Lubricants moving towards eco-friendly regulations

By OEM Update Editorial July 1, 2023 11:42 am IST

According to Dattatray Dhende, Managing Director, Sunlub Technologies offers a diverse selection of synthetic lubricants, referred to as white lube, that are both environmentally friendly and suitable replacements for graphite lubricants in heavy forging, aluminium forging, and other related sectors.

How do you evaluate eco-friendly norms changing the landscape for lubricants?

The lubricant industry is transforming to meet eco-friendly regulations, shifting from mineral-based oils to biodegradable lubricant alternatives. These environmentally conscious lubricants are commonly derived from synthetic esters and have proven effective. In the past, vegetable oils were widely used for lubrication until the development of synthetic lubricants. Sunlub Technologies now offers a diverse selection of synthetic lubricants, referred to as white lube, that are both environmentally friendly and suitable replacements for graphite lubricants in heavy forging, aluminium forging, and other related sectors.

How are automotive lubricants catering to the new demands in the automobile market?

The demand for automotive lubricants is undergoing a significant shift driven by customer expectations for higher-performing products that enhance engine fuel efficiency and overall performance. The automotive industry currently holds the largest share of the global lubricant market, and this segment is projected to experience further growth in the coming years, fuelled by increased passenger car ownership. Lubricating oils are crucial in reducing friction between various vehicle components in the automotive sector. Traditionally, lubricating oil has been a highly lucrative sector within the oil and gas value chain. However, the emergence of electrification in the transportation industry is expected to bring disruptive changes. Looking ahead, most value growth between 2025 and 2035 is anticipated to stem from higher margins, primarily driven by the transition to branded synthetic lubricants in the forging sector.

What are the priorities for India to become the 3rd largest automobile industry?

India has achieved the distinction of becoming the third-largest automobile market globally for the first time in history. According to a report, India is projected to solidify its position as the world’s third-largest automotive market by reaching a sales figure of 7.4 million vehicles. To secure this position, India needs to prioritise two key areas: expanding its production capacity and enhancing its infrastructure. Additionally, there is a need to concentrate on developing the domestic market by increasing consumer purchasing power and facilitating improved access to finance. These measures will contribute to India’s continued growth and prominence in the automotive industry.

Are environmentally friendly lubricants well suited for the EV industry?

The expansion of the electric vehicle industry has resulted in growing demand for eco-friendly lubricants. Among these lubricants, water-based variants are expected to play a significant role. These environmentally friendly lubricants are well-suited for applications like electric vehicles and upcoming green technologies due to their naturally low viscosity and cooling capabilities.

What growth do you see for automotive and machine tool industry lubricants?

 By 2035, the lubricant market is projected to experience a substantial growth of 44 percent, primarily influenced by the wider adoption of higher-profit branded or advanced products, particularly synthetic lubricants. This growth will be fuelled by the increasing demand within industries such as processing and automotive parts that rely on lubrication, particularly in the forging sector. The rise in imports and exports of piston engine lubricants also supports market expansion. Furthermore, the anticipated growth in the automotive and industrial sectors will drive the demand for synthetic lubricants (white lubricants) in the coming years.