Passivation Pathways

Electric and hybrid vehicle lubricants must offer conventional wear protection for steel gears and bearings while also effectively cooling copper containing eMotors, power electronics and potentially even battery modules. Fluid chemistries impact metals differently, in seen and unseen ways, so a deep understanding of surface chemistry is essential. 

In this article, Afton Chemical explores how conventional lubricants contribute to copper corrosion and how the right eFluid formulation can protect copper to preserve vital component integrity. Detailed molecular understanding, application knowledge and relevant testing jointly determine the best copper passivation pathways for EV performance and reliability. New in-house tests have allowed Afton to evaluate how different eFluids help to reduce dendrite formation and improve component performance.
 

Featured in the July 2022 edition of Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology International Magazine.