Unit Conversion

Convert numbers between two units quickly and precisely

Dynamic Viscosity

Unit Conversion

Convert dynamic viscosity: pascal-second, poise, and centipoise

Dynamic viscosity describes a fluid's internal resistance to flow and is stated in pascal-second (Pa·s), the SI unit, as well as in millipascal-second (mPa·s). In the older CGS system, poise (P) and centipoise (cP) are common.

Key conversion factors:

  • 1 pascal-second (Pa·s) = 10 poise (P) = 1,000 centipoise (cP)
  • 1 centipoise (cP) = 1 millipascal-second (mPa·s)
  • Water at 20 °C: ≈ 1 cP = 0.001 Pa·s

Applications:

  • Lubricant technology: specs of engine and hydraulic oil
  • Food technology: consistency of honey, ketchup, and syrup
  • Pharmaceuticals: flow properties of drug formulations

The dynamic viscosity converter supports comparing technical fluid specs. If your value refers to the fluid's density, use the kinematic viscosity converter instead.

Frequently asked questions about converting dynamic viscosity

Water has a dynamic viscosity of about 1 centipoise (cP) at 20 °C, which equals 0.001 Pa·s (1 mPa·s). This makes water a common reference for comparing the viscosity of other substances.

Yes, 1 centipoise (cP) equals exactly 1 millipascal-second (mPa·s). Both terms are used synonymously in practice, with cP appearing more in older or US data sheets and mPa·s being the modern SI-conforming notation.

1 poise (P) equals 0.1 pascal-second (Pa·s), so 10 poise = 1 Pa·s. Poise comes from the older CGS system of units, while pascal-second is the modern SI unit.