Viscosity Converter

Kinematic Viscosity Converter

Convert kinematic viscosity among SI, CGS, and common engineering units, including the exact equivalence between centistokes and square millimeters per second.

Convert kinematic viscosity units

Kinematic viscosity conversion method

Converted value = input × source factor in m²/s ÷ target factor in m²/s. Key identity: 1 cSt = 1 mm²/s = 10⁻⁶ m²/s.

Exact cSt relation

Shows that 1 cSt equals 1 mm²/s.

Broad unit coverage

Includes SI, CGS, and imperial area-per-time units.

Density guidance

Explains the distinction from dynamic viscosity.

How to convert kinematic viscosity units

Kinematic viscosity describes momentum diffusion in a fluid and equals dynamic viscosity divided by density. Its SI unit is square meters per second (m²/s), but centistokes (cSt) and square millimeters per second (mm²/s) are widely used because typical liquid values are easier to read in those units.

The conversion uses m²/s as the internal reference. One centistoke is exactly one mm²/s, while one stoke equals 100 cSt. Imperial square-foot and square-inch units are also included for legacy specifications and engineering references.

Do not treat a kinematic value as a dynamic value merely because both are described as viscosity. Converting between them requires fluid density at the applicable temperature and pressure. As with dynamic viscosity, the physical value can vary with temperature and fluid composition.

Kinematic viscosity unit reference

InputWhat it meansPlanning note
m²/sSI kinematic viscosity unitTypical liquid values can be very small.
mm²/sOne millionth of m²/sExactly equal numerically to cSt.
Centistoke (cSt)One hundredth of a stokeCommon for oils and petroleum products.
Stoke (St)CGS kinematic viscosity unit1 St equals 100 cSt.

Common use cases

Lubricant data

Convert oil viscosity grades and laboratory values.

Hydraulic systems

Compare fluid specifications in different unit systems.

Transport calculations

Prepare viscosity inputs for flow and Reynolds-number work.

Frequently asked questions

What is kinematic viscosity?

It is dynamic viscosity divided by density and has dimensions of area per time.

Is cSt the same as mm²/s?

Yes. One centistoke equals exactly one square millimeter per second.

How many cSt are in one stoke?

One stoke equals 100 centistokes.

How do I convert cP to cSt?

You need density. With compatible common units, cSt is approximately cP divided by density in g/cm³.

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Last reviewed: August 20, 2026. Verify fluid temperature, pressure, density, and measurement method when engineering accuracy matters.

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