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Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers
+ infoUbbelohde ASTM viscometers for high-precision kinematic viscosity measurements
Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers are precision glass capillary viscometers designed for determining the kinematic viscosity of transparent Newtonian liquids in accordance with internationally recognised ASTM test methods.
The suspended-level design minimises the influence of the sample volume on the measurement, providing highly accurate and repeatable viscosity determinations for research, quality control and calibration laboratories.
Fungilab supplies complete kinematic viscosity solutions including ASTM-compliant Ubbelohde viscometers, precision temperature baths and laboratory accessories.
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.
ASTM-compliant Ubbelohde viscometers for laboratory viscosity testing
Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers are widely recognised as one of the most accurate instruments for measuring the kinematic viscosity of transparent Newtonian liquids. Their suspended-level capillary design provides excellent measurement repeatability while reducing errors caused by variations in sample filling volume.
These viscometers are routinely used in petroleum laboratories, chemical industries, research centres and calibration laboratories where compliance with ASTM procedures is required.
Suspended-level measurement principle
Unlike conventional capillary viscometers, the Ubbelohde design incorporates a suspended measuring column, allowing the hydrostatic pressure head to remain independent of the amount of liquid introduced into the instrument. This improves reproducibility and measurement accuracy.
Typical applications
- Lubricating oils.
- Mineral oils.
- Petroleum products.
- Chemical solutions.
- Organic solvents.
- Polymer solutions.
- Calibration laboratories.
- Research and development.
Complete kinematic viscosity systems
For optimum performance, Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers are commonly used together with the THERMOCAP, which provides highly stable temperature control for capillary viscosity measurements.
Fungilab also offers additional capillary viscometers, including Cannon-Fenske Routine models for transparent liquids.
Why temperature stability matters
Kinematic viscosity is strongly influenced by temperature. Maintaining constant thermal conditions throughout the measurement is essential for obtaining accurate, repeatable and ASTM-compliant results. Precision thermostatic baths minimise temperature fluctuations during testing.
Advantages of Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers
- Excellent measurement repeatability.
- Suspended-level capillary design.
- Reduced influence of filling volume.
- High measurement accuracy.
- Suitable for transparent Newtonian liquids.
- Ideal for research, calibration and quality control laboratories.
Industries using Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers
Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers are widely employed in petroleum testing laboratories, lubricant manufacturers, chemical industries, universities, research institutes and calibration facilities where precise kinematic viscosity measurements are required.
Frequently asked questions about the Viscolead ADV
What is an Ubbelohde ASTM viscometer?
An Ubbelohde ASTM viscometer is a suspended-level glass capillary viscometer used to measure the kinematic viscosity of transparent Newtonian liquids with high precision.
What is the advantage of the suspended-level design?
The suspended-level design minimises the effect of sample volume on the measurement, improving repeatability and overall accuracy.
Which samples can be measured?
Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers are suitable for transparent Newtonian liquids such as lubricants, mineral oils, solvents and chemical solutions.
Why is temperature control important?
Kinematic viscosity changes with temperature, so precise thermostatic control is essential for obtaining accurate and repeatable ASTM measurements.
Which temperature bath is recommended?
Fungilab recommends the THERMOCAP precision bath for accurate temperature regulation during kinematic viscosity testing.
Are Ubbelohde viscometers suitable for calibration laboratories?
Yes. Their excellent repeatability and precision make them ideal for calibration, research and quality control laboratories.
What industries commonly use Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers?
They are widely used in petroleum, lubricant, chemical, academic and industrial research laboratories.
What are the main benefits of Ubbelohde ASTM viscometers?
They provide highly accurate, repeatable and ASTM-compliant kinematic viscosity measurements with minimal influence from sample filling volume.
