Viscosity and Non-Newtonian Fluids

Viscosity and Non-Newtonian Fluids

1. Dynamic Viscosity, μ: resistance to flow

   • Useful Equation: μ = (Shear Stress)/(Rate of Shear Stress)
     • Non-Newtonian Fluids: shear stress and the rate of shear stress NOT directly proportional
       • Figure 2: Non-Newtonian Fluid

2. Petroleum Industry Application: If the oil in reservoir is too viscous, it becomes difficult to get out of the reservoir quickly.

3. Industry Application 2: Flow rate is affected by viscosity, low flow rates will decrease production.

4. Kinematic Viscosity, v: ratio between dynamic viscosity and density of a fluid.

   • Useful Equation: v = (Dynamic Viscosity)/(Density)

5. Figure 1: Honey has a High Viscosity; it opposes flow strongly

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