{"id":19453,"date":"2023-02-24T15:15:27","date_gmt":"2023-02-24T21:15:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.polywater.com\/?p=19453"},"modified":"2025-05-14T13:43:48","modified_gmt":"2025-05-14T18:43:48","slug":"a-pour-explanation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.polywater.com\/en\/knowledge-hub\/a-pour-explanation\/","title":{"rendered":"A “Pour” Explanation"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Liquid versus Gel<\/h2>\n

Let\u2019s first establish our terms. What is a liquid? In the specialized field of cable pulling lubrication, Polywater has adopted a simple definition to answer this otherwise complex scientific question: A liquid lubricant is one that will pour through a one-inch (2.5-cm) spout. If it’s too thick to pour, it’s not a liquid but rather a gel.<\/p>\n

Viscosity is a scientific definition of liquid \u201cthickness\u201d. It is part of the larger science of rheology, the study of how materials flow. Viscosity can be measured in centipoise (cps) using a rotational viscometer that measures shear stress versus shear rate. Liquids such as paints will thin under shear as you coat the wall surface but have a higher viscosity when the shear is removed. This characteristic keeps the paint from dripping down the wall.<\/p>\n

We define liquid pulling lubricants as those with viscosities ranging from 1 to 20,000 cps at 10 rpm (rotations per minute) using a rotational viscometer. For reference, water has a viscosity of 1 cps, while honey is at 50,000 cps. Most commercially available liquid pulling lubricants are relatively thick liquids with viscosities from 1,000 to 15,000 cps.<\/p>\n

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Why Does Rheology Matter?<\/h2>\n

Application is the key. In cable pulling lubrication, it\u2019s as important as coefficient of friction (COF). Why? Successful application directly affects the quality of lubricant coating. It should be easy to apply and act to \u201cself-spread\u201d between the cable and conduit surfaces. Lubricant that coats and stays between the cable and conduit throughout the pull is far more effective at lowering friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Content: <\/strong>Q&A: The Effect of Pulling Lubricants on High Frequency Data Cable<\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Cable pulling presents a unique challenge: spreading lubricant on the cable and throughout the entire conduit\u2014especially around bends\u2014and keeping it there for the duration of the pull. This is why specialty cable pulling lubricants exist. They address not only friction reduction, but also all the other critical characteristics: compatibility, toxicity, ecology, economy, residue combustibility, and especially the major deciding factor of application.<\/p>\n

Viscosity tends to dictate the way lubricant is applied. Depending on the cable installation setting, different forms may be easier to use. Easy application results in more successful application.<\/p>\n

What Are the Considerations?<\/h2>\n

Many gel or paste lubricants with a viscosity of >20,000 cps may pour literally, but not practically. They flow too slowly to be poured efficiently. These lubricants are generally scooped from a pail and hand-applied or pumped with specially designed high-viscosity pumps. Gel lubricants cling well to vertical surfaces even in a thick film, while liquids flow easily with gravity and are better suited to horizontal installations. Thus, consider the advantages of each type:<\/p>\n

Liquid Lubricants:<\/b><\/h3>\n