NCH Europe releases new grease to deal with the growing strain of wood pellet production

The equipment and machinery used for the high load and high pressure production of wood pellets is facing a reduced lifespan because of the inadequacy of existing industrial grease products, according to a new case study by NCH Europe.

Globally, the market for wood pellets is booming thanks to a growing demand for pellets as biofuel in both residential heating and industrial boilers and furnaces. Market research from Hawkins Wright estimated that global wood pellet production was 28 million tonnes in 2015. The same report also shows that the EU accounts for 77% of the global demand for pellets.

This drive to sustainable energy is taking a heavy toll on pellet production equipment and machinery. Crushed, chopped, and liquid organic material needs to be compressed under pressure at high temperatures, and very high loads. If not properly maintained, the heavy strain of constant pellet production can cause equipment to wear out and break down. According to Mark Burnett, VP of the Lubricants & Fuel Additives Innovation Platform at NCH Europe and author of the new case study, poor lubrication is one of the biggest causes of breakdown.

NCH Europe believes its new product, a new high viscosity base oil called K Nate HV, can provide a solution. The new grease ensures a strong film of lubricant protects materials against abrasive wear, and stays in place even at the high temperatures and pressure associated with wood pellet production.

The company claims that the new grease remains effective at temperatures of up to 220 degrees while its durability means it can last well over the industry standard 500 hours between changes. To prevent contamination, the product incorporates special polymers which coat contaminants and prevent them from wearing down machinery.