Connect with us

Concrete

Synthetic lubricants have gained popularity in the cement industry

Published

2 years ago

on

Shares

Sudhahar P, Executive Director (Lubes), Bharat Petroleum Corporation, speaks about the role of lubricants in maintaining the efficient operation of various machinery and equipment, and the innovations in this segment.

Different lubricants have different specific functions in a cement plan.
Explain this with reference to the lubricants that you manufacture.
Cement manufacturing is an equipment-intensive industry. Lubrication of equipment in the cement industry poses some unique challenges with the kind of environment the machinery operates and the plant location. The integrated cement plants had a complete off-highway fleet to cater their limestone mining operation as well as the heavy-duty plant machinery required for cement manufacturing. The working conditions and the machineries at mining and plant operations are unique and require a very high quality of lubricant to achieve 24×7 operation. MAK lubricants portfolio includes tailor-made lubricants for cement industry such as industrial gear oils, hydraulic oils, compressor oils, engine oils and greases.

What role do lubricants by your organisation play in the functionality of the cement industry?
Lubricants are essential for maintaining efficient operation of various machinery and equipment involved in the cement production process. It plays a crucial role in reducing friction, heat and wear in machinery and equipment, thereby enhancing their efficiency, reliability and lifespan.
By using high-quality MAK Lubricants for the cement industry and implementing proper lubrication practices, cement plants can not only optimise their operational performance but also increase equipment reliability, improve energy efficiency, and reduce total cost of ownership.

How do you ensure high quality of lubricants that are made specifically for the cement sector?
MAK lubricants always strive to ensure the highest quality of lubricants supplied to our customers by investing R&D, implementing quality control measures, and complying with quality management system standards.

  • R&D: We invest in extensive Research and Development to formulate high quality lubricants specifically designed for the cement industry
  • after analysing the operating conditions, equipment requirements and challenges faced in cement plants.
  • Quality control: Rigorous quality control measures are implemented throughout the production process including receipt of raw materials, blending, filling, etc. Quality control process includes using advanced laboratory testing equipment and techniques to analyse the raw materials, monitor the manufacturing process, and verify the finished product quality. We have dedicated quality control teams to ensure adherence to strict quality standards of lubricants.
  • Compliance with standards: We as a major lubricant manufacturer in the industry, adhere to recognised industry standards and certifications. These standards (ISO 9001/ 14001/45001/50001) ensure that the lubricants meet specific performance criteria and rigorous testing procedures.

Tell us about the key areas where your products can improve the performance and efficiency of cement industry equipment.
Critical equipment like kiln, vertical rolling oil, ball mill, crushers and roller press operate continuously under challenging conditions. Gear boxes in these equipment are subjected to extreme loading conditions and may cause micro pitting, premature wear problems and consumes a lot of energy. MAK Lubricants offer energy-efficient gear oils with anti-micro pitting resistance, reducing energy consumption and extending the equipment life respectively.
Heavy loads, high pressures, and temperatures in the hydraulic system of the grinding mill causes increased stress on hydraulic oil and thereby reduces its service life. Our energy efficient long life hydraulic oil not only has a potential to save energy but also provide longer oil life along with improved reliability of equipment.
In the limestone quarry section, continuous and reliable operation of Heavy Earth Moving Machinery (HEMM) is very much required to meet the demands of the production plant. MAK Lubricants offer total lubrication solutions for these machinery, which includes long life engine oil, energy efficient hydraulic oil, axle and transmission oil with proven field performance credentials.

What environmental factors influence the performance of lubricants? How do you address concerns arising from it?
Mining and mineral processing equipment in the cement industry are often subjected to extreme working conditions. High operating temperatures, extreme heavy/shock loads, continuous operation, cement dust, and seasonal variations in temperatures pose tough operating conditions in cement production.
First of all, seasonal variation (high heat >45oC/ extreme cold <0oC) and high humidity levels primarily affect the lubricant storage stability. Higher operating temperatures increase the rate of oil oxidation, which can lead to deposit formation and faster degradation of oil. Similarly, higher humidity levels cause moisture ingression into the product, accelerating the oxidation process, reducing the anti-wear performance and depleting overall additive performance.
Our MAK Lubricants are formulated using best in class Group II+ base oils produced at LOBS plant, Mumbai Refinery. With higher saturate content and negligible aromatic and sulphur content in our base oils, these provide exceptionally high oxidation and thermal stability. The selected advance additive technology in combination with the Group ll+ base oil ensures that our lubricants provide optimum performance under adverse operating conditions present in cement industry.

