vol.34 | september 2020 |

THE MARKET REPORTVivo Energy Mauritius marks 13 years of operation P. 5

WHAT’S NEW

FUCHS launches lubricants for electric vehicles P.11

PLUS: EXPERT INTERVIEW WITH RYMAX LUBRICANTS COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR ERIK VERMEER P.22

V O L . 3 4 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 0 | W W W . L U B E Z I N E . C O M

MAIN FEATURE

WHITE OILS SELECTING THE CORRECT GRADE BASED ON APPLICATIONS

Grasp your industrialperformance

Beyond food safety, TOTAL NEVASTANE food grade lubricants coupled with our expert advice will help you meet the performance demands of your processing equipment while ensuring the reliability and durability.

www.total.co.ke [email protected]

1 September 2020 | LUBEZINE MAGAZINE

NEWS • INDUSTRY UPDATE • NEW PRODUCTS • TECHNOLOGY • COMMENTARY

w w w . l u b e z i n e . c o mFacebook: Lubezine Magazine

Twitter: @lubezineLinkeIn: Lubezine Magazine

VOL 34 | SEPTEMBER 2020CONTENTS

2 Editor’s Desk

4-6The Market Report

FUCHS South Africa announces major investment

B Investments starts discussions to sell its 20% TOTAL Egypt stake

Vivo Energy Mauritius launches three new lubricants as it marks

13 years of operation

Oman-based oil company eyes Rwandan lubricant market

NNPC Retail partners with Autofit tolaunch Lube Bay in Nigeria

7Lubes Diary

8Frequently Asked Questions

10-12 WHAT’S NEW: PRODUCTS AND

INNOVATIONSADNOC launches new lubricant

range for hybrid vehicles

Chevron Oronite introduces new tractor hydraulic fluid (THF) additive

FUCHS launches lubricantline for electric vehicles

Infineum launches new transmission fluid additive

Porsche and Mobil 1™ jointlylaunch new motor oil

Petro-Canada launches PURITY™ FG2Multipurpose food grade grease

13-15 IN OTHER WORLDS

BP, Reliance Industries Ltd form joint venture; sell Castrol lubes in India

Brenntag to acquire Thai finishedlubes distributor

Oil Intel announces JV with TOTAL to expand Lubricants offerings in

New Zealand

Idemitsu to sell Shell Lubricants Japan back to Shell as it opens

new lube plant

Lukoil plant in Kazakhstan starts to deliver lubricants to China

Total Lubmarine opens new oil analysis lab in Chicago

2210 QUESTIONS FOR LUBRICANTS

PROFESSIONALSFrom a family business to a globally

recognized lubricant brand

28 LAST WORD

Biodegradable lubricants and the Kenyan market

REGULARS

8 | FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

19 | GLOBAL DEMAND The impact of the COVID-19

pandemic on the global lubricants industry

INSIDE

168

19

WHITE OILSProducts and topical creams for which white oils are key

ingredients will increase white oils demand in Africa.

COVERSHUTTERSTOCK | SIRTRAVELALOT

Grasp your industrialperformance

Beyond food safety, TOTAL NEVASTANE food grade lubricants coupled with our expert advice will help you meet the performance demands of your processing equipment while ensuring the reliability and durability.

www.total.co.ke [email protected]

26 | NYNAS FEATURE Critical correlations between

metalworking fluid emulsion stability and base oil properties

2 LUBEZINE MAGAZINE | September 2020

Lubezine Magazine | Editor-in-Chief

James Wakiru

Welcome to our 34th edition which is heav-ily laden with many technical features for your reading pleasure.

Our main feature is about white oils. With diverse applica-tions of this product including formula-tion of food grade oils, cosmetics and medicinal applications, various grades are available, each with varying level of purities. Our lead article provides a detailed background of how white oils are manufactured and selection guidelines depending on the specific application in hand.

Incidental contact of a lubricant with food cannot be avoided in a food process-ing set-up. White oils come in handy as the base oils in the manufacture of food grade lubricants, however, with high purity level. With the growth in agri-culture and food processing industry in Africa, white oil application and demand

can only be expected to continue to increase.

In our last word feature, we look at the need for bio-degradable lubricants in Africa. Although this is considered an extremely niche and tiny market, the need to minimize environmental degradation emanating from lubricants spillages during usage is a clear justification why such products should be embraced. Criti-cal applications with potential impact on the environment such as marine applica-tions, rails, electric power transformers and farm applications are some of the areas where biodegradable lubes can be required.

Despite the gloom that engulfed the world with the onset of COVID-19, we see vibrancy and resilience of the lubricants industry as captured in our various market reports. For instance, in southern Africa, FUCHS Lubricants South Africa has announced a massive investment of building a warehouse, office complex and

EDITOR’SDESKVOL 34 • SEPTEMBER 2020

Publisher:Lubes Africa Ltd

Editor-in-Chief: James Wakiru

Assistant EditorWinnie Were

Wanzetse

Design & Layout: Martin Serem

[email protected]

Subscriptions: Lubezine is free to qualified subscribers who are involved in the lubricants industry as manufacturer’s end-users, marketers and suppliers to the oil industry. Lubezine is a quarterly publication of Lubes Africa Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be produced or transmitted in any form including photocopy or any storage and retrieval system without prior written permission from the publishers.ISSN 2664 3235 (Print)ISSN 2708-843X (Online)

Food safety & care for the environment

a lubricants blending plant while Vivo Energy Mauritius celebrated 13 years of operation and launched a range of engine oils. Elsewhere, BP and Reliance industries have partnered in India to form Jio-BP which is distributing Castrol lubricants across India, one of the world’s most important markets.

Erik Vermeer, Rymax’s Lubricants Commercial Director joins us in the 10 questions for lubricants professionals and takes us through the journey of Rymax Lubricants from a family oil business to a globally recognized lubricant brand. He also talks about the business model of Rymax that has helped them spread roots worldwide with their products being sold in 51 countries globally, and Rymax’s future plans for the lubricant market in Africa and globally. .Happy reading.

Contributors: James Wakiru

Miriam WangariProf. Thomas Norrby

Michael Lyttle Ian MoncrieffMilind Phadke

Photography: Media AgenciesLubezine Library

Advertising & Subscription: AFRICA

Miriam [email protected]

[email protected]

EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST, ASIADavid Jeffries

[email protected] Media Ltd, United House

39-41 North Road, LondonN7 9DP, UK

[email protected]


In PCMO,you needa partner atthe heart ofchange.

‘INFINEUM’, the interlocking Ripple Device, the corporate mark comprising INFINEUM and the interlocking Ripple Device and 润英联 are trademarks of Infi neum International Limited.© 2018 Infi neum International Limited. All rights reserved. 2018072

In PCMO, tightening legislation, uncertain markets and exacting OEM expectations

can send you in many diff erent directions. Infi neum can help you navigate these

changes. Our technology leadership, close OEM relationships and global supply

network put us exactly where you need us – at the heart of your changing world.

See what the future holds at Infi neum.com/PCMO

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THEMARKETREPORTNEWS • BRIEFING • NEW PRODUCTS • TECHNOLOGY

LUBES DIARY: The 2020 European Base Oils & Lubricants Summit | FAQS: What are the general guidelines during lubricants usage?

E G Y P T

B Investments starts discussions to sell its 20% TOTAL Egypt stake

B Investments Holding and its affiliates (all managed by BPE

Partners) has announced that it has initiated discussions with TOTAL Egypt to sell 20% of its 9.67% stake in the latter.

B Investments entered into a partnership with TOTAL Egypt in 2013 in the areas of retail service stations, lubricants, commercial and industrial operations, aviation and logistics. According to B Investments, together with TOTAL SA through TOTAL Egypt, they jointly acquired and integrated the

downstream assets of Chevron Egypt and Shell Egypt.

TOTAL Egypt was established in 1998 and it is active across the entire oil product distribution sector, with general sales, lubricants, marine and aviation activities as well as a retail network. Presently, it has 230 employees with around 239 service stations countrywide.

For distribution purposes, TOTAL has four depots; two in Cairo and one in Suez and Alexandria respectively. TOTAL also has contracts with importers and automobile dealers for the supply of

S O U T H A F R I C A

lubricants. They include: Abou Ghali (Hyundai, GM, BMW, Nissan, Mapple, JMC), EATC (VW and Audi), KAYAN (SEAT), Diamond Motors (Mitsubishi) and EIM (Renault). Moreover, TOTAL Egypt has its own lubricant blending plant where it manufactures both industrial and automotive lubricants.

B Investments is an Egypt-based private equity firm

and growth capital investor which was established in 2006. It has a diversified set of investments across distinct sectors: real estate development, downstream oil and gas, IT system integration, non-banking financial services, renewable energy, manufacturing and food & beverage. .

FUCHS South Africa announces major investment FUCHS Lubricants South

Africa, a subsidiary of FUCHS PETROLUB SE

in Germany, has announced plans to further invest in South Africa. The investment will involve buying land, construction of a lubricant plant, warehouse and an office complex.

According to Paul Deppe, the Managing Director of FUCHS Lubricants South Africa, their African market is growing and therefore there is need for

them to prepare for the rising demand of their products and services. “FUCHS’ business in South Africa and export into Africa is growing and we need to plan for future expansion.”

Phase 1 of the project will involve purchasing land, site development, building a warehouse and an office complex which is expected to be completed by October 2021.

According to Mr Deppe, the start of Phase 2 of the project, which will involve building the

lubricant blending plant, will depend on the completion of Phase 1. “The concept design for the lubricants plant is still being refined and no timeline has been set for the start of Phase 2 of this project. The earliest it will happen is at the end of Phase 1.”

In his response about the production of the new plant he said, “All types of lubricants will be manufactured in the new plant including products

for industrial, automotive, mining, etc. FUCHS has a very wide range of lubricants and the plant has been designed to cater for a complex manufac-turing environment ranging from very small batch to large production operations. The latest technology to control production, ensure the highest levels of cleanliness and minimize contamination are being applied.” .

