Mobil Vacuoline™ 525 circulating oil success story

Situation

Mobil Vacuoline™ 525 circulating oil was originally used in circulation lubrication systems for oil-film bearings of finishing blocks at the SKET 150 mill. In 2002, the customer decided to switch to a competitor’s ISO VG 100 ashless oil, declared by a supplier as the suitable choice for oil-film bearings application. However, the competitive oil demonstrated poor water separation, emulsion formation and uncontrolled contamination, which all resulted in an increase of bearing failures.

Recommendation

To improve bearing life and rolling mill performance through enhanced lubrication efficiency, a switch back to Mobil Vacuoline 525 circulating oil was recommended. The decision was driven by practical experience and references, proven excellent water separation and outstanding antiwear properties.

Result

After changing back to Mobil Vacuoline 525 circulating oil, the customer observed the oil’s noticeable ability to fully and rapidly separate a high amount of water (up to 10 percent).

Their calculated annual benefits, obtained within an application period of two years were:

• Energy savings (due to less use of centrifuge separators, two units) of around 260,000 kW or an equivalent of US $10,200
• Reduced bearing replacement, providing a maintenance cost reduction of US $47,500
• Productivity gain of 48 hours per year

*This success story is based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used. ExxonMobil shall include Exxon Mobil Corporation and its affiliates.