Operational viscosity measurement is a topic of growing importance in industries around the world. It is a measurement technique that provides managers and plant managers with the knowledge necessary to control viscous flow levels within a system. This measurement is commonly used in the production of petroleum products, paints and oils, and has become essential for the safe, efficient and optimal operation of all types of industrial processes.
Operational viscosity measurement is one of the most advanced and reliable processes for evaluating the fluid-solid composition, as well as determining the concentration and consistent viscosity of the oil. It requires specialized equipment and a thorough understanding of the principles behind the measurement so that employees responsible for this task can make informed decisions. The main reason for this measurement is to prevent damage due to system overheating caused by oil viscosity, allowing the user to adjust levels appropriately as needed.
How is the operating viscosity measurement performed?
The equipment needed to perform the operating viscosity measurement consists of a temperature control cabinet, a viscosity meter, a quantity of test oil, a glass cylinder, a calibrated pressure bottle, an hour meter, a thermometer, an oil heater, an oil pump, and a thermostat alarm. The viscosity meter is the most important and only vital element for this measurement.
The viscosity meter is an electronic device capable of measuring the distance traveled by an oil particle between set times. This measurement is made in order to determine the consistency and rigid structure of the fluid-solid substance. This device is controlled by the hour meter and the oil heater, which is used to raise the oil temperature to a specific range for a specific target. This oil temperature is kept constant throughout the entire measurement process, so that accurate results can be obtained.
Subsequently, the test oil is introduced into the glass cylinder and connected to the pressure bottle to allow the oil to be pressurized. This process is performed because the pressure considerably affects the viscosity grade of the oil. Finally, the viscosity meter is used to measure the speed at which the oil moves through the glass cylinder. This measurement is used to determine the viscosity of the oil.
Why is the measurement of operating viscosity important?
Once the oil viscosity measurement has been completed, the results obtained are compared to the preloaded temperature limit, and adjusted accordingly as necessary. These results are constantly monitored to prevent viscosity level overshoot. Continuous measurement of the operating viscosity is essential to ensure the optimized function of industrial processes.
Operational viscosity measurement is one of the best tools to ensure optimal system performance, achieve set targets, and optimize production times and prices. When used correctly, the results can be astounding. Users can control oil consistency, maintain temperature within specific limits, maximize equipment life, and avoid unwanted equipment overheating.
Overall, operating viscosity measurement is an incredibly useful tool for factories and plants looking to keep their systems safe, reliable and optimized. It lays the foundation for better and safer control of the product once it has reached a specific point in its processing. Operational viscosity measurement is not only about achieving efficiency, but also about ensuring success throughout the process.
Viscosity measurements with Kalstein devices
Given the importance of viscosity measurement, Kalstein, as a manufacturer of laboratory equipment, has a line of viscometers on the market that are adapted to the needs of the food industry. The Laboratory Viscosity Analyzer Viscosity Meter YR05855 – YR05856 is a good choice for purchase. It can measure viscosities up to 2,000,000 cps, and comes with a temperature sensor. The price of this model and others of the family, can be reviewed in our web sites HERE and HERE.