SOURCE | FUCHS GROUP


Oman-based oil company eyes Rwandan lubricant market

R W A N D A

V ivo Energy Mauritius, the distributor of Shell branded lubricants has

added three new lubricants to its product line in the Shell Helix and Rimula ranges as it marks 13 years of operation in the country. The products are Shell Helix Ultra 0W20 engine oil, Shell Helix Ultra ECT 5W30 C3 and Rimula Synthetic 10W40.

According to the company, Shell Helix Ultra 0W20 engine oil is compatible with hybrid vehicles, petrol engines requiring grades 0W20 and 5W20 grades. Shell Helix Ultra ECT 5W30 C3 is suitable for gasoline and diesel vehicles that recommend using a low SAPS which essentially means having a low level of Sulphate ash, phosphorus and Sulphur in the product. Rimula Synthetic 10W40 is

a 100% synthetic oil formu-lated for diesel or heavy-duty vehicles such as buses, trucks or construction machinery. They further stated that the products have been designed to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance fuel economy.

Matthias de Larm-inat, Managing Director Vivo Energy Mauritius, said that lubricant users in Mauritius are conscious about the quality of products hence innovation of new and better products is imperative to keep them in the competitive market. In his speech, he said: “As the automotive oil and lubricant market in Mauritius is small and ultra-competi-tive, it is imperative to con-stantly adapt our offering to meet automotive innovations and the expectations of users increasingly concerned about

M A U R I T I U S

Vivo Energy Mauritius launches three new lubricants as it marks 13 years of operation L otus Oil Lubricants,

the manufacturer of lubricants in Oman,

sent its first shipment of engine oil to Rwanda to tap into the growing demand of lubricants in Africa associ-ated with the continent’s growth rate.

Hamdan Rashid al Eisaei, Lotus Oil Lubricants’ owner commenting on this said: “Africa is the world’s second fastest growing region, experiencing an average annual GDP growth of 4.6%. It’s this rapid growth that caught our eye and that’s why we participated in January’s OPEX Trade show in Kigali which introduced us to opportunities in the Rwandan market and we hope this initial shipment of engine oil to Kigali will be the beginning of a long-term trade relationship.”

Saif al Mamari, Assistant Director General of Exports at Ithraa, Oman’s invest-ment promotion and export development agency said, “I’m thrilled to see an SME like Lotus Oil Lubricants tap into the African market. They’re a shining example of what local SMES can achieve on the export front.” He added, “Ithraa is delighted to have assisted Lotus Oil Lubricants as they grow their export reach. My team is passionate about help-ing Oman’s private sector harness economic growth wherever in the world it is taking place.” .

the health of their vehicles. We are confident that users will be able to provide this new generation of engine oils with a welcome that lives up to Shell’s reputation.”

Bernard Domingue, Lubricants Manager at Vivo Energy Mauritius further emphasized the need of using a quality lubricant on the engine. “An engine is small but at the same time it is powerful, so the choice of the right lubricant is crucial for the proper operation of the engine and its components,” he said.

Vivo Energy said these products will be available in the market through licensed dealers, specialty shops and garages and the Shell network of gas stations. .

SOURCE | VIVO ENERGY MAURITIUS


THEMARKETREPORTNEWS • BRIEFING • NEW PRODUCTS • TECHNOLOGY

N I G E R I A

NNPC Retail partners with Autofit to launch Lube Bay in Nigeria

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s (NNPC) downstream

subsidiary, NNPC Retail Limited, has entered into a partnership with Automatic Fit and Energy Limited (Auto Fit), an Automobile Care Company to set up a vehicle servicing centre NNPC Lube Bay in Abuja. This latest vehicle service centre is responsible for promoting safe motoring in Nigeria.

During the launch of the service centre, the Managing Director of Automatic Fit and Energy Limited, Dr Olusegun Aderemi said: “With over 25 years of experience and also being a pioneer in this same space, with us constantly

updating our techniques and equipment, we believe that we will not be offering anything less in this regard.”

The Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, who was represented by the president’s Special Advisor Senator Babafemi Ojudu said the service centre will be of great benefit to Nigeria’s transportation sector. “The partnership is a good development, as it will provide motorists with highest quality lubricants, proper lubrication processes and services with sustainable value for custom-ers. The relationship will enable customers to achieve their goals, increase business opera-tions and make ambitions a reality.

From L-R: Managing Director NNPC Retail Ltd Mrs Elizabeth Aliyuda, General Manager Shipping Mr Inuwa Waya, CEO Auto Fit Dr Olusegun Aderemi JP, and Special Advisor to Nigerian President on Political Matters, Babafemi Ojudu. SOURCE | AUTOFIT

“Effective lubrication service will also boost the safety of motorists. It is economical when the problems of a car are properly diagnosed and rectified on time as it saves people a lot of money, time and most importantly stress. The partnership is a good arrange-ment and would be of huge benefit in transportation.”

The Chief Operating officer (COO) Downstream of the NNPC, Ms Lawrencia Ndupu, said the opening of the NNPC Lube Bay is key to offering Nigerians quality car care services. “This commissioning of NNPC lube bay service centre being one of the range of the non-fuel business, will enhance service delivery and

customer’s satisfaction. We are highly elated and honoured to be able to commission the NNPC lube bay in partnership with Auto Fit.

“Our dedicated staff have worked tirelessly to make this partnership and launch come to fruition. We assure all Nigerian motorists, NNPC families and friends that the NNPC lube bay service center is equal to none and implore you to patronize our service center for the care and maintenance of your vehicle.”

Autofit further stated that all NNPC staff will receive a 30% discount on any vehicle repair & maintenance services done at any of our service centres across the nation. .


October 28-30 Union of the European Lubricants Industry UEIL Divani Caravel Hotel Athens, Greecewww.ueil.org

December 2-4ICIS Pan American Base Oils & Lubricants Virtual Conference www.icisevents.com/ehome/baseoils/200502371/

October 20-23 11th global lubricant week Novotel City Hotel Moscow, Russiawww.rpi-conferences.com/en/lubricants-week

November 8-13 STLE/ASME 2020 Virtual Tribology Frontiers Conferencewww.stle.org/TribologyFrontiers/Home/TribologyFrontiers/TFC_Call.aspx

October 24-27 ILMA 2020 Annual Meeting Boca Raton, Florida, USAwww.ilmaannualmeeting.org

25-26 November The 2020 European Base Oils & Lubricants SummitRotterdam, The Netherlandswww.wplgroup.com/aci/event/base-oils-lubricants-summit/

December 1-2 LUBMAT 2020 Conference in Conference CentreEuskalduna, Bilbao Spain www.lubmat.org/en/home

December 6-10 ASTM Committee D-2 Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and LubricantsAustin, Texas, USAwww.astm.org/MEETINGS/filtrexx40.cgi?+-P+TERM+D02+searchresults.frm

THELUBESDIARYE V E N T S F R O M AC R O S S T H E G LO B E

O C T O B E R 2 0 - 2 3 Moscow, Russia

O C T O B E R 2 4 - 2 7 Boca Raton, Florida, USA

O C T O B E R 2 8 - 3 0Athens, Greece

2 5 - 2 6 N O V E M B E RRo�erdam, The Netherlands

D E C E M B E R 1 - 2Euskalduna, Bilbao Spain

D E C E M B E R 6 - 1 0Austin, Texas, USA

Moscow, Russia. PHOTO | BEARFOTOS / FREEPIK


FAQSFrequently Asked

Questions WHAT ARE THE GENERAL GUIDELINES DURING LUBRICANTS USAGE?

STAR QUESTION:

Can I mix synthetic with a conventional mineral oil?It is prudent to con-firm compatibility when you have lubri-

cants made from mineral and synthetic base oils. PAO based are mostly compatible with mineral oils but not always. The base stock compatibility here should drive the solution. However, for you to derive the full value of a lubricant, mixing is not encouraged.

Is shelf life the same as func-tional life?No, shelf life is not the same as func-tional life. Shelf life is the period following

the lubricant’s manufacture during which it is deemed suitable for use without re-testing its physical characteristics. Functional life is determined by durability or accelerated life testing of a lubricant in a component under expected operating conditions. It should be noted that most lubricants manufactured are designed for lifetime component lubrication, which often exceeds 10 years in extreme operation conditions.

I’ve noticed sediment in my gear oil. Is it still okay to use it?Some oil separation, which is sometimes seen on the bottom

in pails or drums, should not be a problem. Oil separation is usually insignificant when compared with the mass of the oil in the container. Normally, the separated oil can be safely stirred back into the bulk of the gear oil in the container. Experience has shown that much of this time-related oil separation can be reduced if the oil is stored in a stable storage environment.

What are the general storage guidelines for lubricants?Lubricants should be stored in a cool and dry indoor area. The

indoor temperature should not exceed 86°F (30°C), and should remain above 32°F (0°C). Do not put oil directly near a heat source and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. After opening and using partial amount of fluid,

packaging should be closed immediately, and kept closed. When opening the container, do not let any dust, dirt or moisture enter. Even a small amount of dust or moisture can affect the oil quality. Wipelid or cover clean before opening.

Do I carry out oil analysis even when I do not have failures?This is a usual mis-conception that used oil analysis should be

done based on major equipment failures and often is just based on major machine failures. For any major failure to develop to failure level, the inception of the process starts way before the failure in most cases. Carrying out used oil analysis even when no failures are noticed and keenly review and interpret the results should in most cases reveal some patterns that if resolved then major failures would be eliminated. Apart from the failures, used oil analysis will enable the organization to assess the condition of the lubricant as well as the equipment. .

Q

Q Q Q

Q

When opening the container, do not let any dust, dirt or moisture enter. Even a small amount of dust or moisture can affect the oil quality.


©2017 Chevron. All rights reserved.

Jackie Le RouxManaging DirectorDeojay Petroleum

this is what progress looks like

group II base oils

Let’s talk about your business.We can be reached at Chevronbaseoils.com

Non-conformance from 28% to zero

Deojay, a dynamic independent lubricant company in Durban, South Africa, struggled with losses. Non-conformance averaged 28% due to the high variance in quality of imported Group I base oils.

