In modern industry, machine lubrication is much more than just a maintenance activity. It is a vital part of the maintenance strategy that directly impacts the reliability, operating costs and safety of production processes. High-quality industrial lubricants can extend the service life of rolling elements, reduce friction and lower the risk of failure, thereby significantly reducing the costs of unplanned downtime.
An increasing number of companies are recognising that selecting the right lubricant requires an analysis of operating conditions, temperature, loads and application requirements. This approach delivers tangible benefits in terms of energy efficiency and total maintenance costs.
One example that confirms this is the experience of Hainan Jinhai Pulp & Paper, one of the world’s largest pulp producers. At its 1,000,000-tonne-per-year plant, regular fan bearing failures were generating significant costs and causing unplanned downtime. An analysis carried out by Mobil specialists revealed that the incorrect choice of lubricant was the root cause of the problems. Conventional mineral grease did not provide adequate protection in such harsh operating conditions.
After implementing the experts’ recommendations and switching to an advanced synthetic grease with high temperature and oxidation resistance, the situation changed completely. Within two years of the upgrade, there were no bearing failures, eliminating downtime and increasing production line reliability while reducing grease consumption. Total savings reached $85,000*.
This clearly demonstrates that choosing the right lubricant is an investment in the stability and efficiency of the entire plant, not just a technical issue.
How to choose a lubricant that really protects your machines?
The right lubricant not only determines the service life of bearings and components, but also stabilises processes, reduces energy losses and minimises the risk of costly downtime. This is why, in professional industrial plants, lubricant is not an ‘add-on’ — it is a strategic element of maintenance.
High-quality industrial lubricants must be able to withstand extremely challenging operating conditions, including extreme temperatures, heavy loads, and contact with water or chemicals. In such situations, average products simply cannot cope. What counts here is technology, experience and quality, as proven by decades of reliable performance in real-world applications.
It is no coincidence that the Mobil brand has been synonymous with the highest-quality lubricants for decades. Its range includes products designed with the specific needs of modern industry in mind, including manufacturing plants, processing facilities and heavy machinery operating in extreme conditions.
Two products deserve special attention:
- Mobilith SHC 220, a red synthetic grease offering exceptional thermal stability and long lubrication intervals, ensuring reliability over a wide temperature range.
- The other is Mobilgrease XHP 222, the renowned blue lithium grease that is renowned for its excellent resistance to water, corrosion and high loads. It is ideal for use in challenging environmental conditions.
As Mobil specialists emphasise, choosing the right grease is not a random decision; it must be made by taking into account the actual operating conditions and needs of the company. Choosing a product tailored to the specific nature of the machinery can significantly increase its service life and efficiency, while reducing maintenance costs.
* This example is based on one customer’s experience. Actual results may vary depending on the type of equipment, maintenance, operating conditions, and the lubricant previously used.
