Steel cold rolling with aqueous oilfree lubricant

ended

Lubricants applied in cold rolling processes aims to generate high surface aspects, cooling and cleaning as well as optimisation of the tribological system. This project is focused on the targeted development of aqueous oil free lubricants (OFLs) as substitute for the conventional oil based lubricants. As result of the former RFCS-projects Optilub and Lubwork polyalkyleneglycols (PAGs) have already shown comparable or even better rolling properties than conventional lubricants. The targeted development of OFL (PAGs, Polymers) for selected cold rolling processes is central aspect of the planned work programme. One route is set for PAG based lubricants focussing the positive outcome of the former RFCS-project, the other routes are open for other promising formulation based on other type of polymers. As this constitutes a step change in the rolling process, first of all a risk assessment e.g. compatibility of the new lubricant with the existing aggregates and process fluids is required as a work basis. Then the systematic development of oil free lubricants (OFL), their implementation, monitoring and handling measures will be covered by the project. Moreover, the impact of the new lubricant on subsequent processes will be studied in detail. The influence on cleaning, pickling, annealing and finishing will be examined too. Additionally control, care, environmental and ecological aspects will be covered as well. Based on these results OFLs composition will be continuously optimized. An equal substitute, with comparable rolling, cleaning and protective properties as conventional lubricants for both, steel cold rolling and hot alumium rolling, will generate a massive decrease of running care, costs for replenish and disposal, over 40% cost reduction and 50% lubricant savings are possible.