The technical director at Umongo, their additives supplier, recommended that Deojay switch to Chevron Group II across the board.

Today Deojay has zero non-conformance, a 19% growth in sales, and a hydraulic oil recognized as the cleanest in Sub-Saharan Africa!


W H A T ’ S N E WP R O D U C T S & I N N O V A T I O N S

C hevron Oronite the developer, manufacturer, and marketer of fuel and

lubricant additives has launched a new tractor hydraulic fluid (THF) additive; OLOA® 9728X. According to the company, the new additive meets the new ZF TE-ML 05E specification issued by ZF Friedrichshafen AG who develop and manufacture driveline

Chevron Oronite introduces new tractor hydraulic fluid (THF) additive

A D D I T I V E S

H E V s L U B R I C A N T S

ADNOC launches new lubricant range for hybrid vehicles

A DNOC Distribution has launched a new range of lubricants; ADNOC

VOYAGER comprising of VOYAGER Star Plus HB and VOYAGER Star Plus Eco for hybrid vehicles.

VOYAGER Star Plus HB is designed for hybrid vehicles and it offers fuel savings and engine

lubrication protection. VOYAGER Star Plus Eco engine oil is fully compatible with vehicles manufactured since 2002 and can be used for a variety of cars, including American, Korean, Japanese and, European manufactured vehicles.

As stated in a press release, the new lubricants are manufac-

tured using ADNOC’s Group III base oil ADbase which has a high Viscosity Index (VI) making it an ideal lubricant component, ensur-ing efficiency and fuel economy for high-performance engines, while meeting ever stringent environmental regulations.

Concerning the new range of lubricants, ADNOC Distribution’s

Acting Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Al Shamsi said: “We are proud to be one of the first companies in the Middle East to introduce the latest international standards in vehicle oil technology to the UAE and also to some of our core export markets in the GCC as well as throughout Africa and Asia. The new range meets the needs of the latest engine technologies to enable better fuel efficiency, extend an engine’s lifespan and, create cost savings for our customers. Our lubricants bring together quality from their very base to the expert techniques used to create specific solutions that, together with regular lube change, maintain the efficiency of hybrid engines.”

ADNOC VOYAGER is available at all the ADNOC Distribution stations in UAE and they are exported to distributors across the GCC, Africa, and Asia.

Furthermore, ADNOC offers a range of lubricants comprising of automotive and marine engine lubricants, automotive gear and transmission fluids, and industrial lubricants and greases, meeting the requirements of commercial fleet operators, construction, manufacturing, marine and power generation sectors. .

systems and axles for construction machinery.

Koon Eng Goh, Vice President, Products and Technology, Chevron Oronite said OLOA® 9728X has been developed to take care of the needs of their customers. “Building on a legacy of over 40 years developing THF technology, OLOA® 9728X delivers on stringent ZF performance requirements and

expands our THF product offering to provide enhanced coverage for our customers.”

In addition to meeting the new ZF TE-ML 05E specification, which is current and verifiable, OLOA® 9728X also meets the John Deere JDM 20 and the latest GIMA specifications. Testing is also underway to support the CNH and Volvo OEM specifications said the company in a press release.

“Oronite is fully committed to delivering innovative solutions to meet the evolving performance needs of agriculture and construc-

tion tractors with common sumps where the fluid lubricates the transmissions, brakes, final drives, and hydraulic systems,” stated Jeff Waite, global product line manager, Industrial Engine Oils, Specialties and Fuels, Chevron Oronite. “Our OLOA® 9728X technology, devel-oped with a new approach that led to a patent-pending formula, helps maintain excellent noise suppres-sion, robust protection against gear wear, hydraulic pump distress, rust, corrosion, and oxidation – all hallmark performance attributes of Oronite’s THF additives.” .

ADNOC new lube for hybrid vehicles. SOURCE | ADNOC


FUCHS launches lubricant line for electric vehicles

I nfineum has launched a new wet dual clutch transmission fluid additive that is suitable

even for hybrid vehicles. The new additive improves reliability, anti-shudder ability, and boosts fuel efficiency.

According to Infineum, field trials for the new additive technol-ogy have been conducted in China and Germany since mid-2019. The field trials include 10 vehicles equipped with 4 typical wet DCT models from major European and Chinese OEMs, including hybrid and oil cooling versions. Using a combination of road conditions, including inner-city and highway, they tested the performance in real and challenging conditions for 100,000km without oil change, and the oils were sampled and analyzed along the field trials.

“From the used oil analysis and transmission inspection and rating in SWRI and ISP, our new technology demonstrates superior protection, excellent cleanliness, and minimum deterioration or wear,” said Infineum in a press release. .

Infineum launches new transmission fluid additive

E - M O B I L I T Y L U B E S A D D I T I V E S

F UCHS PETROLUB SE has launched a product line of lubricants for e-mobility,

aptly named FUCHS BluEV.According to FUCHS, FUCHS

BluEV product line will initially constitute of three product categories: FUCHS BluEV DriveFluid-transmission oils in electric and hybrid drives; FUCHS BluEV MotorGrease-grease products for electric motors designed especially for e-mobility applications; and FUCHS BluEV ThermalFluid-dielectric heat transfer media for automotive applications.

Stefan Fuchs, Chairman of the Executive Board, said this move portrays their effort

to help their customers deal with challenges associated with EVs and HEVs. He said: “The transition to e-mobility is presenting our customers in the automotive industry with major challenges, which we help them to tackle. As a development partner of numerous premium manufacturers in the automotive sector, we possess the professional excellence necessary to address global and local customer needs in the best possible way. Over 90 years of expertise and experience are reflected in the development of new lubrication solutions that are needed in the systems

of the future-for example, new combinations of an electric motor and transmission, with and without a combustion engine.”

“We are definitely breaking new ground at FUCHS with the concept of a ‘product line’,” said Joerg Wehrle, Vice President Global Product Management Strategy, while emphasizing the importance of e-mobility for the Group. “So far, we have operated only with product brands. The new product line will cover all products and solutions that are geared especially towards e-mobility, across all product groups, areas of application, and industries.” .

PIC?

Infineum CEO Trevor RussellSOURCE | INFINEUM

SOURCE | FUCHS PETROLUB


W H A T ’ S N E WP R O D U C T S & I N N O V A T I O N S

D r. Ing. H.C. F. Porsche AG the German automobile manufacturer based in

Zuffenhausen, Stuggart Germany and Mobil 1™ the manufacturers of automotive and industrial lubricants and a wholly-owned

subsidiary by ExxonMobil have jointly launched a new synthetic motor oil line.

The three new products are Mobil 1™ C20, C30 and C40 has a low-ash technology formula that extends the service life of

C O - B R A N D E D L U B E

P etro-Canada Lubricants Inc. has launched PURITY™ FG2 MULTI

PURPOSE a Calcium Sulfonate food grade grease. The grease is applicable in a wide range of machinery including sleeve and anti-friction bearings, slides, and guides in various segments of food processing including the roller bearings in animal feed pellet mills.

According to Petro-Canada, the grease has wear and extreme pressure protection with mechanical stability in the presence of heat and water. It also provides resistance to water washout, food acids, juices, steam

cleaning, most sterilizing chemicals used in cleaning and spray loss. It also has an effective protection against rust and corrosion. Moreover, the H1 grease has oxidation resistance which help extend the grease life.

PURITY™ FG2 MULTI PURPOSE is formulated with white mineral oil and tackifiers to help provide effective equip-ment operation over a broad temperature range. The grease has good pumpability down to -20°C (-4°F) which makes it ideal for use in centralized lubricating systems.

PURITY™ FG2 MULTI

PURPOSE has been registered by NSF as having used compo-nents that comply with FDA 21 lubricants with incidental food

contact. It has further been certified by Kosher Pareve for the Jews and Halal for the Muslims.

Petro-Canada manufactures and markets lubricants,

specialty products and greases. It has operations

in around 80 countries worldwide. .

F O O D G R A D E L U B E S

Petro-Canada launches PURITY™ FG2 MULTI PURPOSE food grade grease

Porsche and Mobil 1™ jointly launch new motor oil

the particulate filter device in the exhaust system. They also cater to more stringent emission policies, enhances engine protec-tion and improved fuel economy. The co-branded motor oil is sold in over 100 Porsche Centres across China as stated by the two companies in a press release.

“One of the main features of Porsche’s after-sales service is the use of original components aligned with Porsche’s global uniform standards, to ensure that everything meets Porsche’s strict engine requirements for pursuing ultimate performance. Whether on the road or the race track, the high-performance lubricant Mobil 1™ has contributed significantly to help Porsche forge ahead in creating a period of legendary

history,” said Mr Fabio Stoelzel, Vice President After Sales of Porsche China. “The co-branded motor oil launched by Porsche and Mobil 1™ will thoroughly enhance the superior perfor-mance of our engines and set a new benchmark for the industry. We look forward to protecting every trip taken by Porsche customers via our continuous and solid cooperation with ExxonMobil.”

“Porsche is one of our most significant and strategic partners. Over the years, as the factory fill and recommended service fill for Porsche engines, Mobil 1™ has always aided Porsche sports cars to achieve cutting-edge perfor-mance. And we will continue to provide Porsche owners with superior protection in the future,” said Mr Richard Yue, ExxonMobil China Investment Co. managing director.

Porsche has been in partnership with ExxonMobil since 1996. .

Mr. Fabio Stoelzel, Vice President After Sales of Porsche China and Mr. Richard Yue, ExxonMobil China Investment Co. managing director. SOURCE | PORSCHE

SOURCE | PETRO-CANADA


I N O T H E R W O R L D SB Y M I R I A M W A N G A R I

Brenntag AG, a German chemi-cal distribution company has signed an agreement

to acquire Oils ‘R Us Co., Ltd, a distributor of both industrial and automotive lubricants in Thailand.

