Synthetic lubricant reduces gearbox temperature and saves energy

Ostendorf, one of Germany's largest producers of plastic pipes and shaped products, has achieved significant energy efficiency benefits following the introduction of Mobil SHC Gear 220. This high-performance, fully-synthetic industrial gear oil has delivered a 3.3 per cent energy efficiency improvement in an extruder gearbox, while also extending oil drain intervals.

As an existing user of Mobilgear SHC XMP Series lubricants in other applications, Ostendorf was eager to investigate whether introducing ExxonMobil's new Mobil SHC Gear Series into its operation could deliver energy savings. A field trial was initiated, involving a rigorous test programme on the new Mobil SHC Gear 220 on a Weber extruder gearbox and a comparison with the existing ISO 220 mineral gear oil from another supplier.

Test regime

The test programme was conducted in two phases, with the first phase examining the existing lubricant that Ostendorf was using in the gearbox across two different production cycles, using varied power consumption levels and material throughputs.

In the second phase, the gearbox was drained, flushed and refilled with Mobil SHC Gear 220. The machines were then operated at the same levels and throughputs as in the first phase. During both phases, a Fluke Type 1735 instrument measured the energy consumption in terms of kW per kg of product.

Mobil SHC Gear 220 demonstrated an average energy saving of 3.3 per cent compared to the previous lubricant as well as an average 5degC reduction in gearbox temperatures. This lower operating temperature will contribute to considerable savings over the gearbox and machine lifecycle, thereby helping to reduce unscheduled downtime and component wear.

Cost reductions

Andrea Jacobsen, Industrial Marketing for Europe, Africa and the Middle East for ExxonMobil Lubricants and Petroleum Specialties Company, comments: "Energy costs are one of the highest burdens on manufacturing companies and any reduction in consumption has an immediate and beneficial impact on the bottom line. Mobil SHC Gear and other products in the Mobil SHC range have been designed to help companies achieve a competitive edge in their operations. As well as delivering energy efficiency benefits, products such as Mobil SHC Gear have been designed to optimise protection and help increase productivity."

For more information about Mobil SHC Gear 220 or other Mobil-branded lubricants and services, contact the ExxonMobil Lubricants Technical Help Desk on [email protected], telephone +420 221 456 426 or go to www.mobilindustrial.com.