From daily lubrication to once every two weeks

Initial situation

A leading paper mill, operating in wet and highly dusty conditions, faced a persistent challenge: their chains required daily lubrication to withstand moisture and contamination. The company relied on a chain spray and degreaser, consuming two boxes per month - a costly and labour-intensive process.

Despite frequent lubrication, dust and moisture continued to degrade the lubricant, leading to contamination and increased wear on the chains. The maintenance team knew there had to be a better, more efficient solution, one that could extend chain life while significantly reducing both material costs and labour time.

Solution

After consulting with a lubrication specialists, the paper mill switched to Interflon Lube TF, a dry-film oil with MicPol^® technology. A three-step lubrication process was implemented:

1. Thorough cleaning: Chains were first cleaned with Interflon Eco Degreaser to remove the accumulated dirt and old lubricant.
   (New chains are cleaned to remove the conservation oil and dirt.) 
2. Surface preparation: Interflon Metal Clean F was applied to prepare the chains for optimal lubricant adhesion.
3. Lubrication: Interflon Lube TF was applied, forming a dry, protective film that repels dust and moisture while significantly reducing friction and wear.

This proven approach has already been adopted by several industry leaders, recognising that traditional lubrication methods are no longer sustainable.

Key benefits:

• Extended lubrication intervals: From daily lubrication to once every two weeks.
• No more contamination: The lubricant’s dry film prevents dust and water from penetrating the chains.
• Drastically reduced lubricant consumption: Only two boxes of Interflon Lube TF per year, compared to 24 boxes of the conventional products.

Results

The transition to Interflon Lube TF resulted in significant, measurable improvements:

Cost savings:

• Previous lubrication costs: £2,880 (€3,360) per year (24 boxes of the conventional chain sprays).
• New lubrication costs: £864 (€1,014) per year (2 boxes of Interflon Lube TF).
• Total annual savings: £2,016 (€2,346), a direct financial gain for the business.

Reduced maintenance time:

• Less frequent lubrication means fewer maintenance hours spent on chain servicing.
• The maintenance team now has more time for preventive maintenance and process optimisation.

Improved chain reliability:

• No more excessive dirt build-up.
• Chains remain in optimal condition for longer, reducing downtime and extending service life.

Conclusion

By switching to Interflon Lube TF, this paper mill not only cut costs and labour time but also significantly improved maintenance efficiency and reliability. The transition to a PFAS-free, high-performance lubricant aligns with modern industry standards and supports a more sustainable, long-term lubrication strategy.