Henri Nejade, Member of the Management Board of Brenntag Group and CEO Brenntag Asia Pacific said their acquisition in Thailand will help them expand their lubricant footprint in the region. “Our acquisition in Thailand, which is the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, perfectly drives Brenntag’s lubricant expansion plan in the region forward. Not only regional but also in terms of service offering, since Oils ‘R Us offers us extensive possibilities to establish lubricant decanting and re-packaging capabilities in the future.”

Anthony Gerace, Managing Director Mergers & Acquisitions at Brenntag Group said, “our strategy is to build broad regional coverage of lubricant distribution in Southeast and Southern Asia. Adding a platform in the important market of Thailand is the next step for Brenntag Asia Pacific to complete its vision to become the leading distributor and provider of lubricants and value-added services in the region.”

Brenntag is headquartered in Essen, Germany and it was established in 1912. .

Brenntag to acquire Thai finished lubes distributor

B P and Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)

announced the starting of a joint venture; Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBML) which will be operating under the “Jio-BP” brand. BP paid RIL $1 billion for a 49% stake in the joint venture, with RIL holding 51%.

According to a joint press release by BP and RIL, RBML aims to expand from its current fuel retailing network of over 1,400 retail sites to up to 5,500 over the next five years. This rapid growth will require a four-fold increase in staff employed in service stations – growing from 20,000 to 80,000 in this period. The joint venture also aims to increase its presence from 30 to 45 airports in the coming years.

Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited said: “Reliance is expanding on its strong and valued partnership with bp, to establish a Pan-Indian pres-ence in retail and aviation fuels. RBML will aim to be a leader in mobility and low carbon solutions, bringing cleaner and affordable options for Indian consum-ers with digital and technol-ogy being our key enablers”.

Commenting on the partnership, Bernard Looney, BP Chief Executive Officer

said: “India has been leading the way with innovations in digital technology, value engineering and new energy solutions. It is a country that will require more energy for its economic growth and, as it prospers, its needs for mobility and convenience will accelerate. BP has a proud history in India spanning over a century. We are honoured to be a strategic partner with Reli-ance – India’s most valuable company – and pleased that our partnership has grown in both substance and spirit over this past decade. Reliance’s digital capabilities, technical expertise and reach complement our interna-tional fuels and service offers. Today’s announce-ment is another milestone in our common goal to serve the Indian consumer. This

new venture is a unique opportunity to build a leading, fast-growing business that can help meet India’s demands and create exciting new digital and low-carbon options for the future.”

The joint venture will begin selling fuels and Castrol lubricants with immediate effect from its existing retail outlets, which will be rebranded to “Jio-BP” in due course. A press release by Castrol, this new channel offers the company enhanced vis-ibility and reach for its products and solutions.

“Castrol India is delighted to be a part of the Jio-BP network. We will offer a premium experience to our consumers, bringing innova-tive value-added solutions as together we look to transform the Indian mobil-ity sector,” said Sandeep Sangwan, Managing Director, Castrol India Limited.

Harish C Mehta, CEO, Reliance BP Mobility Limited added “Jio-BP puts consum-ers at the centre of its universe and will offer them differentiated products and services to set new bench-marks in mobility solutions. I am confident that Castrol’s cutting-edge lubricants, together with our fuels and convenience offers, will deliver best in class experi-ence for Indian consumers visiting our outlets.” .

E X P A N S I O N

BP, Reliance Industries Ltd form joint venture; sell Castrol lubes in India

P A R T N E R S H I P

SOURCE | BRENNTAG


I N O T H E R W O R L D SB Y M I R I A M W A N G A R I

I demitsu Kosan Co.,Ltd announced that it has entered into a share purchase

agreement with Shell Overseas Holdings Limited for the transfer of all shares of Shell Lubricants Japan K.K. (SLJ) which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Idemitsu Kosan, and certain assets and rights currently held by the Company for the use of SLJ’s Shell-branded lubricants business.

Idemitsu said this decision was arrived at because they are looking to expand their own brand of lubricants. “The company has been operating the Idemitsu-branded lubricants business through the company, and the Shell-branded lubricants business through SLJ, its wholly-owned subsidiary, with the goal of sustaining and expanding the lubricants business. However, the company considered the future direction of its lubricants business and the status of the business integration, and consequently determined that the establishment of an independ-ent operating structure for the mutually competitive business of each brand, through the transfer of all shares of SLJ to Shell will be needed.

After the transfer, the company will focus its management resources on the Idemitsu-branded lubricants business, work to continue the development and expansion of the lubricants business as a global supplier of lubricants, and supply the best solutions for customers by

utilizing its reliable technology and knowledge.

In line with this, Idemitsu has opened a new lubricant manufac-turing facility in China, Huizhou Plant, and initiated operations in a bid to meet the rising demand of lubricants in China.

This plant becomes the third Idemitsu lubricant manufacturing plant in China. “The Huizhou Plant was built through Huizhou Idemitsu Lube Co., Ltd. a wholly owned subsidiary established in September 2018 for the purpose of increasing our supply capacity in order to accommodate the growing demand for high-performance lubricants in China. The annual production capacity of this plant is 120,000 KL,” said Idemitsu.

The other plants are Tianjin Plant with an annual production capacity of 120,000KL and Changzhou Plant which is run by an Idemitsu affiliate Guohong Lube China with an annual production capacity of 50,000KL. This pushes the annual production capacity of Idemitsu to 290,000KL.

Idemitsu says that through these facilities, it is aiming at establishing a stable supply chain structure that will be able to take care of the entire lubricant market of China. It further says that this step is in line with its ambition of expanding its footprint in the global lubricants market.

The new Huizhou will manufac-ture automotive lubricants like engine oils and transmission fluids, as well as industrial lubricants. .

Idemitsu to sell Shell Lubricants Japan back to Shell as it opens new lube plant

A C Q U I S I T I O N A N D E X P A N S I O N

O il Intel has announced a 50/50 joint venture with TOTAL Market-

ing & Services, cementing a partnership of 20 years since its appointment as authorised lubricants distributor for New Zealand.

“Achieving growth by being the best at what we do has always been my key focus, it is what the business was built around,” says Reuben Thickpenny, Managing Director and co-shareholder of Oil Intel, “We always felt well-supported in this vision by TOTAL.”

Both parties are further united by a shared mission of conducting business respon-sibly: “Over the years, we have taken industry-leading steps towards responsible trading, taking into consideration environmental impact.”

An example is the Lubricant Container Stewardship Programme, whereby NZ oil companies collectively work towards a sustainable process of recycling lubricant

containers. Oil Intel is one of the leading parties in push-ing this project to successful completion. This is in line with TOTAL’s ambition to be the responsible energy major, supported by initiatives such as programs on used oils recycling partnerships or biodegradable lubricant ranges.

“We look forward to the opportunities this Joint Venture partnership brings”, says Christine Richard, Vice President, Specialties & B-B for the Asia Pacific and Middle Eastern region, TOTAL Marketing & Services. “I am proud of our collective achievements over the last two decades. Our customers now rely on the consistency of quality services and we are fully committed to deliver innovative and responsible solutions to the New Zealand market.” He added.

Oil Intel was formed in 1999 but it has been operating in its current legal form since 2004. .

J O I N T V E N T U R E

Oil Intel announces JV with TOTAL to expand Lubricants offerings in New Zealand

Reuben Thickpenny, CEO Total Oil New Zealand. SOURCE | OIL INTEL

SOURCE | IDEMITSU


L ubricants plant PJSC LUKOIL in Kazakhstan (LUKOIL Lubricants

Central Asia LLP), which was launched in September 2019 with a capacity of 100,000 tons per year, has shipped the first batch of LUKOIL industrial and motor oils for passenger and commercial vehicles to the Chinese market. The volume of the first delivery was more than 200 tons of Kazakh-made oils.

The favourable geographi-cal location of the plant close to the highway through Western Europe – Western China allows prompt deliver-ies of LUKOIL oils to China; a rapidly developing oil market with potential for further growth.

The modern automation of the production processes of the plant allows production and shipping the products to the customer to be completed within 24 hours and the up-to-date laboratory equipment guarantees the high quality of oils as mentioned in a statement. High-tech prod-

ucts exported from the LUKOIL plant to China and Central Asian countries con-tribute to the development of

international trade and work for the

interna-

Lukoil plant in Kazakhstan starts to deliver lubricants to China

I N T O N E W M A R K E T S

T otal Lubmarine has opened a new Diagomar Plus Laboratory in Chicago, USA.

The laboratory will offer lubricating oil analysis services for monitoring the performance and condition of marine engines and auxiliary machinery.

This brings the number to five laboratories worldwide owned by Total Lubmarine which are based in Ertvelde (Belgium), Singapore, Shanghai, and Panama City.

Olivier Suming, Service Product Manager at Total Lubmarine said: “Our customers around the world value the level of technical expertise and support our dedicated teams can offer them to not only help deliver engine

lubrication recommendations for optimum cost control results but crucially, through analysis and insight of equipment, to ensure operational efficiency and safety, and to help reduce vessel machinery downtime.

“We are delighted to extend this level of technical support still further with the opening of our new Diagomar Plus Laboratory in Chicago. North America is an increasingly busy market for us and the opening of the Chicago Lab ensures we have a specialist team at hand to deliver onshore dedicated technical support to our customers,” he added.

As per the press release, this lab will allow Total Lubmarine

Total Lubmarine opens new oil analysis lab in Chicago

E X P A N S I O N

customers in North America to access lubricating oil analysis which includes: standard analyses for Engine Oil, Non-engine Oil, Drain Oil, Thermal Oil, Stern tube Oil, and EAL (Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant).

The results from the analysis will help ship operators and crews to decide the best course of action specific to their vessel.

“We have developed this level of service globally that provides the necessary assurance for ship

operators and engineers when they need it most,” said Olivier Suming. “The speed of service and delivery of final test results using any one of our worldwide labs is usually completed within 48 to 72 hours. Ship operators are supplied with the very best technical insight on the ‘health’ of their engines with quality reports that detail key findings and recommendations from our experts to better support decision making.” .

tional prestige of both Russia and Kazakhstan.

