NEOSafe is a new Huron Industries oil “absorption”, anti-slip solution that is also hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. This product has a unique niche in the oil spill cleanup market because of these characteristics, which make it the best product technically for many situations. 

Sorbent is a general term that includes both the mechanism of absorption and adsorption.

• Absorption is when one product soaks up another product and becomes one. There can be physical absorption via a capillary action, which we are discussing with oil spill cleanup or chemical in the case of many biological processes. An oil spill absorbent can swell up to 70% larger than its original size when it absorbs oil.
• Adsorption is when oil molecules are attached to the surface of the adsorbent material. This is more like when the dust is attracted to a dust buster and can be removed physically. Oil is “adsorbed” on the material’s surface, and significantly less swelling of the original product normally occurs. 

Oil spills are a significant problem in many industrial facilities

Oil and lubricant handling companies are highly aware of oil spills’ safety and environmental hazards. The consequences of a spill not being cleaned up promptly and thoroughly can be enormous, and the costs are very high. Sorbents are the solution; the only question is, “which one”?

Before we dig a little deeper into the sorbents available and which one is best in which circumstance, there is one more important physical property that is critical. That’s whether the sorbent will attract (or absorb) water or repel it as it cleans up the oil. Since many spills are on or under water, in wet areas, or have water mixed with oil in the spill, the answer is critical to success. The more technical terms for this are:

• Oleophilic: when the sorbent will ATTRACT water
• Hydrophobic: when the sorbent will REPEL water

Common adsorbent oil spill cleanup includes:

• Natural products like sawdust, peat moss, feathers, and cellulose. These are great at adsorbing both water and oil.
• Minerals like the common vermiculite, ash, sand, and more. These are sold in bulk for all sizes of oil spill cleanup but more commonly for larger spills.
• Polymers are synthetic adsorbents and absorbents and may adsorb a considerable amount of material, up to 60 times their weight. Huron’s NEOSafe is in this category of products. 

Some significant factors in deciding the best oil sorbent for a particular job might include these common things. But, of course, these need to be considered before a spill occurs and be on hand in adequate amounts, or all the theoretical discussions are not helpful. 

• Size of the spill
• Environmental or safety consequences if not cleaned up promptly and fully
• Whether water is involved, a spill in water or mixed with water
• Cost of the sorbent. Natural sorbents, like clay and peat moss, are less expensive than synthetics, but they can be much harder to clean up and dispose of once the spill is over. Using more costly but more effective sorbents in the final stages of a spill cleanup will almost always save money.
• The best form for the sorbent to be stored in:
  • Bulk, usually five gal or 55 gal containers. Usually very cost-effective
  • Socks or booms. Easy to deploy and easy to pick up for disposal
  • Mats, pads, or rolls. 19″ by 17″ rectangular pads are perfect for small spills or preventive deployment
  • Pom Poms, sorbent in strands, are usually used to pull through the water to absorb oil. In addition, the sorbent is typically designed to repel water.
• Absorption or adsorption rate of the material. If the spill is from lighter oils like diesel fuel, the rate will be faster, and more products will work satisfactorily. For heavier oils, pom-poms, with their many fibers and synthetic materials like NEOSafe, may work much better. 
• Weight can be a consideration depending on how far the material must be transported to the spill site. For example, polymer-type absorbents can be much lighter than clay and similar materials.
• Capacity and retention are essential factors to determine how much sorbent material you need to clean a given volume of oil. You will need a lot less, with synthetic materials picking up significantly more oil by weight. Retention is how well the oil stays in the sorbent until you can dispose of it. Good retention is vital in preventing oil spill cleanup from getting out of control with messy drips after cleaning up oily surfaces.
• Sorbent booms and pom-poms can be better choices for spills on water. However, choosing one hydrophobic (repels water) will mean more oil absorbed per foot of an expensive boom.
• Ease of use based on the spill size is always important. The time to clean up a spill and restore normal industrial operations is a hidden cost that should be considered. Absorbent pads may be more expensive, but they are quickly deployed and disposed of instead of cleaning up a 5-gallon bucket of loose clay.
• Disposal of the oil and the sorbent must be considered. NEOSafe has a strong advantage in this area because it can be disposed of per the disposal instructions of the oil it has absorbed. However, other sorbents may carry a disposal expense.
• Environmental Hazard of the material itself. Crystalline Silica, for example, is a severe environmental hazard in industrial settings and is found in most conventional mineral absorbents. In addition, it has been proven to cause lung cancer and chronic bronchitis.
• Crystalline silica can be released into the air from cutting, grinding, drilling, crushing, sanding, or breaking apart many different materials. Silica is a well-known occupational hazard and has also been recently examined for its environmental concentrations near silica sand mines and transport terminals.

