What happens to the oxidation rate of mineral oil for every 18 degrees F increase above 135 degrees F?

The oxidation rate of mineral oil is a critical parameter in understanding its performance and longevity, especially at elevated temperatures. As the temperature of mineral oil increases, the molecular activity within the oil also rises, leading to accelerated chemical reactions, including oxidation.

In this scenario, for every 18 degrees Fahrenheit increase above 135 degrees Fahrenheit, research indicates that the oxidation rate indeed doubles. This significant increase occurs because the higher temperatures provide enough energy for the oxidation reactions to proceed at a much faster rate. The molecular bonds within the oil are more likely to break down and react with oxygen, resulting in the formation of oxidation products, which can lead to degradation and reduced effectiveness of the oil.

This principle can be linked to the Arrhenius equation in chemistry, which shows that reaction rates generally increase exponentially with temperature. Therefore, understanding this temperature-oxidation relationship is essential for effectively managing the use and life of mineral oils in applications such as lubrication and cooling systems in industrial machinery.