TPT May 2017

T E CHNOLOG Y

Environmentally safe chlorinated compounds for metal forming

been shown to be persistent, bio- accumulative and toxic. The reason that many companies have not embraced the use of vLCCPs is that they are the hardest to work with. While the shorter chain lengths are more liquid, vLCCPs are very thick and waxy, making them difficult for most companies to develop and store without making massive technological and equipment changes. Using vLCCPs has a variety of benefits. They improve surface quality and extend tool life. Additionally, they are long lasting and reliable. Replacing medium and long chain chlorinated paraffins with vLCCPs also reduces negative environmental impact. Hangsterfer’s Laboratories, Inc – USA Website: www.hangsterfers.com

very long chlorinated paraffins (vLCCP) will continue to be accepted. Chlorinated paraffins have been used for decades in the metalworking fluids industry. They are classified as short chain (SCCP), medium chain (MCCP), long chain (LCCP), and the newest classification, very long chain (vLCCP). vLCCPs must be C21 or greater. The shorter the chain length, the less viscous the substance is. However, the shorter the chain length, the more hazardous it is for the environment. SCCPs have been banned for years, and now MCCPs and LCCPs are being banned based on three factors: whether they are persistent, toxic or bio-accumulative. There is some evidence that vLCCPs are persistent in the environment but not toxic or bio-accumulative. However, chlorinated paraffins below C21 have

SINCE 1937, Hangsterfer’s has been committed to making high quality metalworking lubricants. The company states that it prides itself on developing products that meet the highest health, safety and environmental standards. As the industry is faced with increasing chemical-use regulations, this philosophy is more important than ever. According to research manager Nicolette Jones, the widespread use of chlorinated paraffins has recently come under intense scrutiny. The US Environmental Protection Agency has issued new regulations that will eliminate the use of medium and long chain chlorinated paraffins from the manufacturing industry. The European Chemicals Agency has begun testing these substances and is likely to issue a similar ban. The safer

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MAY 2017