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Brookfield method
+ infoUnderstanding the Brookfield method for viscosity measurement
The Brookfield method is one of the best-known rotational viscosity measurement principles used in laboratories and industrial quality control. It determines viscosity by measuring the torque required to rotate a spindle immersed in the sample at a controlled speed.
Fungilab rotational viscometers operate using the same fundamental rotational measurement principle, providing accurate, repeatable and reliable viscosity measurements for Newtonian and non-Newtonian materials across a wide range of laboratory and industrial applications.
Whether you are replacing an existing instrument or comparing different rotational viscosity solutions, understanding the Brookfield method helps identify the most suitable viscometer for your testing requirements.
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LABORATORY DIVISION
Dynamic viscosity
Viscosity is part of the science of Rheology which quantifies the resistance materials give to changing shape.
Proper interpretation of viscosity data can reduce the rate of rejects while keeping production and formulation development costs to a minimum. Consistent product quality is ensured through proper viscosity measurements, either alone or in conjunction with compatible tests.
Dynamic viscosity testing can help with:
- Material characterization or “finger-printing”
- Standard testing methods to check for differences between batches
- Indirect way of measuring quality
- Product formulation
- Quality control
- Process control
- Design, optimization and operation of process equipment
Material characterization or “finger-printing”
Standard testing methods to check for differences between batches
Indirect way of measuring quality
Product formulation
Quality control
Process control
Design, optimization and operation of process equipment
Viscosity types
Dynamic viscosity
Centipoise (mPa*s)
Kinematic viscosity
Centistokes (mm2/sec)
Apparent viscosity
Centipoise (mPa*s)
Newton’s Law
According to Newton’s law, the viscosity of a fluid is constant. As shear rate changes, shear stress changes in proportion such that viscosity is constant. Common fluids that exhibit such behavior are:
Unfortunately for us, not all fluids follow Newton’s law. In fact, most fluids do not. For this reason, fluids are classified into two categories:
Rotational Viscometer
The viscosity is calculated from the measured torque and rotational speed, as well as the dimensions of the measuring geometry.
A fluid’s resistance to flow is measured by the torque it exerts on the rotating shaft of the viscometer.
Absolute viscosity: the measuring geometry fulfills certain requirements (which is the case of coaxial spindles).
Relative viscosity: the dimensions of the measuring geometry are not well defined.
Advantage
Flexibility in:
- Viscosity Range
- Temperature range
- Shear rate range
Application
For Newtonian and non-Newtonian substances and temperatures different from room temperature.
How the Brookfield method works
The Brookfield method is based on rotational viscosity measurement. A spindle rotates inside the sample at a controlled speed while the instrument measures the resistance generated by the fluid. This resistance is converted into torque, allowing the viscosity to be calculated.
Rotational viscosity measurement is widely used because it provides reliable results for both Newtonian and non-Newtonian materials while allowing different spindle geometries, rotational speeds and temperature conditions to be selected according to the application.
Applications of the Brookfield method
The rotational method is commonly used in laboratories and production environments for:
- Quality control.
- Batch-to-batch comparison.
- Product formulation.
- Research and development.
- Process control.
- Material characterization.
Fungilab rotational viscometers
Fungilab develops a complete range of rotational viscometers based on the same measurement principle used by the Brookfield method, offering solutions for laboratories, research centres and industrial quality control.
The Viscolead Series combines intuitive operation, touchscreen technology and excellent repeatability for routine viscosity measurements, while the V-Series provides advanced wireless operation and premium performance for demanding laboratory applications.
Accessories for different measurement requirements
Different accessories allow rotational viscosity measurements to be adapted to a broad range of samples and operating conditions:
- Small Sample Adapter (APM) for low sample volumes.
- Low Viscosity Adapter (LCP) for low-viscosity liquids.
- HELDAL Unit for highly viscous and non-flowing materials.
- Thermosphere for viscosity measurements at temperatures up to 300°C.
Factors influencing viscosity measurements
Reliable rotational viscosity measurements depend on selecting the correct spindle, rotational speed, sample volume and measuring temperature. Since viscosity is highly temperature-dependent, maintaining stable thermal conditions is essential for obtaining repeatable results.
Fungilab also offers heating circulators, refrigerated heating circulators and certified viscosity standard oils to improve measurement reliability, calibration verification and laboratory performance.
Selecting a rotational viscometer
When selecting an instrument based on the Brookfield measurement principle, laboratories should evaluate the expected viscosity range, sample characteristics, temperature requirements, data management capabilities and available accessories. Choosing the correct configuration helps improve repeatability, laboratory productivity and measurement confidence.
Frequently asked questions about the Viscolead ADV
What is the Brookfield method?
The Brookfield method is a rotational viscosity measurement technique that determines viscosity by measuring the torque required to rotate a spindle immersed in a sample.
Can Fungilab rotational viscometers perform Brookfield-type measurements?
Yes. Fungilab rotational viscometers operate using the same fundamental rotational viscosity measurement principle based on spindle rotation and torque measurement.
Which industries use the Brookfield method?
The method is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, paint, coating, adhesive and petrochemical industries for viscosity measurement and quality control.
Can the Brookfield method measure non-Newtonian fluids?
Yes. Rotational viscosity measurements are suitable for both Newtonian and non-Newtonian materials when the appropriate spindle and testing conditions are selected.
Why is temperature important during rotational viscosity testing?
Viscosity changes with temperature, so maintaining stable thermal conditions is essential for obtaining accurate, repeatable and comparable measurement results.
Can small sample volumes be measured using the rotational method?
Yes. Accessories such as the Fungilab Small Sample Adapter (APM) allow accurate viscosity measurements using sample volumes from approximately 8 to 13 ml.
How is the accuracy of rotational viscometers verified?
Measurement performance can be verified using certified viscosity standard oils with known reference values at controlled temperatures.
Which Fungilab rotational viscometer should I choose?
The appropriate instrument depends on the viscosity range, sample type, testing conditions and laboratory requirements. Fungilab offers the Viscolead Series for routine laboratory work and the V-Series for advanced viscosity measurement applications.
