Fomblin® PFPE possesses a combination of such exceptional properties as chemical inertness, good lubricity, thermal stability, nonflammability, low volatility, and low toxicity. Fomblin® based lubricants have been a critical part of the space programs of both the United States (NASA) and the European Space Agency for over 25 years.
The latest adventure involves the highly successful Mars Pathfinder and its surface explorer, the Sojourner® Rover. The design engineers at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California knew the harsh Martian temperatures would challenge the lubrication and hydraulic systems of both the Pathfinder Lander and its Rover. Because of these conditions, they chose to use grease specially formulated by Castrol® using Solvay Solexis’ Fomblin® perfluorinated fluids.
Algoflon® L PTFE micropowders are ideal for dispersing in greases to improve both high and low temperature lubricity. When added to high viscosity specialty greases, service life, and lubricity are improved, especially in high temperature and corrosive environments. Greases incorporating Algoflon® L PTFE micropowders are effective for much longer periods than conventional greases so that lubrication frequency may be reduced substantially.
Another important role for Algoflon® L PTFE micropowders in greases is as thickeners. For this purpose PTFE micronized powders with a high specific surface area are preferred. In fact, the higher the specific surface area of the PTFE micropowders, the lower the quantity requested to obtain the desired properties, in particular, the increase in viscosity and grease consistency (lower penetration).
Additionally, extreme environmental demands on greases, such as those experienced in the aerospace industry, (i.e. wide temperature ranges, high vacuum conditions at high speeds and heavy loads) can be accommodated by the inclusion of Algoflon® L PTFE micropowders.
Anti-seizing oils for systems that can have long periods of inactivity (safety valves and taps) can contain very high loadings of Polymist® PTFE micropowders in order to guarantee fail-safe security.
