g. Drop Volume) under any instrument
header (e.g. DVT50).

4. Select Tools  Device Manager from the menu.

The following dialog box will open:

5. Click on Close.
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Installation page 19

2.3 USB driver installation

! It is essential to install the USB driver before you connect the instrument to the computer for
the first time.

 The exact procedure for installing the driver depends on the operating system and on the
Windows system settings.

1. Insert the LabDesk CD.

2. Exit the installation program if it starts automatically.

3. Select the SUPPORT  DRIVERS  USBSTM32  STM32VCP folder on the LabDesk CD.

4. Start the program according to the processor architecture:

 SETUP.EXE for 32 bit

 SETUP_X64.EXE for 64 bit

5. Click on OK. Driver installation starts.

6. After connecting the DVT50 the installed driver will be searched and assigned automatically.
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2.4 Deinstallation
 Select Uninstall Laboratory Desktop 3.2.2 from the LabDesk directory in the Windows Start
Menu.

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page 20 The user interface

3 The user interface

 Add-in: Program module for LabDesk. The functional scope of LabDesk and the measuring
methods that can be used depend on which add-ins are installed.

The LabDesk user interface is made up of three panes:

 Menu and toolbar, which can be used to control all items on the menu.

 Add-in bar with icons for the installed add-ins.

 Workspace with opened add-ins. This is where all the components for measurement,
evaluation and data management are to be found.

Add-in
menu bar Toolbar
workspace

Add-in bar

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The user interface page 21

3.1 Program start

 Switch on your measuring instrument and any peripherals.

 Start LabDesk by means of the icon

or the Windows start menu.

3.2 Opening program functions

There are several ways of accessing most LabDesk functions:

 From the menu bar.

 From the context menu of certain elements on the user interface.

 The context menu of an element on the user interface is opened by clicking with the
right mouse button.

 From the button on the toolbar.

 By means of keys and key combinations.

 When a function can be activated using keys and key combinations, these are shown
accordingly in the menus on the menu bar.

 The method using the menu bar or the buttons on the toolbar is usually proposed in this
manual.

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page 22 The user interface

3.3 The toolbar

 Most buttons are only active when an add-in has been opened ( Chapter 3.5).

Button group Standard Function

Exit LabDesk

Open the Open Workspace dialogue box.

Open the General Preferences dialogue box

( Chapter 12).

Button group Function

Window

Show/hide add-in bar.

Arrange windows in a cascade (left-hand button), vertically

(middle button) or horizontally (right-hand button).

Open Tip Assistant (left) and Help content (right).

Button group Function

Edit

Left to right for the active diagram: Zoom the diagram section -
Increase zoom - Reduce zoom - Normal view - Rescale diagram
automatically during measurement.

Button group Function

Script

Far right: Switch Script monitor on and off. The script monitor has
no function for the installed Add-ins.

Far left: measurement start

When measurement running: Stop measurement (2nd button) and

Emergency stop (3rd button).

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The user interface page 23

Button group Function

Project

From left to right: Open database - Create new project - Create

new measurement - Open project - Close project.

When a measurement is selected: Print report (left) and Print

preview (right).

Switch backwards and forwards between the two workspace tabs

( Chapter 3.7):

Database Explorer (left) and Project Editor (right).

When a project is selected: Edit project.

When a measurement is selected: Edit measurement (centre) or

edit associated plots (right).

3.4 View options

You can show and hide button groups as well as the Status Bar and the Shortcut Bar under
View  Toolbars on the menu:

3.5 Opening an add-in

When LabDesk is started, the empty user interface appears first of all with the add-in bar on the
left-hand side:

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page 24 The user interface

 The appearance may change if the view options under View in the main menu are changed.

Add-in icons

The Add-in icons are grouped depending on the available measuring instruments and functions.

 Click on the heading for the required measuring instrument (e.g. DVT50).

 Click on the add-in icon for the required measuring method (e.g. Drop Volume).

The workspace will open with a loaded demo database.

 For information relating to the structure of the workspace, please read Chapter 5.

3.6 Demo database

The illustrations in this manual often show elements of the demo database.

! Create your own databases and projects for your measurements. Otherwise measurement
data may be lost if LabDesk is reinstalled.

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The user interface page 25

3.7 Database Explorer and Project Editor

 Database Explorer: Tab on a workspace of an add-in for managing data at database level.

 Project Editor: Tab on the workspace of an add-in for managing open projects and for
creating and carrying out measurements.

 Project Explorer: Part of the Project Editor; overview of open projects and the measurements
and evaluations contained therein.

 Double-click on a folder icon (= Project) under Projects in Database File.

The add-in workspace comprises two tabs:

 Database Explorer for management at database level ( Chapter 5.5).

 Project Editor for management at project level ( Chapter 6).

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page 26 Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument

4 Logging on and setting up a measuring

instrument
Before beginning the measurement several steps are required for logging on and setting up the
measuring instrument:

 Add measuring instrument

 Validate measuring instrument

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 Assign measuring instrument to the add-in used

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 Enter local value of acceleration due to gravity

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4.1 Adding a measuring instrument

1. Install your measuring instrument in accordance with the instrument manual, and any
peripheral devices in accordance with the manufacturer's documentation.

2. Switch on the measuring instrument and any peripherals.

3. Open the add-in for which the measuring instrument is to be used.

4. Select Tools  Device Manager from the menu.

The following dialogue box will open:

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Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument page 27

5. Click Add. The following dialogue box will open:

4.2 Selecting the interface

 Open the COM-Port drop-down menu.

 Select the interface of the computer to which the instrument has been connected.

Determining the port

With a USB connection, the correct port is usually the one with the highest number. If the
validation (see below) fails to work on this port and several other ports are available, proceed as
follows:

1. Disconnect the DVT50 from the USB port on the computer.

2. Click Cancel. Click Add. Make a note of the ports specified in the COM-Port drop-down
menu. Click Cancel.

3. Connect the DVT50 to the required USB port on the computer. Open the COM-Port drop-
down menu. Select the newly added port.

4.3 Validating a measuring instrument

This step must be carried out before a measuring instrument is used for the first time.

 Click on Validate Device.

If the device is not recognized:

 Check the connections and the selection of the interface.

 During validation, communication between software and instrument is checked, the type of
measuring instrument is determined and the serial number of the measuring instrument is
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page 28 Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument

4.4 Assigning a measuring instrument

When the device has been added, a new line will appear in the device manager:

Before the device can be used for an add-in, it must be assigned.

 Select the required device from the list.

 Click on Use selected device.

 The assigned device will be used every time the appropriate add-in is started.

 Assignment is necessary so that the measuring instrument used is clearly identified in the
measurement report.

Revalidating a logged-on device

You can check whether a measuring instrument, which has already been logged-on, is
communicating properly with LabDesk with the help of the Validate Device button.

Changing the interface (Edit)

You can change the computer interface used for the selected device entry by means of the Edit
button
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Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument page 29

4.5 Options in Device Manager

Under Options, a menu opens with the two tabs Info, and Settings.

4.5.1 Info

The Info tab contains general information such as manufacturer details, the serial number of the
instrument and firmware version.

4.5.2 Settings

Under Settings, options are defined for the behaviour of the unit during the measurement.

 Display Language: Changing the language is not installed for the DVT50.

 Illumination: Illumination setting for the DVT50 during measurements.

 If multiple detections of drops frequently occur, the illumination should be switched off
(0%).
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page 30 Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument

4.6 Entering the acceleration of gravity at the place of use

The acceleration of gravity is used for calculating or correcting the measured values. As the value
of the acceleration of gravity depends on the location, it must be determined and entered.

! An incorrect value for the acceleration due to gravity will act as a systematic error on all
measurements.

 As a rule, national physics institutions will provide information relating to the value of the
acceleration of gravity at a particular location.

 Select Tools  General Preferences from the menu. Select the Environment tab.

 Enter the value of the acceleration due to gravity at the place of use in the Mean
Gravitational Acceleration text box.

! In this tab, only change the values in the Mean Gravitational Acceleration and
Geographical Location text boxes. The other text boxes contain physical constants.
Incorrect values can lead to errors in measurements and evaluations.

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Logging on and setting up a measuring instrument page 31

Calculating the acceleration due to gravity from the geographical position

If you are unable to ascertain the local value for the acceleration due to gravity:

1. Enter the latitude of the place of use under Geographical Location / Latitude. Use a plus
sign for northern latitudes and a minus sign for southern latitudes.

2. Enter the altitude of the place of use under Elevation above MSL. Also take the height
within the building into account.

3. Click on Calc. from location. Click OK.

! The value calculated using the implemented formula may differ from information provided
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by national institutes.

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page 32 Measurement databases

5 Measurement databases
The workspace of an add-in contains database components for backing up and managing
measured data.

5.1 The data structure (database, project, measurement,

evaluation)
 Each measurement is assigned to a project.

 Each project is assigned to a database.

 Evaluations can be carried out with some measuring methods. Evaluations relate to data
from one or more measurements of a project.

 A project can contain measurements from different add-ins and from different types of
measuring instrument.

5.2 Demo database

After installation a demo database is automatically opened when an add-in is opened. This
already contains projects and data from demo measurements.

! Be sure to create your own databases and projects for your measurements. Otherwise
measurement data may be lost if LabDesk is reinstalled.

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Measurement databases page 33

5.3 Note concerning names of databases, projects and

measurements

! With some operating systems, names which contain special characters and characters
outside the American keyboard may impede the export to Excel.
 For safety, only use alphanumeric characters of the American keyboard [(a…z); (A…Z);
(0…9)] and space for names of databases, projects and measurements.

5.4 Managing databases

! Keep your databases and projects to a manageable size and create new ones at frequent
intervals. If databases and projects become too large, the speed of opening and editing
them reduces.

5.4.1 Creating a new database

1. Open an add-in.

2. Select File  New Database from the menu. The following dialogue box will appear:

! The path and file name for the template file for creating databases are entered under
Template Database File. This entry must only be changed in exceptional cases.

