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Engineers use ultrasound to improve the performance WD-40

Engineering experts at the University of Sheffield in England have developed a test procedure to measure the performance of everyday household oils, such as the WD-40 Multi-Use Product, which have many everyday applications, including loosening rusty bolts and removing dirt and heavy soiling from surfaces.

The innovative technique, developed by researchers from the University of Leonardo Centre for Tribology, uses ultrasound technology to gauge performance of penetrating oils.

The technology, which is the same type of ultrasound used for examining babies in the womb, allows engineers to measure and monitor the interfaces between components, such as the penetrating oils and the threads on bolts.

The pulse of ultrasound passes through the bolted joint and is reflected by the interface of the threads, while the rest is transmitted into the oil.

By doing this, engineers can gain a better understanding of how the oils work and, in turn, improve the lubricant in consideration to speeding up the process.

This revolutionary technique has been embraced by scientists from WD-40 Company, who are now working closely with the research engineers to develop additional products, as extension opportunities under the WD-40 brand, which has been a popular household name and DIY staple since the 1950s.

Prior to this groundbreaking work, there was no robust or non-destructive way to study the rate at which penetrating oils moved along threaded fasteners, such as bolts.

"We can now give an insight into the performance of penetrating oils," said Professor Rob Dwyer-Joyce, head of the Leonardo Centre for Tribology at the University of Sheffield. "This means improvements can be made to yield products that penetrate faster and release rusted bolts more effectively. This, in turn, will allow WD-40 Company to develop higher performance products for their users with more specialized needs."

"Ultrasound measurement can be used on anything lubricated, such as artificial hip joints, piston rings, seals, and bearings," added Dwyer-Joyce.

Published August 2013

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