Conclusion

With the vast range of sorbents on the market, it’s vital that company safety managers understand their most likely oil spill scenario and plan for cleanup using the most effective sorbents possible. That is not always one lowest-cost product. It will most likely be a combination of products based on the operations and risks involved. 

Absorbents have the advantages of:

• More oil absorbed per unit weight of the sorbent
• Easier to disposal typically because the oil is “locked” inside the sorbent
• Combined with booms, socks, and other enclosures, they can be very efficient and easy to handle

Adsorbents have the advantage of:

• The lower cost typically because they are common industrial and organic materials

A significantly more effective product like NEOSafe, a polymer-based solution, may provide the lowest overall cost. Best for:

• The final part of oil spill cleanup
• Drawing out oil from concrete or other floor surfaces
• Oily and greasy parts cleanup
• Complex spill cleanups involving oil and water mixtures

If you need more information on our NEOSafe product, please call 810-984-4213

The post Adsorbent vs. Absorbent for Oil Spill Cleanup appeared first on NEOLUBE® Industrial Dry Lubricants.

The unique formula for cell structure to particle size makes NEOSafe the easiest and safest product on the market to clean up that last bit of oil residue on slippery floors, clean greasy parts, or remove oil from a wide range of surfaces. 

NEOSafe’s VALUE is its ability to rapidly clean up, in one application, the oily film left at the end of a floor oil spill and remove oil and grease easily from any surface!

Some of the characteristics of NEOSafe are:

• Lightweight
• Long storage over a wide range of temperatures
• Low heat transfer coefficient
• Easy cleanup with a cotton rag or paper towel
• Hydrophobic, making it resistant to attracting liquid water 
• Easily swept up with a broom or vacuum
• Disposable with trash or recycling before it has adsorbed oil
• Can be used on a wide variety of materials from concrete to fabric 
• No special handling or respiratory equipment needed for handling
• Not carcinogenic

NEOSafe is a great cleaning solution for a wide range of industries and applications with this combination of factors:

• Oil or grease cleanup is a common challenge. This might be anything from oily, slippery floors to a greasy part cleanup
• Safety is important by minimizing hazardous cleaning chemicals
• Time to “totally” clean up an oil spill to a non-slippery surface is important (by saving several of the final steps necessary to clean up with traditional chemicals)
• “Total Cost” of cleaning oily or greasy surfaces is important. By saving big on injury costs and cleanup man-hours, NEOSafe offers a clear advantage in the total cost and high ROI

Some industries that will most benefit from using NEOSafe are:

• Metal Fabrication using traditional machining methods
• Automotive
• Municipality public works
• Aviation
• Marine
• Hospitality
• Transportation
• Retail and Grocery

For more information about NEOSafe and other Huron Industries products, give us a call at 1 (810) 984 4213.

The post Cleaning Oily Surfaces – What is the NEOSafe Solution? appeared first on NEOLUBE® Industrial Dry Lubricants.

The Most Dangerous Slip and Fall Hazards are Often Invisible

The problem is always that thin film that’s so hard to get totally cleaned off after all the other steps of spill cleanup are finished. You have sprayed it with heavy-duty cleaner, and it still has that thin oily sheen and is slippery.

In any business, slippery floors are one of the most insidious and hard-to-correct problems day in and day out. Falls from slippery floors injure valuable workers, ruin safety records, and attract OSHA attention. Every production or shop manager knows that cleaning up oily spills is hard to get right, it takes a lot of time and usually management attention to make sure it keeps getting done right. The reason it’s so hard is that the last 5% of the oil residue defies easy cleanup. NEOSafe offers a fast and easy solution. You will not believe the results when you use a small amount of NEOSafe powder on your slippery surface. 

Slips and falls account for up to 15% of all accidents in industrial workplaces. The average settlement for a slip and fall injury is over $20,000 and the legal costs for defending these injuries can easily run to $50,000, and the average lost workdays are 35. With two-thirds of the falls being caused by slips or trips, it’s easy to see why slippery, oily floors are a major issue to be avoided and cleaned up quickly back to a safe walking surface. 