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page 34 Measurement databases

3. Enter the required name for the new database in the text box at the bottom.

To change the target directory for the new database click on the button next to the
bottom text box. Select the required directory or create a new one.

4. Click OK. The new database will appear in Database Explorer.

5.4.2 Opening a database

 Select File  Open Database from the menu. The following dialogue box will appear:

 Select the required directory and the required database. Click Open.

 Several databases can be open at the same time.

5.4.3 Closing a database

 In Database Explorer select the database to be closed in the Projects in Database File pane.

 Select File  Close Database from the menu.

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Measurement databases page 35

5.5 Database overview: the Database Explorer

The contents of a database are displayed in Database Explorer. It consists of three panes:

 Projects in Database File (1)

 Project Contents (2)

 General Information (3) relating to the object selected in (2)

5.5.1 Projects in database file

Open databases and the projects contained within them are displayed under Projects in
Database File.

The symbol before the project name indicates its status:

The project is closed (yellow symbol).

The project is closed and has been selected by means of a single click. The
measurements for the project are shown in the Project Contents pane.

The project is open (shaded symbol).

The project is open and has been selected by means of a single click. The
measurements for the project are shown in the Project Contents pane. The data for the
project can be viewed in Project Editor.

 A project is opened by double-clicking the project symbol. LabDesk switches automatically

to the Project Editor.

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page 36 Measurement databases

5.5.2 Project contents and General information

 Click a project in Projects in Database File. The measurements and evaluations for the
project are shown in the Project Contents pane.

 Click a measurement under Project Contents. Information relating to the measurement or

evaluation is displayed in the General Information pane.

5.5.3 Deleting a project

1. Click the project to be deleted under Projects in Database File.

2. Select the command File  Delete Selected Project from the menu.

3. Confirm the safety prompt with Yes.

! The deleted project is not moved to the recycle bin, but deleted immediately. A deleted
project cannot be retrieved.

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Measurement databases page 37

5.5.4 Deleting a measurement

1. Click the measurement to be deleted under Project Contents.

2. Select the command File  Delete Selected Measurement from the menu.

3. Confirm the safety prompt with Yes.

! The deleted measurement is not moved to the recycle bin, but deleted immediately. A
deleted measurement cannot be retrieved.

 Measurements whose data are used in an evaluation can only be deleted when the
evaluation is deleted.

5.6 Database services

5.6.1 Compact database

The size of database files can be reduced by compression. This makes access to the database
quicker.

 Select Tools  Database Services  Compact Database from the menu.

A dialogue box for selecting the database will open.

 Select the database to be compressed. Click Open.

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page 38 Measurement databases

5.6.2 Repair database

If a database is damaged, the Microsoft Access repair function can be opened from within
LabDesk.

1. If necessary, close the database to be repaired.

2. Select Tools  Database Services  Repair Database from the menu.

A dialogue box for selecting the database will open.

3. Select the database to be repaired. Click Open.

 The original of the database will be saved as a backup copy under the same file name with
the file extension .bak.

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Projects in database file: the Project Editor page 39

6 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

Projects and measurements are stored and managed in the Project Editor.

6.1 Creating a new project

! Do not create new projects in the demo database, but work in databases that you have
created yourself.

1. Open the database in which the project is to be created ( P. 34).

2. Select File  New Project from the menu.

3. Enter the required name for the project in the text box at the top.

 You can create new measurements in the project using Add ( Chapter 7).

4. If several databases are open: Select the database in which the project is to be created under
Select a database. Click OK.

5. Click OK to complete the project creation process.

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page 40 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

6.2 Opening an existing project

 In Database Explorer click a project in the demo database under Projects in database file.
LabDesk switches automatically to the Project Editor.

 Only open projects are displayed in the Project Editor.

6.3 Project Editor structure

The Project Editor consists of four panes:

 Projects (Proj. Explorer) (1): Display of open projects and their measurements

 Parameters & Data (2): Parameters and data for the measurement selected in Project
Explorer

 Diagrams (3): Diagrams with plots for one or more measurements

 Status and Calculation (4): Status of a current measurement; calculations and results for
the selected measurement

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Projects in database file: the Project Editor page 41

Showing and hiding panes

 Select View  Panes from the menu.

 Tick or remove the tick against the panes to be displayed by clicking the appropriate item on
the menu.

 When Diagrams Only is selected or the key <F7> is pressed, the whole of the Project Editor
pane is used for the diagram view.

6.4 Projects pane (Project Explorer)

The open projects and the measurements and evaluations contained within them are displayed
in the Projects pane.

Copying a measurement

A measurement can

 be copied to another project within a database.

 be copied to a project within another database.

1. Open the project, which contains the measurement to be copied. Open the target project for
the copy.

2. Select the measurement to be copied under Projects. Select Edit  Copy  Measurement
from the menu.

3. Select the target project under Projects. Select Edit  Paste  Measurement from the
menu.

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page 42 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

 Copying, moving and pasting can also be carried out using drag-and-drop. In doing so, the
measurement

 is moved when it is dragged to another project within the same database.

 is copied when it is dragged to a project in a different database.

 The method of moving while holding the <Ctrl> key pressed known from Windows
Explorer is not activated in LabDesk.

 Alternatively, you can use function key <F2> for copying and function key <F4> for pasting.

6.5 Parameters & data pane

 In Project Explorer click the measurement for which you want to view the data and
parameters.

6.5.1 Overview

The measured values and measurement parameters are displayed on five tabs in the Parameters
& Data pane:

 General: General conditions and conditions for creating a measurement

 Parameters: Measurement parameters defined for the measurement

 Data: Recorded measured values

 Plots: Measurement plots shown in a diagram

 Device: Type and serial number of the device used

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Projects in database file: the Project Editor page 43

6.5.2 Identifying outliers and adding comments to measurements

Measured values identified as outliers are

 not shown in the plot of the measurement,

 not taken into account in evaluations.

 Select the Data tab.

Identifying measurements

 Click with the right mouse button on the data entry, which is to be identified as an outlier.

 You can select several entries by keeping the mouse button pressed.

 Select Mark as Outlier from the menu.

 Alternatively, you can use the key combination <Ctrl> + <U>.

Identifying and/or adding comments to measured values

Click on the data list with the right mouse button. Select Options from the menu.

 Select the sequential number of the measured value, which is to be identified as an outlier
and/or to which a comment is to be added, from the Line Number drop-down menu.

 To identify the measured value as an outlier tick the Mark as Outlier checkbox.

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page 44 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

 To add a comment to the measured value enter the required comment in the Remarks text
box.

 Repeat the process for all further measured values to be identified or to which a comment is
to be added. Click OK when identification and commenting are complete for all required
measurements.

Deleting all idents and comments

 Choose Delete options from the data list context menu.

 Confirm the safety prompt in the pop-up message box with Yes.
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6.5.3 Detailed data list or list with mean values

In the default setting, the data list shows all individual IFT / SFT values. As an option, the display
can be set so that only the mean values of IST / SFT are displayed for each flow rate.

 Select the Data tab. Click on the data list with the right mouse button.

 Remove or set the tick under Data View Detailed.

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Projects in database file: the Project Editor page 45

6.6 Diagrams pane

 Diagram: Prepared coordinate system in which measured values can be displayed.

 Plot: Representation of the measured values of a measurement in a diagram.

Plots of one or more measurements are displayed in the Diagrams pane. The measurements
selected for display contain information relating to the variables to be plotted. If there are
several diagrams, these appear on several tabs.

 To change the appearance of diagrams (colours, inscriptions, scaling) please read Chapter
12.4.

6.6.1 View options for diagrams

Buttons for the diagram view can be found on the menu bar.

Button Function

Zoom an area of the diagram.

 Draw a rectangle around the area of the diagram to be zoomed with the
help of the mouse.

Enlarge zoom.

Reduce zoom.

Normal view (100 %).

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page 46 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

Button Function

Auto scaling. The scaling is automatically matched to the measured values to be

displayed. This applies both to showing and hiding plots and to the display of
measured values for a current measurement.

 This button corresponds to View  Auto-Rescale Diagrams on the menu.

 This form of display often gives the impression of a considerable spread of

measured values even with measurements that can be consistently
reproduced. Adjust the boundaries of the diagram if necessary (
Chapter 12.4.2).

6.6.2 Finding measured data from the diagram in the data list

 Click on the required measuring point while holding the <Ctrl> key pressed.

The measurement to which the clicked measuring point belongs will be highlighted in
Project Explorer. The Data tab will be activated in the Parameters & Data pane and the
clicked measuring point highlighted.

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Projects in database file: the Project Editor page 47

6.6.3 Showing / hiding plots

 With the default setting all measurements in an open project are displayed.

 In Project Explorer click the measurement that you want to show or hide.

 Select View  Show Plots or Hide Plots from the menu as appropriate.

 You can display the plots for the selected measurement and hide all the others with Show
Plots Exclusively.

 With Auto-show Plots the plots of the measurement currently selected in the Project-Editor
is displayed automatically.

6.6.4 Creating a new plot

1. In Project Explorer click the measurement for which you want to create a new plot.

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page 48 Projects in database file: the Project Editor

2. Select Edit  Plot Management from the menu. The following dialogue box will appear:

3. Select the variables to be plotted on the respective axes under New plot in the X-Column
and Y-Column drop-down list boxes.

4. Click OK.

 You can create new plots for any open projects and their measurements with the help of the
Project and Measurement drop-down list boxes.

6.6.5 Deleting a self-created plot

Only plots, which you have created yourself, can be deleted. It is not possible to delete the
standard plots associated with a measuring method.

1. In Project Explorer click the measurement for which you want to delete a plot.

2. Select Edit  Plot Management from the menu.

3. Select the plot to be deleted under Existing Plots ( illustration above). Click Delete.

4. Click OK.

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Creating and taking measurements: general procedure page 49

7 Creating and taking measurements: general

procedure
This chapter contains general information for creating a measurement, which relates to all add-
ins and measuring methods.

