Viscometers measure the viscosity of stable fluids and require a stationary fluid or device. Rheometers are used for fluids that change viscosity. Different fluids require differently calibrated viscometers. Measuring viscosity is important for chemical reactions and quality control.
A viscometer is a device made to measure fluids for their viscosity, and scientists, manufacturing plants, chefs, and anyone else who needs suitably viscous fluids can use it. Viscometers can only be used on fluids that have a stable viscosity, despite the way they flow. To properly measure a fluid, the fluid or viscometer must remain stationary. Each gauge has a different measuring range and the user will need to choose an appropriate gauge based on the approximate viscosity of the fluid. Measuring viscosity is important for some activities, because fluids may need to have a certain viscosity for chemical or structural changes to occur.
Some fluids change their viscosity depending on how they flow, and these fluids require a rheometer for measurement, because a viscometer will not work on these fluids. Viscometers can only be used on fluids that, regardless of the force applied, will not change viscosity. Most fluids, such as oil, sauces and varnishes, do not change their viscosity due to force.
When a viscometer is used to measure viscosity, it must be used in one of two ways, regardless of the type of viscometer used. Either the device is stationary while the fluid is being forced through it, or the device passes through the fluid while the fluid is stationary. It tends to be easier – and requires fewer parts or hardware – to use the latter method, making it popular. In order for the fluid to pass through the meter, however, a motor or similar device is generally required to adequately move the fluid.
Different fluids require a differently calibrated viscometer, depending on the approximate viscosity of the fluids. For example, a gauge made for low viscosity measurements cannot be used on high viscosity liquids, because it will not have the proper measurement capabilities. Using the wrong gauge can break your machine, especially if it is made for low viscosity fluids and runs through thick fluids. Low viscosity fluids are generally oils and paints; medium viscosity fluids are things like creams and glue; high viscosity fluids are usually gel and honey.
Measuring the viscosity of the fluid may be important to some people, because exact viscosities are required for some reactions. For example, a manufacturing plant may need a fluid to have a certain viscosity to complete a necessary chemical change. A fluid may also need to be of the correct viscosity before it can be sold, making viscosity testing also function as a quality control. If fluids need to be pumped, the use of a viscometer will show workers how powerful the pumps need to be to adequately move the fluids.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
