Pressure

Solutions for Shear and Cavitation Under Pressure

Mechanical stress in pumps and high-pressure flow zones can permanently reduce viscosity by breaking down polymer chains. Rapid pressure changes, tight clearances, and extensional flow fields impose extreme strain rates that stretch long molecules beyond their tensile limits. This molecular degradation lowers effective molecular weight, reduces film thickness, and accelerates wear, even when surfaces never make contact. Cavitation adds localized shock and micro-jet forces that can damage both metal surfaces and fluid structure.