The company produces over 800 types of oils, including LUKOIL GENESIS, developed using innovative molecular technologies and approved by the world’s leading car manufacturers. PJSC LUKOIL has been operating in Kazakhstan since 1995, and it also participates in four other oil and gas production projects. .


F E A T U R EC O V E R

Africa and the Middle East account for a sizeable proportion of the worldwide demand for White Oils with a market share of estimated to be in the region of 12%, and its importance in sectors such as cosmetics,

personal care, food packaging and food grade lubricants cannot be understated. Understanding which grades are suitable for which applications has become essential in an attempt to limit the exposure of the population to some of the more harmful trace impurities that can be found in some grades. In order to fully explain the distinguishing features between the various grades, an overview into the origins of White Oils can only be beneficial.

W H I T E O I L S

White Oils and The Market Trends for Africa

Michael Lyttle is the Technical Support and Development Manager at SIP Speciality Oils and Fluids, who are recognised independent marketers and distributors of Halal and Kosher certified white oils that also have NSF H1, HX-1 and 3H registrations. Their products are widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food grade lubricants and food packaging sectors.

Special thanks to Mike Peters for his contributions to the article.

By Michael Lyttle

Africa immersed in crystal clear white oil. PHOTO | ISTOCK / ANDREYEROSHKIM


The major factors driving white oil demand growth is the increasing use of cosmetics, hair care products and topical creams.

White Oils are highly refined mineral oils that are extremely pure, stable, colourless, odourless, non-toxic and chemically inert. It is in fact the benign nature of these oils that make them ideal for those applications that value these properties.

The term ‘White Oil’ is a little misleading in the sense that they are not white at all, but actually crystal clear. The term for these high purity oils was originally used to differentiate them from less refined darker oils.

The technology for refining white min-eral oil was first established in 1887 in Russia. Over the next 25 years the process was improved so that high quality white oils, that could be used for medicinal and specialist industrial applications, were produced. These were exported all over the world, especially to North America, until in

1917 when the US entered the First World War, a number of major US oil companies had to start producing white oils.

There are a number of processes that are used in the production of white oils and, depending on the severity of the process and intended use, three main types of white oil; Medicinal (or Pharmaceutical) White oils, Technical White oils and the less well refined, White process oils are produced.

White oils can be produced from a variety of feedstocks, depending on the process used. These starting materials

include conventional base stocks for the older acid treatment process to Vacuum

Gas Oils (VGO) for the more widely used two stage hydrotreating method. These processes produce colourless, odourless, tasteless oils where all components that might have any detrimental effects on their end usage, such as aromatics, sulfur or other impurities are removed.

In the past 40 years two stage hydro-treatment has become more popular as the process is cleaner and offers greater economies of scale. The process entails the initial hydro-cracking of VGO, which breaks down heavy hydrocarbons, saturates aromatics and olefins and removes any sulfur and nitrogen containing compounds. Distillation of the hydro-cracked feedstock yields Technical White Oils. Once dewaxed and passed through the second stage hydro-treater, the product is further purified to produce Medicinal White Oil. The actual processes depend on the preference of the particular white oil refiner.

Depending on the nature of the end

application in which a white oil is used, it can be subject to a wide range of clas-sifications, specifications, registrations and directives. The nature of the application can determine the need for either a Medicinal or Technical grade, the distinction being that the medicinal grade can contain less than 0.05ppm of aromatics whilst the lower purity technical grades can contain up to 2000ppm. Within the aromatics content there are a sub species which are known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, (PAH’s) which due to their toxicity are heavily regulated in Europe. The more severely refined medicinal grades typically contain less than 0.002ppm of this species, whilst the Technical grades can contain in excess of 8 times this amount. This is especially important when identifying an oil for a skin care application or for use as a plastisizer in plastics earmarked for the manufacture of food containers, where the higher purity medicinal grade would be the selection of choice. PAH’s are known to be absorbed through the skin and due to

their carcinogenic properties skin contact or ingestion should be avoided.

High purity medicinal oils are defined by their conformance to the analysis requirements of the European and US Pharmacopoeia, the only difference being that the US Pharmacopoeia allows the use of an approved antioxidant, whilst the European Pharmacopoeia does not.

The Food and Drug AgencyThe Food and Drug Agency (FDA) is the authoritative body that regulates the use of ingredients that are likely to come in to contact with food in the USA and whose standards are globally recognised in the food processing lubricants sector. They have categories 21 CFR FDA 172.878, 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 part (a) and 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 part(b), which define different levels of quality i.e.

White oils are a key ingredient in cosmetics. PHOTO | SHUTTERSTOCK / MICHAEL JUNG

White Oil (Medicinal)

Conforms to 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 Part (a) ≡ 21 CFR FDA 172.878 ≡ US Pharmacopoeia ≡ EU Pharmacopoeia – Certified pure enough for direct contact with food. The compliance of cosmetics ingredients to this standard is relevant as white oils can be absorbed through the skin.

Technical White Oil

Conforms to 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 Part (b) – To be used on machinery where only incidental contact with food is likely to occur.


F E A T U R EC O V E R

EU Directives An EU directive is a legislative act that sets out a goal that all EU countries must achieve. There are a number of these that medicinal white oils must meet according to the application.• 10/2011/EU – This relates to plastic food

contact materials, where the requirement is for a medicinal quality paraffinic oil to meet the European Pharmacopoeia, with a viscosity of not less than 8.5 mm2/s at 100°C and an average molecular weight which is greater than 480

• 1223/2209/EC – This relates to the regula-tion of ingredients for cosmetics. Medici-nal white oils meet the requirements as not posing a risk to health and do not appear in the list of prohibited products. These directives are important in that

they are universal standards to which food contact material and cosmetics ingredients need to comply if they are to be used in the specified application area.

NSF H1, HX-1 and 3H RegistrationsThe National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is a US non-governmental organisation, who undertake the registration of lubricants and lubricant components for incidental food contact products. They took over this registration process from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1998. The guidelines produced by the NSF are used to gauge the quality of a product. The relevant category codes for ‘food grade’ products are the H1, for finished oils, and HX-1, for additives and base oils used in these end use products. The NSF category code 3H denotes suitability of an oil for use

as a mould release agent for food container materials for example. Companies wishing to register their products need to provide evidence of product quality in order to have it listed by brand name and manufacturer in the ‘NSF White Book’ of registered products.

Market Sectors According to various market reports the global market size for white oils is estimated to be as high as $5 billion and is expected to register significant compound annual growth rates in the period from 2020 – 2027. The key sectors driving this growth are as follows.

What grade to use?Fundamental to the use of white oils in this everchanging regulatory landscape is identifying which grade of oil to use for which application. For over 30 years SIP has been using its experience in this area to inform the emerging markets such as Africa how to best limit their exposure to some of the harmful trace impurities that can be found in some grades of white oil.

For use in spray oils for an insecticide application or for a cosmetics formulation for instance, the purest grade that meets the requirements of European Pharmacopoeia, CFR 21 FDA 172.878 and CFR 21 FDA 178.3620 Part (a) should be used. These grades have had practically all of the PAH’s removed and are therefore considerably less harmful than lower purity equivalents. Equally as important is the selection of these high purity grades for applications such as for milking salve/lubricantswhere it is important avoid the undesirable PAH’s entering the food chain.

For food processing machinery where the food is unlikely to have direct contact with the lubricant, the base oil ingredients need not meet the more stringent European Pharmacopoeia, 21 CFR FDA 172.878 and 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 Part (a), but must meet the requirements of the less demanding 21 CFR FDA 178.3620 Part (b).

Future TrendsEconomic and industrial expansion in Middle East and Africa, coupled with the rising demand for polymers and speciality chemicals are expected to propel the white oil market during this forecast period. The other major factors driving this growth is

the increasing use of cosmetics, hair care products and tropical creams for which white oils are key ingredients. My expectation is for the growth potential of white oils to contin-ue in this region and that it will be some time before the more environmentally acceptable bio based, more biodegradable and less bio-accu-mulative oils make an appearance in the marketplace. .White oils are also used as a component in food grade lubricants for food processing machinery. PHOTO | SHUTTERSTOCK / S. LAVRENTEV

• Personal Care – baby oil, cosmetics, hair care, emollients, lotions and moisturizers

• Pharmaceutical – ointments, creams, laxatives and the prepara-tion of gelatinous capsules

• Adhesives – as a plasticizer for food contact materials

• Agriculture – dedusting agent for seeds, low toxicity insecticide for plants and milking lubricants

• Food – a key ingredient in food grade lubricants and release agents for cutting tools, chopping boards and hard surfaces to stop food adhering

• Textile - used for spinning, weaving and meshing materials. Also used for sewing machine lubrication

• Polymers – extender oil for TPE formulation and plasticizer for food contact containers

• Others – candles, trimmer lubricat-ing oil etc


F E A T U R EG L O B A L D E M A N D

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global lubricants industry

Key concepts• Economic impacts are already severe, and

evolving national policies will impact the shape and duration of economic recovery.

• Oil markets are in free fall, with trans-portation fuels hit hardest.

• Adverse lubricants market signals could extend beyond 2020 if COVID-19 persists or social distancing becomes embedded in corporate behaviors.

The COVID-19 pandemic, which started in China in November 2019, now afflicts much of the world. What will its immediate and lasting impacts on the global economy and, specifically, on the lubricants industry be?

What we know now is that the virus is highly transmissible and has a higher mor-tality rate than seasonal influenza. There are currently no medicines or vaccines to fight the disease. The only effective weapon at present is social distancing, imposed by various means, to slow transmission of the disease.

This rapidly evolving virus could have long-lasting consequences on the lubricants and oil markets.

At best, it would seem that radical meas-ures adopted worldwide could contain the impact of COVID-19 to mid-year (a life cycle of a little over six months). Just as likely, based on the history of previous pandemics such as the Spanish flu and Swine flu, its extent could persist for up to 18 months, lasting well into 2021.

