With customer expectations evolving and the push towards a more sustainable future intensifying, Viva Energy is on hand to help the construction industry balance demands of productivity while aligning with increasingly urgent environmental goals.
Diesel-powered equipment has long been the backbone of the sector, but with the growing demand for cleaner solutions, renewable diesel — also known as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) — presents a promising alternative.
Lubricants also play a vital role in keeping machinery operating efficiently, and we can expect to see more high-quality environmentally acceptable lubricants (EALs) being introduced to the market.
Viva Energy Australia is meeting the demands of challenging conditions in the construction industry by bringing renewable diesel within reach.
Viva Energy Carbon Solutions Manager Robert Cavicchiolo describes it as a “game-changer” for the construction industry.
“Renewable diesel offers performance comparable to conventional diesel but with lower emissions,” he said. “It’s a simple, drop-in solution that allows companies to continue operations while reducing their carbon footprint.”
The key advantage of renewable diesel is its seamless compatibility with existing diesel engines and infrastructure due to its similar hydrocarbon composition to traditional diesel.
This allows construction companies to use it in current machinery, fleet and generators without costly modifications and approvals from respective OEMs.
The correct choice of lubricants is vital. Shell PANOLIN lubricants present an easy choice, allowing for reduced environmental impacts in an event of a leak, or accidental spillage when compared to conventional mineral oils.
Available through Viva Energy Australia, Shell Lubricants Macro Distributor of Australia, the Shell PANOLIN portfolio includes a broad choice of readily biodegradable and low-ecotoxicity lubricants for hydraulics, gears, engines (HDEO) and greasing for machine lubrication, including leading OEM-approved products.
Viva Energy Technical Specialist, Silvana Farrugia said the PANOLIN S4 HLP Synth 32, 46, 68 products, for example, were the first Bosch Rexroth-approved biodegradable hydraulic oils, designed for uninterrupted equipment operation.
“The Shell PANOLIN portfolio is technically well-balanced with high biodegradability and is designed for long life, with high performance and protection contributing to equipment longevity,” she said.
Moreover, Shell PANOLIN provides uncompromising performance. Its high viscosity index ensures performance across all temperature ranges, providing shear stability, wear protection and robust load-bearing capabilities.
“Shell PANOLIN S4 hydraulic range is a great example of this. Its good cold flow behaviour reduces the risk of metal-on-metal wear,” she said.
Biodegradable lubricants are not new to the construction industry.
“In fact, Shell PANOLIN products have been trusted by customers in other industries like marine, forestry and others, for more than 40 years,” Silvana said.
“This is largely being achieved through the reformulation of more balanced lubricants with higher tier synthetic ester base stocks and the development of better additives.”
As the construction industry navigates the dual pressures of increasing productivity and reducing environmental impact, solutions like renewable diesel and biodegradable lubricants are no longer optional; they’re essential.
With proven performance, OEM approvals, and a strong track record across industries, Shell PANOLIN and Viva Energy’s renewable diesel offerings empower businesses to take meaningful steps toward sustainability without compromising on efficiency or reliability.
For more information, speak to one of the experts at Viva Energy Australia (Shell Lubricants Macro Distributor). Call 1300 134 205 or email technicalhelpdesk@vivaenergy.com.au/carbonsolutions@vivaenergy.com.au