THE DEVELOPMENT OF RADIATION RESISTANT LUBRICANTS

Journal Article · Sun Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1962 · Atoomenergie

OSTI ID:4829331

Irving, R; Scarlett,

The results of investigations leading to the selection of materials that give satisfactory operation in the presence of reactor radiation are summarized. The laboratory experiments on the factors which affect the radiation stability of a lubricant are first described. The performance of the most promising materials under dynamic operating conditions in the laboratory and bearing-rig tests in a reactor are then reviewed. The results show that in the presence of nuclear radiation, hydrocarbon oils crosslink. and an increase in viscosity occurs together with gas evolution. For maximum resistance to radiation, oils of relatively high aromatic content and low molecular weight should be used. Conventional metallic soap-based greases are relatively unstable and lose their structure. becoming liquid. Greases based on a special forra of silica are much more resistant. The results of extensive dynamic rig testing of such greases confirra their suitability as lubricants for operation in a radiation environment at relatively high temperatures (up to 150 deg C) in an atmosphere of carbon dioxide. (J.S.R.)

• Research Organization: Originating Research Org. not identified
• NSA Number: NSA-16-024247
• OSTI ID: 4829331
• Journal Information: Atoomenergie, Journal Name: Atoomenergie Vol. Vol: 4e
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: Dutch

Related Subjects

BEARINGS
CARBON DIOXIDE
ENVIRONMENT
GASES
GREASES
HIGH TEMPERATURE
HYDROCARBONS
IRRADIATION
LIQUEFYING
LOSSES
LUBRICATION
METALS
METALS, CERAMICS, AND OTHER MATERIALS
MOLECULES
NEUTRON BEAMS
OILS
PERFORMANCE
POLYMERIZATION
QUANTITY RATIO
RADIATION EFFECTS
REACTORS
SILICON OXIDES
SOAPS
STABILITY
TESTING
VISCOSITY
WEIGHT