Reliable lubrication at –28 °C with no unplanned stoppages.
Eliminating frozen bearings in spiral chillers
Initial situation
A Belgian poultry plant operated spiral chillers running at –28 °C. Conventional oils and greases hardened or washed out under condensation and sanitation. Bearings frequently froze or seized, leading to downtime, high spare part costs and hygiene risks from leaking oil.
- Bearing replacement cost: ~€500–€700 per unit.
- Failures: 2–3 bearing replacements per year per chiller.
- Downtime per incident: 1–2 hours, estimated at ~€2.000–€4.000 per hour in lost production.
Solution
Bearings were lubricated with Interflon Food Lube G220, a PFAS-free, NSF H1 dry-film lubricant with MicPol® technology. Its ability to resist water and remain fluid at low temperatures prevented solidification and ensured a protective boundary film.
Results
- Frozen bearing failures eliminated.
- Annual savings on spare parts: ~€1.500–€2.100 per chiller.
- Downtime avoided: ~3–6 hours/year, equivalent to ~€6.000–€12.000 saved in lost production.
- Hygiene improved: no leaking oil or grease contamination.
Conclusion
By switching to Food Lube G220, the plant eliminated frozen bearings in spiral chillers, improved uptime and reduced maintenance costs, while staying HACCP and BRC compliant.
