F+L Webcast

With more than 30 years of industry experience, Matthew (Matt) Joyce, Corporate Senior Vice President and President of HF Sinclair’s Lubricants & Specialities, has focused on driving innovation, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship across HF Sinclair’s operations. HF Sinclair, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, U.S.A., produces a wide range of high-value products, including renewable diesel, jet fuel, and speciality lubricants. Its Lubricants & Specialities segment is among North America’s largest producers of white oils and Group III base oils, exporting to more than 80 countries and serving industries such as pharmaceuticals, personal care, construction, and mining. Notable brands under this segment include Sonneborn, Petro-Canada Lubricants, and Red Giant Oil. Sustainability is at the core of HF Sinclair’s strategy. Products like SonneNatural, a 100% plant-based lubricant, exemplify the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and supporting renewable feedstocks. These solutions meet growing global demand for environmentally friendly products while ensuring high performance and reliability. The division also invests heavily in innovation, with advancements such as immersion cooling fluids for data centres and renewable lubricants. These efforts align with HF Sinclair’s vision to be a trusted global partner for sustainable solutions, helping businesses navigate regulatory pressures and achieve their environmental goals. Looking ahead, HF Sinclair aims to expand its market presence in Asia and Africa while maintaining its leadership in innovation and sustainability. Joyce emphasises the company’s mission: “Our focus is on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that create value for our customers while making a positive environmental impact.”

In a recent interview on F+L Webcast, Michael Holloway, president of Fifth Order Industry, highlighted the importance of global collaboration in developing and applying industry standards on fuels and lubricants. Holloway is recognised as a subject-matter expert in failure analysis, reliability engineering, and designed experiments, holding 16 professional certifications and a patent. He has a Master’s degree in Polymer Engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in both Chemistry and Philosophy. Over his 40-year career, he has held roles in research and product development with companies such as Olin Chemical, WR Grace, Rohm & Haas, and GE Plastics. Additionally, he has specialised in reliability engineering and failure analysis for companies like NCH, ALS, and SGS. Fifth Order Industry, based in Houston, Texas, U.S.A., provides training and consultancy. Holloway discussed how international standards, such as those established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), create a shared foundation for industries worldwide. “Standards allow industries to speak a common language,” he explained. “They are essential not only for compliance but for creating opportunities for innovation and collaborative problem-solving.” Holloway believes that this unified approach enhances safety, quality, and environmental practices, benefiting industries and consumers alike. Holloway further underscored the need for flexibility in implementing these standards. He noted that while standards offer a foundational framework, they must be adapted to meet regional and operational specifics, ensuring that they are effectively applied rather than serving as mere compliance checklists. This adaptable approach, he argued, is crucial to fostering genuine operational improvements and advancing innovation. With industries becoming increasingly interconnected, Holloway sees global standards as the key to meeting today’s challenges and paving the way for future sustainable practices. As companies adopt and refine these collaborative standards, Holloway envisions a future where international partnerships drive the next wave of industrial growth and innovation.

