4.1 This test has been used to measure viscosities of automotive topcoats in place of No. 4 Ford cup measurements and has provided an equivalent ability to evaluate whether the paint meets specifications and is sprayable.

4.2 The method could be considered as an alternative to No. 4 Ford cup and other efflux cup measurements for other products as well.

4.3 The type of viscometer described in this method gives better temperature control than Ford and other efflux cups and is expected to give better precision.

4.4 This test method is suitable for all paints and related materials whether they are Newtonian in behavior or not.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the viscosity of paints and related products using a cone/plate viscometer at a shear rate of 500 s^-1.

1.2 Viscosity values obtained by this method may be used as an alternative to results from No. 4 Ford cup measurements. The values from this method do not replicate Ford cup results, but can be used for quality control, producer-user specifications and viscosity reduction in the same manner that Ford cups are used.

1.3 If viscosity at a higher shear rate is needed, Test Method D4287, which describes viscosity measurement at 10 000 s^-1 to 12 000 s^-1 may be used.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.