Industrial lubricants are a cornerstone of equipment and machinery operation in manufacturing facilities. Beyond their primary role as lubricants, they enhance performance, extend equipment lifespan, and reduce wear in production systems. However, with increasing environmental and safety regulations, the shift toward eco-friendly additives, such as Low SAPS (Low Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulfur) and bio-based additives, is gaining traction among businesses seeking sustainable solutions.
INDUSTRIAL LUBRICANTS AND THE CRITICAL ROLE OF ADDITIVES
A typical industrial lubricant consists of a base oil and additives. Additives are the key components that determine the lubricant’s performance. Common additive categories include anti-wear agents, oxidation stabilizers, dispersants, detergents, and anti-foaming agents. Using low-quality or incompatible additives can lead to issues such as sludge formation, equipment corrosion, or even the emission of toxic gases at high temperatures. Below are the main types of lubricant additives:
Traditional Additives
Traditional additives often contain sulfur, phosphorus, heavy metals, or ash-forming compounds, which pose significant environmental risks. When burned or used under high-temperature conditions, these compounds break down and release toxic gases, contributing to air pollution. In diesel engines, they can clog Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs), reducing filtration efficiency and causing non-compliance with emission standards. Additionally, disposing of used oil containing high-toxicity additives presents significant challenges.
Bio-Based Additives
Bio-based additives are derived from plant-based or renewable sources. These additives are highly biodegradable, low in toxicity, and environmentally friendly. Common bio-based additives include esters and base oils from soybeans, coconut, or sunflower. They are used as lubricants, dispersants, or stabilizers in industrial lubricants, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional additives.
Low SAPS Additives
SAPS stands for Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulfur—three components that contribute to ash formation and toxic emissions during operation. Lubricants with Low SAPS additives have minimal levels of these substances, significantly reducing harmful emissions. The advantages of Low SAPS lubricants include extended Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) lifespan, reduced ash and NOx emissions, enhanced protection under heavy loads, and compliance with modern emission standards such as Euro 5 and Euro 6.
PRACTICAL BENEFITS OF USING ECO-FRIENDLY ADDITIVES
Transitioning to lubricants with Low SAPS and bio-based additives is not only an environmentally responsible choice but also delivers tangible production benefits. Businesses can reduce maintenance costs by minimizing equipment wear, lower the risk of filter clogging, improve fuel efficiency, and meet export market standards. These additives enable manufacturers to achieve operational efficiency while aligning with global sustainability goals.
CONCLUSION
As the world shifts toward greener practices, selecting eco-friendly additives for industrial lubricants is no longer optional—it is a long-term strategy to enhance quality, reduce maintenance costs, and build a sustainable brand. With Vichem’s support, businesses can transition swiftly and effectively, staying ahead of trends in the modern industrial landscape.
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