Lubrication Experts

Join host Rafe on this special episode of Lubrication Experts as he brings together three generations of wind turbine gear oil innovators: Angie Cardis, Jim Carey, and Mike Blumenfeld. Discover the fascinating evolution of wind turbine lubrication—from the early days of Mobil SHC 600 and Mobil SHC XMP, through the challenges of micro pitting, to today’s cutting-edge, long-life gear oils designed for the modern wind industry. In this in-depth conversation, you’ll learn: The untold history behind the development of wind turbine gear oils How chemistry and engineering come together to solve real-world mechanical problems The science of micro pitting and white etching cracking—and how the industry overcame them The role of industry standards, testing, and collaboration in driving innovation What the future holds for wind turbine lubrication, condition monitoring, and asset management Whether you’re a lubrication nerd, a wind energy professional, or just curious about the technology powering renewable energy, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and expert perspectives. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & guest lineup 03:00 – The origins of wind turbine gear oils 15:00 – Micro pitting: discovery and solutions 30:00 – Industry standards and global collaboration 45:00 – The next generation: long-life oils and condition monitoring 1:00:00 – The future of wind turbine lubrication Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the world of lubrication and engineering! WindTurbine #Lubrication #Podcast #Engineering #RenewableEnergy #GearOil #WindPower

Join us for Episode 71 of Lubrication Experts as host Rafe welcomes Evan Zabawski, Senior Technical Advisor at Test Oil, for an in-depth discussion on the world of oil analysis. Evan shares his extensive experience, exploring the evolution of oil analysis from its early days to modern practices, and explains why many organizations are still stuck in the “traffic light” mindset. Discover the real value of oil analysis, the importance of trending data over static limits, and how different industries—from mining to manufacturing—are leveraging (or missing out on) the full potential of their oil analysis programs. Evan and Rafe also dive into the complementary roles of condition monitoring technologies like vibration analysis, ultrasonics, and thermography. Whether you’re a reliability engineer, maintenance professional, or just curious about how oil analysis can prevent equipment failure, this episode is packed with practical insights, industry stories, and expert advice. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 02:00 – The history and maturity of oil analysis 10:00 – The pitfalls of the “traffic light” approach 20:00 – How to move beyond compliance and add real value 35:00 – The role of management in driving change 45:00 – Centralized vs. boots-on-the-ground analysis 55:00 – How oil analysis complements other condition monitoring tools 1:10:00 – Q&A and closing thoughts Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more expert interviews and technical deep-dives! OilAnalysis #Reliability #LubricationExperts #ConditionMonitoring #Maintenance

Welcome to Lubrication Experts! In this episode, we dive deep into the future of hydrogen engines and the evolving world of hydrogen combustion technology. Join host Rafe as he sits down with Tara Loosmore and Dr Alan Henderson from Afton Chemical—industry leaders who have dedicated years to understanding hydrogen combustion and the lubricants that make it possible. Discover: Why hydrogen combustion is gaining traction as a future fuel for commercial vehicles The unique challenges and opportunities of hydrogen vs. traditional fuels (diesel, gasoline, natural gas) How hydrogen impacts engine design, oil chemistry, and lubricant formulation The science behind water handling, corrosion, oxidation, and nitration in hydrogen engines The launch of the world’s first commercially available hydrogen engine oil additive package What’s next for hydrogen engine specs, OEM strategies, and the future of sustainable transport Whether you’re an engineer, fleet manager, or just curious about the next big thing in clean energy, this episode is packed with expert insights and practical takeaways. HydrogenEngines #LubricationExperts #AftonChemical #CleanEnergy #EngineTechnology #HydrogenCombustion