 For the choice of suitable parameters for the respective measuring method, how to prepare
the measurement and the steps in the implementation, please read the description for the
appropriate method.

! Do not create new measurements in projects in the demo database, but work in databases
and projects that you have created yourself.

 Creating and carrying out measurements are separate steps. Once created, a measurement
can be carried out at any time.

 All measuring parameters can still be changed retrospectively after a measurement has been
created.

 Once the measurement has been carried out, only parameters which do not affect the
performance of the measurement can be changed.

7.1 Selecting a measuring method

1. Open the add-in which contains the required measuring method.

2. Open the required database or create a new one.

3. Select File  New Measurement from the menu. Select the required measuring method.

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page 50 Creating and taking measurements: general procedure

7.2 Defining a measurement (general procedure)

When the measuring method is selected, a dialogue box with several tabs opens.

 The number and content of the tabs depends on the selected measuring method.

 Enter a name for the measurement in the top text box.

 In each tab enter the desired or necessary parameters according to the descriptions in this
chapter or in the documentation for the appropriate measuring method.

7.2.1 Entering liquid data

With most methods particulars of the liquids used are required.

These are entered on the Liquid tab. There are two ways of entering the information:

 Entry by hand

 Transferring liquid data with the help of the Liquids utility database

 You can find out which particulars of the liquid are required for a particular measuring
method in the chapters relating to the specific methods.

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Creating and taking measurements: general procedure page 51

Transferring liquid data from the utility database

 Liquids utility database: Extendable database with physical data of standard liquids.

 To edit the Liquids utility database, please read Chapter 11.

1. Click Browse on the Liquid tab. The utility database for liquids will open.

2. Select the required liquid from the list.

 Several entries are provided for many of the liquids. The appropriate data are taken from
various literature sources. The respective authors are shown in the list.

3. Click OK.

4. Modify or add to the information on the Liquid tab if necessary. Click OK.
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7.2.2 Procedure tab

The Procedure tab contains parameters for the performance of the measurement and the
behaviour of the measuring instrument. When a new measurement is created, parameters, which
generally allow the measurement to run smoothly, are already entered.

 Please read the description for the appropriate measuring method for the meaning of the
parameters.
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page 52 Creating and taking measurements: general procedure

7.2.3 Plots tab

 To view the standard plots for the selected measuring method and to create user-defined
plots: Click on Edit Plots.

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To create plots, please read p. 47.

7.3 Assigning or creating a project

When the measurement has been defined, the following dialogue box will appear:

 If several databases are open, select the database in which the measurement is to be created
under Select a Database.

 To create the measurement in an existing project: Select the Assign to existing project
option. Select the required project from the drop-down list box.

 To create the measurement in a new project: Select the Create a new project option. Enter
the required name for the project.

 When the entries are complete click OK.

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Creating and taking measurements: general procedure page 53

7.4 Replicating a measurement

 Replication: Creation of a new measurement using all measuring parameters of an already
existing measurement.

 Custom-defined measurements ( Chapter 7.9) cannot be replicated.

1. In Project Explorer click the measurement whose parameters you want to use for a new
measurement.

2. Select File  New Measurement  Replicate selected from the menu.

The dialogue box for defining the measurement will appear. All entries in the tabs are
identical to those of the selected measurement.

3. Enter a name for the measurement.

4. Select the database and the project for the measurement as described in Chapter 7.3.

7.5 Changing measuring parameters retrospectively

 As long as a measurement has not yet been carried out, all parameters can be changed
retrospectively.

 Once the measurement has been carried out, only parameters which do not affect the
performance of the measurement can be changed.

7.5.1 Changing a measurement that has not been carried out

 In Project Explorer double click on the measurement whose parameters you want to change.

 Change the required parameters and click OK.

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page 54 Creating and taking measurements: general procedure

7.5.2 Changing a measurement that has been carried out

1. In Project Explorer double click on the measurement whose parameters you want to change.

2. Click No in the message box which appears. From this point only the text boxes, which can
still be changed after a measurement has been carried out, are active in the measurement
definition tabs.

! If you click Yes and change parameters, the existing measurement data will be deleted.

3. Change the required parameters and click OK.

7.6 General measurement procedure

1. Make all the necessary preparations for the measurement (e.g. device warm-up time,
preparation of the sample) as described in the instrument manual.

2. In Project Explorer select the measurement that you want to carry out.
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3. Click on the button in the toolbar. The measurement process will begin.
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If the error message A protocol error occurred appears:

 Check that the instrument control keypad is connected correctly.

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4. One or more message boxes with instructions for the necessary manual steps will guide you
through the process.

Follow the instructions in the message box(es).

5. When you have followed all the instructions in a message box, click OK.

 While the measuring instrument is being controlled by LabDesk the step that the measuring
instrument is currently carrying out will be displayed in the Status and calculation pane of
the Project Editor.

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Creating and taking measurements: general procedure page 55

7.7 Measurement log

The course of a measurement can be

 kept track of in the script monitor while the measurement is running

 stored in the database together with the measured data

7.7.1 Measurement log in the script monitor

The script monitor records a measurement log on-line. The current content is erased with the
start of a measurement.

 Click on the button in the toolbar to open the script monitor.

7.7.2 Storing and calling-up the measurement log in / from the database

! The memory requirement is greatly increased as a result of saving the measurement

protocol. This function should therefore only be used for fault finding.

Storing the measurement log

The measurement log displayed in the script monitor can be stored in the database
automatically.

 To activate the automated storage please read Chapter 12.5.3.

Calling up the measurement log

The stored measurement log can be called up for a single measurement or for a project.

 Select the desired project or measurement in the Project-Editor.

 Select Edit  Measurement Log  Show from the menu.

 The called-up measurement log can be stored as a txt file with Save.

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page 56 Creating and taking measurements: general procedure

Delete measurement log

The measurement log for a measurement of project can be deleted from the database.

 Select the desired project or measurement in the Project-Editor.

 Select Edit  Measurement Log  Delete from the menu. Confirm the safety prompt with
Yes.

! The deleted measurement log is not moved to the recycle bin, but deleted immediately. A
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deleted measurement log cannot be retrieved.

7.8 Terminating a measurement prematurely

7.8.1 Stopping a measurement

 When a measurement is stopped, the current step in the measuring process is carried out to
the end. Data in the measuring instrument's memory are transferred.

 Click on the button in the toolbar.

 Confirm the saving of the data recorded up to that point with Yes or reject the data with No.

 It is not only expedient to stop a measurement when the results have to be rejected.
Measurements with long running times can often be stopped if the results already available
are satisfactory.

7.8.2 Aborting a measurement

! The abortion of a measurement is only intended for the case where the measuring
instrument does not respond to the stop button. The current step of the measuring process
will be aborted immediately. Data in the measuring instrument's memory, which have not
yet been transferred, will be lost.

 Click on the button in the toolbar.

 Confirm the saving of the data recorded up to that point with Yes or reject the data with No.

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Creating and taking measurements: general procedure page 57

7.9 Custom-defined measurements

Custom-Defined can be found in the menu under File  New Measurement.

Under this menu item measuring methods and services can be opened, which

 have been set up at the customer’s request, or

 fulfil special requirements, for example the programming of peripheral devices

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No custom-defined measurements are currently available for DVT50.

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page 58 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in

8 Measurements using the Drop Volume

add-in

 (Dynamic) interfacial tension (IFT): Work, which must be expended in order to increase a
given interface by a defined amount (units: mN/m). In the drop volume method, this work
corresponds to the weight or buoyancy respectively of the drop at the moment that it
detaches from the capillary ( chapter 13.1.1 for theory). In LabDesk and in this manual, the
term IFT is used for the interface between two liquid phases.

 (Dynamic) surface tension (SFT): As IFT, where in LabDesk and in this manual the term SFT is
used for the boundary between a liquid surface and a gas phase.

 Interface age, surface age: Time from the development to the detachment of a drop. As
every drop is detected by a light barrier when it detaches, the surface age is equal to the
time between two detector signals.

 Flow rate: Speed at which the liquid is pushed through the capillary when the drop is
dispensed. The flow rate is specified in l/min. As the flow rate can be controlled, the IFT or
SFT can be measured at different surface ages.

8.1 Measuring methods

The Drop Volume add-in includes the following measuring methods:

 IFT Rising Drop

 IFT Falling Drop

 SFT Falling Drop

8.2 Setting up the measuring cell

! The measuring cell must be set up so that the capillary is in the right position for the
respective measuring method ( DVT50 manual):

 IFT Rising Drop: Capillary at the bottom

 IFT Falling Drop: Capillary at the top

 SFT Falling Drop: Capillary at the top

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Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in page 59

8.3 Opening the measuring method

 Select File  New Measurement from the menu. Select the required measuring method
from the drop down menu.

 Enter a name for the measurement.

8.4 Entering the substance data

Data relating to the bulk phase and the dispensed phase are required for the measurement.

 When the SFT is measured, the bulk phase is air. The data for air are already entered on the
Bulk Phase tab.

 For IFT only: Select the Bulk Phase tab. Enter the particulars of the liquid or transfer them
from the Liquids utility database ( Chapter 7.2.1).

 For all measuring methods: Select the Dispensed Phase tab. Enter the particulars of the
liquid or transfer them from the Liquids utility database ( Chapter 7.2.1).

! Make sure not to confuse the bulk phase and the dispensed phase.

 With rising drops, the bulk phase is the heavier phase.

 With falling drops, the bulk phase is the lighter phase.

! The measurement cannot be created if essential data relating to the phases are missing.

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 page 60 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in

Essential and optional data

General sub-tab

Data essential optional comments

Name 

Author 

Density 

Viscosity (for IFT only) 

Reference temperature for

Ref. Temp.  the data

Remarks 
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procedure
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8.5 Entering procedure parameters

The procedure parameters are entered on the Procedure (1) tab.