Small Oil Spill Cleanup Procedure

There is a basic emergency procedure for cleaning up every small (1 to 10 gallon) oil spill in a manufacturing plant. The steps are:

1. Stop the source of the spill
2. Warn workers with announcements and then with warning signs
3. Cover the spill with an adsorbent material
4. Stop the spread of the spill with barriers, plugs, and whatever is available
5. Clean up the bulk of the oil with sorbent mats, clay absorbents, or other items that work for bulk cleanup
6. Clean the floor with a degreaser or other heavy-duty cleaning agent that will not damage the floor surface
7. Final Step of getting the oily sheen that just will not come up with the basic steps above. This is the step where NEOSafe really shines; there is no other product like it. 

Bulk Oil Spill Cleanup Procedure

There are lots of options for that “bulk” cleanup step and that’s what most people think of when they are preparing for spill cleanup. All the oil spill kits sold have some form of adsorbent as the main part of the kit. NONE of them have anything included that specifically targets the final oily sheen that can’t be removed easily without toxic chemicals. 

• Clay, commonly known as kitty litter, is inexpensive and widely used. It actually doesn’t adsorb oil but gets coated in it. Clay takes a while to work and can result in silica dust if left on too long. Virginia Clay-Sorb is an example of a clay cleanup product.
• Sorbent Mats are a more expensive but very effective way to soak up oil on floors and horizontal surfaces. They are the best solution in that early stage of cleanup where you are just trying to keep it from spreading. Mats from 3M or Pig are good examples of the product.
• Coconut husks are ground and used for spill cleanup. There are several products like SpillFix that use this ingredient.
• Salt and baking soda are recommended as well. These may work at home but are not appropriate in any industrial setting. The side effects of machinery can be serious. 

These bulk spill cleanup products are essential for the early stages to get the spill under control. They are totally ineffective at getting the last 5% of film cleaned which is where NEOSafe excels. 

Where NEOSafe Outperforms Competitors

NEOSafe is SAFE to use! It contains no hazardous chemicals, is easily cleaned up, disposal is easy, and it has never been associated with any carcinogen as most cleaning products have been. The two main categories of competitor products for the problem that NEOSafe solves include:

Chemical solvents and degreasers. These can be hazardous to workers and often not able to be used in enough volume to clean up oil spill residue. When they are, it usually takes two or three applications to get the floor clean, extending the time to restore a safe surface. They are often corrosive as well and can easily damage some floor surfaces, particularly vinyl.  Heavy-duty disinfectants can be useful but many also contain toxic chemicals and cause reactions in workers with even limited exposure. Phenol, an ingredient in many household name cleaners, has been linked to a range of health problems. Others contain problem chemicals like formaldehyde triclosan and others. 

Requesting Samples of NEOSafe powder for your Factory or Plant

Are you interested in learning more about using NEOSafe in your work environment? Give us a call at 1 (810) 984 4213, or email us at orders@neolube.com.

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Graphite or Moly (molybdenum disulfide) dry lubricants are common in operations where machinery operating conditions are extreme such as high shaft speeds, very low rotation or sliding machinery, extremes of temperature and pressure, inaccessibility of lubricated surfaces, and more in industrial applications. In the discussion below, we provide some background on the differences and reasons to choose one over the other.

There are other dry lubricants, Teflon or Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), being the primary alternative to Moly and Graphite. PTFE lubricants have many great applications where being inert and non-conductive are desired characteristics. Some disadvantages include that when overheated it can release mildly toxic fumes. In addition, its abrasion resistance is not great, it can be higher priced, and it can’t withstand temperatures above 326 C where it melts. This discussion assumes you want a lubricant similar to Graphite or MoS2 and need more information to decide which one to apply. 

Reducing Frictional Between Surfaces

Both Graphite and Moly are dry film lubricants that are solid materials that reduce frictional resistance between surfaces. Each material has different properties. Which can give it an advantage in a particular application. They both generally have a crystalline lattice structure which is described as plates sliding over each other. This gives them both excellent load-bearing capability in the sliding or rolling mode. They both come with a variety of application methods from painting on to aerosol delivery. They can be used in a stand-alone form or be added to other oil-based lubricants or even metals such as lead and copper to achieve the exact lubrication properties. 

