Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease helps Turkish oil refinery save US $252,000 per year*

Situation

A Turkish oil refinery’s processing units are equipped with electric motors and heat exchanger fan bearings. Prior to 2003, the motors and fans were lubricated with a conventional EP grease and were experiencing high bearing temperatures that led to high grease consumption, bearing failures and lengthy unscheduled downtime. In an effort to reduce maintenance costs and improve bearing life, the company approached ExxonMobil engineers for an alternative grease solution.

Recommendation

Following field studies conducted by refinery maintenance engineers and ExxonMobil field engineers, the use of Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease was recommended for lubrication of the electric motors and fan bearings. Formulated with a polyurea thickener, Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease is specifically designed to provide high mechanical stability and strong oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures.

Result

The company reviewed maintenance and failure logs dating to their first use of Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease in 2003 and documented a 43% reduction in motor and fan bearing replacements. The company reports Mobil Polyrex™ EM grease has helped it reduce bearing failures and unscheduled maintenance to deliver company-estimated annual savings of US $252,000. According to the customer, this does not include related credits for unscheduled refinery operating unit downtime.

^*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.

Advancing productivity

By helping you enhance equipment life and reliability — which reduces maintenance costs and downtime — our expert services can help you achieve your Safety, Environmental Care^† and Productivity goals.