Williams Plastimeter

The apparatus is widely used for deltermining the plasticity and recovery of silicones and unvulcanised rubber compounds.
The test consists of compressing a sample of 2.0cm³ volume between two parallel plates and measuring the compressed height after a specified period.
The plastimeter features two platens, a lower platen that forms the base of the instrument, and an upper platen, which can be conveniently raised and lowered by a handle.
The test commences when the upper platen is gently lowered onto the sample with a force of 49N. The sample height is taken at regular intervals, commonly 3 or 10 minutes using a dial gauge measuring in 0.01 mm graduations.
At the end of the test the result is converted to a Williams Plasticity Number by multiplying the sample height by 100.
Elevated Temperatures 
For measurements at elevated temperatures (normally 70°C or 100°C) the sample is heated in an oven for 15 minutes before undergoing the plasticity test. For this purpose, under model ref. P2/1, Wallace offer a Plastimeter complete with Laboratory Chamber-suitable for temperatures up to 150°C.
Recovery Test 
In the recovery test, the height of the sample is measured after it has been removed from the plastimeter and allowed to recover for a specified period.
The Wallace Bench Thickness Gauge (ref. S4/13) must be used for such measurements as the gauge specification is tightly controlled by the relevant standard.
Accessories
Plastimeter with Laboratory chamber     P2/1 
Bench thickness Gauge                        S4/13 
Rotary sample cutter 16mm dia            P2/10