Representative samples are transported from various locations of the polymer manufacturing plant at the call of each analyser. Process Control and QC are full time activities, which require, as a minimum, one sampling point for each analyser.

The OP5 measurement of Melt Index is performed in a batch process, termed a cycle. The MI result is based on a tiny part of the sample, which gives the OP5 a pin point accuracy. The result shows every small variation in the polymer product and which can be used to steer polymer reactions in a way not possible by long term averaging or less than adequate sample preparation. The MI result can of course be used for Quality Control but the finely resolved and accurate measurements will bring a better precision and thus maximise the added value of the production.

Typically the OP5 samples every 5 minutes to fit in with the cleaning – measurement-sequence. The delay of measurement is slightly greater than cycle time of the sequence. Although the cycle has been optimised for accuracy but by using the necessary cleaning part of the cycle, the delay is made nearly independent of sample MI value. The real time delay (7-15mins) between the reaction and the measurement, which includes any sampling and sample preparation delay, is comfortably below process requirements whether it is used for reaction control and QC. In fact provided the delay is adequate, process control and QC places a very strong requirements on full-time calibration and best accuracy.

The unique features of the OP5 equipment open up the huge opportunity of process control through rheology.