How does your organisation work with cement clients to customise lubrication solutions?
MAK Lubricants team carries out lubrication surveys at various cements to understand the specific lubrication requirements of all process equipment, current lubrication practices, condition monitoring, storage handling, etc. Technical team interacts with the user section to understand their challenges / requirements associated with lubricants. Based on the inputs received from the cement plants, our team provides a comprehensive lubrication survey report with right lubricant grade recommendation, grade rationalisation, improve current lubrication practices, identify critical equipment for regular condition monitoring and offer tailor-made lubricants to suit customer requirements and improve reliability.

How do you ensure compliance with environmental regulations?
Environmental compliance encompasses a wide range of regulations, and standards enacted by governments and other regulatory bodies to safeguard the environment even while businesses continue to manufacture and sell products to several markets.
All our MAK Lubricants are produced at our blending plants compliant with ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001 /50001 standards along with necessary statutory pollution control board requirements.
As we understand, many cement plants today are bound by sustainability targets set by the government. Significant progress has been made in this direction by many cement plants, by implementing usage of our energy efficient lubricants, long life lubricants, environment friendly biodegradable lubricants, etc.

How do you prioritise customer service and support for your cement clients?
We believe that ‘satisfied customers become the best referral sources’. Customer service to us is providing timely, responsive, highest level of technical support to meet the customer expectations. We have a strong network of technical services teams who prioritise prompt response to customer enquiries, concerns and service requests. We provide customised lubrication solutions, trouble shootings, guidance, and recommendations to reduce unscheduled downtime and costly additional maintenance.
We also provide training programmes, workshops, seminars, knowledge sharing sessions to enhance the understanding of the importance of proper lubrication, right lubrication techniques and best usage practices.
With our condition monitoring solutions, we offer detailed analysis reports of in-service oil which not only provides condition of oil but also keeps track of equipment health. It offers early detection of equipment failure and better planning of preventive maintenance.
We offer unique and reliable testing solutions through ‘Mobile Lab,’ first-of-its-kind in the industry with onsite testing of lubricants at customer premises and release of test reports on the same day itself. This initiative is very well received by many customers, as it reduces the overall lubricant sample testing time and enables them to take faster decisions preventing catastrophic equipment failures.

Tell us about any recent developments or innovations in lubricants specifically designed for the cement industry.
We work closely with many cement plants and equipment OEMs to develop innovative specialty lubricants for crushers, ball mills, rotary kilns, vertical mills, and roller presses. These highly application-specific solutions help to effectively protect the equipment components from wear, reduce maintenance cost and prolong equipment life.
MAK Lubricants has developed energy efficient hydraulic oils / industrial gear oils, biodegradable hydraulic oils, long drain engine oils specifically for the cement industry.
Synthetic lubricants have gained popularity in the cement industry due to their ability to withstand extreme operating conditions. We have developed high-performance synthetic gear oils and compressor oils, which offer improved thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and reduced sludge formation. These lubricants can enhance equipment performance, extend oil change intervals and reduce maintenance costs. Improved equipment efficiency, a by-product of energy efficient lubricants, results in increased machine output, lowering operating temperatures and reduced energy usage. Our energy efficient hydraulic oil lubricants reduce the negative impact of energy consumption on the environment, improving the fuel economy, productivity, while at the same time reducing the energy costs thus contributing towards sustainable development.
With growing environmental concerns, there is an increasing focus on environmentally friendly lubricants for the cement industry. We offer lubricants formulated with biodegradable base oils and additives, reducing their impact on the environment in case of accidental leakage or spillage. They comply with environmental regulations while still offering effective lubrication performance.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Concrete

Driving Sustainability Through Innovation

Published

1 week ago

on

March 25, 2025

By

Shares



The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will spotlight India’s cement industry’s growth, innovation, and sustainability, showcasing cutting-edge solutions for a greener future.

