Which Sulfur-Based Additive to Use in Water-Soluble Metalworking Fluid Formulations?
Looking to boost the performance of your water-soluble lubricants ? Discover how sulfur-based extreme pressure additives like ROSCAN® 1226 can transform your formulations.
In water-soluble metalworking fluid formulations, selecting the right extreme pressure (EP) additive is essential to ensure lubrication performance, thermal stability, and compatibility with other ingredients. Sulfur-based additives play a key role in protecting tools and workpieces by reducing friction, wear, and improving surface finish.
Why Use Sulfur-Based EP Additives for Lubricants?
Active sulfur compounds react with metal surfaces under high pressure and temperature to form protective films that reduce metal-to-metal contact. These chemical reactions are particularly effective in demanding operations such as threading, deep drilling, or broaching, where load-carrying capacity and antiwear performance are essential.
Specific Challenges in Soluble Formulations
In soluble fluids (emulsions and semi-synthetics), additives must be:
- Stable in emulsions, to avoid separation or deposit formation.
- Compatible with emulsifiers, to maintain system integrity.
- Non-staining, especially for sensitive alloys like aluminum or copper.
- Adapted to lubricant systems that require chemical stability and low foaming.
ROSCAN® 1226: A Chemical Solution for Extreme Pressure Lubricants
ROSCAN® 1226 is a light-colored sulfurized additive, based on highly refined natural triglycerides and hydrocarbons, offering excellent lubricity. It is especially suitable for heavy-duty straight oils used in deep hole drilling, tapping, broaching, and forming.
ROSCAN® 1226 can also be used in extreme pressure emulsions, designed for water-soluble formulations where it offers several key benefits:
- Good solubility in water-based and semi-synthetic lubricant systems
- Excellent emulsion stability, even in hard water conditions
- High extreme pressure properties, suitable for demanding machining operations
- Compatible with multi-additive systems, including esters, non-ionic emulsifiers, and other chemical components
EP Performance Validated by Reichert Test on Metal Surfaces
To assess the EP performance of ROSCAN® 1226 in soluble metalworking formulations, a Reichert test was conducted. This widely recognized method evaluates lubricity under pressure. The results confirmed the excellent load-carrying capacity of ROSCAN® 1226, demonstrating its ability to significantly reduce wear and friction in aqueous lubricant systems. This reinforces its suitability for high-performance metalworking fluids and gear-related applications.
- Performance in Emulsion-Type Formulations
ROSCAN® 1226 delivers stable emulsions, even in challenging water conditions, ensuring consistent lubrication, corrosion protection, and chemical compatibility during machining.
- Performance in Semi-Synthetic Type Formulations
In semi-synthetic systems, ROSCAN® 1226 enhances thermal resistance, reduces foaming, and supports longer tool life, making it ideal for high-speed operations and precision machining formulations.
A Strategic Choice for High-Performance Lubricants
ROSCAN® 1226 is not only a reliable extreme pressure additive, but also a key component in the formulation of high-performance lubricants. Its chemical structure, based on active sulfur compounds, ensures robust protection of metal surfaces under severe conditions. Whether used in cutting fluids, gear systems, or metalworking lubricants, b. Its compatibility with a wide range of base oils, vegetable oils, and chemical emulsifiers makes it a versatile additive for formulators seeking optimized lubrication and durability.
Recommended Applications
ROSCAN® 1226 is particularly well-suited for:
- Semi-synthetic fluids for general and heavy-duty machining
- High-performance emulsions for steel, stainless steel, and non-ferrous alloys
- Chlorine-free formulations, where it effectively replaces chlorinated EP additives
- Lubricants used in gear systems, requiring chemical durability and extreme pressure resistance
Other Solutions Available
While ROSCAN® 1226 is a highly effective choice, SEQENS offers a broader portfolio of sulfur-based additives tailored to various formulation needs, lubricant types, and machining operations. Whether you’re looking for alternatives with different solubility profiles, EP performance levels, or chemical compatibility, our technical team is here to help.
