EVALUATING DRAWING LUBRICANTS--Adapting to a changing regulatory environment

摘要

TESTING and validating new lubricants is nothing new to the tube and pipe industry. These steps are necessary, especially when an existing lubricant is discontinued. The most recent lubricants targeted for replacement are chlorinated paraffins, which are used commonly in tube and pipe manufacturing mills around the world.European and Canadian regulations regarding these lubricants have left tube and pipe manufacturers searching for equally effective, greener replacements. While many products are available, including lubricants removed by organic solvents or alkalines, no two are identical. It is the job of manufacturing personnel to determine the best replacement lubricant—the one that causes minimal process disruptions and maintains the product's quality.