Chapter Five - Maintenance
59
contact with the unit should be carefully evaluated under end-use conditions for com-
patibility. You should also follow the use and compatibility recommendations of the
material manufacturer. The table below lists general, chemical compatibility guidelines.
Figure 5-2. Chemical Compatibility
Chemical Class
Effects
Acids
No effect under most common conditions of concentration and
temperature.
Alcohols
Generally compatible at low concentration and room
temperature. Higher concentrations and elevated
temperatures result in etching and attack evidenced by
decomposition.
Alkalis
Generally compatible at low concentration and room
temperature. Higher concentrations and elevated
temperatures result in etching and attack evidenced by
decomposition.
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
Generally compatible
Amines
Surface crystallization and chemical attack. Avoid.
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Partial solvents and severe stress cracking agents. Avoid.
Detergents and Cleaners
Mild soap solutions are compatible. Strong alkaline materials
should be avoided.
Esters
Causes severe crystallization. Partial solvents. Avoid.
Greases and
Oils
Pure petroleum types generally compatible. Many additives
used with them are not compatible.
Halogenated
Hydrocarbons
Solvents. Avoid.
Ketones
Causes severe crystallization and stress cracking. Partial
solvents. Avoid.
Silicone Oil and Greases
Generally compatible up to 85ºC (185º F). Some contain
aromatic hydrocarbons which should be avoided.
Compatible Lubricants
The following table lists known compatible lubricants and the manufacturer’s names. If
you want to use a lubricant that is not listed below, contact the appropriate manufacturer
for compatibility.
Figure 5-3. Compatible Lubricants
Lubricants
Manufacturer
DC® 230
Molykote® 33
Dow Corning
Midland, MI 48640
(800) 248-2345
Harmony® 68
Security® 68
Gulf Oil
Petroleum Prod. Dept.
Pittsburgh, PA 15230
(412) 655-6247
Lubriplate®
Aero
Fisher Bros. Refinery
129 Lockwood Street
Newark, NJ 07105