The cement industry in India, the second-largest in the world, is on the cusp of remarkable growth as it continues its transition toward sustainability, innovation, and expansion. The 15th Cement Expo 2025, scheduled for November 12-13, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in Delhi, will be the premier event where the industry’s foremost stakeholders converge to explore state-of-the-art technologies and solutions.
Co-located with the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference and the 9th Indian Cement Review Awards, the expo promises to be a pivotal event for professionals in the cement, construction, and infrastructure sectors. This year’s theme, “Driving Sustainability Through Technology,” highlights the sector’s commitment to decarbonisation, efficiency, and technological advancement. With India poised to add 80 to 100 million tonnes of cement capacity by 2024-25, the event will address the urgent need for sustainable, low-carbon solutions to meet the growing demand.
Before we look ahead to the 15th Cement Expo, let’s reflect on the remarkable success of the Cement Expo Forum 2025, held on March 5-6, 2025, in Hyderabad. The event attracted over 500 industry professionals and featured groundbreaking discussions on sustainability, logistics, and decarbonisation. Key sponsors and partners, such as ABB, Gebr Pfeiffer, JK Cement, and Flender Drives, showcased their latest innovations, contributing to the forum’s success.
Pratap Padode, Founder and President of First Construction Council, spoke at the event, noting, “The PPP pipeline is complemented by a provision of Rs 1.5 trillion in interest-free loans to states, earmarked for capital expenditure. With this, we have a solid plan in place. What needs to be done is to ensure that the PPP actually takes off as envisaged. To make this happen, trust must be established, and policies must be investor-friendly. Telangana, in this regard, has demonstrated ease of doing business exceptionally well.”
He added, “These financial injections into the infrastructure sector are expected to create a ripple effect, driving demand for cement as a key material in construction and development projects. The growing demand for cement is evident as infrastructure projects continue to rise across the country.”
The forum also provided invaluable networking opportunities, with attendees gaining insights from over 35 distinguished speakers and connecting with more than 50 exhibitors. The event laid a strong foundation for the upcoming Expo, showcasing the significant strides the cement industry is making toward a greener, more efficient future.
The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will focus on advancing the industry’s next big step toward sustainable growth. With India’s cement sector making significant progress in decarbonisation, a key focus will be on technologies and innovations that support carbon capture, low-carbon cement production, and energy-efficient solutions.
The expo will feature over 50 exhibitors representing all aspects of the cement industry. Whether you are a manufacturer, raw material supplier, technology provider, or logistics partner, the Cement Expo 2025 offers an ideal platform to showcase your products and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in cement production technology, automation, logistics, and environmental solutions, all geared toward building a greener and more sustainable future.
Exhibitor profiles will include cement manufacturers, raw material suppliers, technology and automation solutions providers, environmental and sustainability solutions providers, cement packaging and logistics, construction equipment manufacturers, admixtures and chemical suppliers, and concrete reinforcement and structural systems.

11th Indian Cement Review Conference

Held alongside the Expo, the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference will offer delegates invaluable insights into the latest trends and innovations shaping the cement industry. Focusing on sustainability, the conference will address critical issues such as energy efficiency, plant design, and emerging technologies like carbon capture and automation.
Industry leaders will share their expertise in technical forums, while specialised activities, such as plant tours and energy audits, will provide practical guidance on improving operations and efficiency. This is a prime opportunity to network with industry stakeholders, gain hands-on experience with new technologies, and acquire actionable knowledge to enhance your business.

9th Indian Cement Review Awards

The 9th Indian Cement Review Awards will recognise the fastest-growing cement companies and industry leaders for their outstanding contributions to the sector. This prestigious event will serve as a platform to honour the pioneers of innovation, sustainability, and performance within the cement industry, highlighting the sector’s commitment to growth and environmental responsibility.
As we look forward to the 15th Cement Expo 2025, we invite you to join us for two exciting days of networking, learning, and innovation. This event offers a unique opportunity to be part of the next wave of growth and sustainability in the global cement sector.

