Finalized development of a new type of oil free aqueous metal rolling lubricants

Important results from the project

An aqueous lubricant has been produced and proven in pilot scale metal rolling. The new product type will replace conventional mineral oils in the rolling of sheet metal, including metal foil. The use of volatile and inflammable hydrocarbons is strongly questioned due to work place hazards and costs for the emission and fire prevention. These disadvantages are eliminated with the new technology .

Expected long term effects

Performance of the new technology has been proven in pilot scale. Health, environmental and economic advantages are strong driving forces for commercial success. To motivate pioneering customers to introduce the paradigm-shifting technology in a situation of very busy production, it will be important to demonstrate minimized hazards regarding maintenance procedures and equipment. Thus, proven concepts regarding tramp oil removal and biocide free microbial control are needed for aqueous systems that are expected to be used during several years without a fluid exchange.

Approach and implementation

The original approach, involving an iterative development of chemistry and evaluation in pilot scale metal rolling has proven useful as has also the partner cooperation. The expectation of market introduction to coincide with project finalization was optimistic. The partnership shares the view that it is important also to demonstrate suitable procedures and methods for continuous fluid maintenance in order to convince pioneering customers to introduce the new concept.