In Episode 40 of F+L Webcast, Uday Kumar, the industrial managing director of PETRONAS Lubricants International, shared his extensive journey and insights into the evolving world of industrial lubricants. The conversation with F&L Asia Editor-in-Chief Vicky Villena-Denton unfolded like a narrative of passion, expertise, and vision, shedding light on the intricate role of lubrication in industrial machinery and its future trajectory. Kumar's story began in Bangalore, India, where he pursued a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering His interest in tribology, the study of friction, wear, and lubrication, was ignited by a meeting with Professor S.K. Biswas, a renowned expert in the field. "Talking to Professor Biswas, I was amazed by how lubrication plays an important role between friction and wear," Uday reminisced. This fascination led him to join Castrol India as a sales engineer, where his deep understanding of tribology set him apart. Kumar's career trajectory saw him taking on various roles across India, South Asia, and China, ultimately managing BP's industrial lubricant business in Shanghai. His expertise was further recognised when he became the Global Key Account Director, managing relationships with key clients like Tata Group. In 2020, he joined PETRONAS Lubricants International, bringing more than three decades of experience to the table. Tribology, often a lesser-known field, became Kumar's specialty. He explained how tribology's principles are crucial in maintaining industrial machinery. "Most industrial machinery is always under maintenance and breakdown, often due to inadequate lubrication," he noted. Engineers, with their technical background, are best suited to diagnose these issues and recommend solutions that improve machinery performance and longevity. The conversation then shifted to the differences between industrial and automotive lubricants. Kumar highlighted how industrial lubricants are closely tied to OEM specifications to ensure machinery runs smoothly, especially during the warranty period. This precision contrasts with the broader industry standards often seen in the automotive sector. One of the significant advancements in the industry is the adoption of Industry 4.0. Kumar discussed how modern factories, especially in China and India, are embracing smart manufacturing. "Modern machinery operates at higher speeds and with greater precision, demanding continuous lubrication monitoring," he said. This technological shift is transforming how maintenance is conducted, with real-time monitoring and predictive analysis becoming standard practices. Discussing current trends, Kumar emphasised the growing focus on sustainability. Companies are increasingly looking for lubricants that are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower carbon footprint. "Energy transition is a big topic now, with a shift towards wind and solar energy," he remarked, highlighting how lubricants also play a crucial role in these renewable energy sectors. Automation, Kumar explained, is reducing the quantity of lubricants required, though the demand for high-quality, specialised lubricants is rising. This trend is seen in robotic manufacturing, which uses advanced synthetic greases, compared to older, more lubricant-intensive machinery. Looking ahead, Uday sees a future where the focus will be on integrating services with products. "The future is about helping our customers reduce downtime and maintenance costs by incorporating the service element with the product," he predicted. This shift from product-centric to service-centric solutions will be pivotal in meeting the evolving needs of the industry. Uday's insights painted a vivid picture of an industry in transition, driven by technological advancements and a commitment to sustainability. His journey from an engineering student fascinated by tribology to a leader in the lubricant industry serves as an inspiration for those looking to make a meaningful impact in this field. In closing, Kumar reflected on the enduring importance of lubricants. "From a pin to an aircraft, lubrication plays an essential role. This industry offers a vast scope, and it's here to stay for a long time," he concluded, leaving the audience with a sense of optimism about the future of industrial lubricants. The importance of tribologyEmbracing Industry 4.0The future of industrial lubricants

Vincent Minard is a seasoned veteran with two decades of experience within TotalEnergies’ Marketing & Services. His journey with TotalEnergies has taken him across continents, from the bustling cities of Europe to the dynamic markets of Asia, shaping his expertise in lubricants, OEM partnerships, and retail management. He is currently vice president of Lubricants, Specialties & BtoB, responsible for Asia Pacific and the Middle East based in Singapore. One of the crown jewels in TotalEnergies' portfolio is their state-of-the-art lubricant blending plant in Singapore. As the largest of its kind within the company, this facility serves as a central hub for the Asia Pacific and Middle Eastern markets. The strategic choice of Singapore as its location was influenced by the city-state's existing infrastructure and its pivotal position for accessing surrounding markets. The COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of industries worldwide, and the lubricants sector was no exception. Minard recounts the challenges faced during this period, from supply chain disruptions to demand fluctuations. However, TotalEnergies' centralized production in Singapore proved to be a competitive advantage, allowing them to maintain a steady supply to their customers despite global uncertainties. In the global arena, TotalEnergies holds the fourth position among lubricant players, with leadership in regions such as Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The company's brand strategy has been a key factor in this success. By leveraging its Total and Elf brands, TotalEnergies continues to cater to a wide range of market needs, from high-end automotive products to specialized industrial applications. The Asian market, with its contrasting mature and rapidly developing economies, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Minard observes a trend towards premiumization, as consumers gradually recognize the value of higher-quality lubricants. Minard emphasizes the importance of innovation, customer education, and sustainability in driving TotalEnergies' success in the lubricants market. Despite the challenges posed by market dynamics and the shift towards electric vehicles, the company remains committed to delivering high-quality products and services while contributing to a greener future.

