Characterisation of Natural Oils as Carrier Fluids for Magnetorheological Fluids

Abstract

The field of application of Magnetorheological fluids (MRF) is widening. The carrier fluids being used now are synthetic, expensive and non-biodegradable. Hence, there is a need for looking for better and inexpensive alternatives. This study was intended to uncloak alternatives to the synthetic carrier fluids by taking four natural oils and conducting various tests. The four natural oils, viz, Simarouba Oil, Mahua Oil, Groundnut oil, Flaxseed oil and synthetic Silicone oil were taken and tests concerning Magnetorheological fluids like density, kinematic viscosity, flash and fire point, pour point, etc., were conducted according to standards in a licensed laboratory. Based on the various tests conducted, the four natural oils have shown remarkable potential compared with commonly used silicone oil to be used as carrier fluids.