EXPERIMENT 1: DETERMINATION OF TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE OF VISCOSITY

OF CRUDE OIL
PGG 435: PETROLEUM ENGINEERING LABORATORY III

A LONG LABORATORY REPORT

BY
SOLOMON-ESEH E. M. (MATRIC. NO. 210409505)
WITH
GROUP F:
AYENI J.O. (190409056)
AKINLOFA O.M. (190409057)
SULAIMON K.O. (190409058)
ABDUL Y.R. (190409059)
ABDULKAREEM A.O. (210409501)
IBONYE D.C. (210409502)
OLORUNOSEBI O.M. (210409503)
OKUBOARERE F.E. (210409504)
ALUKO V. A. (210409506)

SUPERVISOR: ENGINEER FALOPE O.A

DATE PERFORMED: 11/03/2025
DATE SUBMITTED: 18/04/2025

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ABSTRACT

The objective of this experiment was to examine how the viscosity of crude oil
changes with temperature using a rotational viscometer. The Brookfield
Rheometer was employed to conduct measurements across a temperature range
of 34°C to 52°C, with viscosity readings taken at 10°C intervals.

The results showed a clear inverse relationship between temperature and

viscosity—viscosity consistently decreased as temperature increased. This aligns
with theoretical expectations, as higher temperatures reduce intermolecular
forces, allowing oil molecules to move more freely.

These results are significant as they confirm the anticipated temperature-viscosity

behavior and underscore its relevance in improving crude oil processing
techniques. Minor inconsistencies observed at lower temperatures were likely
due to experimental limitations such as calibration issues and imperfect
temperature control.

In summary, the experiment effectively demonstrated the predicted relationship

between temperature and crude oil viscosity, offering valuable insights for
optimizing flow behavior in industrial applications.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter Page
Title Page i
Abstract ii
Table of Contents iii
Chapters
1.0 Introduction 1
 Aim and Objectives 3
2.0 Theory 4
3.0 Materials and Method 5
 Materials/Equipment 5
 Experimental procedure 6
 Precautions 6
4.0 Results 7
5.0 Discussion 8
 Calculations 9
6.0 Conclusion 11
7.0 References 12

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Viscosity is a basic fluid property that measures the internal resistance of a
fluid substance when it resists flowing. It plays an important role in a wide
range of applications in the industrious world, especially in the oil industry.
Crude oil, being a multicomponent and multifractional system of
hydrocarbons, shows a broad variation in viscosity with respect to parameters
such as pressure, temperature, and composition. Crude oil viscosity is an
important parameter in analyzing the behavior of crude oil during extraction,
transport, refining, and other industrial operations. In the transport of crude
oil via pipeline, the flow property of the crude oil becomes especially
significant as higher-viscosity oils prove more difficult to transport over long
distances and need more power and advanced equipment. Conversely, low-
viscosity oils, being easier to transport, have the problems represented by
higher volatility as well as a greater risk of leaks.

Temperature dependence of viscosity is a significant property of fluids,

especially when dealing with crude oil. With rising temperature, the viscosity
of liquids generally decreases, a phenomenon explained by the higher kinetic
energy in the molecules in the fluid.
In the case of crude oil, the changes in viscosity caused by changing
temperatures are important for the prediction of how the crude oil will react at
the different stages of the refining and oil production process. That is, crude oil
that will be too viscous when the system is kept at low temperatures might not
be free-flowing enough through pipeline transport, resulting in clogging, higher
pumping expenses, and possible safety issues. Conversely, crude oil that will be
excessively volatile when the system is maintained at higher temperatures
could lead to over-evaporation, resulting in the loss of useful hydrocarbons or a
rise in the risk for fires. A precise knowledge of how the crude oil's viscosity
changes with changing temperatures thus matters a great deal for the optimal
design and functionality of pipeline transport equipment, refining operations,
and other applications.

