The industrial lubricant sector is a growing segment of the overall market demand. Industrial lubricant additives are a significant segment of this growth pattern. Industries require lubricant additives to ensure the ongoing production of products and the seamless operation of everything from production lines to construction equipment. Among the additive types in the highest demand are:
- Anti-wear additives
- Anti-Corrosion and rust inhibitors
- Detergents
- Dispersants
- Emulsifiers
- Viscosity index improvers
Selecting the Optimal Industrial Lubricant Additives
A lubricant on its own is not ideal to address the ever-present potential for serious problems developing. In its unadulterated form, a lubricant may provide lubricity but cannot sufficiently address other issues. The use of additives provides the means of ensuring a decrease in or prevention of potentially disruptive issues.
- Base oil type: This is determined by both the operating conditions and gear type. Is the lubricant being used a mineral oil base or is it synthetic? The additives must be complementary and or compatible with the lubricant to be effective
- Intent: What is the purpose of using the additive? Anti-corrosive? Anti-wear?
- Viscosity: Several viscosity grades are available. Choose one appropriate to the conditions and the purpose.
Adding Additives
With today’s machinery, lubricants are not sufficient to stand alone effectively against the potentially harmful effects of the daily operation of gearboxes and other devices. To help reinforce the lubricant’s ability to manage the various destructive forces, industries employ industrial lubricant additives. By selecting the right one or formulating the right package, chemical engineers provide preventative answers to many mechanical issues.