Episode 69 | The Science of Personal Lubricants (Yes, Really) w/ Neil Cunningham Let’s talk lubricants—all kinds of lubricants. In this very special Episode 69 of Lubrication Explained, host Rafe Britton leans into the memes and the chemistry with Neil Cunningham, founder of the Centre for Industrial Rheology, to explore the fascinating world of personal lubricants—how they’re formulated, how they perform, and how it all connects to industrial lubrication, rheology, tribology, and even food science. You’ll never look at a tube of lube the same way again. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most personal lubricants are aqueous and how they compare to silicones What makes a lubricant feel “slimy” or “tacky” (with actual physics) The viscoelastic and non-Newtonian properties that define sensory experience How personal lube performance is tested using custom tribometers (no, really) What “mucoadhesion” means and why it’s crucial for both intimacy and eye drops How these same principles apply to vegan foods, mouthfeel, mayonnaise, and wine A wild discussion of normal stress, wax crystallization, and their role in both cosmetics and crankcases If it touches the skin, goes in the mouth, or interacts with mucus membranes—it’s fair game in this episode. Whether you're a lubrication nerd, a tribology tech, or just here for the eyebrow-raising banter, this episode is one for the books. Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & why personal lubricants? 3:45 – Aqueous vs silicone lubes 8:30 – What makes a lube “slimy”? 12:00 – Tackiness, texture, and tribology 18:00 – Viscoelasticity explained 25:00 – Mucoadhesion & synthetic mucus 30:00 – Food science crossovers: mouthfeel, astringency & vegan fats 44:00 – Wax crystallization & industrial applications 56:00 – The role of normal stress in surface separation 1:03:00 – Wrapping it up... with a happy ending Leave a comment with your weirdest "what do you do for work?" explanation—lubrication edition. Want to work with Neil’s lab or talk bio-tribology? Visit the Centre for Industrial Rheology.

What Is Varnish, Really? Understanding and Solving the Varnish Problem in Lubricated Systems | w/ Elaine Heley Varnish: it’s the hot topic in lubrication reliability—and no, we're not just talking about sticky residue in turbines anymore. In this deep-dive episode of Lubrication Experts, host Rafe Britton welcomes back renowned varnish specialist Elaine Heley, now an independent consultant, for a comprehensive look at what varnish really is, how it forms, how it differs across systems, and—most importantly—how to properly diagnose and remove it. Elaine draws from her years leading varnish diagnostics at Polaris and shares insights from the field, including: The difference between MPC testing and micro patch analysis Why “varnish” is a misleading catch-all term for multiple deposit types How environment, fluid formulation, contaminants, and machine design influence varnish formation A remarkable case study where over 680 lbs of varnish and carbon deposits were removed from a single 132,000 L hydraulic forge system using Delta Xero filters Why solubility enhancers, ion-exchange media, and vacuum dehydrators all have a role—but none are a silver bullet ‍ “There’s no magic pill for varnish—just like in medicine, the first step is diagnosis.” — Elaine Heley If you're dealing with sticky valves, frequent oil top-ups, or unexplained deposit issues, this episode is a must-watch. Discover why you need a customized varnish strategy, and not just a filter swap. Timestamps 0:00 – Intro & Elaine’s new role 3:10 – What is varnish? Hard vs soft vs emulsified 10:45 – MPC vs Micro Patch analysis 24:00 – Common causes of varnish 33:15 – Approaches to varnish removal 42:00 – Case study: 680 lbs of varnish removed 58:00 – Future of varnish diagnostics Need a varnish diagnosis before choosing a fix? Reach out to Elaine via LinkedIn or her consulting practice.

Exploring Ultrasound as a Condition Monitoring Tool with Allan Rienstra | Lubrication Experts Join us in this episode of 'Lubrication Experts' as we delve into the fascinating world of ultrasound technology. Host interviews Allan Rera, CEO of SDT Ultrasound Solutions, to discuss the use of ultrasound as a condition monitoring tool, focusing on its applications in lubrication. Alan explains the distinctions between ultrasound, infrasound, and audible sound, and how ultrasound excels in detecting friction, impacting, and turbulence in industrial environments. The discussion also covers various applications of ultrasound, from mechanical and electrical issues to steam systems, valves, hydraulics, and leak detection. Find out how ultrasound complements other condition monitoring techniques like vibration analysis and oil analysis, and get a glimpse into the future of the technology including AI integration and continuous monitoring. Stay tuned for an engaging and informative session that highlights the critical role of ultrasound in maintaining industrial assets. 00:00 Introduction to Today's Topic 01:09 Understanding Ultrasound 03:32 Ultrasound in Condition Monitoring 04:44 Ultrasonic Signatures in Machines 11:15 Technicalities of Ultrasonic Greasing 18:46 Comparing Ultrasound and Vibration Analysis 25:55 Applications Beyond Lubrication 33:59 Future of Ultrasound Technology 39:35 Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

