GURLEY STANDARD AND LOW PRESSURE
MANUAL DENSOMETERS


 

Introduction

Densometers are the accepted standard for measuring the porosity, air-permeability or air-resistance of sheet-like materials such as papers, wovens, plastics and membranes. All Densometers measure the time required for a given volume of air (25cc to 400cc) to flow through a standard area of material being tested under light uniform pressure. Certain models such as the S-P-S Tester are also used to measure surface smoothness and material softness. Manual and automatic units available. Conform to TAPPI T-460, ASTM D-726-58 & D-202-77, APPITA/AS 1301-420, BS 5926, CPPA D-14, ISO 5636/5, SCAN P-19 & P-53.

Specifications

The Densometer test measures the time required for a given volume of air (25cc to 300cc) to flow through a standard area of material tested, under light uniform pressure. The air pressure is supplied by an inner cylinder of specific diameter and standardized weight, floating freely within an outer cylinder partly filled with oil to act as an air-seal. The sample material is held between clamping plates having a circular orifice area of 1.0 (standard), 0.25 or 0.1 square inch (optional).

Densometer readings may be evaluated on both a direct or indirect basis dependent upon the material and test purpose. They are a direct test of materials which are intended to either resist or permit the passage of air. Indirectly, they are used to measure other physical properties which affect the flow of air through a porous sheet.

Applications include:

  • In manufacturing and printing, to control the selection of materials affording the appropriate degree of liquid (ink, varnish, sizing) absorption.
  • To test filters, porous bags & materials where controlled porosity is essential.
  • To test insulating materials for air resistance.
  • To supplement other physical tests enabling regulation or strength of manufacturing process to give the desired formation, appearance or strength since there is a close correlation in a given material between air permeability and these other properties.

Model 4110N GENUINE GURLEYTM Densometer

The most popular Densometer sold for measuring porosity and air permeability in materials of average values. With options such as smaller orifice plates, materials of lower permeability may be effectively tested. By using a 5 oz. cylinder, materials of a higher permeability can be tested (Model 4118).

The Model 4110 includes a 20 oz. cylinder and 1.0 square inch orifice lower clamp plate and upper adapter. The 20 oz. cylinder is graduated to 25cc for the first two spaces and 50cc for each space thereafter, for a total of 300cc. Typical of all new-style densometers, clamping pressure is supplied by turning a knob which raises and locks the lower lifting assembly and clamp plate. Both the automatic timer and instrument base are recommended with these densometers and are ordered separately.


Model 4118N GENUINE GURLEYTM Densometer

The Model 4118 is a Model 4110 with a 5 oz. cylinder in place of the 20 oz. inner cylinder and 0.1 sq. in. clamp and adapter plates instead of the 1.0. It is used to test fabrics and other more permeable materials for porosity, permeability and air-resistance.

In cases where the sample being tested is still too porous for an accurate reading, the Model 4301 Permeometer would be recommended.


Model 4190N GENUINE GURLEYTM S-P-S Tester 
- To measure smoothness, porosity and softness (or compressibility)

The No. 4190 was originally developed to test the printing quality of paper. In more recent years, its use has spread to other industries in testing or checking other material surfaces for smoothness, softness or porosity. In dealing with the printability of paper, it has been found that smoothness is the most important factor in printing quality and softness is usually secondary.

The Gurley No. 4190 S-P-S Tester measures a given air flow through the sample for porosity tests and leakage across its surface(s) for softness or smoothness tests. This is accomplished by changing a variety of adapter and clamping plates.

This model is identical to the No. 4110 and 4140 for porosity tests and their components. Additionally, it includes a 0.34 lb. weight, smoothness test clamping plate, softness test clamping plate, punch and accessory storage box. Both the automatic digital timer and instrument base are recommended and should be ordered separately.


Model 4140N GENUINE GURLEYTM Densometer - 
With weighted arm assembly

This model is identical in function to No. 4110 and includes the weighted arm assembly found on No. 4190. Uniform dead-weight clamping pressure for tests is supplied by the unweighted lever arm or by the addition of either 0.34 lb. (optional) or 2.0 lb. (standard) weights. These combinations produce clamping pressures of 3.2 psi, 9.6 psi and 40.5 psi respectively.

With the addition of several test plates, a paper punch. 0.34 lb. weight and storage box, the No. 4140 becomes a no. 4190. Order the digital timer and base separately.


Model 4320DN Digital Timing Attachment

The Model 4320 Programmable Digital Timer is designed specifically for all Gurley Densometers and High Pressure models. The Model 4320 not only increases the accuracy and productivity of these instruments, but provides recording and computing capabilities that will absolutely minimize the possibility of operator error. Both RS-232 and Centronics output to a variety of devices, including most printers and PC's.

Other Model 4320DN features include:

  • Automatic & manual program options
  • Calculates mean & standard deviation
  • Built-in calibration program
  • Easy to read graphic display
  • Fits all GENUINE GURLEYTM Densometers
  • User Programmable
  • Date/time stamp
  • Automatic sensitivity calibration

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