Non-Newtonian liquids change in viscosity depending on the shear rate; some are shear thinning such as paint, whereas others are shear thickening such as corn starch, As a result of this, non-Newtonian liquids require special consideration when their transfer is considered.
TYPE OF BEHAVIOUR |
DESCRIPTION |
EXAMPLE |
Viscosity decreases with stress over time |
Honey |
|
Viscosity increases with stress over time |
Whipping Cream |
|
Pseudoplastic (Shear thinning) |
Viscosity decreases with increased stress |
Ketchup |
Dilatant (Shear Thickening) |
Viscosity increases with increased stress |
Corn Starch (Oobleck) |
Despite the various and completely opposite behaviour of these non Newtonian liquids when pumping, it all comes down to avoiding shear and heat. Because of our long history with positive displacement pumps, AxFlow has a wide variety of the best positive displacement pumps that offer a low shear pumping action to ensure you the best result.