Pre-study: Sustainable lubrication of rock drilling

Important results from the project

Purpose and goals: To take the first steps towards fossil-free and green lubrication for the mining industry, Testing the possibility of using glycerol based, fossil-free, and environmentally friendly lubricants to replace mineral based lubricants for drilling head lubrication. Fullfillment: We successfully take the first step towards fossil-free and green lubrication for the mining industry. Our tests indicate that it is possible of using glycerol based, fossil-free, and environmentally friendly lubricants to replace mineral based lubricants.

Expected long term effects

Results: (1) New formulated lubricants for rock-drilling are ready for testing at Epiroc. (2) A good evaluation of the possibility of using glycerol based lubricants for rock drilling in the field. Fullment: (1) We have formulated a new type of glycerol-based lubricant for rock-drilling, which is ready for full scale testing. (2) The evaluation at LTU and Epiroc of the possibility of using glycerol based lubricants for rock drilling in the field went very well. And it was found that the lubricating performance of glycerol-based lubricants can fulfill the requirement of rock drilling.

Approach and implementation

WP 1, Project coordination: The project keeps smooth communicating and discussing WP 2, LTU lab study: LTU lab study indicates glycerol based lubricants show excellent lubricating performance, especially showing low friction. WP 3, Epiroc bench scale study: Epiroc’s test indicates glycerol based lubricants can provide a good lubrication for the rock drilling head.