New formulations of sunflower based bio-lubricants with high oleic acid content – VOSOLUB project

Abstract

VOSOLUB project is a demonstration project supported by Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (EASME) that aims at testing under real operating conditions new formulations of sunflower-based biolubricants with high oleic acid content. These biolubricant formulations (including hydraulic fluids, greases, and neat oil metal-working fluids) will be tested in three European demonstrating sites. Their technical performance will be evaluated and compared to corresponding mineral lubricants ones. In order to cover the demand for the sunflower base oil, a European SMEs network will be established to ensure the supply of the base at a competitive market price. Results presented concerns the base oil quality confirmed to be in accordance with the specification required, in particular on Free Fatty acid content, Phosphorus content, rancimat induction time and oleic acid content (ITERG). The oil characteristics specific for lubricant application analyzed by BfB Oil Research under normalized methods, match with lubricant specifications requirement such as viscosity, cold & hot properties, surface properties, anti-oxidant properties and thermal stability, anti-wear and EP properties, anti-corrosion properties Performance of the new biolubricant have been assessed by formulators and TEKNIKER First results on the use of new lubricant on real condition for rail Grease (produced by RS CLARE and tested with Sheffield Supertram), Hydraulic oil (produced by BRUGAROLAS) and cutting oil (produced by MOTUL TECH and tested with innovative machining, turning) are described.

Keywords

• Vegetable oil based lubricant testing
• Special fluids
• Sustainability
• HSE (Health, safety and environment)