The economic consequencesCOVID-19, and the restrictions put in

place to inhibit its spread, will have massive and potentially long-lasting consequences. Governments are responding with measures to stimulate economies, assure liquidity and soften impacts on the public.

China is considered the OPEC of industrial goods. The country has a leading role in several industries, including automotive, electronics and pharmaceuticals. China, with other afflicted countries such as South Korea, Japan, Germany and the U.S., are all vital to global supply chains. Virus contain-ment efforts have caused factory closures

due to worker shortages, non-availability of parts and shutdown of logistics networks. Even as China lifts these restrictions, the supply-side shock will continue for some time, as restrictions in other countries impact Chinese exports. Early insights into the damage caused by COVID-19 in China show industrial production down by 13.5% in January and February 2020 versus December 2019. Even larger declines are reported in Chinese retail sales and exports. The impacts on the Chinese GDP in 2020 are still being assessed, but early estimates suggest a decline of 3%-5% against pre-crisis growth forecasts of +5.5%. No real growth is a possibility.

The damage caused by COVID-19 to oil markets has been much more severe. On March 26, the International Energy Agency announced that world oil demand could drop by up to 20%, from 100 to 80 million B/D, while the crisis persists. Though hard data lags behind, current U.S. statistics show the early impact on domestic petroleum

Kline & Company, Inc. | TLT Feature Article July 2020

By Ian Moncrieff and Milind Phadke


March 2010, the cumulative reduction in U.S. lubricants consumption relative to expected (normalized) aggregate demand over that period amounted to 9.4 million barrels (or 1.3 million tons), equivalent to

a loss of nearly 13% in expected demand over that time (see Figure 3). By contrast, aggregate U.S. consumption of all refined products over that same period declined by only 4% relative to expected demand.

(Week Ending March 13 to Week Ending April 10)

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F E A T U R EG L O B A L D E M A N D

products supplied (a leading indicator of consumption) with massive declines in demand between March 13 and April 10 (see Figure 1).

The hardest hit have been transporta-tion fuels (jet fuel, gasoline and diesel), registering demand declines of 71%, 48% and 31%, respectively, between March 13 and April 10.

Previous non-medically driven recessions, such as the global financial crisis of 2007-2009, have had far lesser impacts on oil consumption in aggregate. While financial markets and consumer spending were affected, oil consumption fell in lockstep with global GDP (see Figure 2).

What we can presuppose is that oil markets will behave quite differently with COVID-19, which impacts physical behaviours in addition to financial ones. Oil markets are already reflecting that difference.

Taking what we know, at present, about the potential impacts of COVID-19 on global economic activity under the most optimistic and pessimistic of assumptions, what approximate early assessment can we postulate for the possible range of impacts on global GDP and oil demand in 2020 (see Table 1)?

Impact on the global lubricants marketFirst, we have empirical evidence that global lubricant consumption in aggregate is driven by changes in real GDP, with a historical negative demand elasticity of between 3% and 4%. In other words, lubricants consumption is expected to change at a rate of some 3%-4% per year below the projected change in annualized global real GDP over the same period. Based on the above range of real GDP growth estimates, global lubricants demand in 2020 could be expected to decline by between 8% and 15% from 2019 levels. But, in reality, because of the unique characteristics of the COVID-19 pandemic, we may expect the decline in lubricants consumption to be even greater. Let’s look at two examples from the 2007-2009 financial crisis.

The global financial crisis of 2007-2009 truly started in 2007 but entered the wider public consciousness in September 2008 when the Lehman Brothers filed for bank-ruptcy. The impact on the U.S. lubricants market was swift. Between September 2008 and the end of the recession (and recovery in U.S. lubricants demand) in

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Table 1. COVID-19 Impacts

Measure

Impact on 2020 Global GDP

Impact on 2020 Global Oil Consumption

• Impact on Jet Fuel

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COVID-19 Extendsinto 2021

Figure 1. Change in U.S. petroleum products consumption. SOURCE: U.S. DOE/EIA

Figure 2. World real GDP versus oil consumption growth. SOURCES: IMF, BP


A parallel assessment of the same crisis on global lubricants demand shows an aggregate loss of 7.3 million tonnes, or nearly 10% of expected consumption from mid-2008 to the end of 2009. This compares with a loss of only 3% in expected global refined products consumption over the same 18-month period.

May we expect the same, but a dispro-portionately large, impact on lubricants consumption as the consequences of COVID-19 extend and mature? Early market signals suggest that social distancing, travel bans and the closure of non-essential businesses have depressed gasoline and jet fuel demand most significantly. Diesel use for on-highway transportation is largely fulfilling an essential service to the economy and has been less compromised, at least initially. But a month into the U.S. experi-ence of the pandemic, even diesel is now feeling its bite. So, by extension, do these same early signals extend to lubricants?

Presuming that we can take these initial signs as indicators, the early impact of COVID-19 may be felt most particularly in the passenger automotive lubricants segment. Less driving, social distancing and the partial closure of dealerships and quick lubes is taking a significant bite out of PCMO demand for oil changes, particularly in North America, which is far more depend-ent on the private automobile than most other countries. New vehicle purchases have plummeted, as unemployment spikes and consumer confidence erodes, impacting OEM initial fill volumes.

Commercial and industrial lubricant con-sumption are reacting more slowly, largely because a functioning economy depends on those segments to provide essential products and services (for example, food, healthcare, commer-cial transportation, communications and government). But as unemploy-ment rises, and GDP declines, the link-age to lubricants consumption, as demonstrated previ-ously, is inevitable.

A very early assess-ment of the impact on global lubricants demand suggests that if COVID-19 has the same leverage on lubricants demand relative to fuels that we saw in 2008 and 2009, then the 2020 global lubricants consumption could drop by 15%-30% from 2019 levels. Prolongation of the pandemic into 2021 could adversely impact lubricants demand in that year, but by lesser amounts.

The inference is that the lubricants industry will have a long, hard road ahead. Preparing for adverse outcomes of the significance implied by our preliminary prognostications should be top of mind for all leaders of lubricants businesses. .

This article is adapted, by permission, from Kline & Company, Inc. To read the original article, visit www.klinegroup.com.

Ian Moncrieff and Milind Phadke are vice presidents of Kline’s Management Consulting and Market Research divisions, respectively. You can reach Ian at [email protected]. You can reach Milind at [email protected]. Kline is an international provider of worldclass consulting services and high-quality market intelligence for industries that include lubricants and chemicals. Learn more at www.klinegroup.com.

Reprinted with permission from the July 2020 issue of TLT, the official monthly magazine of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers, an international not-for-profit professional society headquartered in Park Ridge, Ill., www.stle.org.

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Figure 3. U.S. “lubricants” consumption versus normalized trend, 2007-2010. SOURCE: U.S. DOE/EIA


QUESTIONS10 FOR LUBRICANTS PROFESSIONALS

Manager, New Business Manager and fulfilled different positions in our Logistics and Marketing departments. In my current position as Commercial Director, I obviously have a lot of responsibilities but I always try to stay close to our roots: making time for each other, truly connecting with our customers, which at times means inviting them over to my house with my family and always finding the joy and happiness within our work.

3. Let’s talk about Rymax Lubricants. What is the company’s entry into the market?

Actually, Rymax evolved out of the work we have been doing for many years. Most of our foundation was built in the ‘80s, ‘90s and early 2000s when we grew rapidly as a private label lubricants manufacturer. Although we have customers in 4 continents, Africa has always been the place where we felt at home. Even still today, some of our most important private label customers are based in Africa. Through the years however, we learned that we were not only excelling in manufacturing products for others, but also in the logistics, storage, sales support and marketing for others. And we were looking for a way to showcase this to our customers. In 1998 this led to the logical step of creating a brand that is completely ours: Rymax Lubricants (previously called Rymco). So besides producing and marketing beautiful brands for others, we could now use our own brand to show our expertise. The brand, in its current form after a rebrand-ing, was launched in 2014. In only 6 years’ time we have been able to give Rymax a permanent place in the market, especially strong in Africa, Asia and Europe. I would

1. Who is Erik Vermeer and for how long have you been in the lubricants industry?

I grew up in an environment of entrepre-neurship. My father was active in the oil and lubricants industry and started his own oil company in the eighties. His customers visited our house regularly, stayed for dinner and sometimes preferred a bed in our house over a hotel. My father conducted a lot of his business in the African continent and I guess that’s where I developed my interest in Africa. After I graduated with my MBA, I did an internship and immediately after started working in my father’s company. I have worked there for 12 years now. My colleagues tell me I am an adventurer and that is also why not being able to travel due to the COVID-19 pandemic makes me sad. I

miss visiting our customers, travelling and inviting them over to our house. Although we put the health of our staff first and follow all the regulations, I can’t wait for the moment to travel the world again.

2. Could you take us through your journey at Rymax Lubricants and prior to joining the company?

I grew into the company. I already got acquainted with the industry when I was a little boy and I have known some of our customers ever since my younger days. But I consciously took some time before taking over the ownership of the company. I first wanted to learn all the different facets of running a lubricants business and that is why I only joined my business partner, Mr Herman Peene, in the board of directors in 2013. Before that I worked as Export

EXPERT INTERVIEW

Erik Vermeer, Commercial Director,

Rymax Lubricants

Mr. Erik Vermeer (second from the left) at the Rymax headquarters office in the Netherlands. PHOTO | RYMAX

From a family business to a globally recognized lubricant brand

An interview between Lubezine Magazine and Erik Vermeer, Commercial Director Rymax Lubricants. Rymax has been in existence from 1986 as VPS International and it has grown over the years to be a recognized lubricant brand

that is sold in more than 55 countries globally.


even dare say that Rymax Lubricants sets the benchmark when it comes to introduc-ing a brand, positioning it with a smart marketing strategy in different continents and segments simultaneously and gaining customer trust and confidence by always delivering on quality and exceeding our customers’ expectations.

