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IMPORTANCE OF LUBRICATION IN THE STEEL INDUSTRY

In the Steel industry, lubricants play a vital role in industrial maintenance activities. Learn more about steel industry lubrication and its importance.

In the steel industry, lubricants play a vital role in industrial maintenance activities. They are used to improve the quality of the product and reduce its wear and tear by reducing friction. They safeguard machinery from damage, prevent heat buildup and allow faster production rates. The most common industrial lubricants are oil, greases, synthetic oils and water-based fluids. Oil is the most widely used lubricant due to its low cost and ease of storage. Greases have been used for decades in small-scale residential applications but have recently become popular in industrial machines due to their high viscosity.


Synthetic oils have been around longer than any other type of lubricant. They are designed to withstand extreme temperatures without degrading or losing effectiveness over time. However, they are more expensive than other industrial lubricants, such as oil or water-based fluids. Water-based fluids come in several different types; some are marketed as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional lubricants, while others are designed specifically for heavy-duty applications such as automotive engines or construction equipment.


Benefits of lubricants in the steel industry

 

  1. Reduces Heat Build up
  2. Improves Efficiency
  3. Prevents Wear & Tear
  4. Improves Productivity

The applications of industrial lubricants are many. They can be used on various machinery, equipment, and other items. Let us learn more about steel industry lubrication:

  • Pumps

Pumps need to be free of debris, oil and water build-up. The lubricant is a barrier between the pump's moving parts and any debris that may make it past the seal.

  • Motors

Motors require superior lubrication to function correctly, especially in harsh environments like chemical plants or steel mills. The motor receives its power from the gears inside and needs to move smoothly and efficiently without overheating or stalling during operation.

  • Hydraulic systems 

Hydraulic systems are used in many industries where heavy equipment is being moved around frequently and at high speeds. Such equipment includes mining projects or construction sites where heavy materials need to be moved quickly from one place to another through underground tunnels or long distances. 

  • Industrial machinery

Industrial machinery such as pumps, motors, conveyors, and conveyor belts also require special attention when choosing industrial lubricants. This is because they have a finite life span depending on their use (such as sawing wood with a sawmill), so they must be replaced periodically.


Conclusion


The steel industry has unique requirements for lubricants, making it crucial to choose them from a reputed manufacturer. When it comes to lubrication selection, the most critical factor is the correct selection of lubricant and the correct type of lubrication system. The choice of lubricants is based on their high wear resistance, low volatility, low oxidation, and high thermal stability. They should be resistant to wear and corrosion. 


Castrol provides world-class industrial lubricants for various industries. As a proven global partner for lubricants, we offer premium industrial lubricants to optimise machine performance. With our chemical management firm services (CMS), we can help you drive down the total cost of ownership. If you are looking for a premium quality industrial lubricant for your business, Castrol is the way to go.,