Abstract:
From 2 to 30 per cent. by weight, based on the final composition, of a mono- or di-hydroxy fatty acid having between 12 and 24 carbon atoms in the molecule is neutralised with lime in the presence of about one-half to about five times the quantity of mineral base lubricating oil based on the weight of the hydroxy acid and at a maximum cooking temperature below about 275 DEG F., and additional mineral oil is added to the mixture, with continuous stirring as it cools, until a temperature of 180 DEG to 210 DEG F. is reached. The neutralisation may be carried out at about 180 DEG -200 DEG F., preferably 190 DEG F., and the cooking at a temperature below 275 DEG F. is carried out slowly with stirring. The mineral oil may have a viscosity between 60 and 5,000 S.U.S. (preferably 100-1,000 S.U.S.) at 100 DEG F. The preferred acid, 12-hydroxy stearic acid, may be present in preferred amounts of from 5 to 12 per cent., based on the final composition. The cooled grease may be further milled, if desired, to improve its texture. Oxidation inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, extreme pressure agents and other additives and modifiers may be present in the composition, if desired. In an example 150lb. of 12-hydroxy stearic acid and 570lb. of mineral oil (300 S.U.S. at 100 DEG F.) are mixed and heated to 190 DEG F. Hydrated lime (22lb.) is added as a slurry with water, and after neutralization is complete, the mixture is heated by steam under pressure to a maximum temperature of 250 DEG F. while stirring continuously. When the mixture is substantially dehydrated (0.05 per cent. water or less), 1,400lb. of oil is worked in while cooling to 200 DEG F. Specification 676,882 is referred to.