Lubricant, Synthetic

Name:
Lubricant, Synthetic
Detailed information:
Any of a number of organic fluids having specialized and effective properties that are required in cases where petroleum-derived lubricants are inadequate. Each type has at least one property not found in conventional lubricants. Though their cost is much higher, they can be used over a wide range of temperatures and are stable to heat and oxidation. The major types are polyglycols(hydraulic and brake fluids), phosphate esters (fire-resistant), dibasic acid esters (aircraft turbine engines), chlorofluorocarbons (aerospace), silicone oils and greases (electric motors, antifriction bearings), silicate esters (heat-transfer agents and hydraulic fluids), neopentyl polyol esters (turbine engines), and polyphenyl ethers (excellent heat and oxidation resistance, but poor performance at low temperatures). An unusual property of synthetic lubricants is their exceptional resistance to ionizing radiation.