Shell Omala S4 WE 320
Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is a high-performance synthetic industrial gear oil specifically developed for demanding worm drive applications. Formulated using specially selected polyalkylene glycol (PAG) base fluids combined with advanced additive technology, the lubricant provides excellent lubrication performance under severe operating conditions. Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is designed to deliver long service life, outstanding wear protection and improved energy efficiency compared with conventional mineral gear oils.
One of the key advantages of Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is its ability to provide extended lubricant service life. Industrial worm gear systems frequently operate under high loads and elevated temperatures that can accelerate lubricant degradation. Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is formulated with excellent oxidation and thermal stability, allowing it to resist the formation of harmful oxidation products even at high operating temperatures. This helps maintain system cleanliness and consistent lubrication performance over extended maintenance intervals, helping reduce maintenance requirements and operational downtime.
Shell Omala S4 WE 320 also offers excellent wear protection and strong resistance to micropitting. Worm gear drives typically experience significant sliding contact between gear surfaces, making effective lubrication critical for preventing metal-to-metal contact and surface damage. The advanced additive system provides excellent load carrying capacity and forms a durable lubricating film between contacting surfaces. This helps protect gears and bearings even under heavy or shock loading conditions, extending component life and maintaining reliable gearbox operation.
Another key benefit of Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is its ability to improve system efficiency. The synthetic PAG formulation offers lower friction compared with mineral oil-based lubricants, helping reduce operating temperatures and improve the mechanical efficiency of worm gear systems. Rig testing and field experience have demonstrated efficiency improvements of up to 15% compared with conventional mineral gear oils and around 11% compared with other synthetic hydrocarbon lubricants. This improved efficiency can contribute to reduced energy consumption and enhanced equipment performance.
Shell Omala S4 WE 320 is recommended for enclosed industrial worm gear reduction systems operating under severe conditions such as high loads, wide temperature variations and environments where maintenance access may be limited. It is particularly suitable for installations requiring extended lubricant life, including gear motor systems and applications such as yaw gears in wind turbine installations. The lubricant is also suitable for lubricating bearings and other components operating in splash or circulating lubrication systems.
Physical characteristics include a kinematic viscosity of approximately 321 mm²/s at 40°C and 52.7 mm²/s at 100°C with a viscosity index of approximately 230. The oil has a density of approximately 1069 kg/m³ at 15°C, a flash point of approximately 270°C and a pour point of approximately –39°C, supporting reliable lubrication performance across a wide range of demanding industrial operating conditions.
