Industrial equipment must be able to withstand high pressure to operate correctly. Industries such as mining, construction, and agriculture require such equipment to run smoothly. This means that having the right lubricant in place is crucial to keep your equipment running efficiently.
Chemicals Used in Extreme-Pressure Fluids
Chemicals used in extreme-pressure fluids can be divided into two broad categories. The first category includes additives that are a barrier between two contacting surfaces. These additives are produced through a reaction with the metal surfaces and create a solid protective layer. They also reduce friction and prevent damaging metal-to-metal contact. According to experts in extreme pressure fluid Houston, TX, these additives can include phosphorous, chlorine, and sulfur. They are thermally activated and can be used in various conditions. In the extreme pressure range, the use of additives can be beneficial. TPPT, a polyoxyethylene triglyceride, is an excellent example of an extreme pressure additive.
Shear-Thickening Fluids
Shear-thickening fluids undergo a process whereby the particles are forced to interact with each other in a highly stress-induced manner. These interactions include contact, steric, and electrostatic forces. Depending on the Peclet number, the fluid may be anisotropic or symmetric, and the forces acting on the particles produce either a thick or thin film. These fluids are widely found in everyday life. Shear thickening of rigid spherical bodies in Newtonian fluids has been studied experimentally and by simulation methods. Experimentally, silica particles in polyethylene glycol solutions show shear thickening.
Phosphate Esters
Phosphate esters are a class of lubricant additives. They reduce friction and wear in high-load applications and improve the stability and solubility of base stock lubricants. These additives are also used to improve corrosion inhibition. Phosphate esters are widely used in lubricants but may pose a potential health risk. Inhaling phosphates can cause delayed neuropathy in humans. Although these compounds have low toxicity, they have high LD50 values. Ingestion of phosphate esters can cause cramping, loss of coordination, and paralysis. The recovery time is long, and the victims rarely recover completely.
Phosphate esters are soluble in oil. They can be used in a variety of metal-working fluid formulations. They enhance emulsification in water-based lubricants and have good anti-corrosion and anti-foaming properties.
Sulfur
Sulfur is one of the most common additives in lubricant formulations. Its high oxidation resistance makes it ideal for extending the life of the oil. In addition, it helps companies meet increasingly strict environmental regulations.
Sulfur is also used in metal-working fluids. In the case of gears, it improves sliding contact and prevents scuffing and galling. The amount of sulfur in a fluid depends on the type of metal.
Chlorine
Chlorine is a major component of many extreme-pressure fluids, including those for cutting applications. These fluids are blended with other substances to provide extreme pressure properties. These compounds are widely used because they are cheap and offer many benefits but can cause problems. For example, they are very reactive with water, combustion by-products, and other acidic materials, which can damage engine bearings and components. Chlorine is a poisonous gas with an unpleasant odor. Exposure to this gas can cause burning of the conjunctiva, throat, and bronchial tree. It is also heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas.
