Well refined mineral
lubricating oils have little if any action on most metals, particularly ferrous
metals. It is only upon prolonged use at elevated temperatures that such oils
may from compounds which will act upon metals. Since such oil changes can be retarded
or almost completely arrested by the use of oxidation inhibitors and also metal
deactivators or pacifiers can be included, there should be little concern about
the action of straight mineral oils upon the metal components with
which they come in contact.
What we are concerned with
here is the action on parts made from other materials, such as paper, plastics,
rubber, etc. Seals are likely to be made from rubber, either artificial or
natural, and any deterioration of the compositions due to the lubricant should
be at a minimum. Many seals consist of compounded materials, such as
“neoprene,” and it is found that oils high in aniline points, as are most high
V.I. oils, will have little effect on this compound.
Automatic transmission
mechanisms may be found to contain paper and “Nylon” parts. In future devices
which will require transmission fluids, a greater variety of components may be
used. The safest course when supplying oils for contact with unusual materials
is to have the fluids pretested to determine their suitability.
