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

Optical WAT Detector OWD, front view

Application Areas of Optical WAT Detector OWD

Measurement of wax appearance temperature (WAT)

Cross-polarisation filter method

Quality control

Optical WAT Detector, open, front view

Optical WAT Detector principle

The compact test device is used to measure the wax apparent temperature WAT and detect solids. To do this, a test sample is first heated up and then cooled down after a defined temperature ramp. Light transmittance is measured by a NIR detector system. Emitted light is blocked by a linear polarization filter.

Once the first wax crystals form, they change the polar orientation of the light and lead to an increase in light power on the detector. The temperature of the sample is constantly monitored and the increase of light power is determinet as the WAT.

These effects make the measurement more precise and/or faster than measurement run according ASTM D5771, ASTM D5772 or ASTM D5773. This allows detection of the true initial onset of wax appearance different to e.g. DSC or Rheometer measurement, which detect the bulk onset wax appearance only.

Measuring 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
Measurement of WAT with Optical WAT Detector OWD
PSL Online Demo

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 .. +80 °C (-4 .. +176 °F) with tap water
-30 .. +80 °C (-20 .. +176 °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.

PSL information

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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.

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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.

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With innovative and advanced instruments, you can measure future-proof like the leading laboratories.

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Our instruments make work a pleasure. They were developed together with the users.

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