Problems of transition of Russia’s energy sector to using domestically produced fire-resistant fluids

Fire-resistant fluids and lubricants are products that are used in various industries or energy sector to ensure the reliability and safety of equipment operating under high temperature and pressure conditions. Aspects of the use of fire-resistant fluids (hydraulic or lubricating agents), including those based on xylenol, in the Russian Federation energy industry (control and lubrication systems for automatic control systems of steam or gas turbines), and the problems of switching from imported materials to domestic analogues are considered. The range of issues raised at the All-Russian Scientific and Technical Conference “Modern trends in the development of the market for fire-resistant turbine oils and the record of their operation at thermal power plants and nuclear power plants,” held in March 2023, as well as the decisions made there, are covered. Besides, measures taken by energy companies to legitimize the use of domestic fire-resistant fluids for operation in thermal power equipment in Russia are indicated. The results of laboratory studies of new domestic fire-resistant fluids are presented, conclusions are drawn about the possibility of use, operation, and approval of new domestic lubricating or hydraulic fluids in the energy sector. The article was prepared in cooperation between two large electric-heat-generating companies and with the participation of Power Machines, PJSC. One of the goals set by the authors was to promote the production of domestic fire-resistant fluids synthesized from raw materials available in the Russian Federation, ensuring the reliable functioning of oil systems of turbine units.

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