What are the present trends influencing the oil and lubricants industry? What are some key growth drivers? 

In today’s gradually recovering economy, the oil and lubricants sector is expressing renewed interest in adhering to highest standards of global benchmarking. Manufacturers across sectors are today further realising the importance of rich technological investments that can ensure enhanced machine performance, durability of oil and equipment, and continuity in operations. India’s industrial lubricants sector has benefitted from capacity extensions in energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, etc. In an increasingly competitive market, customers today are demanding superior performance, high technology products that deliver smart results and energy-efficiency benefits.

The rapid adoption of automation and digitalisation in machine maintenance and lubricant analysis will mark the way ahead for the oils and lubricants industry. As newer manufacturing technologies gain momentum, the lubricant industry is preparing to meet the escalating need for customised speciality products, giving Indian customers best-in-class experience developed through rich global expertise. Simultaneously, there is also a new trend among manufacturers in preferring synthetic oils to advance productivity for greater profitability. Manufacturers today are more aware, and their needs too are manifold. 

As a leading lubrication solutions provider, we at Mobil™ Lubricants are constantly innovating to cater to emerging trends while providing the most precise solutions for specialised needs.

How do you evaluate the recovery of the lubricants market in India? 

The lubricants market shares a strong symbiotic relation with the manufacturing, industrial and construction sectors. As a whole, its performance is tied closely to overall economic growth in core industries. According to IHS Markit, India’s Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) stood at 55.3 in July and 52.3 in August, with a reading above 50 indicating economic expansion. This is good news for key lubricant providers, as our performance is contingent on overall industrial demand and manufacturing expansion. While a growing market is expected to influence demand for industrial lubricants, there is a simultaneous focus on ensuring quality and technological finesse while opting for a solutions partner. Recovery for lubrication providers will also depend on how well they adapt to changing needs and attend to the demand for speciality products that adhere to energy efficiency norms. 

What kind of support are you extending to industries in maintaining their equipment performance? 

A key pillar of our expertise is servicing and supporting equipment performance for industries. Along with superior lubrication solutions, we also provide assistance through our Field Engineering Services (FES) team and support through the Mobil ServSM Lubricant Analysis (MSLA) program. Backed by expertise of nearly 40 years, our FES team specialises in early detection of damage in machine operations, ensures minimum operational downtime and aids peak productivity for maximum profitability. MSLA, armed with an in-depth understanding of Mobil products, brings a thorough knowledge of applications and equipment by working closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). MSLA provides informative reports on the condition of the customer’s equipment and lubricants. It combines a range of services for remote assistance and monitoring. Now, with the move towards Industry 4.0, we have introduced Mobil ServSM IIoT Insights. It is a critical cloud-based solution that turns insights into action, taking businesses towards improved efficiency and overall productivity. This platform is bringing special benefits with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), automated monitoring and precise analysis that directly benefit machine performance and manufacturing efficiency. Mobil Serv IIoT Insights is another step in our continued emphasis on improving industrial performance.

What specific products or solutions does Mobil offer for industrial applications? 

With a legacy of over 150 years in developing superior lubrication solutions, Mobil’s success rests on the reliability assured by its advanced technology and superior products. We have a range of high-performance industrial lubricants which are designed to ensure peak efficiency and reliability of diverse equipment. From mineral and fully synthetic lubricants to compressor and cutting fluids, Mobil’s formulations promise to enable every equipment to do more for longer. For instance, the Mobil SHC™ 630, a part of the Mobil SHC™ 600 Series gear and bearing oils, has been designed to provide outstanding service in terms of equipment protection, oil life, and problem-free operations that together enable increased customer productivity. 

Greases by Mobil – whether conventional or synthetic – offer long regreasing intervals, enhanced equipment life and exceptional protection even in extreme conditions. For instance, the Mobilgrease™ EP greases have been formulated to demonstrate reliability in corrosion protection, low-temperature pump ability and high-temperature service life. These greases are recommended for most types of industrial applications including heavy-duty applications where high unit pressures or shock loads are present. These greases provide protection against rust and corrosion and resist water washout. These are a few from a range of products that Mobil has developed for core industrial purposes.  

What is your view on the imminent future of the construction industry and what role can superior lubrications play in supporting the sector towards greater prosperity? 

Despite lockdown restrictions induced by the second wave of COVID-19, the construction sector showed a remarkable comeback by growing at a rate of 68.3 per cent during the first quarter of FY 2021-22. The domestic construction industry is also expected to emerge as the third-largest globally, growing at ~7.1 percent each year – according to estimates by the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (NIPFA). The government’s National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) budget of USD 1.4 trillion, has lent further support to the sector that is expected to reap many positive gains in the coming years. Anticipating this chance of growth, construction businesses have been adopting solutions that ensure profitability while improving efficiency and performance. Construction forms a key interest area for us at Mobil. Our products have been serving the construction industry for several decades. We have been driving innovation and technological growth in the sector to accrue benefits while ensuring efficiency. Our services under MSLA, Mobil Serv IIoT Insights and others, along with superior product solutions from a range of engine oils, hydraulics, synthetic lubricants, greases and more – together serve the many demands and precision equipment needs of the construction industry. 

(Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms and refers to “corporation”, “company”, “ExxonMobil”, “EM”, and other similar terms are used for convenience and may refer to one or more specific affiliates or affiliate groups.)