Moly Inhibits Corrosion on Stainless and has Slightly Better Wear Resistance

MoS2 occurs naturally being mined from granite and then refined to achieve the high purity you find in lubricants. MoS2 is a great lubricant for high vacuum and extremely high vacuum applications where Graphite may have a requirement for entrained moisture vapor

MoS2 has a temperature limit of 400°C (752°F) where it starts to oxidize in an atmosphere with oxygen. 

MoS2 usually has a lower coefficient of friction than Graphite, but this is not always the case and is not a huge differentiator. One of the best properties of Moly is its ability to inhibit corrosion when used as a coating on stainless steel. Also, Moly is considered to have slightly better wear resistance, particularly under extreme pressures.  

Graphite is a great Lubricant for temperatures up to 1450F and Anti-Seize up to 2400F

Graphite goes back a very long way, probably used in pencils in the mid-1500s. It’s a soft, crystalline form of carbon with excellent sliding lubrication properties. It is gray to black, opaque, has a metallic luster, and is flexible but not elastic. It has some properties of metals and some non-metals. Like most metals, it’s electrically conductive and is a good thermal conductor also. Like non-metals, it is inert. 

Graphite provides excellent lubrication up to 1,450 F with water vapor available. It can be used as an anti-seize compound up to 2400°F with an oxidation product of CO2. Because graphite requires water vapor for its lubricity, it is not used in a high vacuum environment including for deep-space use. 

Summary

Both Moly and Graphite are excellent dry lubricants with very similar properties in many areas. Graphite tends to be a better choice for extremely high-temperature applications. MoS2 offers improved corrosion resistance for stainless steel in those areas where that is a concern. Moly may have a slight advantage in some applications where wear resistance under high pressure is a consideration.

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• Long lasting
• Minimum dirt and dust collection
• Doesn’t dry to a goo like oil-based lubricants
• Much higher heat and pressure ranges
• Optimum for “maintenance free” applications

With these important characteristics, we have collected 101 Uses for Dry Lubricants. There are thousands of unique uses for these capable lubricants. 

1. Anti-sieze compound
2. Locks of all types 
3. Dry lubricated bearings
4. Nuclear industry valve caps
5. Stainless fastener assembly
6. Aluminum fastener assembly
7. High temperatures – up to over 2000 deg F
8. High pressure assemblies
9. Sliding motions
10. Reciprocating motions
11. Chains
12. Ceramics and polymer surfaces
13. Metal forming with plastic deformation
14. Extreme contact pressures
15. Compounded into polymers for embedded lubrication
16. Maintenance free applications
17. Where cleanliness limits oil-based lubrication
18. Hinges
19. Band saw tables
20. Threaded tools like C-clamps and vice grips
21. Pivot points on heavy lift machinery like engine stands
22. Inside your wheel wells to minimize ice buildup in winter
23. Garage door rails
24. Rust protection on automotive cast iron parts like brake calipers and master cylinders
25. Exhaust manifolds on show cars (rust protection)
26. Heavy duty wheels and casters such as welding carts
27. Tiny parts that can’t get gunked up
28. Leaf Springs
29. Shafts
30. Splines
31. Bushings
32. Seat slides
33. Shears and scissors
34. Automotive fasteners
35. Mold release agent
36. Minimize dirt and dust buildup
37. Chemically inert needs
38. Sliding windows
39. Electric or electromagnetic actuators
40. Remote control locking systems
41. Automotive powered closures; sunroof and liftgates
42. Flexible control cable internals
43. Control cable attachment pivot points
44. Conductive parts lubrication
45. High-Alloy steels in high purity applications
46. Dusty, dirty, or sandy environments
47. Sliding drawers
48. Bifold doors
49. Printer rails
50. Saw blades
51. Wire drawing
52. Billet coatings
53. High-speed cutting tools
54. Cylinder head and exhaust bolts
55. Run-in of heavy components
56. Prevent “stick-slip” for noise control
57. Precise torquing requirement assembly
58. Magnetic anchors (Temporary mounting without welding)
59. Disc springs
60. O-ring lubrication
61. Plastic part lubrication
62. Furniture wood to plastic lubrication
63. Noise minimization for a wide range of material combinations
64. Switches
65. Knife-type disconnect switches
66. Couplings
67. Die cast machines
68. Spark plugs
69. Electrical connectors
70. Latches
71. General corrosion prevention
72. Sheet metal fabrication
73. Metalworking generally
74. Vacuum applications
75. Mine equipment
76. Construction equipment in dirty areas
77. Pin and pulley assemblies
78. Pivots
79. Anti-stick for chutes and slides
80. Cart axles with no bearings
81. Squeaky hardwood floor joints
82. Open gears
83. Conveyor chains
84. Automobile hinges
85. Snow blower anti-rust
86. Trailer hitches
87. Spare tire rack cable
88. Pop up automobile lights
89. Tire jack
90. Gear rust prevention after etching
91. Anti-freeze for car locks
92. Rear view mirror balls
93. Linkages of all types
94. Winch cables
95. Zippers of most materials
96. Plastic shelving for disassembly
97. Shaft keys and impellers for removal 
98. Garden tool rust prevention
99. Bicycle seat and handlebar clamps
100. Office chair squeaks
101. Squeaking baby swings

