Understanding fluid viscosity is essential when selecting the right pump for an application. Wastecorp’s Fluid Viscosity Chart compares the approximate viscosity of common liquids and materials—from water and motor oil to molasses, silicone rubber and putty—measured in centipoise (cP). Use this chart as a general reference when evaluating fluid-handling and pumping requirements. Actual viscosity may vary depending on temperature, composition and operating conditions. Contact Wastecorp for assistance selecting a pump for your specific fluid and application.
| Water @ 70°F / 21°C | 1 | centipoise (cps) |
| Blood or Kerosene | 10 | centipoise (cps) |
| Ethylene Glycol or Anti-Freeze | 15 | centipoise (cps) |
| Motor Oil (SAE 10) | 50 | centipoise (cps) |
| Corn Oil | 65 | centipoise (cps) |
| Unfilled Rigid Urethane Resin | 80 - 120 | centipoise (cps) |
| Maple Syrup or Motor Oil (SAE 30) | 150 - 200 | centipoise (cps) |
| Castor Oil or Motor Oil (SAE 40) | 250 - 500 | centipoise (cps) |
| Glycerin or Motor Oil (SAE 60) | 1,000 - 2,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Pourable Urethane Rubbers | 1,000 - 3,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Honey or Corn Syrup | 2,000 - 3,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Molasses | 5,000 - 10,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Chocolate Syrup | 10,000 - 25,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Pourable Silicone Rubber | 14,000 - 40,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Ketchup or Mustard | 50,000 - 70,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Brushable Silicone Rubber | 100,000 - 150,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Peanut Butter or Tomato Paste | 150,000 - 250,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Brushable Urethane Rubber | 200,000 - 301,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Lard or Crisco Shortening | 1,000,000 - 2,000,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Caulking Compound | 5,000,000 - 10,000,000 | centipoise (cps) |
| Window Putty | 100,000,000 | centipoise (cps). |