Continue Reading

Concrete

Transforming Interior Spaces: Trendy Wall Putty Designs to Enhance Your Home

Published

2 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2025

By

Shares



When it comes to interior design, walls are more than just structural elements—they serve as the canvas for self-expression, setting the mood and personality of a space. While paint and wallpaper have long been the go-to choices for wall finishes, wall putty is emerging as a game-changer in home décor. With its smooth finish, durability, and versatility, wall putty opens a world of creative possibilities. In this article, we explore trendy wall putty designs that can elevate your interiors, turning ordinary walls into extraordinary design statements.
Wall Putty is a Must-Have in Modern Homes
Wall putty is no longer just a preparatory material for painting; it plays a significant role in modern home aesthetics. It enhances the finish of walls, making them smoother, stronger, and resistant to cracks and moisture. Additionally, high-quality putty like Birla White Wall Putty ensures better paint adhesion, resulting in long-lasting vibrancy.
Beyond its functional benefits, wall putty allows homeowners to experiment with textures and patterns, giving walls a designer touch without the hassle of high-maintenance materials like stone or wood. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist, rustic, or ultra-modern aesthetic, wall putty designs can help achieve the look effortlessly.
Trendy Wall Putty Designs for Stunning Interiors
1. Textured Wall Putty for a Tactile Appeal
Textured walls are a popular interior trend, adding depth and dimension to living spaces. By using wall putty, homeowners can create a variety of textures, including:
  • Rustic Texture: Mimicking natural stone or aged plaster for an earthy, vintage feel.
  • Wave Patterns: Adding a sense of movement and fluidity to walls, perfect for living rooms and entryways.
  • Sand Finish: A subtle grainy effect that provides a sophisticated touch.
Textured putty walls work exceptionally well in accent areas, such as behind a television unit or as a backdrop for artwork.
2. Sleek and Smooth Walls for a Luxurious Look
For those who prefer a refined and elegant aesthetic, a smooth putty finish is ideal. A flawlessly smooth wall creates a premium appearance, amplifying the impact of high-quality paints. Opting for a high-performance putty like Birla White WallCare Putty ensures a glass-like finish that complements modern and contemporary interiors.
This design is perfect for:
  • Monochrome interiors where walls serve as a sleek backdrop.
  • High-gloss or matte-painted walls that need a seamless base.
  • Spaces with minimal décor where the walls themselves make a statement.
3. Geometric & Abstract Patterns for a Contemporary Edge
Wall putty can be artistically applied to create striking geometric or abstract patterns, adding a unique character to interiors.
Popular designs include:
  • Chevron or Herringbone: A dynamic, sophisticated look that pairs well with both modern and mid-century décor.
  • 3D Raised Panels: Using putty to craft subtle raised patterns, adding a sculptural effect to the wall.
  • Asymmetrical Shapes: For a bold and avant-garde touch.
  • These patterns work best in bedrooms, study areas, or accent walls in open spaces.
4. Venetian Plaster for a Luxe European Aesthetic
Venetian plaster, an age-old technique, is making a grand comeback in modern interiors. With wall putty, you can achieve this exquisite marble-like effect, which exudes luxury and timeless charm.
This design works well for:
  • Statement walls in living rooms and foyers.
  • Elegant dining areas where a touch of opulence is desired.
  • Boutique-style bedrooms with a rich, textured finish.
A high-quality white cement-based putty can replicate this effect beautifully, making the walls look naturally luminous.
5. Dual-Tone or Ombre Walls for a Soft Gradient Effect
The ombre effect, a gradient transition between two colors, is a trendy and artistic way to enhance interiors. When applied over a smooth wall putty base, the gradient blends seamlessly, offering a dreamy, watercolor-like appeal.
This style is perfect for:
  • Children’s rooms or play areas, creating a fun and dynamic atmosphere.
  • Bedrooms with a soothing pastel gradient for a calming effect.
  • Dining spaces where a bold color fade adds character.
6. Metallic & Glossy Finishes for a Chic Look
For homeowners who love glamour and sophistication, combining wall putty with metallic paints or glossy finishes can create a high-end appeal. The smooth base of putty enhances the reflective qualities of metallic shades like gold, silver, or bronze, resulting in an opulent and dramatic effect.
Best suited for:
  • Luxurious master bedrooms and dressing areas.
  • Accent walls in dining rooms or home bars.
  • Commercial spaces like boutiques and salons.
How to Achieve the Best Wall Putty Designs
  • Choose the Right Putty: Opt for a premium wall putty like Birla White WallCare Putty to ensure durability, a smooth finish, and long-lasting appeal.
  • Prepare the Surface: Ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free from loose particles before application.
  • Apply in Layers: Depending on the design, putty can be applied in single or multiple layers for the desired effect.
  • Use the Right Tools: Trowels, spatulas, sponges, or patterned rollers help create specific textures and patterns.
  • Seal with Paint or Polish: Once the putty is dry, finishing it with paint, polish, or protective coatings enhances its aesthetic and durability.
Conclusion
Wall putty has evolved beyond its traditional role, now serving as a medium for creative interior design. Whether you prefer textured finishes, sleek smooth walls, or artistic patterns, wall putty designs can elevate your home’s aesthetics while offering durability and elegance. By selecting the  best putty for wall and application technique, you can transform your interior walls into stunning masterpieces, setting the perfect backdrop for your lifestyle.
For high-quality wall finishes that stand the test of time, Birla White WallCare Putty ensures both beauty and performance, making your dream interiors a reality.

