Paint pycnometer Model 290

stainless steelISO

The Model 290 pycnometers are used to determine the density of paints and other liquid or paste-like products. The density (r) of a substance is the quotient of its mass (m) and its volume (V). The reference temperature for the density of paints is 20 C, unless otherwise agreed. The density at 20 C is designated as r20. The pycnometers used to determine the density are filled with the liquid or paste to be tested. The density is calculated from the weight difference between the filled and empty pycnometer and the known filling volume.


Design and Function
The Pycnometers consist of a container and a lid with an overflow hole. There are two versions of Pycnometers available:

• Instruments made of anodized aluminium
• Instruments made of stainless steel

each with a volume of:

• 50 ccm
• 100 ccm.

The standard ERICHSEN Pycnometers are made to a tolerance of 0.2 %. Upon request and at an extra price, all instruments can be made to a tolerance of 0.1 % and supplied with a certificate of the Official Bureau of Weights and Measures. The 100 ccm Pycnometer is for general use, whereas the 50 ccm version is used primarily for paste materials, as it is easier to handle for this application.


Test Procedure
After being brought to 20 C the Pycnometer is weighed and then filled with the specimen material, also at a temperature of 20 C, up to a level just below the top edge, in such a way that trapping of air is avoided. The lid is then placed into position with a light turning movement and surplus material escaping through the overflow hole is wiped off. The instrument is then weighed again. To open the Pycnometer a special opening
aid can be supplied as accessory. For exact calculations please refer to the formula described in DIN 53 217 - Part 2.
All Models 290 are supplied with a Manufacturer’s Certificate M in accordance with DIN 55 350-18 that includes among others the following information:

• Volume (in cm3) of Pycnometer
• Product indification
• Test equipment used with calibration status
• Date
• Name of inspector

The volumes of the Pycnometers are determined by using of distilled water as test medium (tolerance 0.2%). By an extra charge, the Pycnometers are also available with a tolerance of 0.05 %. The Models 290 can also be supplied with a conformity assessment (instead of official calibration certificate, according to the new calibration law dated 01.01.2015.