Lubricants company Castrol has launched Castrol BioTrans GB, an Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant (EAL) that complies with the current US Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA) criteria.
The new lubricant is intended for use in thrusters, some controllable pitch propeller (CPP) systems and deck machinery. It is an extreme pressure (EP) and demulsifying gear oil range developed with fully saturated synthetic esters and a specially selected additive technology. As a result of this formulation, it protects gears, even when subjected to high loads, offers lubrication and corrosion protection, with strong oxidation performance and hydrolytic and thermal stability.
Castrol BioTrans GB features good compatibility with common elastomer materials including Nitrile and FKM. It has proven performance under extreme operating conditions such as temperatures ranging from -25ºC (-13ºF) to +100ºC (212ºF). The formulation is engineered to manage seawater ingress to ensure it resists hydrolytic degradation and maintains performance.
Eda Gökay, Global Marine and Energy Marketing Manager, Castrol, said: “The development of Castrol BioTrans GB reflects our long-standing commitment to supporting customers in the face of increasing regulatory and operational complexities. Whether navigating VIDA requirements or seeking to update their lubricant performance, this high-performance, technically advanced product has been developed to help our customers extend performance and protect critical equipment in the harshest environments.”
Kat Colvin, Senior Environmental Toxicologist, Castrol, added: “As regulations continue to evolve globally, shipowners and operators need products that are ready to meet the demanding global environmental legislation challenges. Castrol BioTrans GB reflects our proactive approach. It’s a solution that supports both operational integrity and environmental accountability, giving customers greater confidence in their fleet’s long-term readiness.”
BioTrans GB is compatible and miscible in all proportions with Castrol BioStat and is part of the broader Castrol Bio Range. The product has been tested and approved by several leading thruster manufacturers.
Image: Castrol’s new EAL (source: Castrol)
