Tata Steel launches new lubrication treatment for outer panels
Following close cooperation with a leading chemicals supplier, Tata Steel has launched Prime Lubrication Treatment (PLT), a so-called booster lubricant, consisting of a thin coating that is applied in the galvanising line prior to applying the conventional oil layer.
The combination of PLT and oil is claimed to provide a superior lubrication system that improves processing of hot dip galvanised GI steels for exposed automotive panels. It induces a lower and more stable friction during pressing and is particularly suitable to support manufacturing of panels such as fenders, doors and body sides to a high surface quality. The new lubricant extends Tata Steel’s Serica and Full Finish premium offering for outer panels.
The unique formulation of PLT – developed in conjunction with Netherlands based Coil Coating Technologies (CCT), part of the AD International group – offers an improved press performance of GI steels when compared to those treated with standard conventional oil.
It enables manufacturers to move away from electro-galvanised (EG) steels towards the more cost-effective GI-coating. When compared to the common process, PLT enables a smoother pressing operation with reduced maintenance costs and therefore a higher production yield and has been designed not to disturb subsequent manufacturing processes like resistance spot welding (RSW) and adhesive bonding.
