In the pulp and paper manufacturing process, there is a clear relationship between temperature and viscosity. Viscosity, which measures a liquid's resistance to flow, is influenced by temperature in the following ways:
1. Increased temperature often leads to decreased viscosity: Generally, viscosity tends to decrease as temperature increases. As the temperature rises, the molecules' kinetic energy increases, reducing their cohesion and increasing their mobility. This results in a reduction of internal friction and thus decreased viscosity.
2. Decreased temperature leads to increased viscosity: Conversely, as temperature decreases, the molecules' kinetic energy decreases, resulting in increased cohesion and reduced mobility. This leads to an increase in internal friction and thus increased viscosity.
In the pulp and paper manufacturing process, this relationship between temperature and viscosity can affect the flow rate and handling of liquids and suspensions used in various parts of the process. For example, an increased temperature during viscosity-controlled processes, such as in viscosity pilots for fiber production, can lead to better flow properties and thereby a smoother and more efficient process. On the other hand, a decrease in temperature in certain parts of the process, such as during filtration or mass transportation, can lead to increased viscosity, which can affect the flow and require adjustments to process parameters to maintain efficiency.
MoRe have a viscosity meter equipped with a temperature controlled bath enabling studies of the effects of different temperatures on a fluid’s viscosity. This is important as in many cases the temperature of a fluid has a critical influence on its viscosity.
“We can vary the temperature of the bath between 10 oC and 150 oC by using different media,” says Madelene Nordquist. “The viscosity meter gives you very precise relations between temperature and viscosity, giving the customer a good idea of the viscosity level of the coating to be used. Homogeneous fluids’ viscosity can be detected, whereas fibre suspensions cannot as they are not homogeneous.”
Christina Wedin, +4670 544 93 99, E-mail