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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).
Laboratory report comparing the properties of various oils, including Shell, Mobiloil, Spirax, and Amber 'B'.

Identifier  ExFiles\Box 144\3\  scan0182
Date  16th March 1937
  
1220
Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}/FD.{Frank Dodd - Bodies}
HL2/WR.16.3.37.
Report No. L4251.
Laboratory.

Re: Samples of Oil and Grease for comparison with our standardised materials.

We have completed our examination of the oils, and our findings are given below. The greases are not yet finished, but we will report these to you as soon as possible.

Shell Shock Absorber Oil (Light), compared with Mobiloil Arctic Oil at present used on Hydraulic Dampers.

Shell        Mobiloil
Saponification Value        0.23%        0.45%
Organic acid (as oleic)        0.02%        0.05%
Pour Point            -48°C.        -40°C.

The viscosity of the Shell oil is much lower than that of the Mobiloil. At ordinary atmospheric temperatures this is particularly evident, the Mobiloil viscosity increasing rapidly with progressively falling temperature. An indication of the variation can be seen on the accompanying viscosity curves.

While the Shell oil is much superior in this respect, the low viscosity may increase any tendency towards leakage.

Shell Spirax Oil compared with Price's Amber "B".

Spirax        Amber "B"
Saponification Value        1.91%        0.56%
Organic acid (as oleic)        0.36%        0.02%
Pour Point            -20°C.        -1°C.

The general viscosity of the Spirax oil is slightly higher than that of the Amber "B", although this is relatively unimportant.

Our only comment here concerns the organic acidity As may be seen, this is considerably higher in the case of the Shell Oil. Under moist conditions this may be a disadvantage from the corrosion standpoint, bearing in mind the fine finish and fit of the steel worm on the steering tube.

HL. HE
  
  


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