 The default parameters set up after installation can be used in most instances. The

empty
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parameters are described below in case changes should be necessary.
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Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in page 61

Meaning of the parameters

Start Flow Rate / Stop Flow Rate

Initial and final flow rate for time-dependent interfacial tension measurement.

 Depending on the values specified, the measurement can proceed from the largest flow rate
to the smallest flow rate or vice versa. In most cases, it is recommended to start with the
largest flow rate. The measuring time for each flow rate becomes increasingly longer as the
flow rates become smaller. The measurement can often be terminated if it is established that
the IFT is no longer dependent on the flow rate.

 The accessible flow rate range depends on the syringe used: Smaller flow rates can be
achieved with low-diameter syringes. The upper limit of the flow rate is determined by the
flow speed at the outlet of the capillary. Flow rates greater than 100 l/min are not usually
appropriate.

Acquisition

Reduction or increase in the flow rate optionally in logarithmic or linear increments.

 On account of the frequently exponential dependence of the interfacial/surface tension on

the interface/surface age, logarithmic data recording is usually recommended.

Flow rates (Flow rates / Decade)

For logarithmic data recording: Number of flow rates per decade. For linear data recording:
Number of flow rates for the whole measuring range.

Max. Drops per Rate

Number of drops for each flow rate, the volume of which is used to determine a measurement
for the interfacial tension in each case.

 The first drops after changing the flow rate and after filling the syringe are rejected. The
number of drops actually dispensed is therefore somewhat greater than the specified value.

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page 62 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in

Capillary Diameter

Inside diameter of the capillary used. The respective standard capillaries for IFT and SFT have
different diameters:

 IFT: 0.2540 mm

! This value may only be changed if a different type of capillary is used.

 SFT: approx. 3 mm

! The exact outer diameter of the SFT capillary must be measured and entered ( DVT50
manual).

Detection Threshold

Signal intensity of the drop detector (as a percentage of the maximum signal intensity), at which
the signal is evaluated as detecting a drop. This value should be set to 20% as a rule.

 If the drop is detected a number of times (several beeps in quick succession when the
intervals between signals are otherwise larger), the value should be increased.

 The values should be decreased if drops are repeatedly not detected.

 When the DVT50 is in test mode ( DVT50 manual), you can test the detection threshold at
which the drop is reliably detected.

Correction

No correction of the measured values is required with the conically ground KRÜSS standard
capillary for IFT measurements.

A cylindrical capillary with a larger contact area is used for SFT measurements. The measured
value must be corrected. The standard correction method is Harkins and Brown.

 For the meaning and application of correction methods, please read P. 101.

! Do not use a correction method when you measure the IFT with a standard KRÜSS capillary.
IFT measurements only need to be corrected when a capillary other than that supplied by
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
KRÜSS is used.

Values for Mean

A mean value is continuously produced from the most recent measurements during the
measurement. This parameter specifies how many measurements are used for this calculation.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in page 63

Standard Deviation

A standard deviation is calculated for the current mean value. This is used as a termination
criterion: When the calculated standard deviation is less than or equal to the specified Std.
Deviation the measurement at one flow rate is considered as being complete and is terminated.
The measurement continues with the subsequent flow rate.

 At least as many values are recorded as specified under Values for Mean. No more values

device
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
are recorded than specified under Max.Values per Rate Max Values or .
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

8.6 Entering device parameters

The device parameters are entered on the Procedure (2) tab.

 The default parameters set up after installation can be used in most instances. The

empty
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
parameters are described below in case changes should be necessary.

Meaning of the parameters

Syringe Volume

The volume of the syringe used is defined in the DVT50 set-up ( DVT50 manual) and
transferred to LabDesk when the measurement starts. It cannot be entered in LabDesk.

 The volume of the standard syringe is 500 l.

Syringe Refill Flow Rate

If the syringe is emptied during a measurement, then it is automatically refilled from the storage
vessel. This parameter specifies the flow rate for this process. The default value is 2500 l/min.

 This value should be reduced for high-viscosity liquids.

 The accessible flow rate range is associated with the syringe used.

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page 64 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in

Delay between Flow Rate Changes

It may happen that another drop detaches and is detected at the exact moment the flow rate is
increased. This may falsify the first measurement of a particular flow rate. To avoid this, the
specified delay time is maintained before measurements are recorded.

 The default value of 3 seconds is normally sufficient.

Drop Detector

Position of the drop detector. The 100% value corresponds to the top position, 0% to the
bottom position.

 With rising drops (capillary at the bottom), the detector should be just above the capillary
(guide value: 0%, higher for particularly large drops).

 With falling drops (capillary at the bottom), the detector should be just below the capillary
(guide values: 100% for the standard capillary for IFT; 80% for the special capillary for SFT; in
both cases higher for particularly large drops).

 If the default entry not set is retained, the position selected in the DVT50 set-up at the start
of the measurement ( DVT50 manual) will be adopted. If, on the other hand, a value is
entered in LabDesk, this value will be retained and the value from the DVT50 will not be
used.

 When the DVT50 is in test mode ( DVT50 manual), you can test the position at which the
drop is reliably detected.

 The slider is not active when not set is entered. It can only be used when a value has been
entered in the text box.

Closing measurement definition

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

1. If required, set up new plots in the Plots tab ( Chapter 6.6.4).

2. Click OK when all the entries are complete.

3. Select the database and the project for the measurement as described in Chapter 7.3.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in page 65

ift_rising

8.7 Carrying out the measurement

8.7.1 Measuring IFT on rising drops

! The following points must be observed when measuring with the method IFT Rising Drop:

 The standard capillary for IFT measurements must be installed at the bottom .

 The drop detector should be positioned just above the capillary (recommended value
for the position: 0 %).
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

 The density of the dispensed phase must be less than the density of the bulk phase.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

1. Clean the measuring cell and dosing system if necessary ( DVT50 manual).

2. Clean the temperature measuring probe if necessary.

3. Refit the measuring cell, dosing system and temperature measuring probe if necessary.

4. Start the measurement as described in Chapter 7.6. A message box will appear:
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

5. Fill the measuring cell with the bulk phase ( DVT50 manual).

6. Fill the dosing system with the dispensed phase ( DVT50 manual). Wait until the bulk
phase has reached the target temperature.

7. Click OK in the message box. The measurement will start.

 To display and manage the results of the measurement, please read Chapter 5 and 6.


SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
To create a report, please read Chapter 9.

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 page 66 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in

ift_falling

8.7.2 Measuring IFT on falling drops

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

! The following points must be observed when measuring with the method IFT Falling Drop:

 The standard capillary for IFT measurements must be installed at the top .

 The drop detector should be positioned just below the capillary (recommended value for
the position: 100 %).
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

 The density of the dispensed phase must be greater than the density of the bulk phase.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

1. Clean the measuring cell and dosing system if necessary ( DVT50 manual).

2. Clean the temperature measuring probe if necessary.

3. Refit the measuring cell, dosing system and temperature measuring probe if necessary.

4. Start the measurement as described in Chapter 7.6. A message box will appear:
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

5. Fill the measuring cell with the bulk phase ( DVT50 manual).
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

6. Fill the dosing system with the dispensed phase ( DVT50 manual). Wait until the bulk
phase has reached the target temperature.

7. Click OK in the message box. The measurement will start.

 To display and manage the results of the measurement, please read Chapter 5 and 6.

sft_falling

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
To create a report, please read Chapter 9.

8.7.3 Measuring SFT on falling drops

! The following points must be observed when measuring with the method SFT Falling Drop:

 The special capillary for SFT measurements must be installed at the top .

 The drop detector should be positioned just below the capillary (recommended value for
the position: 80 % ).
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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 Measurements using the Drop Volume add-in page 67

1. Clean the measuring cell and dosing system if necessary ( DVT50 manual).

2. Clean the temperature measuring probe if necessary.

3. Refit the measuring cell, dosing system and temperature measuring probe if necessary.

4. Start the measurement as described in Chapter 7.6. A message box will appear:
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
empty

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

5. Fill the dosing system with the dispensed phase ( DVT50 manual). Wait until the bulk
phase has reached the target temperature.

6. Click OK in the message box. The measurement will start.

 To display and manage the results of the measurement, please read Chapter 5 and 6.


SPAC
SPAC
SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC
To create a report, please read Chapter 9.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
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SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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page 68 Reports and data export

9 Reports and data export

9.1 Creating a report

 In Project Explorer select the measurement or evaluation for which a report is to be created.

 To print the report immediately: Click on the button. Execute the Print command in the
dialogue box for the installed printer.

 To open a page view: Click on the button.

 Other functions in LabDesk are not accessible when page view is open.

9.1.1 Page view toolbar

Page view has its own toolbar with buttons for navigating and setting up the page.

Button Function

To next page

To previous page

Zoom in

Zoom out

Open Print dialogue box

Open Page Setup dialogue box

9.1.2 Setting up pages

 Click on the button in page view. The Page Setup dialogue box will open.

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Reports and data export page 69

Orientation

 Specify whether you want the page to be displayed in Portrait or Landscape format.

Margins

 Define the left, right, top and bottom margins.

 Define the width available for the Headline and Footer.

Options

 Print Margin Lines: Display the lines bordering the defined margins.

 Print Printable Area Lines: Display the printable area of the page.

Default font

 To change the default font: Click on Select Font. Specify the font (character set and size).

9.1.3 Incorporating a logo

A logo can be incorporated in the header of the report in the top right-hand corner. To do this,
an image file in the LabDesk installation directory must be swapped for the image file of the
required logo.

1. Using Windows Explorer, open the LabDesk directory which was created during installation.

2. Select the directory Template  Report.

3. Select the directory DEU for the German or ENG for the English version of LabDesk.

4. Rename the file Logo.bmp.

 The file contains the picture below, which previously appeared in the report:

5. Copy the image file for the required logo into the directory under the name Logo.bmp. The
new image will appear in the header when a report is created.

