TPT January 2016

Article

Metalube Ltd

thixotropic, hydrophobic oil film. The thixotropic nature of the film means that it is semi-permanent. Once applied to the tube it stays in place and does not gather at the bottom of the pack. The film gives protection from water and dirt but is easily removed by wash systems. The flexible nature of the film protects from accidental contact and can “self-heal”. As water is the carrier, the product dries well; drying can be further improved as heat can be safely applied to the product for incredibly quick/flash drying. The use of water as a carrier, instead of solvent, means that the cost of Meta-Shield W1000D is much lower. This provides a huge economic saving whilst delivering very high levels of performance. Meta- Shield W1000D is also available as a concentrate, Meta- Shield W1000C, which can reduce transport costs as well. When used together, Cool-Tek 250 and Meta-Shield W1000D have shown major benefits for the tube manufacturer. As the products are compatible, cross contamination of Meta-Shield W1000D into the Cool-Tek 250 emulsion acts like top-up. This reduces consumption rather than increasing it as normally seen. The mix of fluids does not destabilise the emulsifiers/ detergents, so roll skidding is not seen and cleanliness remains excellent. Observations from use on-site are that the drying time of the rust preventative is much quicker when sprayed than the previously used solvent-based products. The packs dry very quickly and do not drip wet rust preventative. The odour within the factory environment was greatly improved as reported by operators and complaints of skin irritation eliminated. The package has been used to manufacture a large variety of steel products (black, cold rolled, hot rolled and dipped, galvanised and aluminised steels) in a variety of sizes and shapes.

After switching to Metalube’s Cool-Tek 250 and Meta-Shield W1000D package Top Tubes found that corrosion protection was improved on both the inside and outside bores of the tube. Top Tubes found that its customers were no longer having issues with removal of the rust preventative film during subsequent processes such as automated e-coating or chromating. They were also very pleased with the finish offered by Meta-Shield W1000D, which gives the tube a shiny and clean aesthetic. The use of the compatible water-based technology means that a significant cost saving (>30 per cent) can be achieved, as well as the many technical benefits experienced. Simon Moore, ERW operations manager for Top Tubes Ltd, said, “Top Tubes always strive to use the latest technology to achieve the best quality for our customers. Switching to Metalube’s water-based package of products has solved many issues for both us and more importantly for our customers.”

Metalube Ltd 4 Huntsman Drive, Northbank Industrial Park Irlam, Manchester M44 5EG, UK

Tel: +44 161 775 7771 Fax: +44 161 775 7511

Email: post@metalube.co.uk Website: www.metalube.co.uk

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J anuary 2016