Synthetic gearbox oil can result in savings of €1,400 (US$1,600) per annum over marine gearbox oil, according to a study by ExxonMobil, distributor partner Den Hartog and gearbox manufacturer Reintje.
Using state-of-the art power and torque monitoring devices, a selection of representative oils were tested on a marine gearbox Type WAF 364 at the Reintjes TEV development test facility in Hameln, Germany.
Results indicated that Mobil SHC 626 gear oil helped improve gearbox thermal and mechanical efficiency by 0.27% compared with Mobil Delvac 1330 engine oil. While seemingly a small figure, for a fully mechanically optimised gearbox, this equates to a significant reduction in total energy losses of 10% and an approximate saving of €1,400 per year*according to the study.
Further examination showed that thermal and mechanical stress on all gearbox components decreased, while used oil analysis indicated that all oils were in near-new condition without any sign of wear.
These findings point to further potential savings from extended component and oil life, plus increased maintenance intervals.
ExxonMobil’s Mobil SHC Brand Advisor – EAME, Rainer Lange, commented: “This is a great example of how a comparatively small change, such as changing a lubricant, can deliver significant energy efficiency benefits and cost savings.”
*Actual results may vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used.
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