Joseph Star, business development manager for Product Solutions at ExxonMobil, based in London, UK, discusses the emerging field of liquid cooling, particularly in data centres, and the role of fluids in this space. He explains that the need for processing power and the rise of AI are driving the growth of data centers. Immersion fluids, including full immersion and other liquid cooling technologies, are gaining traction due to the increasing processing power and the need to dissipate more heat within the same space. Star's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of data centre cooling solutions and the role of immersion fluids in addressing the industry's growing demands for efficient and effective cooling technologies. His discussion provided valuable perspectives on the future of immersion fluids and their potential impact on the data centre industry's sustainability and operational efficiency. Star sees the development of immersion fluids in the future as a rapidly growing and evolving space with several key characteristics and challenges. Here are the key insights from the interview: Fluid Characteristics: Star emphasises the importance of dielectric properties in immersion fluids, as the fluid circulates around and goes through all components. He mentions that the majority of hydrocarbon-based fluids inherently possess this property. He also discusses the use of synthetic fluids, such as poly alpha olefins, which provide stability and a relatively high flashpoint, which is crucial for safety. Fluid Selection: Star highlights the significance of fluid viscosity, particularly in single-phase immersion cooling, where lower viscosity fluids are preferred as they require less energy to circulate through the system. He mentions that ExxonMobil has launched a broad portfolio of fluids to cater to different operational needs. Fluid Formulation and Lifespan: When discussing the composition of the finished product, Star mentions that the formulation is proprietary and involves considering material compatibility and the lifespan of the fluid. He expects the fluid to last around 10 years without the need for top-ups due to its single-phase nature. Technical Challenges: Star addresses technical challenges, including material compatibility, maintenance of equipment, and the need to develop and adjust immersion fluids based on the evolving needs of the industry. When asked about the future of immersion fluids, Star acknowledges the rapidly evolving nature of the space and the need to adapt to the changing needs of the industry. He mentions that the current portfolio of immersion fluids is just the beginning and that they will continue to develop and adjust their offerings based on industry requirements.

Shell is not just an energy giant; it's a pioneer steering the helm of the sustainability journey. Mansi Madan Tripathy, Shell Lubricants’ VP for Asia-Pacific, underscores this ethos. In a candid conversation with F+L Webcast, Tripathy unveils the intricate dance of intent, effort, and investment that defines Shell’s green trajectory. Tripathy’s narrative is rich, woven from her diverse experiences, including a stint at Procter & Gamble and her current role at Shell. She’s not just a business leader; she’s a witness to Shell Lubricant’s 35% carbon intensity reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions in Asia-Pacific vs baseline year of 2016. But how does a behemoth like Shell navigate the complex waters of sustainability? It’s a mix of strong intent, concerted effort, and strategic investments. The company is not just looking inward but is also focusing on the pivotal role of lubricants in amplifying efficiency. Tripathy is candid about the challenges. The journey is peppered with tough investment choices and the need for experimentation. There’s a balance to strike, especially when the last sustainability mile demands higher investment for lesser immediate return. Yet, Shell is undeterred. The company recently amplified the capacity of its Marunda Lubricants Oil Blending Plant in Indonesia, integrating sustainability features like solar power and a rainwater harvesting system. It’s a testament to Shell’s commitment to reducing its manufacturing carbon footprint consistently. But the journey is collective. Tripathy emphasises the synergy of lubricant manufacturers, the government, OEMs, and consumers to fast-track progress. It’s a narrative that extends beyond the confines of business strategy, echoing the universal call for a sustainable future. Lubricants, though often overlooked, are the silent enablers of a modern, efficient world. Tripathy underscores the need to elevate the relevance of this category, aligning product performance with sustainability credentials. In the Asia-Pacific landscape, opportunities and challenges coexist. The cost-conscious nature of consumers, especially in Asia, is a significant hurdle. Yet, the gap between OEM recommendations and actual lubricant usage unveils a window of opportunity. Electric vehicles (EVs) loom on the horizon, yet Tripathy is optimistic. With 60% of the category rooted in manufacturing and commercial vehicles, the immediate impact of electrification is muted. Shell is already ahead, with a portfolio of electric vehicle lubricants and a focus shift from mere lubricants to comprehensive friction reduction solutions. In the dynamic narrative of sustainability, Shell emerges not just as a participant but as a storyteller, weaving a future where business strategy and ecological responsibility converge seamlessly.

