Abstract
The hydraulic systems of certain submarines suffer occasional sea water contamination. The Royal Navy has, for several years, used an emulsifying fluid in such systems to reduce the damage to system components. The characteristics of the fluid are described together with the results of an evaluation of the effects of the fluid and its sea water emulsions on the life of rolling contact bearings. Mineral oil hydraulic fluids, including the emulsifying product, represent a potentially serious fire hazard within the confined spaces of submarines. Fire resistant fluids are, therefore, of interest for the future although at least some aspects of the performance of all available types cause concern. Development of (i) emulsifying fluids, (ii) aqueous polyglycols or invert emulsions and (iii) phosphate esters as potential submarine hydraulic fluids is recommended.
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