This experiment will be used to test the viscosity of crude oil at different

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 temperatures and investigate the correlation between these two variables. By
changing the temperature and observing the respective viscosity readings, the
experiment will enable us to specify how the temperature influences the crude
oil's flow characteristics. We will analyze the data collected for the purpose of
determining whether the Arrhenius model holds for the crude oil sample and
for detecting anomalies and discrepancies in the temperature-viscosity
correlation. This information will be useful to industries that transport crude
oil, as well as companies that refine crude oil and must be able to provide for
oils with different viscosities.

In addition, the findings of the experiment would add to the wealth of

information concerning the behavior of non-Newtonian fluids, including crude
oils. Crude oils have intricate fluid behavior with some exhibiting shear
thinning and shear thickening behavior, making them difficult to handle and
process. Temperature dependences of these phenomena are not always well-
defined, and a more detailed study on these properties would be helpful for
companies dealing with these materials.

1.1 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES.

1.1.1 AIM
The purpose of this experiment is to identify the temperature dependence of the
viscosity of crude oil.
1.1.2 OBJECTIVES
1. To determine the viscosity of crude oil at several different temperatures
with a rheometer.
2. To study the impact on the viscosity of crude oil by variations in the
temperature.

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2.0 THEORY
Viscosity describes a fluid's resistance to flowing or deforming when a force is
applied. It occurs as a result of intermolecular forces and intermolecular collision
among the fluid's molecules. As a fluid flows, the molecules undergo friction
because adjacent layers move relative to each other.
Viscosity can be categorized into:
1. Dynamic (absolute) viscosity, η: This is the resistance of a fluid against flow
when a force is externally applied. It can be measured in Pascal-seconds
(Pa.s) or Centipoises (cP).
2. Kinematic viscosity, ν: It is the ratio between dynamic viscosity and fluid
density, ρ. It is often measured in Stokes (St) or Centistokes (cSt).
ν=ρ/η
Newton's Law of Viscosity
Newton's law of viscosity dictates that shear stress between two adjacent fluid
layers will be directly proportional to the gradient in the velocity with respect to
the distance. It holds for the case of Newtonian fluids in which the viscosity will be
the same regardless of the shear rate provided.
du
τ =η
dy

Where τ = Shear stress (Pa)

η= Dynamic viscosity (Pa.s)
du\dy= Velocity gradient (s-1)
Crude oil will normally act as a Newtonian fluid at normal conditions, so the law of
Newton will apply. It should be noted, though, that crude oil is a multifractional
mixture of hydrocarbons, and the viscosity will depend on temperature, pressure,
and composition.

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Liquids, such as crude oil, become less viscous with increasing temperature. This
occurs because increased temperature leads to the weakening of the
intermolecular forces, making molecules free to move more easily and decrease
the resistance against the flow. However, gases exhibit a rise in viscosity with
Temperature and viscosity in crude oil are generally explained by an Arrhenius-
type equation that describes the variation with temperature.
Ea
η=ηo e RT

Where:
η = Viscosity at temperature T (Pa.s)
ηo= Pre-exponential factor, representing viscosity at infinite temperature (Pa.s)
Ea= Activation energy for viscous flow (J/mol)
R= Universal gas constant (8.314 J/mol·K)
T = Absolute temperature (K)
Taking the natural logarithm of both sides results in a linear relationship:
Ea 1
ln η=ln ηo+
R T

A plot of ln η against 1/Twill yield a straight line with:

Ea
Slope = R

Intercept= ln ηo
This linear correlation shows that as the temperature goes up (i.e. T increases, the
viscosity falls, indicated by a negative slope.
Graph is essential for finding the activation energy and determining the degree to
which crude oil viscosity varies with changes in temperature. Large discrepancies
from linearity may indicate non-Newtonian behavior, contamination, or a change
in the crude oil's composition.

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3.0METHODS AND MATERIALS
3.1 Materials
The following materials were used during the course of this experiment.
1. Beaker: A beaker is generally a cylindrical container with a flat bottom. It
was used to hold the crude oil sample during the experiment.

