Meaning
Property of a non-newtonian fluid where the apparent viscosity decreases under increasing shear stress. Processing equipment for paints and adhesives relies on pseudoplastic flow to ensure the material spreads easily when applied but stays in place once the force is removed. The alignment of molecules in the direction of the movement reduces internal friction.
Pumping Efficiency
Calculating the power required for transport depends on the shear rate in the pipe. Leveraging pseudoplastic flow allows for high-volume transfer at lower pressures than would be required for a constant-viscosity liquid. Energy consumption is optimized when the pumps operate in the shear-thinning regime.
Faster flow rates actually reduce the resistance of the fluid, which allows the use of smaller motors for large distribution networks.
Application Quality
Coating thickness is controlled by the speed of the applicator. In pseudoplastic flow, the material thins out during the high-speed stroke and thickens rapidly during the leveling phase. Inconsistent shear history leads to runs or uneven coverage on the substrate.
Rheological Limit
Transitioning from a lab sample to a production batch reveals limitations in the mixing equipment. Excessive thinning under pseudoplastic flow may cause pigments to settle if the agitation is too aggressive.
