Shell Omala S4 WE 460
Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is a high-performance synthetic industrial gear oil specifically engineered for demanding worm drive applications. Formulated using specially selected polyalkylene glycol (PAG) base fluids combined with advanced additive technology, the lubricant provides outstanding lubrication performance under severe operating conditions. Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is designed to deliver extended oil life, excellent protection against wear and micropitting, and improved energy efficiency compared with conventional mineral-based gear oils.
One of the key advantages of Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is its ability to provide significantly extended lubricant service life. Industrial worm gear systems often operate under high loads and elevated temperatures that can accelerate lubricant degradation. Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is formulated with excellent oxidation and thermal stability, allowing it to resist the formation of harmful oxidation products even at high operating temperatures. This stability helps maintain system cleanliness and consistent lubrication performance over extended maintenance intervals, reducing maintenance requirements and operational downtime.
Shell Omala S4 WE 460 also provides excellent wear protection and high resistance to micropitting. Worm gear drives typically operate with significant sliding contact between gear surfaces, making effective lubrication essential to prevent metal-to-metal contact and surface damage. The advanced additive system delivers strong load carrying capability and forms a durable lubricating film that protects gears and bearings even under heavy or shock loading conditions. This enhanced protection helps extend component life and maintain reliable gearbox performance in demanding industrial applications.
Another important benefit of Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is its ability to improve system efficiency. The synthetic PAG formulation offers lower friction characteristics compared with conventional mineral oils, which can help 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 mineral oil-based lubricants and approximately 11% compared with other synthetic hydrocarbon products. These improvements can contribute to reduced energy consumption and improved overall equipment performance.
Shell Omala S4 WE 460 is recommended for enclosed industrial worm gear reduction systems operating under severe conditions such as high loads, very low or elevated temperatures and wide temperature variations. It is particularly suitable for installations where maintenance is infrequent or access is limited, including gear motor systems and applications such as yaw gears in wind turbine installations. The lubricant can also be used for lubricating bearings and other components operating in splash or circulating lubrication systems.
Physical characteristics include a kinematic viscosity of approximately 460 mm²/s at 40°C and 73.2 mm²/s at 100°C with a viscosity index of approximately 239. The oil has a density of approximately 1072 kg/m³ at 15°C, a flash point of approximately 268°C and a pour point of approximately –36°C, supporting reliable lubrication performance across a wide range of demanding industrial operating conditions.
