The Expanding Dimensions of High Shear Rate Viscometry

Viscometry has been closely associated with the lubricating properties of engine oils since the development of the reciprocating engine. With the advent of non-Newtonian multi-grade engine oils, a new dimension of viscometry was introduced - viscometry at high shear rates and high temperatures.

In view of the importance of the critical hydrodynamic lubrication that engine oils provide - and the toll on engine efficiency that these oils extract - it was thought timely and practical to review the initiation and application of high shear rate engine oil viscometry and to discuss subsequent development.