Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease helps extend electric motor bearing life*

Situation

A Russian primary metals company operates German-made 185 kW blower electric motors used on a hot aluminizing line that reaches speeds of 2900-4500 rpm. The motors were operating at temperatures up to 120° Celsius and were experiencing premature bearing failures. As a result, the company approached ExxonMobil for an alternative grease solution capable of improving bearing life.

Recommendation

ExxonMobil engineers recommended Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease, which is specialized for use in electric motor bearings and engineered to withstand degradation under higher temperatures and speeds. The customer accepted the recommendation and decided to run a field trial of Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease, in parallel with a competitor grease. The company also lubricated 12 other motors ranging from 1 kW to 22 kW with Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease.

Result

Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease has helped this Russian primary metals company enhance bearing life, improve overall productivity, and reduce maintenance costs. The bearings lubricated with the competitive grease lasted only 1.5 months in the field trial before failing. The bearings lubricated with Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease performed successfully for 9 months. The lower power motors did not indicate any issues and no repair was required. Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease has proved to be the most suitable and cost-effective solution in the years since the field trial.

^*This proof of performance 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.