Even with all the great Neolube uses possible, some caution is always advised:

• Be careful with use on plastics and the delivery mechanism of any dry lubricant you use. The problem is usually not with the graphite or Moly, but with the propellent for sprays or binder for paint on applications
• These same propellants can be harmful to electronic components such as in automobile doors
• Always use care around fabric or painted surfaces 

The post 101 Uses for Dry Lubricants including Neolube #1 and 2 plus Molybdenum Disulfide by Huron appeared first on NEOLUBE® Industrial Dry Lubricants.

If you have worked long in mechanical system assembly, operation, or maintenance, you may have seen cases, where simple measures taken to prevent galling of a threaded fastener could have prevented major disruption to an operation. The losses of such disruption are often a combination of extremely high repair costs and lost opportunities.

What can happen if you don’t Prevent Galling?

It might be the valve that can’t be operated in a critical system. Replacement in some systems may require a whole plant shutdown to cold iron or freeze seals to replace or repair the faulty valve. Lost operation time and an expensive repair are the results.

The galling could cause a stainless-steel bolt to be sheared off trying to remove it from a large part like a ship thruster propeller blade. The ship might have to be drydocked because the fastener can’t be repaired by divers.

There are many cases of stainless fasteners high-performance race engines that can’t be removed from the engine block during prep for an important race. Repair isn’t possible in the time allotted, so the engine must be swapped out or the race scrubbed. All the time and money of preparation is at risk, as is the reputation of the racing team.

What is the cost when you don’t Prevent Galling?

These are some good examples of the high cost of galling in threaded fasteners. Like accidents, virtually all cases of damage caused by galling in threaded fasteners can be prevented with strict adherence to a set of best practices and just being extra careful with susceptible fastener materials like stainless steel and aluminum.

What is Galling?

In its simplest form, galling is wear on a sliding threaded surface, to the point where the material is removed from one part and deposited on the other. The result is freezing in place or even worse sometimes, failing fatigue or over-torquing. Junior mechanics are more prone to causing galling if they have not been trained when to recognize the early signs of galling and the steps to take once it starts.

How to Prevent Galling?

If a lubricant like Neolube #1 or #2 can be used on the threads, that’s one way to greatly reduce the occurrence of galling. At other times when a lubricant can’t be used, the materials in the design must be built-in. For example, materials like BUMAX 88 have a higher molybdenum content that adds a little extra galling prevention.

In design, courser threads tend to be less galling prone than more fine threads. In manufacturing, rolled threads tend to gall less than cut threads, but it is not common except in the food industry where most lubricants are prohibited.

Using higher-quality fasteners that have a perfect fit can also reduce the likelihood of galling. That can be part of the original design, but the right fasteners must be used in repair work if the Neolube type of dry lubricant isn’t used. Never using a fastener that has even the slightest damage is also important.

What can cause Galling?

A bolt that’s dropped on a hard surface with a little nick in a thread can be a sure source of galling. The same applies to any dirt or debris on the threads. A good wire brush cleaning before reassembly can go a long way. If you are using lock nuts, beware of the extra torque they can apply throughout the assembly process. Using lock washers may help reduce fastener galling in some instances.

Just being careful in assembly to “feel” if a fastener is starting to gall is important. Plowing on with an impact wrench or applying increasing pressure to a fastener that’s starting to gall is the kiss of death. Stopping at the first sign of galling, the slight resistance, and working the fastener back and forth as it’s removed and re-applied is excellent prevention. Go slow!

