ExxonMobil helps mining company save an estimated US$4.2 million
Published by Harleigh Hobbs,
Editor
World Coal,
The introduction of ExxonMobil’s high-performance synthetic grease, Mobilith SHC™ 220, has delivered significant performance benefits for a Brazilian mining company, leading to an estimated cost saving of US$4.2 million over four years.
Mobilith SHC 220 is a high-performance synthetic grease designed to perform in demanding applications and at extreme temperatures. This advanced grease is part of ExxonMobil’s comprehensive range of high-performance lubricants that have been designed to help optimise the productivity and efficiency of mine site operations when compared to conventional greases.
The mining company operates a fleet of 19 000 open gondola cars, which have a total of 152 000 roller bearings across the fleet. Carrying an average of 465 000 t of iron ore per day, the axle bearings are commonly subjected to temperatures as high as 90°C (194°F). These severe conditions can cause reduced lubricant viscosity and leaks within the bearing assembly, leading to premature bearing failure.
Since implementing Mobilith SHC 220, the mining company has seen a reduction in the operating temperature of the bearings from 90°C (194°F) to 70°C (158°F). It has also reported that the grease’s high viscosity index oil has helped to reduce equipment wear and corrosion. As a result, it has been able to safely extend equipment bearing life by 43%, dramatically reducing the need for replacement parts and maintenance-related labour. The mining company estimates a US$4.2 million saving over a four year period as a result of these benefits.
“In these challenge economic times, a small thing, such as switching to a high-performance lubricant, can make a huge difference to a mine site’s productivity and profitability,” said Mohamed Mourad, EAME Industrial Marketing Advisor at ExxonMobil. “We have worked closely with mining professionals for more than 50 years to obtain the necessary insights required to formulate products that help to maximise productivity in a safe and cost-efficient way.”
Edited from press release by Harleigh Hobbs
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/product-news/14092016/exxonmobil-helps-mining-company-save-2416/
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