Steel cables are vital components in heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bucket stackers, and winches. These cables must withstand harsh conditions, including exposure to (sea)water, dust, sand, and other pollutants. Traditional lubrication methods, typically involving black molybdenum disulfate or graphite greases, have significant limitations that can lead to increased maintenance costs, reduced cable lifespan, and undetected wear and corrosion.
Problems with conventional greases
- Surface-only protection: conventional black greases do not penetrate to the core of steel cables. They provide a superficial layer of protection, leaving the inner strands susceptible to wear and corrosion. This inadequacy can lead to catastrophic failures if the internal damage goes unnoticed.
- Oil bleeding and contamination: these greases tend to bleed oil, which then mixes with environmental contaminants like dust and sand. This mixture forms a thick, black layer on the cable's surface, exacerbating the issue by creating a dirty, abrasive coating that further wears down the cable.
- Inspection difficulties: the thick, black residue that forms on the cable makes it nearly impossible to inspect for wear and corrosion. Underneath this layer, corrosion and wear can progress unnoticed, leading to sudden and unexpected cable failures.
The Eurol Lube PL BIO solution
To address these issues, Eurol offers advanced lubrication solutions with their Eurol Lube PL and the biodegradable version, Eurol Lube PL BIO. These products provide several advantages over traditional greases:
- Deep penetration and comprehensive protection: Core penetration: Eurol Lube PL BIO penetrates deeply into the steel cable, ensuring that both the outer surface and the inner strands are protected. This thorough lubrication helps prevent internal wear and corrosion. Dry, transparent layer: it leaves a dry, transparent, and water-resistant layer that does not attract dirt. This layer provides unmatched protection against wear and corrosion.
- Ease of inspection: Transparent coating: the clear coating allows for easy visual inspection of the steel cable, making it simple to detect any signs of wear or corrosion early. This proactive maintenance approach can prevent unexpected failures and downtime.
- Clean operation: No dirt attraction: unlike traditional greases, Eurol Lube PL BIO does not attract dust or contaminants, keeping the cable and surrounding equipment clean. This cleanliness extends to cable drums and pulleys, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and cleaning. Biodegradability: being biodegradable, Eurol Lube PL BIO is environmentally friendly. It prevents pollution of water and soil, making it ideal for use in both onshore and offshore environments.
- Extended cable life and cost savings: Durability: by providing comprehensive protection against wear and corrosion, Eurol Lube PL BIO extends the life of steel cables. This durability reduces the frequency of cable replacements, leading to significant cost savings. Reduced downtime: the improved reliability and ease of maintenance translate to less downtime for repairs and replacements, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Eurol Lube PL and Eurol Lube PL BIO are perfect for a wide range of applications, including:
- Cranes and hoists: ensuring reliable lifting operations by protecting the cables from internal and external wear.
- Bucket stackers: keeping the equipment running smoothly in dusty and abrasive environments.
- Winches: providing consistent performance in both onshore and offshore settings.
- Cable Drums and Pulleys: maintaining clean and efficient operation without the buildup of contaminants.
In conclusion, the shift from traditional black molybdenum disulfate or graphite greases to Eurol Lube PL BIO represents a significant advancement in steel cable lubrication. By addressing the shortcomings of conventional greases, these innovative lubricants offer superior protection, easier maintenance, and environmental benefits. Adopting Eurol Lube PL BIO not only extends the life of steel cables but also enhances the reliability and efficiency of heavy equipment operations, ultimately leading to substantial cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
