High temperature lubricants for the production of mineral insulation wool and glass wool

Mineral insulation wool, including glass wool and stone wool, is widely used for thermal and acoustic insulation in construction and industrial applications. The production processes for both types of wool are quite similar, involving the melting of raw materials, fibre formation, binding, curing, and cutting. This article provides an overview of these processes and discusses the critical role of specialty lubricants in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of the equipment used.

Production process overview

1. Melting: The production begins with melting raw materials. For glass wool, this involves sand and recycled glass, while for stone wool, basalt and other volcanic rocks are used. The materials are heated in a furnace to temperatures between 1,300°C and 1,600°C.
2. Fiber formation: The molten material is then passed through a spinner, creating fibers through centrifugal force. These fibers are rapidly cooled and blown into a forming chamber, where they are collected on a conveyor belt.
3. Binding: A binding agent is applied to the fibers to provide structural integrity. The fibers are then layered to form a thick, loose mat.
4. Curing: The mat is conveyed through a curing oven, where it is heated to about 200°C to 300°C. This process solidifies the binder, ensuring the mat holds its shape.
5. Cutting and packaging: After curing, the mat is cut into the desired dimensions and packaged for distribution.

Specialty lubricants in the production process

The production of mineral insulation wool involves several high-temperature processes that require reliable, effective and non-carbonizing lubrication to maintain equipment performance and longevity. The following lubricants from Eurol, containing the unique Eurol Syngis Technology, are recommended for specific applications:

1. Chain of the reception line: Ambient temperature: For the chains operating at ambient temperatures, Eurol Lube PL is the ideal lubricant. It offers unmatched anti-corrosion and anti-wear properties, ensuring smooth operation and extended chain life. High temperature: For chains exposed to high temperatures, Eurol Chain Oil S-HT 220 FD is recommended. This lubricant is virtually non-evaporating, providing long-lasting protection and reducing the frequency of re-lubrication.
2. Chain in the curing oven: The chains in the curing oven endure continuous high temperatures. Eurol Chain Oil S-HT 220 FD is again the preferred choice due to its non-evaporating nature and ability to maintain lubrication under extreme heat conditions.
3. Bearings of and in the curing oven: Ambient temperature: Bearings operating at ambient temperatures should be lubricated with Eurol Grease CS-2/103-S. This water-resistant grease offers exceptional anti-corrosion and anti-wear properties, protecting bearings from environmental factors and operational stresses. High temperature: For bearings subjected to high temperatures, Eurol Grease HY-2/102 FD HT is suitable. This grease is virtually non-evaporating, ensuring consistent lubrication and protection even under extreme heat.
4. High-temperature hydraulic fluid in the chain tensioners: Hydraulic systems, particularly chain tensioners operating at high temperatures, require a fire resistant fluid that can withstand the heat without degrading. Eurol E Heavy Duty Lube 46 BIO serves this purpose well, maintaining its properties and ensuring reliable tensioning performance.
5. General assembly paste: For assembling components that will operate at high temperatures, Eurol Assembly Paste HT/FD with ceramic particles is recommended. This high-temperature paste provides excellent lubrication and protection against galling and corrosion.

Specialized solutions for extreme temperatures

For applications where temperatures exceed 260°C, Eurol offers specialized lubrication solutions tailored to withstand such extreme conditions. These products are designed to maintain their integrity and performance, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the production equipment.

Conclusion

The production of mineral insulation wool and glass wool involves several high-temperature processes that place significant demands on equipment and parts. Using the right specialty lubricants is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of this equipment. Eurol’s range of lubricants, featuring the unique Eurol Syngis Technology, provides unmatched protection against wear, corrosion, and high-temperature conditions, ensuring smooth and efficient production operations. For applications beyond 260°C, Eurol’s specialized solutions are available to meet the most demanding lubrication needs.