4. How would you describe Rymax’s global presence and operations? Currently Rymax Lubricants are sold in more than 55 countries. We work with loyal and professional distributing partners who import Rymax into their markets and who have exclusivity over the brand. We select our partners on market expertise, lubricants experience, existing sales network and something less tangible: passion. Growing worldwide is important but not a goal by itself. It is a result of the awareness we build through our sales and marketing activities but moreover: through the excellent results of our products. Personally, I enjoy seeing Rymax Lubricants being sold in all those different countries, markets, cultures and communities. In Asia, other things are appreciated within the brand compared to Africa. And in our home-continent, Europe, again other elements are valued. This makes our work very dynamic and also shows the many different USPs that the Rymax product assortment has to offer. Looking at operations, this is something that has a lot of focus within our company. To be able to sustainably grow, many operational procedures must be optimized, automated and looked after all the time by a team of professionals. Our ISO-9001 certification forces us to do so. But we also have invested in our staff; hiring the best people we can find and offering training and education ensures us that we can stay on top of the game. This goes not only for our head-quarters in the Netherlands, but also for our subsidiaries in Europe and Africa. And luckily, these investments are paying off.

5. What would you say is Rymax Lubricant’s X factor that has enabled it to gain footing in the global lubricants market?

Rymax Lubricants was initially built to

showcase all the experiences we gained with our private label business for almost 35 years. This case turned out to be very successful, converting private label custom-ers into Rymax customers. To me that is the best proof of concept. It formed the solid foundation for our company today. Also, our investments in staff and operations contribute heavily to this foundation. But most of all, the X-factor is found in the way we position the brand. For this, we aim to create a world beyond the product; a lifestyle. We want to connect with the end-user on an emotional level, especially focusing on people with a passion for everything with an engine: petrolheads as we call them. Why? Because we have the same passion. We want Rymax Lubricants to be what we are; we need the brand to stand close to our personalities. This way, marketing and selling the brand comes naturally, we are just following our passion! And it motivates us to constantly challenge ourselves. That goes for our private lives: signing up for a marathon, driving a desert rally, drifting a car in competition or riding a bike as fast as we can. But it definitely goes for the way we work. We always try to challenge ourselves to improve. Improve our products, our logistics, our marketing. It is not always easy but if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. It is this passion for improvement that customers appreciate in our company and products. If you look at our website or Social Media platforms, you immediately get confirmed that we do everything with passion: from the product design to the

services we offer and from the sponsorships we engage in, to the content we produce.

6. What type(s) of market-ing and business arrangement/partnership models does Rymax Lubricants embrace Globally and specifically African market if different?

A model harnessing a growth strategy is most applicable for Africa. This means that within our company, we make sure that we have enough resources available at any time to act on opportunities that cross our, or our distributor’s path. The world’s fastest grow-ing population and the highest urbanization rate of any continent combined with the increased political stability brings economic growth. The ever-increasing middle class require energy sources in a faster rate than in other regions. Motorization rates are exploding in many countries and the lubrication demand is expected to rise by 13% from 2020 to 2025, according to ExxonMobil. In comparison: global demand is expected to grow by 2% in the same period. So globally, we definitely practise different strategies to market our products. Europe is a highly competitive and mature market. Although we are also growing here, the strategy is not so much focused on growth. For this continent, we focus on improv-ing the quality of our partners through education and selection. Partners that have been selling oil for many years don’t have

Mr. Erik Vermeer (second from the right) at the Rymax headquarters office in the Netherlands PHOTO | RYMAX


QUESTIONS10 FOR LUBRICANTS PROFESSIONALS

to be told how to sell the products but are open for consultancy when it comes to stock-keeping, replenishment, customer relation management and marketing. Asia, on the other hand, faces other challenges. Counterfeit products are a serious problem there and claims like ‘Made in Holland’ are popular to copy. The knowledge we built in Asia on preventing illegal reproduction is something we bring with us to Africa to help our customers here secure their business. But still, Asia is a market with a lot of potential thanks to the sheer size of its economy. So, as in Africa, we will continue to grow in Asia for the foreseeable future.

7. Rymax Lubricants have been in the African lubricants market for some time now. What’s your current footprint in Africa? And what are your mid and long-term strategies for expansion in Africa?

Every country we sell Rymax to is dear to us, but Africa is the continent that has a special place because it is where it all started. Ever since the first oil was sold by us in the early eighties, Africa has played a significant role within our company. Currently Rymax Lubricants is sold in 20 African countries. Our experience in Africa has enabled us to understand the local needs better: high temperatures, high humidity, dust and an aging carpark having to perform heavy duty tasks. But also the remarkable development

that a lot of African countries are experienc-ing, with thriving economies and double digit growth figures is something we have been able to guide our customers through, providing them with products that both serve the more traditional machinery in their country and also modern cars and trucks requiring the latest industry standards. In addition, with training and education through our Rymax Academy we have been able to keep up with the growth. We have grown together with our local partners and many have developed from modest players to major oil distributors. We always believed that team improvement is more important

than individual success; we depend on one another and that’s why we are always proud supporters of our customers’ teams, supporting them in whatever goal they want to achieve. But we are far from done in Africa. The continent still has a lot of potential and the pace in which economies are developing motivates us. We also see a shift in the focus of the traditionally strong oil-majors, moving more to other energy sources. Their retreating strategies will leave distributors in the dark while they still have an important role to fulfill to fuel an expanding economy. We understand the needs of these companies and will help them move forward. In the long run, we believe that each of the 54 African countries will have a Rymax distributor. But as explained before, we also have some criteria to select our partners by, so we prefer quality over speed in this case.

8. Africa is not a unitary region but rather comprises of different countries, each with different market dynamics. How does a company like Rymax navi-gate through these complexities given that one size does not fit all as far as Africa is concerned?

To be honest: there is not a single continent where a ‘one size fits all’ strategy can be applied. Even in some large countries, the differences are so big that different market strategies are required within the same

Mr. Erik Vermeer on a visit to one of his longtime customers in Ghana. PHOTO | RYMAX

Mr. Erik Vermeer (left) visiting his Nigerian agent Mr. Ayo Osibogun in Lagos. PHOTO | RYMAX


country. Luckily, we have been in the game for quite some time now, so there are not many procedures we haven’t seen before, logistical routes we haven’t navigated before or sales opportunities we haven’t seized before. But this is also thanks to our profes-sional partners, it will always be a team effort and we learn together. Our focus on team effort is in my opinion also the most important factor to successfully navigate all the complexities of the different African countries. We value every distributor equally, visit them regularly and stay in touch continuously, exploring their needs and moulding our services to these needs. We like to think of our partners as colleagues and when you are equal partners you can achieve so much more. It makes us more creative and it broadens our horizon. To us, it feels like we have colleagues, maybe even friends in all those countries and we overcome challenges together but more often, celebrate successes together.

9. Rymax product range covers the key market segments such as marine, industrial, auto-motive, agriculture, mining etc. Looking at Africa, which of these segments would you say are the most important and which ones are projected to experience rapid growth in the future?

Our biggest volume within the African market is found in engine oils, led by truck and passenger car engine oils. Hydraulic oils used in industrial, construction and mining applications also form a large part of the volume. Subsequently, gear oils and ATF’s are important as well. In the slipstream of European developments, Africa profits from our increasing agricultural portfolio too. When we look at the future, our R&D will emphasize most on high-performance synthetic products. The biggest growth in volume will be on-road transportation for which we are selling and developing specialized products. While we optimize our product portfolio and the routes-to-market of our product development, we also look at the most effective way for sales-channel integration, adding value with every step of the value chain. Simply put, we are making sure that our customers and their customers can make a healthy margin. Our (digital) marketing skills also play an important role, with an ever-increasing internet penetration

rate on the African continent, propelling our focus on value addition services like remote stock monitoring, fluid management systems, virtual product identification and online lube-service channels. We will also be looking at acquisitions to improve our scale in order to keep up with the rapid growth. But we do not only focus on the macro-trends. We also listen to our customers and service them in the segments they are most active in. Recently, this has pushed development of our portfolio for agricultural, mining and passenger car products.

10. S u s t a i n a b i l i t y continues to be an important topic for the lubricants indus-try. Could you tell us if Rymax is integrating sustainability in its business and if so, how?

The world is changing faster than ever before. Our industry is facing disruptive changes and we are preparing ourselves for a future with an increasing number of EV’s, accelerated green regulation, increased fleet ownership, and a diminishing B2C market, to name a few. We are not only following these developments, but we are also taking an industry lead in acting upon them. A good example is our recently launched Apollo ECO line. It comprises of our lowest viscosity engine oils with a 0W-16 as highlight product to ensure minimum resistance in modern engines. The product itself is not unique, it is in the packaging where we make the

difference. The bottles are made out of 95% recycled plastic and no paint is used to colour the bottle, following our goal to reduce virgin materials used. In addition, we have partnered up with the One Tree Planted foundation that plants a tree for every box of Rymax ECO line products sold. And to show that being green can still be attractive, we sponsor the ‘Photon’, the Solar Boat built and ran by the HAN University of Applied Sciences and participating in the prestigious Monaco Solar & Energy Boat Challenge. We also go further when it comes to making a sustainable contri-bution to the preservation of the earth. Our headquarters office building in the Netherlands for example is equipped with high performance solar panels, making us self-sufficient when it comes to energy. However, operating a sustainable busi-ness involves so much more than just the environment. High on our agenda are topics like ethnicity, gender-equality and personal development. Rymax Lubricants feels it has a responsibility towards the people that buy our products and the communities they live in. A good example of this is the ‘Tuma Viela’ initiative supported by us in Ghana. This is a job-creating project in which women and unemployed youth have a chance to develop themselves, which allows them to earn an income and become independent. All this is done with the goal of creating a less polluted urban Tamale; educating schools about preserving the environment and putting smiles on the faces of children who can acquire a beautiful product if they help clean up the streets. .

Mr. Erik Vermeer (left) visiting the ALMC production site in Rwanda to meet with plant manager Mr. John Okoth. PHOTO | RYMAX


Naphthenic base oils provide several advantages to MWF formulations. High solvency allows for the dissolution of high amounts of additives and contributes to increased emulsion stability.

