Paper & Pulp lubricants

Where a paper mill uses oil and grease

• Paper machine main and section drive gearboxes
• Circulation (central lubrication) systems for bearings and rolls
• Dryer section bearings and chains
• Hydraulic systems for presses, headbox and controls
• Pulp mill pumps, agitators and refiners
• Air compressors and general plant motors

Gear oil for machine drives and circulation systems

Paper machine gearboxes and circulation systems run for years with the same oil charge, so the oil must resist oxidation, separate water well and keep clean. Heavily loaded drives typically use an extreme-pressure (EP) gear oil of the grade the machine maker gives, and a synthetic EP oil is often chosen for hot dryer areas or long drain intervals. Filter the oil, test it on a schedule and keep water out.

High-temperature grease and chain lubrication

Dryer section bearings and chains see heat that thins ordinary grease and burns off oil. Use a grease that keeps its structure at high temperature, and re-lubricate on a short, regular cycle. For chains in hot zones, send us the temperature and speed and we will advise on the right product from our range.

Grease for motors and long-run bearings

Electric motors and pump bearings run for long periods. A good lithium-based grease of the right consistency, often NLGI 2 or 3, suits many of them. Do not over-grease, because too much grease makes bearings run hot, and follow a fixed greasing plan.

Hydraulic oil for presses and controls

Press and control hydraulics need an anti-wear (AW) oil in the grade the equipment maker specifies, often ISO VG 46 or 68. Keep the oil clean and dry. Water and fibre dust shorten the life of pumps and valves.

Compressor oil for plant air

Screw and reciprocating compressors need a compressor oil that resists oxidation and carbon build-up. Follow the oil-change and filter schedule for clean, dry air.

How to choose the right lubricant

• Start with the machine maker's manual.
• Note the temperature, load, water and humidity.
• Match the viscosity grade and the performance level (AW, EP, high-temperature).
• Ask for a sample and test it on one machine first.
• Set a test, change and greasing plan, and keep to it.