Protecting the oceans, rivers and seas

Ecological and economic interests quickly converge when the objective is keeping the water clean. Prevention is better than the difficult and expensive removal of pollutants from the water.

In industrial harbor areas, hydraulic fluids are used in loading cranes that work around the clock shifting tons of heavy cargo. Reliability and speed are critical here. This naturally holds true for fluids in the hydraulic system as well. They must be environmentally sensitive and biodegradable as well as deliver maximum performance. Cognis hydraulic oils are readily and rapidly degraded by microorganisms. They are thus highly instrumental in helping to protect the earth and water from contamination.

"Project targeting the use of renewable raw materials for hydraulic fluids that demonstrate both high performance and environmental compatibility" is the title of a project funded by the German Federal Government which is being conducted in the port of Düsseldorf, Germany, and in which Cognis is involved. Using our base fluid, a hydraulic fluid was developed that meets all requirements relating to durability and thermal stability. Furthermore, everyone can work here with the certainty that the environment would be protected in the event of a spillage. This is only one example of public funding possibilities. With Cognis BioLubes, end users can participate in a huge number of programs.

Offshore drilling rigs have very specific requirements. The toughest working conditions for man and machine are accompanied by constantly increasing environmental requirements imposed by legislation and transnational organizations. The international oil production firm Noble Drilling Company has taken steps accordingly. The only lubricants for hydraulic equipment permitted on board are those that, in the event of a leak, would not pollute the environment. This means hydraulic fluids that are non-toxic and biodegradable. This decision has had far-reaching repercussions. National Oilwell, a supplier of offshore cranes, combed the market for suitable fluids, and found them at Cognis. Independent testing proved that our BioLubes are readily and rapidly biodegradable by microorganisms.

BioLubes from Cognis are attractive not only because of their biodegradability, but also because of their cost-effectiveness. Their longer service life also means lower costs for maintenance and downtime.