! Only bitmap files (.bmp) can be incorporated.

! The Logo will be re-scaled to fit into the report. In order to avoid distortion the height-
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
width-relation of the bitmap should be 1:1.6.

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page 70 Reports and data export

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

9.2 Exporting and importing raw data

9.2.1 Exporting raw data as a text file (.txt)

1. In Project Explorer select the measurement or evaluation for which the raw data are to be
exported.

2. Select File  Import and export  Export Raw Data from the menu.

3. Select the required target directory for the file. Enter the required file name. Click on OK.

9.2.2 Importing raw data

Raw data as txt files can be imported in a created measurement.

! If the measurement already contains data these are deleted in the import process. Create an
empty measurement for the import.

1. In Project Explorer select the measurement into which the raw data are to be imported.

2. Select File  Import and export  Import Raw Data from the menu.

3. Select the required txt file. Click on OK.

9.3 Exporting data to Excel

Measurements, evaluations or whole projects can be exported to Excel.

 Microsoft Excel must be installed in order to use this export function.

 In Project Explorer select the project, measurement or evaluation for which the raw data are
to be exported.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

 Select File  Import and Export  Export Measurement to Excel from the menu.

An Excel worksheet with the diagrams and tables associated with the selected object will
open.

If no Excel worksheet opens when the export command was selected:

 Rename databases, projects and measurements so that only the characters given in
Chapter 5.3 are used.

 Databases can only be renamed using a file manager (e.g. Windows Explorer).

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Reports and data export page 71

9.4 Export results using a profile

Measurement parameters and results can be exported as txt files in csv format. The columns to
be exported are defined using profiles.

 Profiles are created separately for each add-in. Profiles created in an add-in do not appear in
the list of profiles of other add-ins.

9.4.1 Managing profiles

Creating and editing a new profile

1. Select File  Import and Export  Manage Export Profiles from the menu.

2. Open the drop-down menu Create. Select Create Empty from the menu.

 Possibly, a profiled named Standard has already been created.

3. Enter the desired name for the profile. Click on OK.

The new profile appears in the list of profiles.

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page 72 Reports and data export

4. Click on Next. Select the parameters and results to be exported in the particular tab sheets.

 The button Next is used to edit the profile which is selected in the list.

 In the tab sheet Procedure, a filter for the items to be displayed can be set.

 All available parameters: unfiltered list

 LabDesk internal parameters: List with standard procedure parameters from the
LabDesk add-ins.

 Dynamic Dialog parameters: List with parameters from custom-defined

measurements.

5. Click on Next. Select the required export options.

 Include Line Numbers: Inserts a column with a consecutive line numbering.

 Extra Lines for Skipped Measurements (only relevant for the add-in Automated Contact
Angle): Inserts a line for each measurement of a batch that was not selected with a tick.

 Placeholder (see above): Information text for the inserted line. The text content can be
set in the drop-down menu:

 Automatic Selection: The phrase Measurement skipped is entered in the line.

 Specified by user: The content of the text box is entered in the line.

 Show Units of Measurement in Column Headers: For results and parameters with units
these are entered in the column header.

6. Click on Finish.

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Reports and data export page 73

Duplicate profile

1. Select File  Import and Export  Manage Export Profiles from the menu.

2. Select the profile to be duplicated.

3. Open the drop-down menu Create. Select Create from Selected from the menu.

4. Enter the desired name. Click on OK.

Changing the name of a profile

1. Select File  Import and Export  Manage Export Profiles from the menu.

2. Select the desired profile.

3. Open the drop-down menu Options. Select Edit Name from the menu.

4. Enter the desired name. Click on OK.

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page 74 Reports and data export

Deleting a profile

1. Select File  Import and Export  Manage Export Profiles from the menu.

2. Select the profile to be deleted.

3. Click Delete. The selected profile is marked for deletion.

 The mark can be removed with the button Undelete.

4. Click on Finish.

! The deleted profile is not moved to the recycle bin, but deleted immediately. A deleted
profile cannot be retrieved.

9.4.2 Carrying out the result export

1. Select the project from which the results are to be exported in the Project-Explorer.

 For most measurements only projects but no individual measurements can be selected
for export.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

2. Select File  Import and Export  Export Using Profile from the menu. Select the required
profile from the list.

3. Select the required target directory for the file. Enter the desired file name. Click on Save.

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Reports and data export page 75

9.5 Exporting a diagram as a graphic

1. Click on the diagram to be exported.

2. Select Edit  Copy  Diagram from the menu. The diagram will be copied to the clipboard.

3. Paste the diagram from the clipboard into a graphics program.

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page 76 Managing add-ins: The Add-in Manager

10 Managing add-ins: The Add-in Manager

The Add-in Manager is used to manage add-ins and the associated shortcuts in the add-in bar.

 Select Tools  Add-In Manager from the menu. A list with all the installed add-ins will
appear.

If an add-in should be missing from your list, this may be for the following reasons:

 The add-in was not included in the scope of the order. Please contact KRÜSS if you wish
to install it retrospectively.

 The add-in has previously been removed using Add-in Manager. There it can be made
available again by means of the Add button.

10.1 Adding an add-in

 Click Add.

 When you open it for the first time: change to the next higher directory level. Open the
ADDINS directory.

 LabDesk remembers the directory and opens it automatically next time.

 A list with the file names of all add-ins can be found on P. 108.

 Select the required add-in. Click Open.

 When an add-in has been added it automatically has the status Enabled.

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Managing add-ins: The Add-in Manager page 77

10.2 Removing an add-in

 Select the add-in to be removed from the list. Click Remove.

 Click OK.

 If you do not want to remove the add-in but only no longer want to display it on the
shortcut bar, change the state of the add-in (see below).

10.3 Add-in state

Three different States are possible:

 Enabled: The add-in appears on the add-in bar and can be started from there or from the
menu under File  Open Workspace.

 Disabled: The add-in does not appear in the add-in list and cannot be started. The add-in is
shown schematically in the File  Open Workspace dialogue box.

 AutoLoad: The add-in will be started automatically the next time the program is started.

Changing the state

1. Select the add-in whose state you want to change.

2. Open the State drop-down list box. Select the required state.

3. Click OK.

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page 78 Managing add-ins: The Add-in Manager

10.4 Arranging add-ins on the add-in bar

 The arrangement of add-ins in the Add-in Manager corresponds to the arrangement of add-
ins on the add-in bar.

 Select the add-in whose position on the add-in bar you want to change.

 Click Up or Down. Click OK.

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Utility databases page 79

11 Utility databases
On the add-in bar there are three utility databases under the heading Database:

 Gasses: Utility database for surrounding gas phases.

 Liquids: Utility database for sample and reference liquids.

 Of the three tabs in the Liquids database only the Liquids tab is currently used.

 Probes and solids: Utility database for measuring bodies and for solid samples (not relevant
for DVT50).

 When defining measurements, liquids and gasses as well as solid bodies can be transferred
from the appropriate database by means of the Browse button.

11.1 Database editing tools

On the toolbar are three buttons for editing a database.

Create new entry.

Modify existing entry.

Delete entry.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

11.2 Creating a new entry

 As only the Liquids auxiliary database is relevant to the DVT50, only the work associated
with this database will be described.

1. Open the Liquids auxiliary database.

2. Click on the button in the toolbar.

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page 80 Utility databases

3. In the General tab enter the name of the liquid in the required languages. As an option, you
can enter an Author and Remarks.

4. Enter the physical data for the liquid in the Advanced tab.

 The density in particular is important for drop volume measurement. The surface tension
is also required for reference liquids for determining the capillary diameter. You should
also specify the reference temperature (Ref. Temp.) for the values entered.

5. Click on OK.

11.3 Modifying an existing entry

1. Select the entry to be modified in the table.

2. Click on the button in the toolbar.

3. Make the required changes on the General and Advanced tabs. Click on OK.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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Utility databases page 81

11.4 Deleting an entry

! The deletion of a database entry cannot be undone.

1. Select the database entry to be deleted in the table.

2. Click on the button in the toolbar.

3. Confirm the safety prompt in the pop-up message box with Yes.

11.5 View options for utility databases

11.5.1 Sorting

 To sort according to the contents of a column in ascending order: Click the header of the
appropriate column. To sort in descending order: Click the column header a second time.

11.5.2 Selection and order of columns to be displayed

1. Click on the table with the right mouse button.

2. Select Visible Columns from the menu.

3. To display a column: Select the column to be displayed from the left-hand list. Click Add.

To hide a column: Select the column to be hidden from the right-hand list. Click Remove.

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page 82 Utility databases

To change the order of the columns: Click on the column whose position you want to
change in the right-hand list. Click Up or Down until the required position is reached.

4. When the selection and arrangement are complete: Click OK.

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LabDesk control options page 83

12 LabDesk control options

LabDesk provides various ways in which to adapt the software to the user's requirements.

12.1 View and program start options

 Select Tools  General Preferences from the menu.

 The settings on the General and User variables tabs are saved under the respective user.
The settings on the Environment and Licence tabs are independent from the Windows user
profile.

View

As under View on the menu, you can show and hide the Toolbar as well as the Status Bar and
the Shortcut Bar. You can also activate and deactivate the welcome screen (Splash Screen) and
the Hints that appears when the program starts.

Toolbars

The items on the toolbar can be moved using drag-and-drop. Under Toolbars you can assign
the possible positions to different display styles.

Application

Under Application you can decide whether a confirmation dialogue should pop up when you
close LabDesk. Here you can define whether the LabDesk user interface should be displayed in
English regardless of the regional and language options selected in Windows.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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page 84 LabDesk control options

12.2 Defining user-defined variables

LabDesk provides the option of defining user information as variables and incorporating their
content in reports.

 Select Tools  General Preferences from the menu. Select the User Variables tab.

