Cortec launches new ashless corrosion inhibitor

Cortec Corporation, based in St. Paul, Minnesota, U.S.A., has launched a new ashless corrosion inhibitor for turbine and gearbox oils.

The first important characteristic of Cortec® M-535 is its vapor-phase action. Traditional corrosion inhibitor additives can only protect the metal surfaces in direct contact with the oil to which the inhibitor has been added. This leaves a large percentage of the system unprotected as, for example, gearboxes are often only half-filled. 

M-535 adds an extra dimension of protection in the form of vapor phase corrosion inhibitors. These molecules vaporize out of the treated oil, diffusing throughout the headspace to form a protective molecular corrosion inhibiting layer on metal surfaces above the fluid level. This makes corrosion protection economical, efficient, and thorough, even at a low dose or with minimal oil in the system.

The second key feature of M-535 is its ashless chemistry. Compatibility with the base oil is a must for additives. When it comes to turbines and other systems that use ashless oils, additional compatibility testing is essential. M-535 was designed specifically with the needs of ashless oils in mind and a heightened understanding of ashless performance requirements. It has successfully been formulated for use in turbines, as well as many general lubrication systems where ashless chemistry is not mandatory, according to Cortec. 

Possible applications for M-535 include the following:

• Gas turbines
• Wind turbine gearboxes
• Speed reducers between steam turbines and generators
• Speed increasers
• Hydraulic systems
• Compressor systems
• Other industrial fluids

M-535 provides outstanding non-staining properties and is effective in most hydrocarbon-based lubricants, including naphthenic, paraffinic, PAO, etc., according to the company.

Another benefit of M-535 is that it can be used during layup or intermittent operation. This saves the hassle of having to remove the oil additive and reapply it every time an idle system has to be temporarily started up in the middle of a preservation period. 

M-535 also opens further potential for regular use in operating systems, although this should be tested and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.