Society of Tribologists & Lubrication Engineers (STLE) 

Technical Presentation: HLD‑guided design of next‑generation metalworking fluids

Thurs, May 21 | 2:20 PM
Presenter: John Dixon, R&D Section Manager, Nouryon
Applying Hydrophilic–Lipophilic Deviation (HLD) theory to improve emulsion stability, robustness, and hazard profiles in modern MWF formulations.

Why this topic matters
Metalworking fluid (MWF) formulators face increasing pressure to deliver stable, high‑performing oil‑in‑water emulsions across diverse base oils, wide temperature ranges, and challenging water chemistries, while also addressing sustainability, toxicity, and regulatory demands. Widely used emulsifier selection tools such as HLB often fall short in these complex, multi‑variable systems, creating a gap between formulation theory and practical, predictive design.

This presentation is relevant for tribologists, formulation scientists, and R&D leaders seeking more systematic approaches to emulsifier selection and formulation development in modern MWF applications.

What attendees will learn

• How HLD can be applied as a practical framework to guide MWF formulation decisions
• The role of emulsifier and base oil parameterization in improving formulation predictability
• Key considerations for achieving stable O/W emulsions across varying oils, water chemistries, and temperatures
• Practical insights into where HLD is most effective — and where empirical refinement remains essential

Attend the Session at STLE 2026 (4412688)

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