Abstract

The combustion behavior of hydraulic fluids can vary significantly but many types are currently labeled as “fire-resistant.” This lack of discrimination cannot only be confusing to the user, but may result in incorrect fluid selection with potentially dangerous consequences. The paper therefore suggests an alternative way of classifying 'fire resistant' fluids. However, for acceptance, the methods used to measure “fire resistance” have to be agreed. The paper therefore examines the principal methods in current use for determining this property and proposes a test regime to help define the levels of performance.

Issue Section:
Research Papers
Keywords:
fire resistance, fire-resistant hydraulic fluids, ignitability, flame propagation, self-extinguishment, phosphate esters, polyol esters, polyalkyleneglycols, spray ignition, hot surface ignition, wick test

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