Mobil SHC Polyrex™ 462 synthetic grease helps minimize mandrel shutdowns and generate cost savings*

Waterbury PT-3 take-up mandrels
Engineered Materials Solutions
Massachusetts, United States

Situation
Engineered Materials Solutions (EMS) operates a PT-3 Waterbury Press that typically experienced two stuck coils every year in its press take-up mandrels. The mandrels were lubricated with a conventional lithium complex grease and operate at temperatures of above 121°C (250°F). These conditions caused grease hardening and lubricant starvation, leading to the collapse and failure of the mandrels. The machines had to be shut down so the coils could be removed from the mandrel. The company reached out to ExxonMobil engineers to find a grease capable of improving equipment reliability and minimizing shutdowns.

Recommendation
ExxonMobil engineers recommended switching to Mobil SHC Polyrex™ 462 synthetic grease. Formulated with high-performance synthetic polyurea thickener technology, synthetic oils and proprietary additives, Mobil SHC Polyrex 462 is designed to provide excellent structural and oxidation stability during extended service in high-temperature applications.

Result
After transitioning to Mobil SHC Polyrex 462 synthetic grease, EMS operated its PT-3 take-up mandrels without experiencing a stuck coil for two years, eliminating related shutdowns and repairs. This improvement resulted in lower maintenance costs, no unplanned shutdowns and significant cost savings. This improved equipment reliability enabled savings of US $43,000 per year in reduced maintenance and repair costs.

*This success story is based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used.