Exploring Alkylated Naphthalene: Insights and Applications with King Industries Join Rafe from Lubrication Experts as he interviews Willie Gartner from King Industries at the home of Alkylated Naphthalene. This episode dives deep into the world of alkylated naphthalene (AN) base oils, discussing their unique properties, applications, and the history behind their development. Learn how ANs improve oxidative stability, solvency, and performance in various industries such as high-temperature chain oils, greases, compressors, and gear oils. Willie shares his extensive experience and knowledge gained over 22 years at King Industries, offering insights into the future trends and potential new applications for alkylated naphthalene. Don't miss this comprehensive look into one of the most versatile and beneficial base oils on the market. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:52 Overview of Alkylated Naphthalene 05:06 History and Development of Alkylated Naphthalene 07:31 Properties and Benefits of Alkylated Naphthalene 14:14 Applications of Alkylated Naphthalene 21:24 Future Trends and Conclusion

Exploring Innovative Engine Technologies Over Coffee with Lake Join us as we embark on an exciting journey with Lake to explore groundbreaking advancements in engine technologies. In this casual coffee chat, we delve into the renewed interest in internal combustion engines, the unique reverse rotary engine by Liquid Piston, and the innovative Aqua Stroke engine running on 70% water and 30% ethanol. We also discuss the future of engine oils, the impact of alternative fuels like hydrogen and ammonia, and get a glimpse into the evolving landscape of racing engines with insights from NASCAR and Formula 1. Don't miss this fascinating conversation packed with cutting-edge information and industry trends! 00:00 Introduction and Coffee Chat 00:42 Exciting New Engine Technologies 01:31 The Reverse Rotary Engine 05:41 Aqua Stroke: Water and Ethanol Engine 07:08 Lubrication Challenges and Solutions 11:20 Engine Oil Specifications and Changes 12:24 Exploring New Lubricant Chemistries 13:19 Future of Fuel: Hydrogen and Ammonia 14:22 Challenges with Ammonia as Fuel 15:46 Innovations in Engine Oils 19:43 Racing World and Rule Changes 24:05 Conclusion and Coffee Time