 The entries under Company Name, User Name, Information URL and Information
E-mail will appear in the report.

 The entries under Copyright Notice and Product Tagline can be used for your own
report templates. The variables are named %Copyright% and %ProductTagline%.

12.3 View licence information

 Select Tools  General Preferences from the menu. Select the Licence tab.

! Changes should only be made in exceptional cases and by agreement with the KRÜSS
customer service department.

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LabDesk control options page 85

12.4 Options for diagrams and plots

12.4.1 Defining colours and the order of colours for plots

 Select Tools  General Preferences from the menu. Click on Edit Plot Colors.

A dialogue box for managing the colour scheme will open.

 The boxes in the colour palette show the order in which the colours are successively
allocated to the plots for the selected scheme. The colours and the order of the colours
apply to all add-ins.

 After installation only one scheme (Color Scheme 1) will be available in the Selected
Scheme drop-down list box. When further schemes have been created (see below), the
required scheme can be selected here.

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page 86 LabDesk control options

Creating a new colour scheme

 Click on New Scheme.

An empty palette will appear for the new scheme.

Adding, inserting and changing colours

 To add a colour: Click on the palette with the right mouse button. Select Add Color from the
menu.

 To insert a colour in the palette: Click with the right mouse button on the area of the palette
in front of which the new colour is to be inserted. Select Insert Color from the menu.

 To change a colour: Click on the box whose colour you want to change.

Defining colours

 Select one of the Basic colors or define a user-defined colour under Define Custom Colors.

 To define a colour: Click on one of the palette boxes under Custom colors. Define the
colour for this box on the right-hand side. Click on Add to Custom Colors.

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LabDesk control options page 87

Assigning a standard colour scheme

Instead of defining colours individually, a standard colour scheme can be selected.

 Click on the palette with the right mouse button. Select Standard Color Schemes from the
menu. Select the required standard colour scheme from the drop-down menu.

12.4.2 Changing the diagram view

 Select the diagram that is to be changed. Select Edit from the menu.

The diagram view can be changed with the help of the top four items on the menu.

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page 88 LabDesk control options

Curve Properties

! Changes to the Curve Properties will not be saved. Once a project is closed, the curves will
appear in the default view the next time it is opened.

 Curve drop-down list box: Select the curve to be changed here.

 Segment Management: A curve can be divided into segments, each with different display
options.

 Click Add. Define the first and last point for the intended segment under Start Index and
End Index: for example Start Index 0 and End Index 9 when the segment is to consist of
the first 10 points.

 Define the line and symbol options for the segment (see below).

 Line: Define the Style (continuous, dashed, dotted), Color and Width of the line used for the
curve or segment.

 Symbol: Define the Shape, Color, Width and Height of the symbol used for the curve or
segment.

 Text label: You can insert a text label in the diagram to identify parts of the diagram.

 Enter the required Text. Define the Font (character set and size).

 Under Place the text at coordinate define the x and y-coordinates at which the text is to
appear. Define the horizontal and vertical alignment of the text at the coordinates.

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LabDesk control options page 89

Diagram Properties / General tab

 All changes with the exception of the Title are saved for the current diagram type of the
current add-in and used for the default display.

 Title: Definition of the Title, Sub Title and inscriptions for the x and y-axes.

 The Main Title and Sub Title buttons are equivalent to the third and fourth items on the
Edit menu ( P. 87).

 Click on the button for the title area to be changed. The following dialogue box will
appear:

 Enter the required Text. Specify whether a Word Wrap is to be allowed. Specify whether
a Frame is to be drawn around the text. Define the Font (character set and size).

 Color: Colour selection for the screen display, for printing and for the copy on the clipboard.

 Specify whether the diagram is to be displayed in black-and-white for printing or for

copying to the clipboard.

 Define the colours for the background (Background Color) for the whole diagram and
for the diagram pane (Graph’s Background).

 Grid density: Line density for the displayed grid.

 Specify whether the grid is to be hidden (None) or how densely the grid lines are to be
displayed.

 Legend: Position, colour and font for the displayed legend.

 Specify whether the legend is to be displayed (visible). Define the Position within the
diagram pane. Specify the Background Color. Define the Font (character set and size).

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page 90 LabDesk control options

Axis options / x-axis and y-axis tabs

 All changes are saved for the current diagram type of the current add-in and used for the
default display.

 Scale

 Specify whether the scaling of the selected axis is to be Linear or Logarithmic. With
logarithmic scaling: Define whether Full Decades are always to be displayed regardless
of the limits selected under Range.

 Range

 Specify whether the range displayed by the axes is to be Automatic, i.e. based on the
smallest and largest measured values, or User-defined. For a user-defined range: Specify
the smallest value (Min) and the largest value (Max) for the scale.

 Number Format

 Format drop-down Choose between the following formats:

list box: Standard e.g. 10000

Scientific e.g. 1.0e+4
Engineering e.g. 10.0e+3
Technical e.g. 10k

Character set and size of the text used.

 Font

For the number of digits presented. The value 0 (automatic

 Field width
determination of the field width) can normally be retained.

 Decimals Number of decimal places displayed.

 Always display ‘+’ The sign is always displayed even with positive numbers.

sign

 Trailing zeroes For Scientific and Engineering number formats: Display

zeroes before the exponent; e.g. 1.500+e3.

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LabDesk control options page 91

 Thousand separator Display a separation character for multiples of 1000; e.g.

1,000,000

 Ignore local settings Separator and decimal point displayed according to English
convention.

 Include space before Not implemented: Currently there are no diagrams with

unit dimensional units in the scale in LabDesk.

With the Technical number format a space appears before the

number abbreviation; e.g. “10 k” instead of “10k“.

 Suppress unit of Not implemented: Currently there are no diagrams with

meas. dimensional units in the scale in LabDesk.

 Exponent with ‘+’ For Scientific and Engineering number formats: The sign is

sign always displayed even with positive exponents.

 Plain number For Scientific, Engineering and Technical number formats:

The number is displayed in standard format within the
specified range.

 Number of digits in For Scientific and Engineering number formats: Number of

exponent digits in the exponent; e.g. 1e+005 when three digits are to
be displayed.

 Minimum spacing Minimum spacing between the numbers and the scale. The
density of the inscription depends on this value.

 Distance from axis Distance of the numbers from the respective axis.

 Line styles

 Click on Line styles. The following dialogue box will appear:

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page 92 LabDesk control options

 Grid Line Style Grid display. Click on Short, Medium or Long to change
the grid lines with short, medium or long spacing.

Specify the Style, Color and Width of the line.

 Graduation Marks Display of scale graduations. Click on the appropriate

button Short, Medium or Long. Specify the Style, Color
and Width of the respective line (see above).

Specify the required length of the respective graduations

under Line Length.

Specify whether the graduations are to appear outside or

inside the curve area.

 Origin Color Colour of the axis line.

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LabDesk control options page 93

12.5 Behaviour options for an add-in: Specific Preferences

Behaviour options can be defined for any add-in.

 Select Tools  Specific Preferences from the menu.

A dialogue box with six tabs will open.

 Which tab sheets are available depends on the add-in that was opened.

12.5.1 Measurement Database tab

 By default the database which was last opened will be automatically opened the next time
an add-in is started.

 To prevent automatic opening for the current add-in: Select the Do not open any database
when launching this Add-in option.

 To automatically open the dialogue box for opening the database when an add-in is started:
Select the Display File Open Dialog when opening the Add-in option.

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page 94 LabDesk control options

12.5.2 Utility Databases tab

When defining a measurement, by default the appropriate LabDesk utility database (Liquids,
Gases or Probes and Solids) will be opened when the Browse button is clicked. On this tab you
can assign other databases to the current add-in.

 Click on the button for the database type for which the change of memory location is to
be made.

 Select the memory location and the appropriate database.


SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
To create your own databases, please read Chapter 11.

12.5.3 Measurement Log tab

When this option is selected the measurement log as displayed in the script monitor
( ch. 7.7.1) is stored in the database automatically.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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LabDesk control options page 95

12.5.4 Project Editor Options tab

Automatic diagram selection

At least one standard diagram is associated with each measuring method, e.g. . However, there
can be measurements with different methods in one project, which do not contain any data for
the variables shown on the displayed diagram. By default a diagram in which measurement data
are shown is automatically displayed when a measurement is selected.

 To prevent automatic diagram selection: Remove the tick from the Automatic Selection...
checkbox.

Highlighting measurements when an evaluation is selected

The measurements associated with an evaluation are highlighted in colour when the evaluation
is selected.

 In order to prevent highlighting: Remove the tick from the Highlight measurements
checkbox.

 To change the colour: Select the required colour from the Highlight Color drop-down list
box.

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page 96 LabDesk control options

12.5.5 Diagram Settings tab

By default the current diagram is rescaled during the measuring process with every
measurement so that new data points are visible.

 To prevent rescaling: Remove the tick from the Ensure visibility of new data points by
diagram auto-scaling checkbox.

 The same function is carried out by the button on the toolbar.

12.5.6 Database Services tab

Here, the function for compressing a database ( p. 37) which is selected under Tools 
Compact Database can be set to be carried out automatically which the termination of LabDesk.

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LabDesk control options page 97

12.5.7 Custom-Defined Dialogs tab

The directory, which is opened to select a custom-defined measurement, is specified on this tab.

 To open a custom-defined measurement, please read Chapter 7.9.

 To change the directory: Click on the button.

 Select the required directory or create a new one.

SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC


SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
No custom-defined measurements are currently available for DVT50.

12.5.8 Data Export tab

Here, the path and file name for storing the created export profiles ( ch. 9.4.1) for the particular
add-in is set.

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page 98 LabDesk control options

12.5.9 Regressions tab

Regression lines or curves can be calculated for some of the methods available in LabDesk.
Appropriate options are defined on this tab.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

 The set-up under Calculation mode is intended for other measuring instruments. A change
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
has no effect on the work with DVT50.

