Critical Role of Lubrication in Mining Operations
India’s mining industry is an immensely potent market from a global perspective. The country is a leading producer of zinc, lime, and aluminium, and the second-largest producer of crude steel. Recent regulatory changes, such as the Ministry of Mines’ efforts to lower barriers to mining leases, are set to stimulate the industry further. With steel demand projected to grow by 10 per cent due to infrastructure developments, India aims to achieve a production capacity of 300 million tonnes of crude steel and a total demand/production of 255 MTPA by 2030-31.

In the high-stakes world of mining, where equipment faces relentless conditions and unyielding workloads, lubrication is the unsung hero ensuring smooth and efficient performance. The industry’s needs are constantly evolving, driven by all the latest breakthroughs in technology and increasing operational demands. Mobil™ recognises these changes and responds with solutions that are not only effective but also adaptable to various challenges faced by the sector. They are designed to perform in high-temperature environments, resist water contamination, and offer long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.

Transforming challenges into triumphs
A prominent manufacturer of m-sand, gravel, and dust, was experiencing frequent equipment failures and excessive grease consumption. By adopting MobilTM’s advanced lubrication solutions, they witnessed a 67 per cent drop in grease consumption, reporting potential savings of Rs 9,80,000. This story highlights the transformative power of right lubrication and strategic management, leading to significant cost savings and operational excellence.

The m-sand manufacturer was facing substantial challenges with its pin bush applications. Their previous choice of Extreme Pressure 2 (EP2) grease was inadequate for their demanding work conditions, leading to excessive grease consumption and frequent equipment failures. Transitioning to Mobilgrease XHP™ 462 Moly proved to be a game-changer. This lubricant, fortified with molybdenum disulfide, is designed for heavy-loaded equipment, offering exceptional extreme pressure and anti-wear capabilities.

This reduction wasn’t solely due to the superior properties of the Mobilgrease XHP™ 462 Moly, but was part of a comprehensive overhaul in their lubrication strategy. Improved and sophisticated practices like rigorous monitoring, thermal imaging, and a stricter re-greasing schedule contributed to decreased mechanical torque, lower environmental waste, and improved safety by minimising human-machine interactions.

Know more about MobilTM offerings:
Mobilgrease XHP™ 460 series, renowned for its lithium-complex technology is a poster child of adaptability. With operating temperatures reaching up to 140ºC, these greases are ideally suited for the mining industry, where equipment is exposed to harsh conditions. Mobilgrease XHP™ 462 Moly, in particular, is indispensable for applications where heavy loads and extreme pressure are common.

Mobil™ Lubricant Analysis (MLA) and IIOT services
To further support mining operations, Mobil™ offers cutting-edge services like the Mobil™ Lubricant Analysis (MLA) programme and IIOT services

  • Mobil™ Lubricant Analysis (MLA) programme: Experience 66 per cent faster* oil sampling: This service provides an in-depth analysis of lubricant condition and equipment health, allowing for predictive maintenance. By identifying potential issues before they become severe, the MLA programme helps extend the life of equipment and reduce unexpected downtime, leading to cost savings and better operational efficiency.
  • Mobil IIOT insights: Get instant alerts and actionable insights on oil maintenance: Mobil IIoT Insights is our next-gen oil condition monitoring tool that offers instant, remote access to comprehensive oil diagnostics. This advanced system delivers real-time data on oil health and immediately alerts you to any issues, empowering you to take swift action and achieve substantial cost savings.
  • A sneak peek into MobilTM’s recently launched 'Fill with Mobil™’ Campaign
    Mobil™ recently launched ‘Fill with Mobil™’ campaign, which is all about their expertise and commitment to the mining industry. This campaign highlights MobilTM’s dedication to delivering high-quality solutions through specialised knowledge and collaborative efforts. It reflects the company’s role as a trusted partner in the mining sector, reinforcing its mission to boost operational efficiency and profitability.

    The M-Sand manufacturer’s experience with Mobilgrease XHP™ 462 Moly illustrates how strategic lubrication choices can significantly impact operational success. By embracing advanced lubrication solutions and comprehensive management strategies, mining operations can optimise performance, reduce costs, and enhance safety.

    Lubrication, as history has shown, isn’t just about keeping machinery running—it can be the difference between success and failure. From the steam engines of the industrial revolution to the mining operations of today, the right lubricant has the power to change the game. Mobil™ goes beyond merely supplying lubricants; it provides tailored solutions that can cut costs, improve safety, and ensure machinery runs at peak efficiency.

    In an industry where downtime translates to lost revenue, optimising equipment with the right lubrication strategy is essential. MobilTM’s solutions offer the mining sector the tools needed to stay competitive in a fast-evolving global market, while also protecting valuable assets.


    * This performance is based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results may vary.
    (Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso, and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms, and references to “corporation,” “company,” “ExxonMobil,” “EM,” and other similar terms are used for convenience and may refer to one or more specific affiliates or affiliate groups.) For more information, visit

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    The article is authored by Sumit Rana – General Manager, Market Deployment, ExxonMobil Lubricants.