Use High-Quality Lubricants to Prevent Galling

The details of design and galling prevention are a lot more in-depth than presented here. However, one thing is sure that if you are using a high-quality dry lubricant like Neolube #1 or #2, your chances of galling go way down. It’s just good mechanical practice to do all the things discussed above AND lubricate your threads with a graphite-based lubricant.

If you’d like to test Huron’s line of Industrial Lubricant products we offer free samples to industrial businesses in the USA. Get in touch today!

The post How to Prevent Galling in Threaded Fasteners appeared first on NEOLUBE® Industrial Dry Lubricants.

Neolube’s Anti-Galling Performance Is Proven in Over 48 Years of Successful US Navy Nuclear Power Plant Operations

Client

The US Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program has been designing, building, and operating nuclear reactors for Navy use since the USS Nautilus (SSN 571) was authorized by Congress in 1951 and commissioned in 1954. The program has a superb safety record of steaming over 157 million miles on nuclear power. There are currently 96 reactors operating. The total reactor-years of safe operation is now over 6,700 years.

Challenge

In the early days of the program, galling was causing primary coolant valve caps to get stuck and require cutting to remove. Damage to the valves themselves resulted in possible valve replacement costing thousands of dollars and keeping the strategically vital submarines offline. That was an unacceptable situation.

Neolube was always one of those “hidden secrets” that made our nuclear power program so successful. It was not as high-tech as new fuel plate designs or modern electronic control systems, but it did its job day in and day out for us. If our technicians took 1 minute or less to put on a coat of Neolube, we had 100% confidence valve caps would come off when we needed them whether in an emergency or for routine maintenance. 

Capt. Hubert Hopkins

Commanding Officer USS Sand Lance (SSN660), United States Navy

Solution

Neolube #1 was developed to be dry with extremely high purity and consistency. It is fully tested to verify every batch has no potentially harmful halogens like chlorine or other halogens. These halogens are extremely reactive and in the presence of stainless steel can cause problems like crevice corrosion. In any environment with stainless steel piping systems under high temperatures and pressures, halogens must be avoided. Neolube provided a great solution to the potential contamination, but only if stringent testing was conducted and documented. 

Neolube #1 now conforms to the stringent Military Spec MIL-L-24131C. In addition to specifying strict limits for lubrication performance, the MilSpec also limits the amount of Ash, Florine, Chlorine, Lead, and Sulfur. Mercury, Lead, and Boron must also be eliminated from all parts of the product processing and testing.

The purity of the Neolube #1 product ensures that it does not contribute towards damage to stainless steel piping systems or provide any source contaminant that may become radioactive itself when exposed to high levels of radiation. 

As a “dry” lubricant, Neolube #1 is easy to apply (and remove) and consistent results can be obtained with minimal training and in a wide range of amounts applied. It’s simple and reliable with only the graphite lubricant remaining within seconds of application. There is no need to clean the old lubricant off the threads, saving time and ensuring long term success without strict application procedures.

Image: Technical drawing of USS Nautilus (SS-168) and USS Nautilus (SSN-571). Original Source

Results

Neolube is still in use by the US Navy and has been for over 48 years since 1974. It is in use in hundreds of commercial power plants around the world and is expanding into more traditional industrial companies and process plants. 

Although galling can still occur with valve caps or other parts lubricated with Neolube #1, this is always the result of operator error either by assembling the threaded joints incorrectly or forgetting to apply the Neolube. This is a rare occurrence in today’s nuclear power plant operation, thanks to Neolube #1.

Downloads

Neolube No. 1 Technical Data Sheet

Neolube No. 1 Safety Data Sheet

The post Neolube’s Anti-Galling Performance Is Proven in Over 48 Years of Successful US Navy Nuclear Power Plant Operations appeared first on NEOLUBE® Industrial Dry Lubricants.

Predicting the future of nuclear power in the USA is impossible, but we can discuss some of the factors that will affect it over the next 20 to 50 years. Technically, nuclear power for electrical generation in the USA has proven to be a sound and safe source of energy. However, with major accidents in Russia and Japan, the country’s emotional appetite for nuclear power is low. That balance of the positive technical potential, the emotional toll accidents have created, and the strong desire for reducing our carbon footprint will eventually set the path for nuclear energy in the future.

