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Metalworking fluid avoids dermatological problems

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team Nov 4, 2003

Dermatologically friendly metalworking fluid contains no aromatic base oils or amines and helps reduce skin irritations caused by lubricant contact in metalworking operations.

Shell Metalworking Europe has developed a new dermatologically friendly metalworking fluid designed to help reduce skin irritations caused by lubricant contact in metalworking operations.

The new metalworking fluid, Shell Adrana AY 2401, contains no aromatic base oils or amines and provides the same performance characteristics as leading water miscible fluids.

The metalworking fluid has been formulated using a combination of low irritant additives and a kalium hydroxide (KOH) solution, resulting in the fluid having a low pH value and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) level.

This combination ensures increased skin compatibility and reduced dermatological complaints, such as dermatitis.

Shell Adrana AY 2401 can be used to machine a variety of metals including iron, steel, aluminium and yellow metals.

It will be of particular benefit to chip forming operations such as tuning and milling, where there is an increased risk of lubricant contact.

Anders Hultgren, Research and Development Manager at Shell Metalworking Europe comments: "Skin problems in metalworking are second only to noise-related hearing complaints.

The majority of skin irritations are caused by the high pH levels in lubricants used throughout the industry.

Shell Adrana AY 2401 has been formulated with a pH level of eight which is lower than the industry average of nine.

This significantly reduces the risk of skin irritations which are often a result of contact through improper lubricant handling." Shell Adrana AY 2401 is highly durable and has been developed for use in a range of cutting operations and features low foaming, high anti-wear and anti-corrosion properties.

These performance characteristics mean the fluid requires less changes and reduces the risk of skin contact through lubricant handling.

Its low foaming characteristics further reduce the risk of accidental lubricant contact during the metalworking operation.

Anders concludes: "There is no ideal skin friendly lubricant and metalworking companies should avoid lubricant contact where possible.

It is important that in cases of skin irritation, companies should identify the irritant and seek an alternative.

However, this can be difficult as metalworking lubricants are often formulated using a variety of additives and are designed primarily for machine requirements.

Shell Adrana AY 2401 has been developed to meet both machine and user lubrication requirements and can actively help to reduce skin irritations and complaints." Shell Metalworking Europe consists of three specialist metal working companies - Shell Macron in Germany, Shell JP Industries in France and Shell Sinol in Italy.

Shell provide on a European wide basis, a complete range of fluids - developed to meet specific metal working related production process needs, and formulated to deliver consistent performance for the highest quality work.