Unlocking the Mysteries of Ferrography: Insights from the Godfather, Ray Dally Join us in this episode of 'Lubrication Experts' as we dive deep into the world of Ferrography with industry legend, Ray Dally from Trico. Discover the origins, applications, and future of Ferrography as Ray explains its significance in machinery lubrication analysis. Learn about the differences between qualitative and quantitative Ferrography, the role of the U.S. Navy in its development, and the fascinating concept of the Wear Atlas. Explore the nuances of in-house vs. lab-based Ferrography programs, the potential of new technologies like AI, and practical tips for monitoring external contaminants in your machinery environment. This is a must-watch for anyone involved in predictive maintenance and machinery lubrication! 00:00 Introduction to Lubrication Experts 00:28 Meet the Godfather of Ferrography: Ray Dally 02:07 Understanding Ferrography: Basics and History 06:36 Applications and Techniques in Ferrography 14:58 Standardization and Future of Ferrography 25:58 In-House vs. Commercial Lab Analysis 28:28 Innovations and Future Directions 37:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mastering Lubricant Sales and Marketing with Steve Knapp | Lubrication Experts Podcast In this episode of Lubrication Experts, our host welcomes back Steve Knapp, co-founder of Plan Grow Do, to delve into essential sales and marketing strategies in the lubricants industry. They discuss the importance of conveying value, navigating the sales funnel versus pipeline models, and the significance of social media content in the modern buyer's journey. With insights from the UKLA Buyer Revolution Survey and effective use of LinkedIn, Steve shares actionable tips to improve sales processes, personalize customer engagement, and enhance marketing efforts. Tune in for a stimulating debate and valuable takeaways to boost your sales and marketing prowess in the lubricants sector. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:18 The Importance of Sales and Marketing in the Lubricants Industry 01:15 Debate Style Discussion and Sales Funnel Concept 11:19 Understanding the Buyer's Perspective 14:00 Key Insights from the Buyer's Revolution Survey 18:53 The Role of Digital Content and LinkedIn in Sales 22:39 The Shift Towards Personalized Messaging 24:36 Reengineering the Sales Process 26:11 The Traditional vs. Modern Seller 27:02 The Importance of Personal Branding 28:50 Top of Funnel Strategies 31:18 The Messy Middle and Buyer Behavior 32:57 The Mountain Analogy in Sales 36:22 The Role of Content in Sales 42:30 Effective Social Media Engagement 50:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants: Insights from Fuchs Experts Join us in this enlightening episode with lubrication experts Dr. Ruchi Bakshi and John Perez from Fuchs as we delve into the world of Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs). Discover what makes a lubricant environmentally friendly, the critical testing criteria, ideal base oils, and the importance of biodegradability, low toxicity, and low bioaccumulation. Learn about the practical applications of EALs in various industries and the challenges faced in R&D and field applications. Explore the future advancements in the sustainability of lubricants and how corporate and regulatory shifts are driving innovation. Whether you’re in the lubrication industry or simply interested in sustainability, this episode offers valuable insights into the next generation of eco-friendly lubricants. 00:00 Introduction to Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants 00:24 Meet the Experts: Dr. Ruchi Bakshi and John Perez 01:30 Understanding EALs: Criteria and Standards 05:30 Biodegradability and Bioaccumulation Explained 08:45 Base Stocks in EALs: Compatibility and Performance 11:56 Applications and Regulatory Requirements for EALs 16:43 Challenges and Limitations in EAL Development 28:08 Future of EALs: Innovations and Sustainability 31:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Deep Dive Into Zinc Dialkyl Dithiophosphate (ZDDP) with Expert David Holt | Episode 61 In this episode of Lubrication Experts, we explore the fascinating world of Zinc Dialkyl Dithiophosphate (ZDDP) with industry veteran David Holt. Recording for the first time in the new studio, our host delves into the history, applications, and complexities of ZDDP, a crucial molecule in engine oils and industrial lubricants. David Holt shares his vast experience, spanning over 30 years, to explain the origins of ZDDP, its chemical properties, and its role in preventing wear and corrosion. The discussion also touches on the distinctions between anti-wear and extreme pressure additives, the evolution of lubricant additives, and the potential future of ZDDP in the face of advancing technology. 00:00 Welcome to Lubrication Experts 00:33 Introducing Special Guest David Holt 01:17 Deep Dive into Zinc and ZDDP 02:57 Origins and Evolution of ZDDP 05:52 ZDDP in Modern Applications 07:51 Technical Insights on ZDDP 16:39 ZDDP in Hydraulic Systems 21:15 Anti-Wear vs. Extreme Pressure Additives 26:51 Future of ZDDP and Alternatives 39:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes

Join us for a special episode of Lubrication Experts featuring Jacob Bonta, the Lead Formulation Scientist for Industrial Fluids and Greases at Valvoline Global Operations. In this in-depth discussion, Jacob takes us through the intricate process of developing greases from concept to market. Learn about the key factors in grease formulation, the importance of application-specific design, the testing and trial phases, and the unique challenges and opportunities in making and scaling up industrial grease. This episode is a must-watch for anyone in the lubrication industry, from sales and marketing professionals to field users. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:47 Understanding Grease Development 01:53 Targeting Applications and Environments 02:32 Push vs. Pull in Product Development 05:35 Economic Considerations in Grease Production 10:19 Core Components of Grease 14:37 Grease as a Technology Platform 18:56 Defining Performance Criteria 25:33 Bench Testing and Iteration 30:55 Field Trials and Real-World Testing 36:16 Scaling Up Production 41:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to Lubrication Experts! In this episode, we dive into the new HPM grease specification and its significance in the lubrication industry. Our guest, Gary Dudley, a veteran with over 27 years at ExxonMobil and now an independent consultant, shares insights about the evolution of grease specifications, the detailed criteria of HPM (High Performance Multi-use) grease, and the wide range of applications it covers. Learn about the development process of the specification, the auditing and certification involved, and what it means for end users and manufacturers. Additionally, we discuss the potential future enhancements in the field of lubrication specifications and the importance of creating a standard for energy-efficient greases. Tune in to close the knowledge gap on HPM grease and understand how it impacts the industry. 00:00 Introduction to Lubrication Experts 00:26 Introducing Gary Dudley 02:34 Understanding HPM Grease Specification 03:24 Development and Importance of HPM 06:55 Differentiation and Tags in HPM 12:06 Applications and Flexibility of HPM Greases 15:22 Challenges and Future of HPM Specifications 18:56 Certification Process and Market Adoption 23:06 Conclusion and Future Prospects