Statistics from the U.S Energy Information Agency show that in 2020, the United States produced four trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity. Around 60% of that came from burning fossil fuels. That entire 60% of electrical energy will need to be replaced in its entirety if we are to seriously move towards a greener earth with low carbon footprint. 

President Joe Biden is serious about a shift towards an eco-friendlier solution. He has set ambitious goals for fighting climate change. One such objective is to reduce U.S. carbon emissions by half by 2030. By 2050, he aims to have a net-zero carbon economy. The plan demands electricity generation to shift towards being carbon-free by 2035. Ambitious goals and specific deadlines are being set again. Achievable of course, but where does nuclear power fit into the United States’ new carbon identity? 

Renewable Energy 

In the United States, renewable energy produces 20% of the total energy production; a feat that was recently accomplished in 2019. This figure is set to grow significantly by 2050. It is no debate that the effectiveness, efficiency, and environment-friendly aspect of renewable energy have led experts to favor it as the alternative to the status quo. Renewable energy is the safer, cleaner bet but it comes with a cost and its own set of technical challenges. 

The attractiveness of renewable energy has not discounted nuclear energy altogether. In terms of performance and production, the two match up nicely. Nuclear power’s carbon footprint is the same as for wind and less than for solar. It’s orders of magnitude less than coal. Nuclear power plants take up far less space than both solar or wind farms, and they have the capability to produce power at night or on days where the weather is calm. Keep in mind that in 2020, nuclear power generated as much electricity in the U.S. as renewables did, 20% of the total.

The State of Nuclear Energy Today 

When stepping back and getting a big picture of the nuclear energy sector today, it’s critical to understand that most of the nuclear plants in the United States were designed and built 25 to 40 years ago. Most of them have an average design life-span of around 35 years so many will start to reach the end of their original design life in the next 5 to 10 years. The average age of these nuclear reactors is about 39 years old.

The USA first started producing commercial nuclear energy in 1958. At the end of 2020, the USA had 94 operating electrical generating nuclear reactors at 56 locations in 28 different states. The oldest reactor plant still operating is Nine Mile Point Unit 1 in New York, which first produced power in December 1969. The newest reactor come online is the Watts Bar Unit 2, came online in 2016. At that time, this was the irst reactor to come online since 1996, or 20 years with zero new reactor completions. U.S. nuclear electricity generation capacity peaked in 2012 at about 102,000 MW when there were 104 operating nuclear reactors. 

With environmental, technical, and political issues to solve, nuclear power plants have become extremely expensive to build. Several projects have been recently cancelled.

Yet with all these issues, nuclear power still presents an opportunity worth pursuing if the United States is serious about achieving its carbon milestones. 

When we look towards the largest greenhouse gas emitter in China, we will see how they increased their nuclear energy output by 6 percent in 2020. There are currently 17 new reactors in the pipeline under construction. India, another big gas emitter, is building six. 

President Biden’s climate initiative supports research into “affordable, game-changing technologies to help America achieve our 100 percent clean energy target.” In the plan, Biden emphasizes focusing on small modular reactors, as well as the issues that challenge the prosperity of nuclear energy development, which would most notably be cost, safety, and waste disposal.

Can small modular reactors and nuclear plants be the solution for the prominence of the nuclear energy sector? It may be. Other countries have found that module to best fit their transition plans and goals. 

When you look at NuScale, they are in the process of building a small modular light water reactor that could generate 77MW. It will take up the space of only 1%  of a conventional reactor. It has been designed to cancel out any pumps and other moving parts, thus addressing a big part of the safety issues. The reactor is self-sustainable, meaning it can shut itself off and cool itself down without the interference of an operator. Its compact size allows it to be implemented in communities that require less power, as well as for any medical and military applications.

The Bottom Line 

When it comes to the Nuclear Energy sector, the bottom line is that it’s not obsolete, rather it needs innovation and government support. There are ways to address the concerns of the nuclear energy sector, tackle these concerns, and revive the sector. All key players are eager to contribute, from design to construction, all the way down to an industrial sealant and lubricant supplier like Huron Industries Inc. 

A recent MIT report provides the most convincing reason why we should revive the nuclear sector. The report found that in the next 10 years, the most cost-efficient, reliable grid comes from not a full pursuit of a sole energy source, rather an energy mix. Their analysis shows that a big share of nuclear, a big share of renewables, and some storage provides the best mix for low-carbon, reliable, and at the lowest cost. This is a roadmap worth considering to meet our reduced carbon footprint goals. 