Color and Line settings

 The colour used for a regression line depends on the colour of the measured data curve. The
effect of colour changes on this tab is therefore displayed using a test color.
 To change the Test Color: Click on the Select Test Color button. Select the required Test
Color. Click OK.

 Contrast: Difference in brightness between the measured data curve and the regression line.

 Set the required Contrast with the slide control.

 Threshold: The regression line is displayed brighter or darker than the measured data curve
depending on the brightness of the measured data curve. The threshold specifies the
brightness value above which the regression curve is displayed darker than the measured
data curve.

 Set the required Threshold with the slide control.

 Elongate lines to edges: When this option is selected, regression lines are extended beyond
the measured data curve to the edges of the diagram.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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Background to the drop volume method page 99

13 Background to the drop volume method

In this chapter, the terms interface and interfacial tension (IFT) are used as generic terms so as to
incorporate surface and surface tension (SFT) at the same time. Surface and SFT are only
mentioned when the liquid-gas phase boundary is expressly meant.

13.1 Measuring principle

13.1.1 Gravity and interfacial tension

With the drop volume method, a liquid is introduced by means of a capillary into a bulk phase in
a measuring cell. The capillary is located above or below depending on whether the introduced
phase is lighter or heavier than the bulk phase. A drop forms at the tip of the capillary and tries
to move up or down as a result of the lifting force or weight respectively.

The reason that the drop does not immediately detach from the capillary lies in the interfacial
tension γ. As a result of the interfacial tension, the drop tries to keep the interface with the bulk
phase as small as possible. As a new interface comes into being when the drop detaches from
the capillary outlet, it is necessary to overcome the corresponding interfacial tension. The drop
does not detach until the lifting force or weight V   s   l   g compensates for the force
resulting from the interfacial tension on the wetted length of the capillary, the circumference
 d .
The formula for this relationship is:
V   s   l   g
 ; g= Acceleration due to gravity.
 d

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page 100 Background to the drop volume method

13.1.2 Test set-ups (rising or falling drops)

Three measuring methods are incorporated in LabDesk and are differentiated by the test set-
ups:

 IFT Rising Drop: The capillary is situated at the bottom. The specific lighter phase is
dispensed into the specific heavier phase.

 IFT Falling Drop: The capillary is situated at the top. The specific heavier phase is dispensed
into the specific lighter phase.

 SFT Falling Drop: The capillary is situated at the top. The measuring cell is filled with air.

Interfacial tension, rising and falling drops

The test set-up which should be chosen for the interfacial tension depends on the following
criteria:

 The bulk phase must be transparent so that the drops can be detected by the light barrier.

 Surfactants should be dissolved in the bulk phase, not in the drop phase. If a surfactant is
dissolved in the drop phase, the concentration of the bulk phase is increased drop by drop
and the interfacial tension reduces with time. If the surfactant is dissolved in the bulk phase,
the decline in concentration has far less effect on the measuring process.

 It is considerably easier to clean the measuring cell if the drop phase is formed by oily
substances which barely wet the glass wall of the measuring cell.

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Background to the drop volume method page 101

13.1.3 The capillary

Interfacial tension

The capillary used for measuring the interfacial tension is shaped so that the contact surface
between capillary and liquid is very small, and is very much smaller than the internal circular
area. This minimises the effect of the adhesion of the drop to the capillary wall. The diameter d2
of the liquid column at the tip of the capillary when the drop detaches is then equal to the
internal diameter d1 of the capillary.

The equation for the drop volume method ( Chapter 13.1.1) can only be used without
correction when the relationship d1=d2 is essentially true.

If the wall thickness is too great, the adhesion of the liquid at the tip has an effect on the
diameter d2. When the drop escapes, it is "constricted". If capillaries with a significant wall
thickness are used, then the measured values obtained must be corrected. With the DVT50, this
is the case when measuring the surface tension (see below).

Surface Tension: Capillary and correction methods

With the surface tension measurement, the drop falls from the capillary through the measuring
cell which is filled with air. With the special capillary which is used for this measuring method,
the contact area between capillary outlet and drop is significantly greater than with the standard
capillary. This results in a distortion of the drop shape which is dependent on the capillary
diameter and the drop volume. It is therefore necessary to correct the measured value when
measuring the surface tension.

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page 102 Background to the drop volume method

The following methods are implemented in LabDesk:

 Harkins and Brown: Choosing this correction usually gives reliable values for surface tension.

 Wilkinson: Wilkinson has determined a polynomial function based on the data of Harkins
and Brown enhanced by measurements with smaller capillary diameters. This method can be
used as an alternative to Harkins and Brown for all cylindrical capillaries. However, we
recommend that the Harkins and Brown correction be used for the SFT measurement
capillaries supplied by KRÜSS.

 Rulison: With his correction method, Rulison starts from the standard capillary diameter of
the KRÜSS capillaries. In contrast to Harkins and Brown, Rulison takes the flow speed into
account. Empirical values still have to be obtained for this new correction method.

 Linear: For the same capillary and the same flow speed, the correction factor is constant.
This can be determined empirically based on liquids with known surface tension, and used
for measurements. Enter the determined correction factor in the Linear Factor text box.

! This option is only recommended for experienced users.

 The value entered for the linear correction will be ignored if a different option is
selected.

 None: No correction is made.

! This option is not recommended for measuring the surface tension.

13.2 Interfacial tension dynamics

13.2.1 Interface age

When the drop detaches, it rises or falls respectively and is registered by a light barrier. The flow
rate is specified; the volume of the drop formed between two detector signals can therefore be
determined from the time between the signals.
A “fresh” interface comes into being at the tip of the capillary when a drop detaches. The cycle
from the development of the drop until it detaches therefore corresponds to the interface age.

With the DVT50, the flow rate is variable. The interfacial tension can therefore be measured as a
function of the interface age. The dynamics of the interface formation described below can be
investigated based on the change in tension with respect to age.

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Background to the drop volume method page 103

13.2.2 Interface formation with respect to time

When a surfactant solution forms an interface, dynamic equilibrium between volume and surface
concentration only occurs after a certain time, as the surface-active molecules need time to
move to the interface and for adsorption at the interface. This results in a time-dependent
characteristic for the interfacial tension.

When interfaces occur dynamically, not only the equilibrium value of the interfacial tension but
also the kinetics of the interface formation has a decisive effect. The molecular mobility of the
surfactants used becomes a considerable influencing factor on the formation of the interfacial
tension.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

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page 104 Appendix

Appendix

I Using a customized version of a standard measuring

method
When a customized version of a standard measuring method was purchased, the link to this
adapted method must be set in the Script Alias Manager.

Copying the script file

When purchasing a customized script, you receive a file and information concerning the internal
name of the corresponding standard method.

 Copy the received file to the subfolder SCRIPT\ENG\PBS\ in the LabDesk installation folder.

Creating the link in the Script Alias Manager

1. Open the add-in which contains the standard method.

2. Select the menu item Tools  Script Alias Manager.

The Script Alias Manager dialog box appears:

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Appendix page 105

3. Click on Add. The following dialog box appears.

Enter the following information:

 Alias: Internal name of the standard script according to the information received.

 Filename: Path and filename of the file copied according to the procedure described
above.

4. Click on OK. The new alias entry will be displayed in the Script Alias Manager:

5. Click Close.

The customized version of the standard method will be used when the referring method is called
up.

Returning to the standard method

In order to return to the standard method, the created alias entry must be deleted.

1. Open the Scrip Alias Manager as described.

2. Select the created alias entry.

3. Click Delete. Confirm deletion with Yes. Click Close.

KRÜSS GmbH | Borsteler Chaussee 85 | 22453 Hamburg | Germany | www.kruss.de

 page 106 Appendix

II Surface tension as a function of temperature

The following table contains surface tension data for different liquids in mN/m in the
temperature range between 0 and 100°C. All values refer to an air pressure of 100 kPa (1 bar)
corresponding to a linear approximation:

SFT = SFT0 + SFT1 *T [K].

Temperature n-hexane n-heptane n-octane Diethylene glycol Chloroform Benzyl alcohol Water Toluene Temperature
°C °C
0.0 75.64 0.0