Understanding Pump Mechanics and Solutions for Lubrication This episode of 'Lubrication Explained' features Danilo Samosyuk from Graco as a guest, discussing the mechanics behind pumps used for lubrication in various industries, focusing on pneumatic pumps and their operation. Different pump ratios and their applications for different fluids, temperatures, and pressures are explored. The importance of selecting the right pump for specific lubrication tasks, including the significance of line sizing and the impact of temperature on lubricant viscosity, is highlighted. The video also addresses the challenges of pumping greases, especially in cold environments, and offers insights into optimizing lubrication systems for efficiency and effectiveness. 00:00 Welcome to Lubrication Explained 00:06 Deep Dive into Pump Mechanics with Danilo 01:17 Understanding Pneumatic Pumps 02:29 Exploring Pump Ratios and Their Impact 06:09 Specialty Pumping Situations: Grease and Cold Temperatures 11:38 Optimizing Pump Selection for High Performance 12:46 The Importance of System Configuration Over Pump Choice 17:27 Cold Temperature Challenges and Solutions 22:47 Concluding Thoughts on Pumping Lubricants and Greases

Navigating Changes in the Trucking and Lubrication Industry with Paul Cigala from ExxonMobil In this special episode of Lubrication Experts, the host interviews Paul Segala, a veteran in the transportation and lubrication sector, who shares his extensive insights on how the trucking industry has evolved, especially in response to technology advancements and supply chain disruptions influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss challenges such as technician and driver shortages, the importance of mentoring and training, and the adoption of new technologies like onlineoil sensors and lower viscosity lubricants to improve fleet operations and address skilled labor shortages. Additionally, the conversation covers the impact of emission control technologies on diesel engine lubricants, the future outlook on diesel engine oils including the upcoming PC-12 category, and strategies for convincing the industry to embrace these newer, more efficient lubricants despite historical preferences for traditional viscosities. 00:00 Welcome to Lubrication Experts: A Special Interview 01:09 Navigating Post-COVID Challenges in the Trucking Industry 03:24 Addressing Technician and Driver Shortages 05:49 The Role of Training and Technology in Fleet Maintenance 06:52 Advancements in Oil Analysis and Fleet Management 13:58 Exploring Fleet Trends and Vehicle Lifecycles 17:50 The Evolution of Diesel Engine Oils and Fleet Maintenance

