FUCHS Lubricants flags SOLCENIC GM 20, a fire-resistant hydraulic fluid option for longwall coal mines
FUCHS Lubricants Co., the world’s largest independent lubricant supplier, is highlighting SOLCENIC GM 20, a MSHA-approved, HFAE fire-resistant hydraulic fluid engineered specifically for longwall coal mining operations where safety, reliability and environmental responsibility are paramount.
Used in hydraulic roof supports to stabilise the mine roof during coal extraction, SOLCENIC GM 20 ensures dependable performance even in methane-rich environments, the company says. It is designed to withstand contamination and variations in water hardness while maintaining consistent hydraulic performance. Its fire-resistant properties provide critical protection against ignition risks, supporting both operational continuity and stringent compliance requirements in underground coal mining, the company states.
Formulated as a concentrate, SOLCENIC GM 20 is mixed on-site with locally available water, enabling flexible deployment in diverse mine environments without compromising control over quality or performance. Able to operate at a 2% mix by volume in #18 Spec water, it meets the stringent criteria of Joy Mining (now Komatsu) and is DBT approved for use in mine-specific water. The fluid is also Inbye and AEMI certified and produced in an ISO-approved facility, adding further confidence for operators balancing productivity with strict regulatory and quality standards.
In the field, SOLCENIC GM 20 has demonstrated the ability to run efficiently at low concentrations without compromising fire resistance or hydraulic integrity. Its robust, industry-tested performance at a 2% running concentration helps support long equipment life and consistent system responsiveness under the high load, high-pressure conditions typical of longwall operations, FUCHS says. In addition, its readily biodegradable properties contribute to environmental stewardship initiatives, helping mining companies align operational performance with corporate sustainability goals.
Backed by expert technical service from the FUCHS mining team, customers receive guidance on the required mix ratio, filtration best practices and ongoing maintenance to help maximise uptime and fluid life, the company says. This application-focused support ensures SOLCENIC GM 20 is implemented and monitored correctly, allowing operators to fully leverage the fluid’s fire-resistant properties and hydraulic performance in mission-critical underground environments.
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