Phase and aggregational behavior of model metal working formulations of the
inversely soluble type was studied with the aid of a new analytical tool.
Correlations between these data and measured anti-wear performance data are
discussed. The aim was to gain some insight into the mode of variation of
the anti-wear effect with temperature and concentration depending on compos
ition of inversely soluble formulations, despite the complexity of the syst
ems. A comparison with a conventional synthetic metal working fluid indicat
ed inherent advantages of inversely soluble concepts at elevated temperatur
es. Thus, as temperature is increased, as occurs in a friction contact, wea
r is more effectively mitigated with a suitable formulated inversely solubl
e system. Typically, as shown experimentally in this paper, the behavior is
different from data observed with a conventional metal working fluid formu
lation. A substantial dependence of the anti-wear effect on the adsorption
of boundary lubricating components is inferred from a study of correlation
between monomer concentration and extent of wear. These experiments were co
nducted on surfactant concentrations exceeding critical micelle concentrati
on (CMC) to various degrees. Findings also indicate a particular potential
to optimize Lubrication performance by exploiting synergetic effects observ
ed in a combination of two different types of alkoxylated compounds. The in
vestigated types of formulations offer particularly good prospects for effe
ctive contaminant removal without loss of active matter. This is favorable
from an occupational health and environmental standpoint, due to the possib
ility to exchange biocides with mechanical means of microbial control and a
n improved potential for a long service life. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V
. All rights reserved.