A specific gravity cup, also known as a stainless steel density cup or pycnometer, is a standard device with a precise fixed volume used to measure weight for calculating the specific gravity (S.G.) or density of highly viscous liquids such as ceramic glazes, slips, as well as paints and various chemicals.
Usage
- Measuring the concentration of highly viscous substances: Unlike glass hydrometers which may sink with difficulty in thick, viscous liquids, this cup is used to scoop up glaze or slip, filling it completely. It is then weighed on a digital scale to calculate the true density.
- Controlling glaze and slip standards: Helps ceramicists check if the glaze is too thick or too thin, preventing problems of overly thick or thin glazes after firing.
- Easy calculation of S.G. using standard formulas: Once the weight of the liquid that fills the cup is known (total weight minus the empty cup's weight), divide it by the cup's fixed volume (e.g., 50ml or 100ml) to obtain a highly accurate specific gravity value.
Highlights
- Lid with overflow hole: The lid's design is tapered towards the center with a small hole in the middle. When the lid is pressed onto the cup filled with overflowing liquid, excess liquid and air bubbles are forced out through this hole, ensuring that the volume of liquid inside the cup is consistently 100% accurate with every test.
- Thick, durable machined stainless steel material: The cup and lid are made from extra-thick, high-quality stainless steel, making them strong and resistant to drops. They will not deform (which would alter the volume and lead to inaccurate readings). They are resistant to corrosion from chemicals and minerals in glazes, and are very easy to clean from clay and paint residue.