Synthetic Fluids and Greases

Synthetic or semi-synthetic fluids or greases are based on synthetic compounds such as silicone, polyglycol, esters, diesters, chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), and mixtures of synthetic fluids and water. Synthetic fluids tend to have the highest fire resistance and cost. Synthetic fluids contain no petroleum or mineral oil base, but are instead formulated from alkaline organic and inorganic compounds along with additives for corrosion inhibition. They are generally used in a diluted form with concentrations ranging from 3% to 10%. Synthetic fluids often provide the best cooling performance among all cutting fluids. Semi-synthetic fluids are essentially combination of synthetic and soluble petroleum or mineral oil fluids. The characteristics, cost, and heat transfer performance of semi-synthetic fluids fall between those of synthetic and soluble oil fluids. Some synthetics such as phosphate esters react or dissolve paint, pipe thread compounds, and electrical insulation.