1.0 75.50 1.0

2.0 75.36 2.0

3.0 75.23 3.0

4.0 75.09 4.0

5.0 74.94 5.0

6.0 74.80 6.0

7.0 74.66 7.0

8.0 74.52 8.0

9.0 74.38 9.0

10.0 19.42 21.12 22.57 74.23 29.71 10.0

11.0 19.32 21.02 22.47 74.09 29.59 11.0

12.0 19.22 20.93 22.38 73.94 29.48 12.0

13.0 19.12 20.83 22.28 73.79 29.36 13.0

14.0 19.01 20.73 22.18 73.65 29.24 14.0

15.0 18.91 .20.63 22.09 27.96 73.50 29.12 15.0

15.5 18.86 20.58 22.04 27.90 73.42 29.06 15.5

16.0 18.81 20.53 21.99 27.84 73.35 29.00 16.0

16.5 18.76 20.48 21.95 27.77 73.28 28.94 16.5

17.0 18.71 20.44 21.90 27.71 73.20 28.88 17.0

17.5 18.66 20.39 21.85 27.64 73.13 28.82 17.5

18.0 18.60 20.34 21.80 27.58 73.05 28.76 18.0

18.5 18.55 20.29 21.76 27.51 72.98 28.70 18.5

19.0 18.50 20.24 21.71 27.45 72.90 28.64 19.0

19.5 18.45 20.19 21.66 27.38 72.83 28.58 19.5

20.0 18.40 20.14 21.61 45.21 27.32 72.75 28.52 20.0

20.5 18.35 20.09 21.57 45.17 27.25 72.67 28.47 20.5

21.0 18.30 20.04 21.52 45.12 27.19 72.60 28.41 21.0

21.5 18.25 19.99 21.47 45.08 27.12 72.52 28.35 21.5

22.0 18.20 19.95 21.42 45.04 27.06 72.45 28.29 22.0

22.5 18.14 19.90 21.38 44.99 26.99 72.37 28.23 22.5

23.0 18.09 19.85 21.33 44.95 26.93 72.29 28.17 23.0

23.5 18.04 19.80 21.28 44.90 26.86 72.22 28.11 23.5

24.0 17.99 19.75 21.23 44.86 26.80 72.14 28.05 24.0

24.5 17.94 19.70 21.19 44.82 26.73 72.06 27.99 24.5

25.0 17.89 19.65 21.14 44.77 26.67 71.99 27.93 25.0

26.0 17.79 19.55 21.04 44.68 26.54 71.83 27.81 26.0

27.0 17.68 19.46 20.95 44.60 26.41 71.67 27.69 27.0

28.0 17.58 19.36 20.85 44.51 26.28 71.52 27.57 28.0

29.0 17.48 19.26 20.76 44.42 26.15 71.36 27.45 29.0

30.0 17.38 19.16 20.66 44.33 26.02 71.20 27.34 30.0

31.0 17.28 19.06 20.57 44.24 25.89 71.05 27.22 31.0

32.0 17.17 18.97 20.47 44.16 25.76 70.89 27.10 32.0

33.0 17.07 18.87 20.38 44.07 25.63 70.73 26.98 33.0

34.0 16.97 18.77 20.28 43.98 25.50 70.57 26.86 34.0

35.0 16.87 18.67 20.19 43.89 25.37 70.41 26.74 35.0

36.0 16.76 18.57 20.09 43.80 25.25 70.25 26.62 36.0

37.0 16.66 18.48 20.00 43.72 25.12 70.09 26.50 37.0

38.0 16.56 18.38 19.90 43.63 24.99 69.93 26.38 38.0

39.0 16.46 18.28 19.81 43.54 24.86 69.76 26.27 39.0

40.0 16.36 18.18 19.71 43.45 24.73 69.60 26.15 40.0

41.0 16.25 18.08 19.62 43.36 24.60 69.44 26.03 41.0

42.0 16.15 17.99 19.52 43.28 24.47 69.27 25.91 42.0

43.0 16.05 17.89 19.43 43.19 24.34 69.11 25.79 43.0

44.0 15.95 17.79 19.33 43.10 24.21 68.94 25.67 44.0

45.0 15.85 17.69 19.24 43.01 24.08 68.78 25.55 45.0

46.0 15.74 17.59 19.14 42.92 23.95 68.61 25.43 46.0

47.0 15.64 17.50 19.05 42.84 23.82 68.44 25.31 47.0

48.0 15.54 17.40 18.95 42.75 23.69 68.28 25.20 48.0

49.0 15.44 17.30 18.86 42.66 23.56 68.11 25.08 49.0

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Appendix page 107

Temperature n-hexane n-heptane n-octane Diethylene glycol Chloroform Benzyl alcohol Water Toluene Temperature
°C °C
50.0 15.33 17.20 18.76 42.57 23.43 67.94 24.96 50.0

51.0 15.23 17.10 18.67 42.48 23.30 67.77 24.84 51.0

52.0 15.13 17.01 18.57 42.40 23.17 67.60 24.72 52.0

53.0 15.03 16.91 18.48 42.31 23.04 67.43 24.60 53.0

54.0 14.93 16.81 18.38 42.22 22.91 67.26 24.48 54.0

55.0 14.82 16.71 18.29 42.13 22.78 67.09 24.36 55.0

56.0 14.72 16.61 18.19 42.04 22.66 66.92 24.24 56.0

57.0 14.62 16.52 18.10 41.96 22.53 66.75 24.13 57.0

58.0 14.52 16.42 18.00 41.87 22.40 66.58 24.01 58.0

59.0 14.41 16.32 17.91 41.78 22.27 66.40 23.89 59.0

60.0 14.31 16.22. 17.81 41.69 22.14 66.23 23.77 60.0

61.0 16.12 17.72, 41.60 22.01 66.06 23.65 61.0

62.0 16.03 17.62 41.52 21.88 65.88 23.53 62.0

63.0 15.93 17.53 41.43 21.75 65.71 23.41 63.0

64.0 15.83 17.43 41.34 21.62 65.53 23.29 64.0

65.0 15.73 17.34 41.25 21.49 65.36 23.17 65.0

66.0 15.63 17.24 41.16 21.36 65.18 23.06 66.0

67.0 15.54 17.15 41.08 21.23 65.00 22.94 67.0

68.0 15.44 17.05 40.99 21.10 64.83 22.82 68.0

69.0 15.34 16.95 40.90 20.97 64.65 22.70 69.0

70.0 15.24 16.86 40.81 20.84 28.58 64.47 22.58 70.0

71.0 15.14 16.76 40.72 20.71 28.44 64.29 22.46 71.0

72.0 15.05 16.67 40.64 20.58 28.30 64.11 22.34 72.0

73.0 14.95 16.57 40.55 20.45 28.17 63.93 22.22 73.0

74.0 14.85 16.48 40.46 20.32 28.03 63.75 22.10 74.0

75.0 14.75 16.38 40.37 20.19 27.89 63.57 21.98 75.0

76.0 14.65 16.29 40.28 20.07 27.75 63.39 21.87 76.0

77.0 14.56 16.19 40.20 19.94 27.61 63.21 21.75 77.0

78.0 14.46 16.10 40.11 19.81 27.48 63.03 21.63 78.0

79.0 14.36 16.00 40.02 19.68 27.34 62.85 21.51 79.0

80.0 14.26 15.91 39.93 19.55 27.20 62.66 21.39 80.0

81.0 14.16 15.81 39.84 19.42 27.06 62.48 21.27 81.0

82.0 14.07 15.72 39.76 19.29 26.92 62.30 21.15 82.0

83.0 13.97 15.62 39.67 19.16 26.79 62.11 21.03 83.0

84.0 13.87 15.53 39.58 19.03 26.65 61.93 20.91 84.0

85.0 13.77 15.43 39.49 18.90 26.51 61.74 20.80 85.0

86.0 13.67 15.34 39.40 18.77 26.37 61.56 20.68 86.0

87.0 13.58 15.24 39.32 18.64 26.23 61.37 20.56 87.0

88.0 13.48 15.15 39.23 18.51 26.10 61.19 20.44 88.0

89.0 13.38 15.05 39.14 18.38 25.96 61.00 20.32 89.0

90.0 13.28 14.96 39.05 18.25 25.82 60.81 20.20 90.0

91.0 14.86 38.96 18.12 25.68 60.63 20.08 91.0

92.0 14.77 38.88 17.99 25.54 60.44 19.96 92.0

93.0 14.67 38.79 17.86 25.40 60.25 19.84 93.0

94.0 14.58 38.70 17.73 25.27 60.06 19.73 94.0

95.0 14.48 38.61 17.60 25.13 59.87 19.61 95.0

96.0 14.39 38.52 17.48 24.99 59.68 19.49 96.0

97.0 14.29 38.44 17.35 24.85 59.49 19.37 97.0

98.0 14.20 38.35 17.22 24.71 59.30 19.25 98.0

99.0 14.10 38.26 17.09 24.58 59.11 19.13 99.0

100.0 14.01 38.17 16.96 24.44 58.92 19.01 100.0

Source [1] [1] [1] [1] [1] [1] [2] [1] Source

Temperature range in 283 - 333 283 - 363 283 - 393 293 - 413 288-348 343-453 283 -373 Temperature range in K
K

SFT0 48.36 48.87 49.49 71.01 65.28 75.97 63.38 SFT0

SFT1 -0.1022 -0.09800 0.09509 -0.08800 -0.1295 -0.1381 -0.1189 SFT1

Sources:

[1] D.R. Lide, Ed., CRC Handbook of Thermophysical and Thermochemical Data, CRC Press, S.
203-206, Boca Raton, Ann Arbor, Boston, 1994.

[2] N.B. Vargaftik, et al. International tables of the surface tension of water, J. Phys. Chem. Ref.
Data, 12, 817, 1983.
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

KRÜSS GmbH | Borsteler Chaussee 85 | 22453 Hamburg | Germany | www.kruss.de

 page 108 Appendix

III LabDesk add-in file names

The file names in the following list are required for adding add-ins using the Add-in Manager
( p. 76).

Measuring instrument Add-in File name

Database: Gasses: RDBGAS.BPL

all Database: Liquids RDBLQD.BPL

Database: Probes and solids RDBSLD.BPL

BP2 Bubble pressure BP2STD.BPL

BP100 Bubble pressure B1HSTD.BPL

BP50 Dynamic Surface Tension PD2STD.BPL

DVT30 Drop volume DVT30STD.BPL

DVT50 Drop volume DVT50STD.BPL

EasyDyne (K20) Data logger ED1DL.BPL

Density determination K1HDNS.BPL

Advanced surfactant characteristics K1HCMCX.BPL

Density of solid bodies K1HDDS.BPL

Contact angle K1HCA.BPL

K100 Contact angle (automatic) K1HCAB.BPL

Surface and interfacial tension K1HSFT.BPL

Sedimentation and penetration K1HSED.BPL

Surfactant characteristics K1HCMC.BPL

Surfactant characteristics (Micro K1HCMM

Dispenser)

K11 Data logger K11DL.BPL

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Appendix page 109

Measuring instrument Add-in File name

Density determination K12DNS.BPL

Contact angle K12CA.BPL

K12 /K14 Surface and interfacial tension K12SFT.BPL

Sedimentation and penetration K12SED.BPL

Surfactant properties K12CMC.BPL

K9 Data logger K9DL.BPL

Data logger PD1ST.BPL

PocketDyne
Dynamic surface tension PD1DST.BPL
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC
SPAC SPAC SPAC SPAC

KRÜSS GmbH | Borsteler Chaussee 85 | 22453 Hamburg | Germany | www.kruss.de