TPT January 2016

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98 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:
Website: