OREANDA-NEWS. Total inaugurated two lube oil blending plants, one on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia and one in Tianjin, northern China, on October 30 and 31.

“The two new plants will allow Total to keep pace with the strong growth in its sales of automotive and industrial lubricants, a market that is forecast to grow by 20% to 2022,” commented Philippe Charleux, Vice President, Total Lubricants. “They will also secure our supply in the fast-growing Africa/Middle East and Asia regions in particular.” Total sold 1.9 million tons of automotive and industrial lubricants in 2012 in 150 countries, ranking sixth in the sector. The aim is to step up development in this fast-expanding segment, lifting market share from under 4% at end-2012 to at least 5% by 2022.

Lubricants

Lubricants reduce friction, protect components and keep them clean, enhance seal and transfer heat. Consisting of around 80% base stock produced by refining and 20% additives, they have automotive, industrial and marine applications.

Formulation R&D is critical to support and stay ahead of the rapid pace of change in engine technology and carmaker requirements. It has enabled Total to develop a wide range of fuel economy lubricants.