Consider this vision of the future where we have balanced energy production and low carbon output. The USA would have 1/3 of its average daily energy from each source of nuclear, solar, and wind. Nuclear power would have the capacity in any area to carry all the load on no-wind and no-sun days. Coal, gas, and oil-fired power plants would supply a small amount of energy each day and be on standby both strategically and also for surges. The USA’s gas and oil industry could then export to power other less fortunate countries with lower carbon output then they have now as they build their economies to afford a low carbon footprint as well. 

Don’t count nuclear energy out if the industry can just eliminate the risks totally and also solve the emotional issue that has been created from past accidents. 

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Application

It comes in a ready to use form so you can quickly start your projects. It is easily applied with a brush or roller to clean and dry surfaces. It will air dry in 5 minutes and ready for use in 30, making Neolube No. 2 a practical product. 

Health and Safety

This product is flammable so store and handle with care. Use appropriate PPE when using the Neolube as it should not be inhaled, swallowed, or come into contact with skin. Immediate medical attention should be administered in such cases. Re-seal the container tightly after use and store it in a dry, cool area with lots of ventilation. Protect from direct sunlight.

While designed as an industrial lubricant, Neolube has found its way into hobby projects. It performs well as a fast-drying, paintable solution when looking for a steel-like appearance. Model railroaders use the product to give plastic models the look of metal and the added bonus of lubrication. Cosplay enthusiasts also use Neolube for “painting armor” in the costume designs with excellent results. 

Ultimately Neolube is a versatile lubricating product that has been used to enhance both industrial components and hobby crafts alike. Huron Industries is a globally recognized provider of innovative specialty lubricants and sealants for lubricating and sealing the internal and auxiliary equipment mechanisms of commercial and naval nuclear reactor systems. Contact us for more information.

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What is the composition of Neolube No.2?

Neolube’s product material has a composition that is made out of 99% pure furnace graphite particles, a thermoplastic resin, and isopropanol. It is a thin, non-corrosive film that has excellent radiation resistance and high chemical purity. It is easy to apply by spray, dip, or brush and has excellent adhesion after a fast air dry. 

Neolube No.2 for model trains

When it comes to model trains, Neolube No. 2 can be used to blacken metal parts. It’s versatile and can be used for rails of track, steam locomotives, drivers and valve gears. Neolube No. 2 also serves as a lubricant for model parts, ensuring it runs smoothly. It is easy to use and can be applied with a regular paint brush. With so many benefits, it is easy to see why it is a popular  graphite alcohol solution for model trains.

Why use Neolube for model trains?

1. It is easily applied

Neolube is a fast-drying paintable solution, making it ideal for easy applications. Although, used in the same manner as paint, it is a lubricant, hence why it is a non-oily residue – perfect for moving parts that you don’t want to mess up. It is also formulated to cure without the use of heat or activators. Higher temperatures will speed cure; lower temperatures will retard the curing process.

2. As a paint, it shines

If furnished, your model train will shine like polished steel with its use. Due to its adhesive technical properties, Neolube will not chemically blacken or harm your model train. 

Note: It should be tested on surfaces first to ensure this. Optimum results will be obtained on clean fittings.

3. It is easy to touch up

If mistakes occur, Neolube can be rubbed off with effort. Cured products can be removed with a combination of soaking in a solvent and mechanical abrasion such as a wire brush. If touch-ups are needed, simply paint more Neolube over it and the model train will be as good as new.

4. It helps moving parts run smoothly

As a dry lubricant, it can be used on valve gears, rods, and their joints to help the moving parts to run smoothly. 

5. It is non-corrosive

Ideal for its non-corrosive properties, Neolube has an advantage for model trains with regard to maintenance and longevity as it prevents seizing, fretting, galling, and resists abrasion.

6. It is durable

Neolube will provide a 40-year service life at ambient temperature not exceeding 122°F (50°C). It can be safely used to seal threaded pipe joints for approximately 1-year at a temperature of 250°F (131°C). Under non-nuclear (standard radiation) environments, the thermal stability of the sealant can be expected at temperatures up to 400°F. It contains no directly added Lead, Zinc, Mercury, Antimony, or Copper where such elements are leachable or could be released by the breakdown of the sealant under expected environmental conditions.

Need more convincing on why you use Neolube No. 2 for model trains? Give Huron a call and we’ll assist you right away!

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