Perfluoropolyether Lubricants (PFPEs). A Unique Structure. Three elements,
strong bonds, and a flexible polymer chain. Perfluoropolyethers are polymeric ...
A Unique Source for High Per formance PFPE Lubricants
Perfluoropolyether Lubricants (PFPEs) A Unique Structure Three elements, strong bonds, and a flexible polymer chain Perfluoropolyethers are polymeric chains built upon just three elements – carbon, oxygen, and fluorine. Each contributes significantly to the compound’s ability to act as a high-performance lubricant in the harshest environments. The C-F chemical bond is the strongest inter-atomic bond found in nature, while at the same time, fluorine, nature’s most electronegative element, shields the molecule providing exceptional strength. The absence of hydrogen, a common element of traditional lubricants, contributes further to PFPE’s enhanced thermo-oxidative stability.
Classes of PFPEs Linear, branched, and functionalized Versatility is another attribute of the PFPE family of lubricants, which results in additional benefits to design engineers. The molecular structure of the polymer chain, that is, how the C, F, O atoms are linked, is the attribute responsible for this broad range of features. A linear PFPE is a straight polymer chain. A pendent or branched PFPE contains side chains. And, a functionalized PFPE features functional organic end groups. Each excels in specific applications.
CLASS
FEATURES
APPLICATIONS
LINEAR
• High MW • High viscosity index • Low volatility and low pourpoint (a very unusual combination)
• Extreme wide temperatures • Lubrication for life
BRANCHED
• Enhanced stability due to intrinsic molecule properties • More film strength • Better wear protection
• High temperatures • Harsh chemicals contact • High load
FUNCTIONALIZED
• Functional organic end group for “strong” adhesion to surfaces
• Thin film lubricant
INDUSTRIES • Automotive • Aerospace • Semiconductor • Sintered Metal Bearing • Vacuum • Oxygen handling • Mechanical Industrial • Nuclear • High temp
• Electronics (hard disk drives)
Product Portfolio Solvay Solexis is the largest producer of PFPE fluids with the widest product range in the world: linear, branched low MW, branched high MW, and functionalized PFPEs. Solvay Solexis is the source of Fomblin® PFPE lubricants. Our complete portfolio includes: • Oils • Greases • Microemulsions • Carrier fluids • Soluble additives (interacting with the substrate to improve surface protection)
Solvay Solexis – The World Leader in PFPE Technology About Solvay Solexis Solvay, founded in 1863, is a multinational enterprise, with over 400 operations in more than 50 countries. Solvay Solexis is totally dedicated to fluorinated specialties. With over 4,200 patents, it is a leading patent holder in the world. Its treasure of intellectual property is the foundation for a broad catalog of high performance products
including Fluoropolymers (PTFE, ECTFE, PFA, MFA, PVDF), Fluorinated Fluids (PFPE, HFPE), and Fluoroelastomers (FKM, FFKM). The fluorine atom is the common building block for the whole Solvay Solexis product portfolio. Solvay Solexis focuses on customer-driven research. It is dedicated to the philosophy of sustainable development and committed to the Responsible Care® program of the American Chemistry Council.
Fluorine Chemistry is our Commitment Dedicated, focused, and technology-driven RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY
VERTICALLY INTEGRATED ORGANIZATION
Activities center on both PFPE’s pure research – the design of new molecules, new structures and new additives – and applied research – the development of new applications, product customization, and the testing of optimum PFPE solutions.
PFPE fluids at Solvay Solexis are synthesized through the proprietary process of photo oxidation of TFE and HFP monomers. We develop our own monomers and intermediates, mining the raw material, fluorspar, from our mines, giving us total control over our entire operation and enabling us to deliver uncompromising value to our customers.
TECHNICAL SERVICE While we have a global presence, we are locally available to support our customers with applied research, troubleshooting, testing, analysis, and field application development. INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS We forged strategic partnerships with the leading players in the industry to ensure we deliver the best custom solution for our customers’ specific applications.
PEOPLE Research, manufacturing, customer support, and business development resources are focused on the continued enhancement of PFPE technology and on the delivery of customized solutions involving fluorinated lubricants.
Unique Properties Stability, wide temperature range, compatibility, and safety The unique structure of PFPE provides several unique and extremely functional properties into the polymer, contributing to the compound’s excellent lubricating capabilities:
Graph 1
Viscosity vs. Temperature
BOUNDARY LUBRICATION Fomblin® PFPE fluids remain functional over a very broad range of operating conditions. - Very wide viscosity range and high viscosity index (Refer to Graph 1 – Viscosity vs. Temperature) - Minimum weight loss for maximum BOUNDARY LUBRICATION equipment life
(Refer to Graph 2 – Weight Loss Linear vs. Branched)
Broadest operating TEMPERATURE range of all classes of lubricants (-90ºC to 290ºC). (Refer to Graph 3 – Operative Temperature Range)
TEMPERATURE
A high degree of STABILITY. Unmatched chemical and solvent resistance; thermal and oxidative stability; excellent radiation stability.
FOMBLIN Y45 FOMBLIN Z25 Graph 2
ASTM 2595: 22 hours at 204ºC
STABILITY
COMPATIBILITY with a broad selection of materials. Inert to most plastics, metals, and elastomers, as well as liquid and gaseous oxygen.
FOMBLIN Y BRANCHED
FOMBLIN M LINEAR
FOMBLIN Z LINEAR
COMPATIBILITY
SAFE Non-flammable, non-toxic, no volatile organic compounds, NSF approved.
Graph 3
Operative Temperature Range SAFE
Minimum temperature due to increase in viscosity, C Maximum temperature in presence of oxygen, C PFPEs broader coverage temperature range
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[email protected] To our actual knowledge, the information contained herein is accurate as of the date of this document. However, neither Solvay Solexis, Inc., nor any of its affiliates makes any warranty, express or implied, or accepts any liability in connection with this information or its use. This information is for use by technically skilled persons at their own discretion and risk and does not relate to the use of this product in combination with any other substance or any other process. This is not a license under any information or material for any contemplated use, the manner of use and whether any patents are infringed. This information gives typical properties only and is not to be used for specification purposes. Trademarks and/or other Solvay Solexis, Inc. products referenced herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Solvay Solexis, Inc. or its affiliates. Copyright 2004, Solvay Solexis, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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