Lubricating the bearings and
cylinders of a sabot press.

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Context

The shoe press, an integral component of the paper machine, sits strategically between the forming table and the dryer cylinder assembly, also known as the Dryer Section. This essential press serves the critical function of precisely calibrating the paper's thickness, often referred to as basis weight.

Ensuring smooth operation and longevity of the press's cylinder bearings is a robust lubrication system. It is supplied by a substantial 6,000-liter reservoir to meet the stringent demands of the paper manufacturing process. The reservoir was filled with MOBIL SHC 220.

Problem

The MOBIL SHC 220 oil has been in use since 2007. However, recent (2023) analysis reveals concerning findings:

  • The viscosity index has decreased from 180 to 138, marking a significant 30% reduction.
  • The oil has become more fluid, indicating shear thinning effects.
  • Additionally, the Total Acid Number (TAN) has increased from 0.9 to 1.15.

Solution

We proposed the replacement of MOBIL SHC 220 oil with CASTROL ALPHASYN EP 220, formulated for use in various enclosed gears, including heavy-duty and shock-loaded gears and bearings requiring EP properties. It is suitable for applications demanding resistance to micropitting and is versatile in extreme environments such as paper production. The use of a PAO base oil in CASTROL ALPHASYN EP 220 ensures inherently high viscosity index (VI) and low pour points, making it suitable for use across a wide temperature range.

Results

After refilling the reservoir with CASTROL ALPHASYN EP 220, it's evident that our choice offers significant cost savings compared to MOBIL SHC 220. The cost-effectiveness of CASTROL ALPHASYN EP 220 results in approximately 20% savings, representing a substantial reduction in lubricant expenses for the client. Additionally, the use of CASTROL ALPHASYN EP 220 ensures smooth operation, meeting the stringent demands of the paper manufacturing process. This further enhances the client's operational efficiency and productivity.

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