How does a viscosity meter work?
(Example: MARIMEX ViscoScope® inline viscometer)
A piezoelectric rod is set in oscillation in the process
The ViscoScope® sensor consists of a fully welded steel rod with piezo elements that drive it to vibrate. When the rod is immersed in the liquid, the oscillation is slowed down - the more viscous the liquid, the stronger the damping. This damping is directly proportional to the dynamic viscosity of the fluid.
The electronics convert the damping into a viscosity value
The signal from the piezo element is sent via a safety barrier to a transmitter (VS-XXXX). The transmitter converts the amplitude/frequency change into a viscosity value and delivers it as 4-20 mA, HART®, Modbus RTU or other fieldbus protocol.
Shear-independent calibration makes results traceable
The instrument is calibrated at the factory with special, shear rate-independent standard oils. This means that the measurement is not affected by variations in flow rate or turbulence in the pipe.
Maintenance-free measurement directly in the pipe or tank
The entire measuring part is a solid, smooth metal body with no bearings, seals or capillaries to clog. Therefore, in practice, the sensor does not need regular servicing - it is described as "maintenance-free" in the brochure.
Real-time data for active process control
Because the value is updated every second, the control system can immediately adjust temperature, dosing pumps or mixing ratios. The company emphasises this direct feedback as the way to avoid batch errors and reduce raw material and energy consumption.
Executive summary
This is how ViscoScope® works:
Vibration ⇒ Damping ⇒ Electrical signal ⇒ Real-time viscosity
The method provides a robust and rapid viscosity measurement without moving parts or laboratory sampling, making it particularly suitable for continuous industrial processes in chemical, food, petro and pharmaceutical production.
