Optical WAT Detector OWD
Measuring the wax appearance temperature WAT with maximum precision
The Optical WAT Detector is a compact and mobile test device for measuring the wax appearance temperature (WAT) and for detecting solids.
Accurate detection of the wax appearance temperature (WAT) is extremely important for many applications. The new Optical WAT Detector allows fast and precise measurement of the formation of wax crystals in the smallest oil samples. This is achieved with the integrated heating and cooling unit and the highly sensitive light sensor.
In addition to its standard use in the laboratory, the Optical WAT Detector is also suitable for mobile use for outdoor field measurements.
All important features of OWD
- Ultra-high sensible light sensor
- Fast and precise temperature control
- Adaptable temperature ramps
- Portable with secure transport case
- Automated test procedure
- Integrated cooling - no thermostat required
Application Areas of Optical WAT Detector OWD
Measurement of wax appearance temperature (WAT)
Cross-polarisation filter method
Quality control
Measuring principle of the Optical WAT Detector:
Precision through Cross Polarization
The compact Optical WAT Detector (OWD) measures the Wax Appearance Temperature (WAT) with high precision and the formation of solids is reliably detected. The measurement is based on the Cross-Polarization Translucency (CPT) method, which is based on the principle of cross-polarization and the use of a highly sensitive light sensor. A test sample is first heated and then continuously cooled according to a defined temperature ramp.
During this process, light transmission is measured using an NIR detector system. The emitted light passes through a linear polarization filter, which, together with a second filter aligned in the opposite direction, aligns the light so that no light hits the sensor in its initial state. As soon as the first wax crystals form, they change the polar orientation of the light, causing an increase in light output on the sensor. This increase precisely marks the beginning of crystal formation and is determined as the Wax Appearance Temperature (WAT).
Benefits of the CPT measurement method
The application of the CPT method in OWD offers several key advantages:
- Higher accuracy: The actual start of wax formation is detected precisely—not just the effect on the entire sample mass, as is the case with DSC or rheometer measurements.
- High sensitivity: The use of a highly sensitive light sensor detects even minimal changes in polarization behavior.
- Better reproduction: Defined temperature control and precise detection result in stable, repeatable measurement results.
- Quick evaluation: The integrated software records temperature curves and light intensity, visualizes the data in real time, and enables efficient analysis.
- Advantage over established standards: Measurement is more accurate and faster than conventional methods according to ASTM D5771, D5772, or D5773.
Thanks to this innovative methodology, the OWD provides a practice-oriented, reliable, and high-resolution analysis of wax formation. It is ideal for use in laboratories, quality assurance, and research.
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More InformationMeasuring the cloud point of petroleum products
The detector allows to measure the cloud point for petroleum products and paraffic content as well. e.g. condesates, diesel and fuel oils.
Low sample amount leads to fast measurement
The low sample amount leads to a high speed measurement. The whole process is really fast, because the Optical WAT Detector is able to work with less than 1 ml sample volume.
Stand-alone or controlled via software
The OWD can be operated stand-alone with the integrated, fix programs. More comfortable and more flexible is the use of the WinOWD control software. With the software additional features are available, e.g.
- a more detailed customization of ramp settings
- a time-saving sweep program
- test repetitions
- the data can be exported to a spreadsheet program
Online Demo with Optical WAT Detector
During the product demonstration, you will gain many insights into how it works. You can follow the measuring process live and then discuss your questions with our experts.
The most important facts at a glance
| Temperature range |
-20 .. +90 °C (-4 .. +194 °F) with tap water -30 .. +90 °C (-20 .. +194 °F) with pre-cooler |
| Sample Volume | < 1 ml |
| Place of work | mobile or in lab |
Optical WAT Detector data sheet
In the product data sheet you will find the exact specification as well as many data and options to help you decide on the Optical WAT Detector.
WHY PSL?
We set new laboratory standards with our instruments
We have been developing, manufacturing and selling innovative laboratory instruments specifically for Flow Assurance for 25 years, setting new standards in the laboratory for professionals. We have been awarded innovation prizes for this. Our export quota of 90 % earned us the Export Oscar of Northern Germany.
PSL stands for reliability, quality and innovation. We are proud that the Big Five in the industry are among our satisfied customers.
WHAT WILL BE YOUR BENEFIT?
Reliable, high-quality instruments for your success
SAVE TIME IN EVERYDAY LAB WORK
with automated test cycles, cleaning procedures and easy-to-clean parts.
EASY TO USE
with a user-friendly, high-quality design for simple, correct and safe handling.
LONG LIFETIME MADE IN GERMANY
thanks to the sophisticated and robust design as well as the high-quality materials and manufacturing.
TRUSTED SERVICE - WORLDWIDE
with our online support, maintenance contracts and on-site service. We guarantee 20 years of repair service.
MEASURE LIKE INDUSTRY LEADERS
With innovative and advanced instruments, you can measure future-proof like the leading laboratories.
PLEASURE TO MEASURE
Our instruments make work a pleasure. They were developed together with the users.
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