Continue Reading

Concrete

Dalmia Bharat to add 6 MnTPA Cement Capacity in Maharashtra and Karnataka

Published

2 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2025

By

Shares



  • Investment in alignment with the strategic goal of becoming a PAN India company and achieving 75 MnT capacity by FY28
  • Increases capacity primarily to meet growing demand in Western India along with existing regions

Dalmia Bharat Limited, one of India’s leading cement companies, through its subsidiaries, has announced a strategic investment of approximately Rs 3,520 Crore in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. As part of this initiative, the company will establish a 3.6 MnTPA clinker unit and a 3 MnTPA grinding unit at its existing Belgaum plant, Karnataka coupled with a new greenfield split grinding unit with a capacity of 3 MnTPA in Pune, Maharashtra. The capex will be funded through a combination of debt and internal accruals. With this expansion, Dalmia Bharat’s total installed cement capacity will increase to 55.5 MnTPA, after considering the ongoing expansion of 2.9 MnT at Assam and Bihar. These new units are expected to be commissioned by Q4 FY27.

The Belgaum Grinding Unit will cater to the underserved Southern Maharashtra markets while enhancing share in the existing region by improving penetration. On the other hand, Pune Grinding Unit will entirely cater to the untapped Western Maharashtra markets. The initiative is a part of the company’s vision to be a PAN India player and achieve 75 MnTPA capacity by FY28 and 110-130 MnT by 2031.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “This investment is a significant step in our Phase II expansion strategy, bringing us closer to strengthen our position as a pan-India player and to reach intermittent goal of 75 MnT capacity by FY28. The increase in our production capacity is primarily to meet the growing infrastructure demand in Western India.” He further added, “We remain committed in realising our goals of capacity expansion, while staying focused on operational excellence and creating long-term value for our stakeholders. The capacity additions will also continue to be in line with Dalmia Bharat’s sustainability-driven approach and its commitment to supporting India’s infrastructure and development goals.”

About Dalmia Bharat: Founded in 1939, Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL) (BSE/NSE Symbol: DALBHARAT) is one of India’s pioneering cement companies headquartered in New Delhi. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 46.6 MnT, Dalmia Bharat Limited (including its subsidiaries) is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing company in India by installed capacity. Spread across 10 states and 15 manufacturing units.  Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited, prides itself at having one of the lowest carbon footprint in the cement world globally. It is the first cement company to commit to RE100, EP100 and EV100 (first triple joiner) – showing real business leadership in the clean energy transition by taking a joined-up approach.

Continue Reading

Trending News

SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER

 

Don't miss out on valuable insights and opportunities to connect with like minded professionals.

 

    This will close in 0 seconds