In an industry where reliability and efficiency are paramount, ExxonMobil's advanced lubricants are crucial in addressing the ever-changing challenges of wind power. Mike Blumenfeld (pictured right), an industrial lubricant development and wind industry specialist at ExxonMobil, is leading efforts to ensure these lubricants enhance the performance and longevity of wind turbines.
“Recent supply chain uncertainties have intensified the pressure on operators to make informed choices,” says Blumenfeld. While much of the industry’s attention is on larger turbines and the complexities of blade recycling, Blumenfeld emphasises the need to focus on the smaller, yet critical, components within the turbine. “Every moving part in a wind turbine requires lubrication to reduce friction, dissipate heat and prevent wear,” he explains. “Despite operations and maintenance accounting for a significant portion of a wind farm's lifetime , the role of high-performance oils and greases is sometimes overlooked.”
Throughout the history of wind power, advanced lubricants have been vital in addressing operational challenges, particularly in maintaining gearboxes – one of the primary drivers of turbine maintenance. Blumenfeld reflects on the evolution of lubrication technology: "In the 1990s, we worked closely with turbine and gearbox OEMs to solve micropitting issues that were shortening gear life. By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted to improving low-temperature fluidity, especially as cold climate installations became more common. This led to the development of metallocene-catalyzed PAO base stocks, or mPAO, which continue to be the industry standard.”
By the 2010s, the emphasis had shifted to reducing bearing failures and understanding white etching cracking (WEC). This innovation drive led to the creation of Mobil SHC™ Gear 320 WT, the first lubricant certified by DNV not to contribute to WEC formation. “Our focus has always been on anticipating the next big challenge and working collaboratively to address it,” Blumenfeld adds.
Collaborative innovation
Today, as the demand for long drain intervals and reliable performance in extreme conditions continues to grow, the lubricants supporting the system must be able to handle larger loads from larger turbines in smaller gearboxes – and do so for longer periods.
Blumenfeld highlights the importance of collaboration in driving innovation: “A key driver of our success with the Mobil™ brand is our close collaboration with industry bodies and leading OEMs. We work together to understand equipment trends, consult on lubrication system designs and troubleshoot field lubrication challenges.
“As an APQP4Wind company member, ExxonMobil is committed to standardising quality and simplifying processes, ensuring consistent standards across the wind industry,” says Blumenfeld.
Tailored solutions
The company’s range of high-performance synthetic Mobil oils and greases is specifically formulated to protect critical components and enhance wind turbine availability. These products are backed by extensive equipment builder approvals.
Blumenfeld explains: “To help our wind customers achieve peak productivity, we offer a full suite of services designed to optimise equipment performance and extend oil drain intervals. Our services include Wind Turbine Gearbox Flush and Fill, start-up and cleanliness guidance, and Mobil Lubricant Analysis, all tailored specifically for wind turbine applications.”
These solutions are further enhanced by hands-on guidance from a team of skilled engineers dedicated to helping operators achieve new levels of safety, environmental care and productivity.
Achieving more with less
Blumenfeld is particularly proud of ExxonMobil’s contributions to a lower-emission future. “In supporting our customers’ ambitions, we continue to innovate across our product and service portfolio to enhance productivity, reduce waste and lower maintenance needs,” he says. A single turbine can require up to , and the long operational life of Mobil SHC™ Gear 320 WT helps operators reduce waste lubricant disposal. The Mobil Xtra™ WT Series top treat additives also aid in preventing challenging wind turbine gear oil change-outs, enhancing safety in the process.*
“Our ongoing innovation in wind industry products and services is aimed at achieving fill-for-life capable solutions," Blumenfeld notes. This legacy of innovation is why Mobil products are used in approximately wind turbines worldwide.
As Blumenfeld prepares to address industry leaders at Wind Energy Hamburg 2024, his message is clear: “Advanced lubrication is not just a product; it’s a critical component in the future of wind energy.”
To learn more about ExxonMobil’s wind energy offerings, visit the Mobil™stand at WEH 2024 or visit .
Mike Blumenfeld will be a featured speaker at Wind Energy Hamburg, addressing ExxonMobil’s latest innovations in wind energy lubrication.
* Results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used.
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