Figure 3.1: A beaker

2. Brookfield Programmable Rheometer: this is a device used to measure
viscosity at a controlled shear rate or stress, or to directly measure yield.

Figure 3.2: Brookfield Programmable Rheometer

3. Thermostatic water bath/ heating arrangement: this is used to maintain the
crude oil at various temperatures during the experiment.

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 4. Crude oil sample
3.2 Procedures
The procedures for this experiment are as follows:
1. 400 ml of crude oil sample was measured into the beaker.
2. The Brookfield programmable rheometer was set up.
3. Water was added to the electrical thermostatic heater to a certain limit.
4. The measured crude oil sample was placed in the water bath/ heating
arrangement.
5. The temperature probe was inserted and the spindle was lowered into the
beaker.
6. The spindle was rotated for about 5 minutes before measurements were
taken
7. The viscosity of the crude oil was measured at 34 oC, 36 oC, 38 oC, 40 oC, 42
o
C, 44 oC, 46 oC, 48 oC, 50 oC, and 52 oC respectively.
3.3 Precautions
1. The rheometer and thermometer were properly calibrated before use.

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4.0 RESULTS
The table below shows the results gotten from the experiment.
Table 5.0: Experimental data
Temperature (oc) Viscosity (cp)
34 2.11
36 2.15
38 2.13
40 2.06
42 1.84
44 1.58
46 1.16
48 1.10
50 0.91
52 0.69

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6.0 DISCUSSION

The results obtained from this experiment clearly indicate an inverse correlation
between the viscosity of the crude oil sample and temperature. As shown in the
viscosity-versus-temperature graph, viscosity consistently decreases with
increasing temperature. This trend supports the well-established principle that
rising temperatures weaken intermolecular forces within the crude oil, thereby
reducing internal resistance and allowing the fluid to flow more freely.

The observed pattern aligns closely with previous research on Newtonian fluids,
where increased molecular kinetic energy at higher temperatures overcomes the
cohesive forces between molecules. Consequently, the crude oil exhibits reduced
resistance to flow, a behavior particularly relevant in industrial settings. When
crude oil is transported or processed at elevated temperatures, this reduction in
viscosity facilitates energy conservation and enhances overall operational
efficiency.

The plotted graph reinforces the reliability of the measurements, as the viscosity
values exhibit a clear downward trend with increasing temperature. However,
slight irregularities were noted in the lower temperature range (34°C to 40°C),
where the decrease in viscosity was not entirely uniform. These inconsistencies
may be attributed to experimental errors stemming from challenges in
maintaining precise temperature control or ensuring uniform thermal equilibrium
during the measurement process.

Potential sources of these discrepancies include calibration issues with the

viscometer, inaccuracies in temperature readings, or uneven heat distribution
from the thermostatic water bath—particularly during the early heating phase.
Additionally, improper immersion depth of the viscometer spindle or insufficient
stabilization time could have contributed to measurement errors.

While the experiment effectively demonstrated the general relationship between

temperature and viscosity, some limitations must be acknowledged. The
temperature range used (34°C to 52°C) is relatively narrow and may not fully
represent the broader spectrum of temperature conditions encountered in real-
world industrial operations. Furthermore, the study was limited to a single crude
oil sample, which restricts the applicability of the findings across different crude
types. Given that crude oil composition can vary significantly—especially in terms

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of asphaltene, resin, and paraffin content—these compositional differences could
influence how viscosity responds to temperature changes.

Although the findings are consistent with established theoretical expectations

regarding fluid behavior, they highlight the importance of considering sample
composition and potential impurities. Future studies could enhance the
understanding of this temperature-viscosity relationship by extending the range
of temperatures tested, incorporating a variety of crude oil samples, and utilizing
more advanced viscometric equipment to improve measurement accuracy.

