Understanding The Benefits Of Synthetic Oil For Machining
When it comes to metalworking, lubricants, fluids and coolants play a vital role in the machining process. In fact, it’s estimated that the metalworking fluids (MWF) market will reach nearly $10 billion by 2020.
Whether you’re using Castrol Brayco or some other type of oil, there are benefits to using different kinds. But when it comes to using mineral oils or synthetic oils, there are some things to consider.
Mineral oils function well in nearly all industrial machinery and are cost-effective with a reasonable service life. When it comes to using mineral oils, you want to watch out for the following:
- Waxing. This can result in poor oil flow at low temperatures.
- Oxidation stability. Poor oxidation stability, especially at high temperatures can lead to buildup of acid and sludge.
- Thickness changes. As temperature changes, so can the viscosity of mineral oils. At high temperatures, some mineral oils can thin out.
- Application limits. To keep mineral oils functioning at their best, keep at on the temperatures and try to keep them within a certain operating range. Think about 250 degrees Fahrenheit on the hot end and 100 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit on the cold end.
Synthetic oils involve more processing before they can be used and are more expensive as a result, but for industrial machine use, the cost is often worth it. Compared to mineral oil, synthetic oil is made up of the same type of chemical structure, compared to the different sizes and shapes that mark the chemistry of mineral oil.
If you’re debating whether to use mineral oil or synthetic oil, there are two main advantages to using synthetic oil; synthetic oil performs better at higher operating temperatures as well as low operating temperatures. Beyond that, the advantages of synthetic oils, depending on the type, include:
- Fire resistance
- Higher viscosity index
- Lower emissions of engine hydrocarbon
- High oil film strength
- Better energy efficiency
Whether you use Castro Brayco oil, Brayco mil spec oil or another type of oil, make sure to do research on the advantages and disadvantages of whichever oil you’re using. A recent international study found that just over 40% of manufacturing companies have the right steps in place to manage lubricants correctly; what’s more, more than 60% of companies say they don’t conduct staff training on lubricants regularly. Before using any type of oil on any machinery, take time to do some research.
