Shell Tellus lubricant used in the world’s biggest hydraulic press machine in China

London – China Erzhong Heavy Industry Company has developed the world’s biggest hydraulic press, an 800 mega newton closed-die hydraulic forging machine that is bigger than any other previously built. Erzhong is working closely with Shell Lubricants to ensure that a hydraulic oil is used in the machine, that meets its special high pressure and high load requirements.

For lubricants, the giant hydraulic press represents a challenging environment in which to operate. Following intense competition from leading industry lubricant manufacturers, Shell Tellus S2 M 46 was selected to be used in the machine, thanks to its excellent performance and worldwide brand recognition.

Hydraulic oil is one of the most critical components in order to resist the extreme pressures and severe loads that components in the forging machine face. Featuring 30 high pressure cylinders and 60 piston pumps, the press has an initial fill of 400 kl and can reach an oil pressure of up to 650 bars.

This press machine is designed to be used in the aviation, aerospace, nuclear power and petrochemical industries amongst others. In particular, the machine is involved in the processing of ultra-high strength titanium and aluminium alloys, such as airplane body frames, nuclear power plant piping and turbines.

Hans Gerdes, Spirax & Tellus Brand Manager at Shell, commented: “We are delighted to be working with China Erzhong on this ground-breaking hydraulic forging machine. Shell Tellus is one of the world’s leading hydraulic oils and we know that it meets the industry specifications of OEM heavyweights as Bosch, Rexroth, Denison, Vickers and Eaton. Working alongside China’s leading manufacturer – Erzhong – is an important part of our growth in the Asian market”.

Shell is committed to growing its lubricant business in China. A new Shell lubricants technical centre will open in Shanghai in the first quarter of 2014, allowing the company to work closer with customers in the region. The new research centre will focus mainly on next-generation automotive and industrial lubricants and greases.

(July 3, 2013)