5.1 This test method distinguishes between hot melts having different apparent viscosities. It is believed that apparent viscosity determined by this procedure is related to flow performance in application machinery operating under conditions of low shear rate. Apparent viscosity as determined by this test method may not correlate well with end-use applications where high shear rates are encountered.

5.2 Materials of the type described in this procedure may be quite non-Newtonian and as such, the apparent viscosity will be a function of shear rate under the conditions of test. Although the viscometer described in this test method generally operates under conditions of relatively low shear rate, differences in shear effect can exist depending upon the spindle and rotational speed conditions selected for the test program. Maximum correlation between laboratories, therefore, depends upon testing under conditions of equivalent shear.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the apparent viscosity of hot melt adhesives and coating materials compounded with additives and having apparent viscosities up to 200 000 millipascal second (mPa·s) (Note 3) at temperatures up to 175 °C (347 °F).

Note 1: Although precision has not been studied, this procedure may be adaptable to viscosities higher than the present 200 000 mPa·s limit and temperatures above 175 °C (347 °F). Equipment described in this test method permits testing of materials having viscosities as high as 16 × 10⁶ mPa·s and provides temperatures up to 260 °C (500 °F).

Note 2: For petroleum waxes and their blends having apparent viscosities below 15 mPa·s, Test Method D445 is especially applicable.

Note 3: One pascal second (Pa·s) = 1000 centipoise (cP); one millipascal-second = one centipoise.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.