Viscosity kinematic Converter

Convert kinematic viscosity units like stokes, centistokes.

Convert Units

Convert kinematic viscosity measurements between stokes, centistokes, and more.

What is Kinematic Viscosity Converter?

Kinematic viscosity is the ratio of a fluid's dynamic viscosity to its density. It describes how a fluid flows under gravity without an applied force. It is the key parameter for oil grading, hydraulic system design, and aerodynamics.

Understanding the Units

Square metre/second (m²/s)

The SI unit of kinematic viscosity.

Common Uses: Scientific calculations

Stokes (St)

CGS unit of kinematic viscosity.

Common Uses: Fluid mechanics literature

Conversion: 1 St = 0.0001 m²/s

Centistokes (cSt)

One-hundredth of a stokes; equal to 1 mm²/s. The most common practical unit.

Common Uses: Automotive oil grades, hydraulic fluids, lubrication

Conversion: 1 cSt = 10⁻⁶ m²/s

Common Conversions

  • Water at 20°C: ~1 cSt = 1 mm²/s
  • Motor oil SAE 30: ~100 cSt at 40°C
  • Gasoline: ~0.5–0.6 cSt
  • Mercury: ~0.12 cSt (low, despite high density)
  • Gear oil SAE 90: ~200 cSt at 40°C

Conversion Formulas

  • Kinematic viscosity = Dynamic viscosity ÷ Density (ν = μ/ρ)
  • m²/s to stokes: St = m²/s × 10,000
  • Stokes to centistokes: cSt = St × 100
  • m²/s to centistokes: cSt = m²/s × 1,000,000

Practical Examples

Engine oil grade (e.g. SAE 10W-40) is defined by kinematic viscosity at 40°C and 100°C

Hydraulic fluid selection depends on operating temperature range and required cSt rating

Aviation turbine oil: ~8 cSt at 100°C for reliable high-temp lubrication

When to Use Each Unit

m²/s: SI unit, scientific and academic calculations
Centistokes (cSt): Automotive, industrial, and lubrication engineering applications

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