IntroductionMetalworking fluids (MWF) are used to aid the process of metal machining, mainly by providing lubrication of the workpiece and tool, and also by providing cooling and corrosion protection. Many different MWF formulations are needed for the vastly differing needs under varied operating conditions.

The make-up of a typical metalworking fluid emulsion is a dilution of 5 to 10 volume-% mineral oil concentrate in water. This water could be tap water, with whatever water hardness the local source offers, of demineralised (Demin) or reverse osmosis (RO) water which is very soft. The mineral oils content is high, typically 60-80% of the concentrate, and the remainder being oil soluble additives: emulsifiers, lubricity additives, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, antifoams and mist suppressants.

Naphthenic base oils provide several advantages to MWF formulations. High solvency allows for the dissolution of high amounts of additives and contributes to increased emulsion stability. Emulsion stability is key to metalworking fluid (MWF) usefulness – if the emulsion breaks, it has ceased to function. Investigations of the

F E A T U R EN Y N A S

B A S E O I L S

Critical correlations between metalworking fluid emulsion stability and base oil properties

relationship between formulation and emulsion stability thus is the first step towards a better understanding of the complex chemistry of a fully formulated MWF. We sought to understand how the properties of the base oils, especially sol-vency (as indicated by the Aniline Point) would influence emulsion stability over the test period for up to one week.

Experimental work

Metalworking fluid emulsionsA MWF soluble oil emulsion stability study was set up, comparing the properties of a naphthenic base oil, versus three paraffinic type base oils of similar viscosity, ca. 20 cSt (100 SUS) at 40 °C. NYNAS® T 22 is a good example of the quintessential “100/100” metalworking fluid oil, having a viscos-ity of 100 SUS at 100 °F. As Group I oils we picked a traditional SN 100 base oil, and the NYBASE® 100, which is a Group I replacement base oil. A Group II base oil of similar viscosity was also included.

The solvency, as indicated by the Ani-line Point (AP), varies across the base oils studied:

Two non-ionic emulsifiers: Span 80 (Sorbitan monooleate), with a Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance (HLB) number of HLB 4.3, and Tween 80 (Polyethylene glycol sorbitan monooleate), with HLB 15, were utilized to make nine different blends with HLBs ranging from 9 to 13, in half-steps. Butyldiglycol was employed as solubiliser (co-emulsifier, coupling agent).

All emulsion concentrates were of the same oil content, with surfactants to make up the required HLB value. The concentrate

Nynas AB, Naphthenics TechDMS, Sweden

Prof. Thomas Norrby

1. Naphthenic NYNAS® T 22 (~100 SUS), AP = 76 °C

2. SN 100, AP = 100 °C3. NYBASE® 100, AP = 101 °C4. HP4, a Group II base oil, 20 cSt @

40 °C (4 cSt @ 100 °C), AP = 108 °C


was added to the water at ca. 5 v/v-% and sonicated at low power for three minutes.

Droplet size distribution experimentsThe soluble oil emulsion droplet size distribution (DSD) was determined at three different times. The droplet size was measured at high dilution by a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 E. In Figure 1, the droplet size distribution statistical Dx50 mean value is plotted versus HLB. These graphs typically will show a “U”-shaped minimum where the emulsion droplet size is the smallest, and hence at which HLB the most stable emulsions are formed. Similar plots were obtained for the Group I, NYBASE® new range Group I replacement, and Group II formulations. For the more paraffinic oils, the optimum HLB was close to 10, but the value of the minimum droplet size was in no case below 10 µm, more than 20 times larger than for the naphthenic NYNAS® T 22 oil.

An increase in mean droplet size over time is observed: Day 0 (blue bar), Day 1 (red bar) and Day 7 (green bar) in general show increasing droplet size with time. Since an increase of droplet size is the earliest warning sign and the first steps towards coalescence and emulsion break-up, this is very interesting information.

Emulsion phase thickness and stabil-ity determinationThe emulsion stability was also determined by light back scattering utilizing a Turbiscan LAB, measurements at actual concentration

“as-is”. The Turbiscan Stability Index (TSI) was utilized to characterise emulsion stabil-ity. The TSI development during the first ten minutes after sonication is shown for nine samples with HLB from 9.5 to 13. The most stable properties for the NYNAS® T 22 based emulsions were found around HLB 12, similar to what the droplet side distribution (DSD) experiment indicated (Figure 1). The “U-shape” of the DSD is mirrored by the TSI values (the thin purple line).

Results and discussionIn this study, we set out to investigate different parameters affecting the primary emulsion stability of model metalworking fluids. We could determine the optimal HLB value for the different base oils and could also observe large differences in emulsion stability. The primary contribution to stability, as demonstrated by a low (1 µm or less) mean droplet size, was found to be solvency; the lower the Aniline Point, the more stable the emulsion formed. The naphthenic base oil emulsions display the highest stability, followed by the Group I base oils, then Group II.

ConclusionsTwo complementary methods for the determination of droplet size were utilised to study emulsion stability, and the two methods yield comparable results.

We could determine a preferred HLB value for each base oil type. This was found to be about two (2) units higher for the naphthenic base oil compared to

the paraffinic Group I and II base oils and this would serve as a rule-of-thumb recommendation.

Increasing the fundamental understand-ing of important oil and emulsion proper-ties is a useful tool for formulators and developers in different parts of the world, where the choice of base oils available may be bewildering. .

D X (50)

(µm

)

TSI (

Glob

al)

09 9.5 10 10.5 11 11.5 12 12.5 13

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

HLBDay 0 Day 1 Day 7 TSI @ 600 s

Figure 1. DSD development over 7 days versus TSI (purple line) for a NYNAS® T 22 based milky emulsion, soft water (0 °dH). SOURCE | NYNAS

References[1] Norrby, T., Salomonsson, P., and Malm, L. “Group I Replacement Fluids – a Hydraulic Fluid Formulation and Compat-ibility Study”, Tribologie + Schmierung-stechnik, Vol. 64, No. 1 (2017), pp. 31-41.

© 2020 Nynas. All rights reserved.NYNAS® and NYBASE® are trademarks of Nynas


the cost and ease of availability. These lubricants are costly in that their price is three to four times more than the price of conventional lubricants. Given that the market is cost-conscious, most institutions shy away from these lubricants because of the price. Majority of those who use them are conscious of the potential effects of the lubricants to the environment and the need to mitigate. The applications strictly require biodegradable lubricants, or they subscribe to operational standards that demand such type of lubricants.”

Lack of a regulatory framework in Kenya that directs some applications to use envi-ronmentally friendly lubricants is another challenge which affects the use of these lubricants in the Kenyan market added Mr Biyogo. “In Kenya, no regulations demand the use of these lubricants to protect the environment. When legislation comes to Kenya that restricts some applications to use biodegradable lubricants in specific sectors, the demand for these products will grow. For Total, our range of rail traction motors grease is strictly biodegradable because of the possible harm to the environ-ment if we use conventional lubricants.”

The technology to produce biodegrad-able lubricants is limited as compared to conventional lubricants as highlighted by Mr Biyogo. “The range of biodegradable lubricants is petite compared to the range of the conventional lubricants that we have at Total. This is attributed predominantly to the technology in their production, which is limited and very specialized.”

According to Mr Biyogo, industry self -regulations seem to be the best way to bring change in the Kenyan and by exten-sion African lubricants market and push for the use of biodegradable lubricants. “The adoption of biodegradable lubricants cannot be pegged on time. Regulations, however, will ensure that different sectors wadopt these lubricants as a move towards environmental conservation.” .

If the oil is incorrectly disposed of, it becomes an environmental hazard. Bio-degradable lubricants have been intro-duced in the market in a bid to reduce the environmental pollution caused by oil contamination. Most oil companies have a range of biodegradable lubricants, used in various applications and sectors, to prevent environmental pollution from oils.

Total’s Kenya Lubricants Sales Manager Oliver Biyogo shared with Lubezine Maga-zine about biodegradable lubricants and their performance in the Kenyan market.

“Biodegradable is a subjective notion: that can mean acceptable for the environ-ment, compatible with the environment or suitable for sensitive areas. A biodegradable lubricant is a lubricant that can break down when exposed to biological organisms, i.e. the ability of a molecule to be degraded by the action of biological organisms,” said Mr Biyogo. These lubricants can be made from non-toxic, biodegradable bases which are mainly vegetable oils, rape seed, sunflower, synthetic esters and special additives are used to give them their desired properties.

While the working of a biodegradable and a conventional lubricant is similar, the main difference is the fact that conventional oil is a significant environmental hazard if it comes into contact with the environment. It needs proper disposal methods that comply with the environmental regula-tions of disposing used oil. In contrast, a biodegradable lubricant can easily break down (to an acceptable level) to harmless

elements when exposed to the environment.This, therefore, stipulates the sectors in

which biodegradable lubricants should be used. According to Mr Biyogo, an applica-tion that comes into direct contact with the environmental elements should use a biodegradable lubricant. “Marine applica-tions, rails, electric power transformers, farm applications and hydraulic systems are some of the application that will require the use of biodegradable lubricants because for marine, there might be oil leaks and aquatic toxicity is a key element for consideration, for rail and farm applications, the soil might be contaminated by oil leaks as well.”

Total has a range of biodegradable lubri-cants which include antifreeze, gearbox oil, transmission oils, hydraulic fluid, turbine oils, chain oils, transformer oils, and greases. However, Mr Biyogo notes that their adop-tion in the Kenyan lubricant market is still very low.

“What discourages the Kenyan consumers from using biodegradable lubricants is

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

By Miriam Wangari

LASTWORD

The need to conserve the environment and the campaigns championing the same are heightening day in day out. Climate change concerns like global warming are pushing for actions that ensure less environment pollution and its conservation. In the lubricants industry,

regulations are being set in place to lower environmental pollution that originates from this sector.

Biodegradable lubricants and the Kenyan market

What discourages the Kenyan consumers from using biodegradable lubricants is the cost and ease of availability.


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