What is viscosity?

The term “viscosity” is a parameter that describes a fluids resistance to flow. This resistance is a measure of the friction and the forces of interaction between the layers of a fluid. This friction is apparent when one layer of fluid is made to move against another The greater the friction, the greater the amount of force required to cause the movement – known as “shear”.

The process of flow through an orifice can often be used as a relative measurement and classification of viscosity. This measured kinematic viscosity is generally expressed in seconds of flow time which can be converted into centistokes (cSt) using a viscosity calculator.

Manufactured from high grade aluminium alloy with stainless steel orifices (where indicated), Flow Cups are available with a range of UKAS / ISO 17025 certified standard oils to confirm the flow cup is measuring within specification.