UnitConKinematic Viscosity
Kinematic viscosity is dynamic viscosity divided by density. It is especially useful for lubricants, fuels, and oils because it describes how easily a fluid flows under gravity. This converter helps compare SI and practical viscosity units used on data sheets and standards. It is common in mechanical and chemical engineering.
Common conversions
| From | To |
|---|---|
| 1 Centistokes | 1 Square Millimeter per Second |
| 1 Square Meter per Second | 1,000,000 Centistokes |
| 100 Centistokes | 1 Stokes |
| 10 Square Millimeter per Second | 10 Centistokes |
| 1 Stokes | 100 Centistokes |
Frequently asked questions
Kinematic viscosity is dynamic viscosity normalized by density. It describes how readily a fluid flows when gravity is the main driving force.
Centistokes, written cSt, are a common practical unit for kinematic viscosity. One cSt is equal to one square millimeter per second.
Oil grades use standardized tests at specific temperatures, and kinematic viscosity is part of that rating system. That is why temperature conditions matter so much in lubricant specs.
Dynamic viscosity focuses on shear resistance, while kinematic viscosity also reflects density. Two fluids can have similar dynamic viscosity but different kinematic viscosity if their densities differ.