How renewable diesel and Shell PANOLIN are changing construction
As customer expectations evolve and the push towards a more sustainable future intensifies, the industry finds itself balancing the demands of productivity while aligning with environmental goals.
With the growing demand for cleaner solutions, renewable diesel – also known as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) – presents a promising alternative to diesel, and we can expect to see more high-quality environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs) being introduced to the market.
Renewable diesel
Viva Energy Australia can help its customers by bringing renewable diesel within reach.
Robert Cavicchiolo, carbon solutions manager at Viva Energy, describes it as a ‘game-changer’ for the construction industry.
“Renewable diesel offers performance comparable to conventional diesel but with lower emissions,” Cavicchiolo says.
“It’s a simple, drop-in solution that allows companies to continue operations while reducing their carbon footprint.”
The key advantage of renewable diesel is its seamless compatibility with existing diesel engines and infrastructure due to its similar hydrocarbon composition to traditional diesel. This removes the need for costly modifications and approvals from OEMs.
By using Shell PANOLIN lubricants, the environmental impacts of leaks or spillage are reduced compared to conventional mineral oils. Image: Viva Energy Australia
Biodegradable lubricants
Viva Energy Australia offers a suite of sustainable options including biodegradable lubricants.
As the world’s need for mobility and construction projects grow, so does the shared responsibility to meet this rising demand while reducing the environmental impact of lubricants. The correct choice of lubricants is vital. Shell PANOLIN lubricants present an easy choice, allowing for reduced environmental impacts in an event of a leak, or accidental spillage when compared to conventional mineral oils.
Available through Viva Energy, the Shell PANOLIN portfolio includes a broad choice of readily biodegradable and low-ecotoxicity lubricants for hydraulics, gears, engines (HDEO) and greasing for machine lubrication, including leading OEM-approved products.
“Shell PANOLIN S4 HLP Synth 32, 46, 68 were the first Bosch Rexroth-approved biodegradable hydraulic oils, designed for uninterrupted equipment operation,” Viva Energy technical specialist Silvana Farrugia says.
“The Shell PANOLIN portfolio is technically well-balanced with high biodegradability and is designed for long life, with high performance and protection contributing to equipment longevity.”
Moreover, Shell PANOLIN provides uncompromising performance. Its high viscosity index ensures performance across all temperature ranges, providing shear stability, wear protection and robust load-bearing capabilities.
“Shell PANOLIN S4 hydraulic range is a great example of this, as its good cold flow behaviour allows for the reducing risk of metal-on-metal wear,” Farrugia says.
Biodegradable lubricants are not new to the construction industry.
“In fact, Shell PANOLIN products have been trusted by customers in other industries for more than 40 years,” Farrugia says.
“This is largely being achieved through the reformulation of more balanced lubricants with higher tier synthetic ester base stocks and the development of better additives,” Farrugia says.
As the construction industry navigates the dual pressures of increasing productivity and reducing environmental impact, solutions like renewable diesel and biodegradable lubricants are essential.
With proven performance, OEM approvals, and a strong track record across industries, Shell PANOLIN and Viva Energy’s renewable diesel offerings empower businesses to take meaningful steps toward sustainability without compromising on efficiency or reliability.
For more information speak to the experts at Viva Energy Australia (Shell Lubricants Macro Distributor). Call 1300 134 205 or Email technicalhelpdesk@vivaenergy.com.au / carbonsolutions@vivaenergy.com.au
Source: Shell Innovations in Lubrication Whitepaper 2024
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