Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants
As defined by the United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP) 2013
What is an Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant (EAL)?
Environmentally Acceptable Lubricant (EAL) is a term defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for lubricants that meet specific criteria for biodegradability, minimal aquatic toxicity, and low bioaccumulation potential, as established under the 2013 Vessel General Permit (VGP).1
Biodegradable means the following for purposes of the VGP: lubricant formulations that contain at least 90% (w/w (weight in weight concentration)) or grease formulations that contain at least 75% (w/w) of a constituent substance.
Designed to meet environmental regulations
Businesses are under pressure to deliver more, while also protecting the environment in which they operate2. This means they must adapt to changing standards and regulations – and use fewer resources, without compromising performance. All of this requires the proper maintenance and protection of equipment – an area in which high performance lubricants tested (e.g. OECD 301 series criteria) for ready biodegradability can help.
Combining the strengths of Shell PANOLIN and Shell Naturelle, the Shell portfolio draws on decades of experience3 in developing high-performance lubricants and greases tested (e.g. OECD 301 series criteria) for a biodegradable profile4, and lower aquatic environmental impact5, including reduced environmental persistence, suitable for use in environmentally regulated applications and sectors. For example: Shell PANOLIN S4 Hydraulic OS C EAL 22 is particularly suited for subsea, offshore, and marine applications where CEFAS, OSPAR or US EPA VGP 2013 compliance is required.
4All Shell PANOLIN and Naturelle lubricants biodegradability claims are substantiated by a biodegradability profile based on component-based test data and support by product-level test data when required. Example: At least 98% w/w of Shell PANOLIN S4 HLP Synth EAL 46 components are readily biodegradable, achieving a passing result of ≥60% according to OECD 301B and meets the requirements of EN 17181:2019, a modified OECD 301B-based test method for determining the aerobic biodegradation of fully formulated lubricants.
5Offers reduced impact of leaks or accidental spillage into aquatic environments compared to conventional mineral oils thanks to their biodegradability profile. (Publication EPA 800-R-11-002).
Product Range
For the latest information, please refer to the relevant Technical Data Sheet and the Port Services Guide for product availability, pack sizes, and port coverage.
Hydraulic Fluids
Shell PANOLIN S2 Hydraulic EAL
An unsaturated synthetic ester-based hydraulic fluid approved for use in major manufacturers’ stabilisers and controllable-pitch propellers and thrusters. Holding ISO 15380 (HEES) and DIN 51524 part 2 and 3. The ISO grades 46 and 48 are fire resistant, denoted with “DU” in the product name. EU Ecolabel and US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Shell PANOLIN S4 HLP Synth EAL
A fully saturated synthetic ester-based hydraulic fluid approved for use in major manufacturers’ stabilisers and controllable-pitch propellers and thrusters. EU Ecolabel and US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Shell PANOLIN S4 Hydraulic OS C EAL
A fully saturated synthetic ester-based hydraulic fluid designed for offshore and subsea applications like ROVs. US EPA VGP 2013 compliant, OSPAR Yellow (Norway) and CEFAS OCNS Group C (UK/NL).
Gear and Stern Tube Fluids
Shell Naturelle S4 Gear Fluid
A fully saturated ester-based gear fluid with excellent load carrying performance for use in thrusters and propulsion drives, and certain stern tube designs. All ISO grades are US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Shell Naturelle S4 Stern Tube Fluid 100
A non-emulsifying fluid made from fully saturated esters. Approved by the major stern tube and seal manufacturers. US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Greases
Shell PANOLIN S5 Grease EAL V120P 2
An extreme-pressure grease for use in plain and roller bearings, and for general vessel lubrication. Approved by major rudder carrier manufacturers. EU Ecolabel and US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Shell PANOLIN S5 Grease EAL A600P 0
Formerly known as Shell PANOLIN S5 Grease EAL A460 0. An NLGI 0 grease with outstanding load-carrying capacity for use on roller and slide bearings and marine applications where resistance to water washout is required. 3K industry-approved for rudder stocks. EU Ecolabel and US EPA VGP 2013 compliant.
Shell PANOLIN S5 Grease EAL A600P 1
An NLGI 1 grease with good load-carrying capacity for use in exposed applications including wire-ropes and open gears where resistance to water washout is required. EU Ecolabel and US EPA VGP 2013 compliant. Replaces Shell Naturelle S2 Grease A600P 1.5.
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Disclaimer
1 US EPA Vessel General Permit 2013 and the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act
2 SMEs, resource efficiency and green markets - October 2024 - - Eurobarometer survey
3 Shell Naturelle products were marketed for over 25 years and PANOLIN since 1980s.
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