Description
  • Radiation-resistant phenyl fluid. Dow DOWSIL 510 Fluid Clear is a thermally stable silicone fluid used for equipment exposed to radiation, such as equipment in nuclear plants, hydraulic arresters, and hydraulically actuated valves. It offers a high flash point, chemical inertness, low volatility, compressibility, and resistance to heat and radiation.
  • Composition. DOWSIL 510 is a phenylmethyl polysiloxane polymer, available in a viscosity range from 50 to 30,000 cSt; this grade is the 500 cSt version. The phenyl content imparts the fluid's combination of thermal stability and radiation resistance, distinguishing it from standard dimethyl silicone fluids.
  • Damping and shock absorption. Distributor data notes DOWSIL 510 fluids have a radiation resistance of approximately 1.7 x 10^8 rads, and their relatively high compressibility makes them ideal for shock-absorbing and motion-damping applications such as hydraulic arrestors (snubbers) and hydraulically actuated valves.
  • Handling notes. As with all silicone fluids, confirm compatibility with your equipment and seals, and review the product and Safety Data Sheets before use. The 500 mL bottle is a convenient size for smaller-scale or bench use.

Recommended For

  • Equipment exposed to radiation (e.g., nuclear plants)
  • Hydraulic arrestors (snubbers)
  • Hydraulically actuated valves
  • Shock-absorbing and motion-damping applications
  • Heat-stable fluid applications

Product Details

  • Product type: Phenylmethyl polysiloxane silicone fluid
  • Viscosity: 500 cSt
  • Appearance: Clear
  • Radiation resistance: ~1.7 x 10^8 rads (distributor data)
  • Key properties: High flash point, chemical inertness, low volatility, high compressibility, heat and radiation resistance
  • Container size: 500 mL bottle

Primary Industries

  • Nuclear and power generation
  • Industrial hydraulics
  • Shock and vibration damping
  • Specialized industrial equipment

Standards and Certifications

  • None specified by source

FAQs

What is DOWSIL 510 used for?

It is a thermally stable, radiation-resistant phenylmethyl silicone fluid used for equipment exposed to radiation, such as nuclear-plant equipment, hydraulic arrestors, and hydraulically actuated valves. Its high flash point, low volatility, and high compressibility also make it useful for shock-absorbing and motion-damping applications.

How does DOWSIL 510 differ from a standard silicone fluid?

DOWSIL 510 is a phenylmethyl polysiloxane, meaning it contains phenyl groups that give it greater thermal stability and radiation resistance than standard dimethyl (methyl-only) silicone fluids. This makes it suited to demanding, high-radiation, or high-temperature environments where ordinary fluids would degrade.

How radiation-resistant is it?

Distributor technical data indicates DOWSIL 510 fluids have a radiation resistance of approximately 1.7 x 10^8 rads. That high tolerance is why the fluid is chosen for nuclear-plant equipment and similar settings. Confirm the exact figure for your grade against the current data sheet before use in design.

Why is high compressibility useful?

High compressibility allows the fluid to absorb energy during compression, which is valuable in shock-absorbing and motion-damping devices such as hydraulic arrestors (snubbers) and actuated valves. The fluid cushions and controls motion, helping protect equipment from sudden loads and vibration in demanding service.

What viscosity is this grade?

This is the 500 cSt grade of DOWSIL 510, which is offered across a range from 50 to 30,000 cSt. The 500 cSt version balances flow and body for damping and hydraulic duties. Choose the grade whose viscosity best matches your application's flow and cushioning requirements.