Keeping the off-highway segment on the move is a key focus area for FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA, says Andy Weddell, Local Segment Lead: Commercial Vehicles. Operating in the off-highway industry comes with its unique challenges, characterised by demanding conditions. Sectors range from yellow metal equipment to civils, agriculture, plant hire, mining, sub-contractors, and even forestry.
Lubricants for this sector must be able to withstand the high African ambient temperatures and adhere to stringent original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. FUCHS has risen to this challenge by providing products with extended drainage intervals and high-specification lubricants and greases to ensure optimal performance and equipment longevity.
“One of our core values is innovation,” highlights Weddell. He explains that the company continuously invests in R&D to meet the evolving needs of off-highway vehicle customers. The presence of a German-based research and development team aligns FUCHS with market trends and OEM requirements. “Globally we track emerging markets and position ourselves to cater for these sectors.”
In addition, FUCHS is committed to sustainable and environment friendly lubrication solutions. Its PLANTO range of biodegradable lubricants showcases dedication to eco-friendly solutions. In addition, all products contribute to sustainability in the drainage by extending drainage intervals, reducing waste, and supporting renewable energy solutions in manufacturing.
Latest developments in terms of energy-efficient lubricants for the off-highway sector include CK-4 engine oil (TITAN CARGO 15W40) with a CAT ECF-3 Specification, which contributes to additional wear protection. Another emerging trend is calcium sulphonate grease for extended grease intervals.
“In the lubrication business, especially in the off-highway sector, finding the perfect balance between wear protection, fuel consumption reduction, and product performance is essential. FUCHS takes all OEMs into consideration and holds IATF 16949 accreditation, which focuses on improved quality standards, particularly in the automotive sector,” says Weddell.
FUCHS Lubricants offers a diverse range of high-performance lubricants for off-highway applications, including:
TITAN Range: TITAN TRUCK PLUS / CARGO
A premium performance, fuel-efficient engine oil for various commercial vehicle diesel engines. It is specially developed for vehicles with extended service intervals, exhaust after treatment, and turbochargers.
UTTO Range: TO-4/ MP
A super high-performance multifunctional oil for use in transmission and hydraulic systems with integrated wet brakes, clutches, and differentials for agricultural and construction machinery.
AGRIFARM range: STOU
A high-performance multifunctional oil for engines, manual gearboxes, wet brakes, hydraulics in tractors, and other agricultural equipment. It is based on a selection of base oils and additive technology to improve wear protection, along with better viscosity and a wider temperature range.
RENOLIN range: HO/CLP/C
A range of industrial oils that offers high-performance product solutions for various applications and sectors. The range includes hydraulic oils, turbine oils, and heavy-duty, EP industrial gear oils with excellent extreme pressure characteristics (EP/AW properties), high load carrying capacity, and good ageing stability based on mineral oils.
RENOLIT range: MP to Speciality
A range of industrial lubricating greases that offers a host of high-performance product solutions for diverse applications and sectors, from lithium based grease all the way to calcium sulfonate grease.
Commenting on the importance of the off-highway market as a growth area for FUCHS, Weddell says that the company literally has a product for every sector and all equipment used. “Apart from meeting the segment’s specific needs, we are also driven by our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and high-performance lubricants,” concludes Weddell.
