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Shell understands that a mobile equipment fleet is the backbone of any mining operation. To keep operations running on uptime, equipment needs to always be running reliably and efficiently, which is often the result of choosing the optimal lubricant. 

So, which type of lubricant is best for ensuring operators get the most out of their engines, transmissions, hydraulic systems, and greased components? Global leading expert on mobile equipment lubricants, Shell, shares some of their insights. 

According to Shell’s industry research, lubricants account for only around 1-2% of total maintenance costs. Yet if chosen correctly, many operators do not realise that choosing the right lubricant product for a piece of equipment can save up to 30% on total operating costs¹.

Further research conducted by Shell experts shows that adequate lubrication on mobile mining equipment is often overlooked until it’s too late and an inevitable breakdown happens— leading to unnecessary costs and delays that could have been avoidable. 

Particularly, when in the field, it’s easy to neglect lubricant maintenance in the name of productivity. For this reason, it’s important to use high quality premium lubricants to ready your fleet for the job. 

Choosing the correct lubricant or grease often depends on a combination of the equipment’s design characteristics, operational parameters, and environment. Factors like temperature, humidity, and location (altitude/underground) all pose different challenges for lubrication. With lubrication customised to each application, your machines will run at peak performance throughout the life of an oil drain.

Shell believes that choosing the right lubricant product from inception is one of the most valuable investments equipment operators can make for the future of their operation. That’s why Shell lubricants for Driveline was created as a portfolio of high performing lubricants designed to bolster the performance of every machine component and maximise uptime. 

The local team of Shell Lubricant experts and technical representatives are available to consult with operators on choosing the right product to suit the Driveline ratios of their mobile equipment. To simplify the process, Shell has created a portfolio of distinct product ranges for enhancing the performance of five key components on mobile equipment.

Engines
To avoid abrasive wear that leads to reduced efficiency and higher fuel consumption, and oil oxidation from overheating.
Product Range: Shell Rimula

Transmissions
Transmission lubricant needs to accommodate low starting temperatures and then build a strong layer of protection as heat increases to resist oxidization.
Product Range: Shell Spirax 

Hydraulics
Air needs to be released quickly on hydraulic applications to avoid air bubbles that will hinder the pressure and lower efficiency levels. Corrosive deposits further reduce efficiency.
Product Range: Shell Tellus.

Rear Axles
Optimal lubrication should extend oil drain intervals and maximise component life, improve fuel economy and be robust in hot, dirty conditions.
Product Range: Shell Spirax 

Wheel Bearings
For water and washout resistance, rust inhibition and protection against wear and extreme pressure additives.
Product Range: Shell Gadus 

Motion Australia and their associated businesses—CBC, BSC, WebsterBSC, Hardy Spicer, and CRAM—have an unprecedented distribution network, making Shell products available to even the most remote industrial mining and excavation sites in the country. 

As the exclusive distributor of Shell lubricant products in Australia, Viva Energy works in partnership with Motion Australia to ensure Australians have access to the most premium lubrication for mobile equipment available in the world.

For more information on lubricant recommendations based on application requirements, visit your local Motion Australia branch today. 

Reference:

1. Unlocking Efficiency in Mining Report, Shell.com

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