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Capillary Viscometers
+ infoDynamic viscosity measurement for laboratory and industrial applications
Dynamic viscosity measurement is essential for evaluating how liquids and semi-solid materials resist flow under applied force. Accurate viscosity data supports product development, quality control and process optimisation across a wide range of industries.
Fungilab provides complete dynamic viscosity measurement solutions based on precision rotational viscometers, temperature control systems and specialized accessories designed to deliver reliable, repeatable and traceable laboratory results.
Whether measuring low-viscosity liquids or highly viscous materials, Fungilab offers instruments adapted to routine laboratory testing as well as demanding research applications.
Our products
Viscolead Series
Viscolead ONE
Viscolead ADV
Accessories
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.
Glass capillary viscometers for laboratory viscosity testing
Capillary viscometers remain the reference method for measuring the kinematic viscosity of Newtonian liquids in many industries. Their operating principle is based on measuring the flow time of a liquid through a precisely calibrated glass capillary maintained at a constant temperature.
The accuracy and repeatability of capillary viscosity measurements make these instruments indispensable for petroleum laboratories, lubricant manufacturers, chemical industries, pharmaceutical laboratories and research organisations.
Fungilab capillary viscometer range
Fungilab manufactures several types of glass capillary viscometers to suit different applications and sample characteristics.
- Cannon-Fenske Routine for transparent Newtonian liquids.
- Cannon-Fenske Opaque for dark and opaque Newtonian liquids.
- BS/U-Tube viscometers for transparent liquids.
- BS/IP/RF U-Tube viscometers for opaque liquids.
- Ubbelohde viscometers.
International testing standards
Fungilab capillary viscometers are manufactured in accordance with internationally recognised viscosity testing standards, including:
- ASTM D445
- ASTM D446
- ISO 3104
- ISO 3105
- UNE 400313
Temperature control for accurate measurements
Since kinematic viscosity is highly dependent on temperature, every measurement should be performed under precisely controlled thermal conditions. The THERMOCAP precision bath has been specifically developed for capillary viscometer testing, providing excellent temperature stability and measurement repeatability.
Calibration and traceability
Each Fungilab capillary viscometer is individually calibrated and supplied with its own calibration certificate, ensuring traceability and confidence in laboratory results. For routine verification of laboratory performance, Fungilab also supplies certified viscosity standard oils.
Applications
Glass capillary viscometers are widely used for measuring the kinematic viscosity of lubricants, fuels, petroleum products, solvents, chemicals and many other Newtonian liquids. Their simplicity, high precision and international standardisation make them the preferred solution for laboratory quality control and reference testing.
Choosing the right capillary viscometer
Selecting the appropriate capillary viscometer depends on the sample characteristics, expected viscosity range, transparency of the liquid and the testing standard being followed. Fungilab offers expert guidance to help laboratories choose the most suitable solution for every application.
Frequently asked questions about the Viscolead ADV
What is a capillary viscometer?
A capillary viscometer is a precision glass instrument used to determine the kinematic viscosity of Newtonian liquids by measuring their flow time through a calibrated capillary.
Which types of capillary viscometers does Fungilab manufacture?
Fungilab manufactures Cannon-Fenske Routine, Cannon-Fenske Opaque, BS/U-Tube, BS/IP/RF U-Tube and Ubbelohde capillary viscometers for a wide variety of laboratory applications.
Which standards do Fungilab capillary viscometers comply with?
They comply with internationally recognised standards including ASTM D445, ASTM D446, ISO 3104, ISO 3105 and UNE 400313, depending on the viscometer model.
Why is temperature control important during capillary viscosity measurements?
Kinematic viscosity changes with temperature, making a precision temperature bath essential for obtaining accurate and repeatable results.
Can capillary viscometers measure opaque liquids?
Yes. Reverse-flow designs such as Cannon-Fenske Opaque and BS/IP/RF U-Tube viscometers are specifically developed for measuring dark or opaque Newtonian liquids.
Does every Fungilab capillary viscometer include a calibration certificate?
Yes. Every capillary viscometer is individually calibrated and supplied with its own calibration certificate to ensure measurement traceability.
Which industries commonly use capillary viscometers?
They are widely used in petroleum, lubricant, chemical, pharmaceutical and research laboratories where accurate kinematic viscosity measurements are required.
How do I choose the right capillary viscometer?
The correct model depends on the sample transparency, expected viscosity range and applicable testing standard. Fungilab offers solutions for both transparent and opaque Newtonian liquids.
