From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Analysis and conclusions on 'Jackall Fluid' and Wakefield's Castraulic Fluid.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 140\2\ scan0176 | |
| Date | 6th March 1939 | |
| - C O P Y - To: MR.SMITH (SMITH'S JACKING SYSTEMS) Copy to Mr.Haviland. From: MR.FRANKLIN. 6th March, 1939 JACKALL FLUID We found the sample of Wakefield's Castraulic Fluid to contain 44% Methylated Spirit and the remainder to be second quality Castor Oil. The two used fluids received from Rolls-Royce Ltd. bear very little resemblance to our own fluids, or even Wakefields' Castraulic Fluid. This is due to the fact that almost complete evaporation of the volatile alcohol constituent has taken place with the resultant thickening of the two fluids in question. There has also been a slight but definite contamination and deterioration of quality of the remaining castor oil in the two fluids. It is our considered opinion from test results obtained that the fluids have been accidentally contaminated with small traces of mineral oil as shown by the presence of unsaponifiable matter. This is by no means certain, however, as slight traces of unsaponifiable matter may be due to the poor quality of the castor oil in the first case. There has obviously been some free fatty acid in the castor oil and this has attacked the copper, iron and zinc in the system. CONCLUSIONS. (a) First of all we definitely do not recommend Wakefield Castraulic Fluid. In our opinion it is definitely inferior to our own fluids. We most strongly emphasise the fact that it is difficult for us to pronounce definite findings and advise on troubles arising from the use of other peoples fluids. (b) As far as we can say in this instance, however, the troubles experienced in service have been due to one or more of the following causes. (1) Evaporation of alcohol. (2) Slight contamination with mineral oil. (3) Deterioration of castor oil with the increase of fatty acid content. -contd- | ||