Citation
(2007), "Uniqema unveils broadest range of eco-label compatible ester base fluids", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 59 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/ilt.2007.01859aad.007
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Uniqema unveils broadest range of eco-label compatible ester base fluids
Uniqema unveils broadest range of eco-label compatible ester base fluids
Uniqema is enabling lubricant manufacturers to pursue eco-label approval as a means of meeting increasing customer demand for more sustainable products.
The company has confirmed that all of its oleochemcial ester base fluids – the broadest range available on the market – meet the strict compliance stipulations to produce eco-label compatible lubricants, as set out by the European Commission.
Uniqema's move follows the decision by the European Commission in May 2005 to outline eco-label criteria for lubricants. The initiative is a voluntary scheme that aims to promote lubricants that minimise impact on water and soil during use and lead to a reduction in CO2 emissions. European consumers can easily identify eco-label products through a distinctive flower symbol.
John Eastwood, European Technical Manager – Industrial Lubricants from Uniqema says: “The Eco-label initiative offers a real opportunity to lubricants manufacturers to differentiate themselves from competitors by providing customers with products that are easily identifiable as environment friendly. We're anticipating strong interest in our oleochemical esters from manufacturers keen to realise the marketing opportunities this initiative represents.”
Seven compliance criteria have been established for any lubricant hoping to be awarded eco-label status, including stipulations on risk phrases, aquatic toxicity limits, biodegradability, renewable raw materials, labelling information, technical performance and the exclusion of specific substances. Uniqema's Eco-label compliant range of esters- sold under the brand names Prisorineä and Priolubeä – meet all the specified criteria. With viscosities at 408 ranging from 11mm2/s up to 1,040mm2/s, Uniqema's oleochemical esters can be used for the formulation of Eco-label compliant lubricants from ISO 10 through to ISO 1000, when correctly formulated with suitable additives.
John Eastwood, from Uniqema continues: “As a company we pride ourselves on producing ingredients that help improve the performance of many everyday products. Our oleochemical esters not only improve the functional performance of lubricants, but also play a key role in their environmental performance – an area of increasing concern for legislators and customers alike.”
Lubricants covered by the eco-label scheme include hydraulic oils, greases, chainsaw oils, two stroke oils, concrete release agents and other total loss lubricants.
Mike Millington, Sales Development Manager Lubricants – Europe, concludes: “Health, safety and the environment are at the heart of Uniqema's values. The fact we've invested the time and money to develop the broadest range of ester base fluids that meet Eco-labelling criteria for lubricants bears testament to this. The EU scheme is intended to promote sustainable consumption and production, and we were keen to play our part.”
For more information, please visit: www.uniqema.com