Overall, the experimental results confirm that increasing temperature leads to a

decrease in crude oil viscosity, in agreement with theoretical models. Despite
minor experimental deviations, the overall trend remains valid and reinforces the
established understanding of fluid dynamics. Continued investigation into the
effects of compositional variability could provide deeper insights into optimizing
petroleum-related industrial processes.

6.1 CALCULATIONS
1. Plot a graph of viscosity(cp) against temperature (°C)

Graph of Viscosity against Temperature

2.15
1.95
1.75
Viscosity, cp

1.55
1.35
1.15
0.95
0.75
35 37 39 41 43 45 47 49 51 53
Temperature, oC

2. Derive a relationship for the temperature dependence of the viscosity of crude

oil.
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 B
Given the relationship, μ= A e T

T 1. T 2 μ2
Where B = T 1− T 2 × ln μ
1

−B
A= μ1 e T 1

Choosing T1= 34oC and T2= 44 oC, μ 1=2.11cp and μ 2=1.58

34 ×36 2.15
B = 34 −36 ln 2.11

B= -14.38
−14.38
A = 2.11e 34 = 3.21
−14.38
Therefore, μ=3.21e T , this is the relationship.

3. From the relationship, when Temperature= 52 oC,

14.38
μ=3.21e 52 = 2.43 cp

4. Comparing the value of viscosity from the graph, which is 0.69cp to that of the
relationship which is 2.43 cp, it is observed that the viscosity of the relationship is
higher.

7.0 CONCLUSION.

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The experiment successfully demonstrated the inverse relationship between
crude oil viscosity and temperature using a rotational viscometer. As temperature
increased, a consistent decrease in viscosity was observed. This behavior is
attributed to the increased kinetic energy of crude oil molecules at elevated
temperatures, which reduces intermolecular forces and facilitates easier
molecular movement.

The experimental findings align well with established theoretical principles and
prior studies related to Newtonian fluid behavior, confirming that viscosity
decreases with increasing temperature. This temperature-viscosity relationship
holds significant practical value, particularly in the petroleum industry, where
efficient transportation, processing, and refining of crude oil are essential. A clear
understanding of this relationship allows for the optimization of operational
conditions and can contribute to reduced energy consumption during crude oil
handling.

However, certain limitations were identified during the course of the experiment.
The relatively narrow temperature range examined (34°C to 52°C) may not fully
capture the viscosity behavior of crude oil under broader operational conditions
typically encountered in the industry. Additionally, slight inconsistencies in
viscosity measurements at lower temperatures suggest the possibility of
experimental errors, potentially due to imperfect temperature control or
limitations in instrumentation accuracy.

To build upon the insights gained, future studies could extend the temperature
range, incorporate crude oil samples with varying compositions, and utilize more
precise and sophisticated measurement tools. Further investigation into the
effects of impurities or compositional changes on the temperature-viscosity
relationship could also offer deeper insights, particularly for refining and
processing applications.

Overall, this experiment effectively illustrated the fundamental principles

governing the temperature dependence of crude oil viscosity and provided
valuable data that can be applied to improve the efficiency of petroleum-related
processes.

8.0 REFERENCES

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Abedini, A., & Torabi, F. (2016). Temperature effects on heavy oil viscosity
reduction and oil recovery during steam injection. Journal of Petroleum Science
and Engineering, 146, 646–653.
Adebayo, T. O., & Adeyanju, J. A. (2019). Non-Newtonian behavior of heavy crude
oils: A review. Journal of Petroleum Science and Technology, 37(4), 330-345.
Jamaluddin, A. K. M., Barrufet, M. A., & Islam, M. R. (2001). Measurement and
modeling of heavy oil viscosity at elevated temperatures. Journal of Canadian
Petroleum Technology, 40(8), 57-62.
Li, Y. K., & Nghiem, L. X. (2015). Viscosity prediction of crude oils and petroleum
fractions. Fuel, 145, 45-55.
Mansoori, G. A. (2010). The molecular basis of viscosity behavior of crude oil and
natural gas. Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering, 75(1-2), 1-6.

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