India’s mining industry powers the country’s industrial engine. With more than 1,300 mines, from metallic to non-metallic mineral extraction, the sector contributes tremendous value to the national economy. Providing essential raw materials for all core industries, the mining sector has played a foundational role in accelerating the nation’s growth.

Endowed with vast metallic and non-metallic resources, the country is charting a new course in strengthening the mining industry through a slew of policies that foster the sector’s long-term growth. Most recently, the Union Cabinet approved an amendment to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, specifying royalty rates for 12 critical minerals such as beryllium, cadmium, cobalt and others that play a pivotal role in driving the growth of industries such as defense, electronics and renewable energy. The concerted drive to shore up the prospects of the mining sector has also yielded strong dividends to the national economy. According to estimates, the production of metallic minerals increased from $6.96 billion in 2018 to $12.88 billion in FY2023, while FDI investments in the metallurgical industry increased from 2000 to 2023 to $17.46 billion.

According to estimates, machinery downtime can cost up to over $1,000 per hour, impacting not just production cycles but also overall financial bottom lines. The need to ensure that every machinery is operating to its fullest and most optimal performance is therefore a strategic imperative, in addition to the mining sector needing to embrace technological innovations across the value chain – from adopting innovative techniques such as in-pit crushing, conveyorisation, automation and digitisation. 

As multiple mining projects are underway, the efficient use of reliable machinery becomes imperative for successful project completion. Consequently, the application of appropriate lubricants is vital to ensure optimal performance and longevity of equipment. Proper lubrication plays a key role in minimising friction, wear, and heat generation, ultimately improving machinery performance and lifespan. While the opportunities are robust, productivity losses due to machinery downtime continue to be a persistent challenge, which can stifle the sector’s full potential.

MobilTM: A leading solution provider for lubrication needs 

MobilTM, a premium lubrication brand, offers an extensive range of lubricants specially formulated for heavy machinery and equipment used in mining projects. These lubricants contribute significantly to enhancing the efficiency and performance of engines, gears, and hydraulic systems. They ensure smooth operation, reduce attrition, and extend the lifespan of machinery, thereby minimising downtime. This, in turn, leads to increased productivity and cost savings for mining companies. In addition to providing high-quality lubricants, MobilTM also extends technical expertise and support to mining industry, collaborating with professionals to understand their unique needs and challenges. This collaborative approach facilitates the development of customised solutions and recommendations, optimising equipment performance and maintenance practices. 

MobilTM is a solution-oriented company that offers a comprehensive portfolio of lubricants tailored specifically for the mining sector. Its range of key offerings includes hydraulic oils, heavy-duty engine oils, gear oils, and greases designed to meet the demanding requirements of equipment. In addition to its innovative product offerings, it offers excellent services to provide end-to-end solutions for lubrication needs.

A service partner with expertise in machine maintenance understands the unique requirements of aging equipment and can develop maintenance plans that consider the specific needs of older machines. Here, MobilTM is leading the way by providing a holistic lubrication experience that encompasses superior products along with quality servicing solutions such as MobilTM Lubricant Analysis (MLA) programme which provides guidance in state-of-the-art used oil analysis service and has been designed specifically to simplify the lubrication monitoring process, increase reliability of equipment and lower maintenance costs.

Success story of MobilTM’s solutions for a leading mining player 

One of India’s mining giants, offering composite services for core mineral extraction and civil construction, sought a strategic solution from MobilTM to optimise their equipment performance and minimise maintenance disruptions. The company was experiencing frequent scheduled maintenance, which led to operational challenges such as high equipment downtime, increased maintenance costs and loss of productivity. Their plant was using a lithium soap-based grease to lubricate excavator bush pin applications. This caused a lower re-greasing interval after every eight hours of operation causing low equipment availability and high man-machine interaction. The frequency of scheduled maintenance and the equipment downtime pointed to an operational challenge that needed quick intervention that was not just a quick fix but one designed to ensure seamless operations both swiftly and for the long-term.

Optimising operations: Mobil’s Impact

Mobil™ Field Engineering Services team conducted an in-depth application assessment study to review the problem and propose solutions that addressed the needs of the customer. Team recommended Mobilgrease XHPTM 462 Moly, part of the acclaimed Mobilgrease XHPTM 460 Series for enhanced productivity and profitability.

Post the successful implementation of the recommended solution at the mining site, the customer experienced significant benefits like four per cent productivity increase, 3X increase in greasing interval, and 3X reduction in maintenance cost due to lower grease consumption and activity. Overall, it helped the customer in making annual savings of `17.5 lakh.*

About Mobilgrease XHP™ 460 greases

Mobilgrease XHP™ 460 greases are extended service lithium complex greases intended for a wide variety of heavy-duty applications and operating conditions. These greases are designed to outperform conventional products by applying high performance proprietary lithium complex manufacturing technology. They are formulated to provide excellent high temperature performance with excellent adhesion, structural stability and resistance to water contamination. These greases have a high level of chemical stability and offer excellent protection against rust and corrosion.

Advancing productivity with MobilTM

The advanced technology and innovation that MobilTM brings by designing products that protect equipment operating under severe conditions, such as loads and pressures, frequent starts and stops, wide operating temperature ranges and contamination. Bringing a legacy of 150 years and with a mission to ‘Advancing Productivity,’ the high-performance MobilTM products help deliver operational safety, reduce environmental impact and improve productivity. 

MobilTM recently launched its new campaign, ‘Fill with MobilTM’, which celebrates expertise, collaboration, and pride. We enjoy a heritage of 150+ years of experience, 100+ years of collaboration with OEMs, having 35,000+ OEM endorsements. The OEMs trust us to maximise their equipment’s efficiency and reliability.

We also deeply value our customers’ operational expertise. By combining Mobil’s lubrication and application knowledge with our customers’ business insights, we help them exceed their performance. This campaign reflects our commitment to collaboration and innovation with our ecosystem partners.

Committed to industry innovation, Mobil is actively engaged in the development of innovative lubrication solutions products that not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of key industries and customers. Through a comprehensive range of intelligent services, cutting-edge lubricants, and a focus on seamless technological integration, Mobil is driving the industry’s evolution toward a future marked by assured profitability, performance, and productivity.