Description
Castrol Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy Walking Cam Lubricant was developed specifically for use on Monighan
Walking Cam mechanisms of large surface mining equipment. Unlike the conventional asphaltic base lubricants,
Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy exhibits exceptional plasticity and adherence to bearing surfaces over a wide
temperature range because of its unique combination of oils and adhesive and tackiness agents.
During a relocation (walk), the Monighan cam bearing surfaces are in combined sliding and rolling motion in line
contact only. The pressure actually exceeds the yield strength of the metal at contacting asperities (microscopic
high spots) creating the potential for high temperature and metal welding. A high content of a proprietary blend of
Molub-Alloy solid lubricants not only serves to strengthen the film structure, but also helps to reduce contact
temperatures and metal welding.
The combined action of the film-forming anti-weld components of Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy help to eliminate
chatter and vibration during walks as well as reducing friction, wear, and the resultant high costs of repairs and
downtime.
Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy is part of Castrol Performance Lubricants’ Eco-Solutions™ product offering.
Formulated to address environmental concerns, it is free of lead, chlorinated solvents, and barium.
Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy is manufactured from a select, high viscosity petroleum oil together with other, nonasphaltic, petroleum constituents; these are further fortified with adhesive and tackiness agents plus an inorganic
thickener chosen for its flow and film-forming characteristics.
Metallic lubricating solids of specific grade and size distribution are treated to increase their natural positive affinity
to metal surfaces and are completely dispersed to assure their effectiveness.
The unique formulation of Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy accounts for the building, under extreme sliding-rolling
pressures, which resists “melting“ or “squeezing“ out as well as wiping or washing off through a broad range of
ambient temperatures and climatic conditions.
Application
The primary application for which Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy was intended is to lubricate the Monighan Walking
Cam mechanism. It does, however, serve to lubricate other bearing surfaces in slow relative motion where
pressures are sufficiently high to cause metal deformation at asperities with possible seizure and galling. Typical
examples would be heavy sliding mechanisms or large open gears possibly exposed to shock load and high
ambient temperatures.
Heavy duty pressure dispensing equipment may be used if the temperature of the system can be maintained at 90
to 95°F (32 to 28°C, see Notes). The product requires no heating to be applied manually with relative ease.
For simplified and safe hand application to the Monighan cam during a walk, Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy is
available in polyethylene bags. A gas is dropped into the mechanism just prior to the meshing of the two bearing
surfaces; under the tremendous and instantaneous temperature rise, the package disintegrates to become an
effective part of the lubricating film.
Advantages
Contains no asphaltic materials or solvents. Applies readily without the need to “melt” or add diluent. (Potential fire
hazards are eliminated).
The lubricating film remains tough and firm at high temperatures yet pliable and resistant to cracking or peeling
when cold. Nor will dirt and abrasives adhere easily to the semi-dry film surface.
Smoother relocation walks are made possible by the Molub-Alloy lubricant’s effectively minimizing the cold
welding of contacting asperities and the vibration or “stick-slip” effect it can cause. Control of this incipient damage
further results in the reduction of production losses and costly repairs.
Additional Information
Tribol may be contacted for assistance in engineering the automatic dispensing of Molub-Alloy 880 LF Heavy. For
specific term, conditions, warranty, and availability, refer to Castrol Performance Lubricants’ Price List in effect at
time of purchase.