https://lubrication.expert The Evolution of Lithium Greases: Innovations and Historical Insights with Andy Waynick In this episode of 'Lubrication Experts', Rafe Britton welcomes Andy Waynick, a renowned figure in the lubrication field, for a record third appearance. Andy provides an in-depth exploration into the world of lithium-based greases, their manufacturing processes, new developments, and the intricacies of their chemical properties. Building on prior discussions about the popularity and characteristics of lithium greases, Andy delves further into their production, emphasizing new manufacturing methods and the crucial role of cooling rates. The discussion covers the development of lithium complex greases, detailing various patents and the contribution of key figures in the field. It also touches on the strategic use of boron-based additives to improve grease properties and introduces Andy's innovative work aimed at reducing lithium usage in greases’ production. Additionally, the conversation spans historical anecdotes, highlighting the significance of publishing scientific advancements. This episode offers a comprehensive understanding of lithium greases from both technical and historical perspectives. 00:00 Introduction to Lubrication Experts with Andy Waynick 00:35 Deep Dive into Lithium Greases: History and Popularity 01:16 Exploring the Manufacturing Process of Lithium Greases 07:06 The Evolution of Lithium Complex Greases: A Patent History 16:16 Advancements in Lithium Complex Grease Manufacturing 27:25 Innovations in Boron-Based Additives for Grease Manufacturing 37:58 Unlocking the Secrets of Boron-Based Chemistries in Grease 40:12 The Evolution of Grease Additives and Manufacturing Challenges 48:37 Innovative Approaches to Grease Manufacturing and Lithium Optimization 49:47 The Future of Grease Technology and Sustainable Practices 01:06:26 A Historical Perspective on Grease Technology Development

Understanding Group 5 Base Oils: A Conversation on the Lubrication Experts Podcast This episode of the 'Lubrication Experts Podcast' series features an in-depth conversation around the Group 5 Base Oils and their role in the lubrication industry. With discussions ranging from the existing catch-all term of Group 5, to its future and possible innovations, the podcast brings out valuable insights about the particular spectrum of base oils. The talk also includes conversations about the ExxonMobil energy outlook, energy efficiency goals, and niche market applications for specific group 5s such as Alkylated Naphthalenes and PAO-like. The impact of regulatory hurdles and the opportunities that energy transition present for the wide array of Group 5 base oils are also discussed in-depth. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:26 Discussion on Group 5s and Future Developments 00:50 Energy Outlook and Sustainability Goals 01:33 Understanding the Impact of Population Growth on Energy Needs 02:22 The Role of Lubrication Industry in Energy Efficiency 04:38 Understanding API Base Oil Groups 08:01 The Role of Group 5 in the Lubrication Industry 08:46 Challenges in Adopting Group 5 13:35 Potential Applications for Group 5 20:13 Regulatory Hurdles and Energy Transition 24:21 Final Thoughts on Group 5

Understanding the Viscosity Index: History, Challenges and Proposals This podcast discussion, in which lubrication experts discuss the important role of the Viscosity Index in the oil industry, features prominent industry figure Jack Zakarian. He explains the history of the Viscosity Index, its implications, and how the present scale hampers low viscosity oils. He also proposes potential improvements to the current scale that could make it better suited to the modern industry needs. Consequently, the podcast seeks to make industry players aware of the Viscosity Index's challenges and work towards solutions that will enhance its fairness and accuracy. 00:43 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:38 Understanding Viscosity Index 04:58 Historical Background of Viscosity Index 08:54 Inconsistencies in Viscosity Index 13:02 Attempts to Improve the Viscosity Index Scale 21:20 Economic Implications of Viscosity Index 24:57 Proposed Solutions and Future Directions 32:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Understanding Esters | A Deep Dive into their Applications in Lubrication In this informative discussion, we explore the basics and complexities of esters and their role in the realm of lubrication. Our expert, Siegfried Lucazeau, dives into the chemistry of esters, their advantages, drawbacks, and applications across numerous industries. From synthetic and natural esters to their pivotal role in sustainability and biodegradability, Siegfried provides valuable insights into the world of esters. The video also delves into ester structures, major applications, and future prospects in related industries. This is the perfect guide for individuals, right from field techs to formulation chemists, seeking to understand the multifaceted world of esters in lubrication. 00:43 Introduction to Lubrication Experts and the Topic of Esters 01:03 The Importance of Esters in Lubrication 02:33 Introduction to the Lubrication Expert Guest 03:06 Understanding the Basics of Esters 05:28 The Role of Esters in Lubricating Fluids 06:20 The Difference Between Natural and Synthetic Esters 11:58 The Impact of Ester Structure on Performance 22:55 Understanding the Polarity of Esters 27:43 Exploring Different Types of Esters 35:08 Addressing the Challenges and Misconceptions about Esters 51:56 The Future of Esters in the Lubricants Industry 55:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts