Evaluating the effect of a fluid on aluminium alloys

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Identifying the Risks Associated with Contact between Fluids and Aluminium Alloys

In the Aerospace and Nuclear sectors, contact between a metallic material and a fluid can alter its surface condition and performance properties. An evaluation of the effect of a fluid makes it possible to study the interactions between a lubricant, fuel, hydraulic fluid, cleaning liquid, heat-transfer fluid or process solution and aluminium alloys. The objective is to detect mechanisms likely to affect component performance: localized corrosion, pitting, deposits, chemical attack, coating deterioration, changes in appearance or mass loss.

Characterizing the Fluid and the Material’s Initial Condition

Filab laboratory can examine technical fluids used in industrial environments: oils and lubricants, hydraulic fluids, fuels, solvents, cleaning products, process water, coolants or formulated solutions. Fluid analysis and initial characterization of the alloy establish a reference condition and identify the relevant analytical parameters. To determine the elemental composition of a material or detect transferred elements, an ICP analysis for the aerospace industry can complement the investigation.

Examining Surfaces and Damaged Areas

Macroscopic and microscopic examination makes it possible to locate the affected areas and assess the morphology of the defects. Depending on the issue, Filab laboratory may use surface examinations, microscopy and elemental analyses to characterize pitting, deposits, signs of attack or heterogeneities. This approach is particularly useful when a part experiences an in-service failure; it may form part of an aerospace failure diagnosis process.

Filab laboratory also supports you with the following services:

Adapting Exposure Parameters to the Use Scenario

A relevant test reproduces the key parameters of the intended-use scenario: fluid type and concentration, temperature, duration, medium renewal, presence of air, cycling, any mechanical stresses and the component’s surface condition. Filab laboratory works with your teams to establish a protocol consistent with the need for qualification, solution comparison or post-incident investigation.

Implementing a Test Strategy Adapted to Service Conditions

Filab laboratory develops a test programme based on your alloy, its metallurgical condition, surface finish, the fluid concerned and the stresses representative of its intended use. Exposure conditions can be defined according to temperature, contact time, immersion, condensation, thermal cycling or accelerated ageing. The results make it possible to compare a reference sample with an exposed test specimen, document incompatibility and support qualification, material selection or surface-treatment decisions.

Monitoring Changes Induced after Exposure

After exposure, the examination focuses on appearance, the presence of residues, surface defects and any changes in composition. Comparative analysis help distinguish material evolution, external contamination or deposits originating from the fluid. The results are interpreted in light of the applied conditions and the function of the component.

Analysing the Composition of Deposits and Corrosion Products

Chemical characterization of residues and corrosion products helps identify their probable origin: fluid constituents, contaminants, salts, degradation products or elements originating from the alloy. Comparing sound areas with exposed areas helps establish a well-supported diagnosis, particularly when degradation is localized or associated with a specific geometry.

Providing Results Directly Usable by Technical Teams

The report presents the conditions applied, the methods used, the observations and the comparative results. It supports technical decisions concerning material–fluid compatibility, alloy selection, coating choice or the implementation of corrective actions. For projects related to nuclear-sector facilities and equipment, see the energy and nuclear analysis services.

Benefit from analytical support from defining your requirements through to the test report

Filab laboratory combines materials analysis, chemical characterisation and failure investigation to address compatibility issues between fluids and metal alloys. Support begins with analysing your requirements and continues with defining the test plan, interpreting the results and delivering an actionable report. To initiate your study, provide information about the alloy, the fluid, the service conditions and the expected decision criterion; request a technical proposal; schedule the tests.

Frequently asked questions

How can the effect of a fluid on an aluminium alloy intended for the aerospace or nuclear industries be evaluated?

At Filab laboratory, the evaluation is based on characterizing the alloy and the fluid, defining a representative exposure protocol, and then comparing the initial condition with the condition after testing. Observations and measurements are selected according to the identified risk: corrosion, deposits, surface modification, mass loss or changes in properties.

Which fluids can be studied in contact with an aluminium alloy?

Studies may involve hydraulic fluids, lubricants, fuels, solvents, cleaning agents, coolants, process water and specific formulations. Feasibility is established beforehand according to the nature of the fluid, its availability, the conditions of use and the objectives of the study.

Which techniques are used to detect corrosion or surface degradation?

The analytical strategy may combine visual examination, microscopy, elemental analysis and residue characterization. The choice of techniques depends on defect size, the presumed nature of the deposits, the alloy, the fluid and the required level of evidence.

How can a test representative of aerospace or nuclear conditions be defined?

Representativeness is defined based on actual or specified conditions: temperature, duration, contact mode, cycles, concentration, surface condition and functional requirements. Filab laboratory adapts the protocol to produce comparable results that support decision-making.

Why entrust Filab laboratory with evaluating the effect of a fluid on aluminium?

Filab laboratory adapts the study to your component, your fluid and your operating context. This approach provides a targeted protocol, analysis suited to the mechanisms under investigation and reporting focused on qualification, failure prevention or the resolution of a non-conformity.