Researchers are looking to create new lubricants and fluids for electric vehicles (EVs) that consider issues such as materials compatibility, electrical conductivity, and thermal management. Lithium batteries are currently the most efficient, and companies are working to create more effective additives and coatings to increase wear resistance and reduce weight. There is a focus on recycling and reusing lithium batteries in order to reduce environmental impact and create a circular economy. Dr. Ali Erdemir, professor of Mechanical Engineering and Halliburton Chair in Engineering at Texas A&M University, discussed the development of electric vehicle lubricants that have high thermal conductivity, electrical breakdown resistance, and lubricating properties, while also minimising the carbon footprint. He noted that lithium batteries are currently the most efficient and available, but research is being done to find other more efficient and available batteries. Dr. Erdemir also discussed the importance of recycling and reusing lithium, as the increasing population and demands for electric vehicles could lead to a shortage of lithium. Prior to joining Texas A&M, Dr. Erdemir worked at Argonne National Laboratory. In recognition of his research accomplishments, Dr. Erdemir has received numerous coveted awards and has been elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, European Academy of Sciences and Arts, World Academy of Ceramics, The Science Academy of Turkey, and the presidency of the International Tribology Council and the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE). He is also a Fellow of NAI, AAAS, ASME, STLE, AVS, and ASM-International. Dr. Erdemir has authored and co-authored more than 300 research articles and 18 book/handbook chapters, co-edited four books, presented more than 200 invited/keynote/plenary talks, and holds 34 U.S. patents. His current research focuses on bridging scientific principles with engineering innovations towards the development of new materials, coatings, and lubricants for a broad range of cross-cutting applications in manufacturing, transportation and other energy conversion and utilisation systems.

In 2019, Sofia Öberg established 2Probity Registration, an independent third-party organization that provides product registrations of non-food compounds according to the regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). With ​​her background in management systems, legal requirements and audits, Öberg was not daunted in competing with established organizations such as U.S.-based NSF International, which is a "giant" in this field. In this episode, Öberg discusses how third-party organizations like 2Probity help ensure that bakery goods and other food products are kept safe for human consumption. The U.S. FDA's Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21 governs food and drugs within the United States but in reality is used worldwide. Ingredients that can be used in lubricants and greases that may come into incidental contact with food are classified as H1. These are called food-grade lubricants. H2 products are lubricants and greases not suitable for food contact. However, the FDA does not approve or register lubricants. So it is up to third-party organizations like 2Probity and NSF to certify that your products are either H1 or H2. Öberg has a Master’s degree with a focus in Environmental Science from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. One year after graduation, in 2002, she started a consulting firm, Öbergs miljö & kvalitetskonsult, which is involved in the following areas linked to standards and  legal requirements: environment, quality, health & safety, traceability for wood, and sustainability. Öbergs miljö & kvalitetskonsult, based in Gothenburg, has more than 20 years of experience and more than 500 clients not only in Sweden, but Europe-wide. Since 2008, Öberg has been lead auditor for ISO 14001, which sets out the criteria for an environmental management system, ISO 9001, which sets out the criteria for a quality management system, as well as FSC (FSC-COC) and PEFC (PEFC-COC) Chain-of-Custody certification. She also conducts training in the fields of environment, quality, health & safety, traceability and  management systems as well as internal audits. She is a member of the European Lubricating Grease Institute’s (ELGI) Task Force on Regulations and Communication for Sustainability (ELGISTC) and chair of ELGI’s Food, Greases and Lubricant Working Group (FGLWG).