Aftermarket July/August 2024

Oils and lubes 24 www.aftermarketonline.net JULY/AUGUST 2024 Zeller+Gmelin has introduced a multi-purpose grease based on a novel calcium as it expands its product range to include sustainable and resource-saving alternatives. The lubricants firm said this particularly applies to lubricating greases that contain the sought-after, non-renewable raw material lithium hydroxide. This is now being replaced by a calcium hybrid thickener specially developed in the Zeller+Gmelin laboratories, the company confirmed in May. The new Divinol Multipurpose Grease 2 Li-free is not only impressive in terms of sustainability. According to the manufacturer, the greases thickened with it have similar characteristics to the well-known lithium greases. With a temperature range of -30 to +120°C, it is ideal for the lubrication of roller and plain bearings in various applications such as machines, fans, pumps, presses and calendars. Lithium hydroxide is one of the key raw materials for the global battery industry and could become available in ever smaller quantities in the future, the company said. As a sustainability-oriented company, Zeller+Gmelin said it has a responsibility to increase the proportion of resourcesaving lubricating greases. Christian Stapper, product manager for lubricating greases at Zeller+Gmelin, said: “In times like these, our customers want more security in the supply chain — that is less dependence on the international raw materials market and short delivery routes within Europe instead.” www.zeller-gmelin.de Sustainability drives into the fast lane Lubricant manufacturer FUCHS has launched its Advanced Circular Technologies (ACT) label, encompassing all tech or materials that have been redesigned, based on renewable materials or recycling technologies. Products launched under the ACT umbrella in May included TITAN ATF (6009, 6008, 6006, 4400), TITAN CVTF FLEX, and FUCHS BluEV EDF 7005. FUCHS said more products are likely to join the line-up after securing industry qualifications, as the firm helps reduce CO2 emissions and support customers to become more sustainable while also providing performanceenhancing products. Lubricant packaging is also part of ACT’s drive to a circular economy. FUCHS launched its automotive core bottle design in 2021 and its corporate small packages have since evolved to contain at least 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) material globally. The redesign ensures “every last drop of lubricant” is used, FUCHS said. The company is also working towards the ultimate goal of 100% PCR material. www.fuchs.com/de/en/act Novel lubrication goes beyond lithium

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