MOLYKOTE® Assembly Paste Used to Avoid Microwelding of Pipes in Rock-Drilling Machines

Case Study
 
 
 

Application

One of the first stages of the mining industry is to drill the ground. The rock-drilling machines that drill over 20 mts of rock require a lubricant to stop seizure in the threaded connections of the pipes. 

Operational parameters (LETS)

  • Load: High
  • Environment: Moist and dusty
  • Temperature: >200°C
  • Speed: 1,000 rpm
  • Process description: Before starting to drill, a lubricant is applied over the threaded connection to prevent microwelding of the connections. After this, the pipes are assembled, and drilling begins.

Challenge

The previously used product, a zinc-based thread compound, was not suitable for the application and was not able to provide the correct protection to the threaded connections. It was unable to provide the correct torque when disassembled. Microwelding on the threaded connections was caused by high temperatures, loads and pressure.

Solution

MOLYKOTE® G-N Metal Assembly Paste is not a compound or a grease. It is a lubricant paste capable of supporting extreme drilling conditions because the MoS2 and other solid lubricants can avoid microwelding in applications above 400°C with a high load.

Read the application story.