Polyalphaolefin oligomers (PAO), 1 commonly referred to as synthetic hydrocarbons, have many favorable properties which contribute to their rapidly growing use for a variety of industrial applications. They have low pour points, low volatility, good software compatibility, thermal stability, hydrolytic stability, chemical inertness and good natural lubricity.

The high temperature stability in the absence of air has led to the use of PAO as the sealing fluid and lubricant for the mechanical seals of pumps handling polystyrene process liquid at 450°F (232.2°C). A nitrogen inert atmosphere is maintained over the sealing fluid.

A formulated PAO lubricant, because of its hydrolytic stability, has shown extended life in replacing a polyolester high temperature lubricant for the bearings and gears of non-lube rotary positive blowers used as steam booster compressors. Labyrinth seals allowed leakage of live steam into the lubricant resulting in breakdown of the polyolester.

Since PAO have low pour points, they are also used in refrigeration compressors. Applications include ammonia and fluorocarbon compressors.