Shell PANOLIN Frequently Asked Questions
In the Shell PANOLIN Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section, you can find clear and concise answers to the most commonly asked questions about the product’s features, areas of use, environmental benefits, and technical details.
This allows you to quickly and easily access accurate information about Shell PANOLIN.
What is the difference between a biodegradable and an environmentally acceptable lubricant?
An environmentally acceptable lubricant, in addition to being highly biodegradable, will also have low toxicity to plants and animals in the environment according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency definition, and will not bioaccumulate; while still meeting minimum technical performance requirements.
What does environmentally acceptable mean?
We use this term for all products in the Shell PANOLIN range that include EAL in their name. This means they are highly biodegradable, do not accumulate in the environment, and have low toxicity to plants and animals (also referred to as low ecotoxicity). These claims are based on verified test results from independent laboratories working according to internationally recognized quality standards (e.g., ISO 17025).
How is biodegradability measured?
There are many internationally recognized test methods. Shell uses the Carbon Dioxide Evolution Test (OECD Test Guideline 301B), which is also recognized by the EU Ecolabel and other organizations.
What is the pass level for readily biodegradable?
In the Carbon Dioxide Evolution Test (OECD 301B), the term “readily biodegradable” is defined as more than 60% biodegradation after 28 days.
What do you mean by low ecotoxicity?
Ecotoxicity refers to the toxicity of a substance to the environment. It is typically assessed through short-term (acute) tests on plants and animals representing different levels of the food chain. All Shell PANOLIN products are evaluated to ensure low toxicity in aquatic environments.
What does the EU Ecolabel for lubricants mean?
The EU Ecolabel for lubricants certifies that products demonstrate reduced environmental impact throughout their life cycle. It is awarded after a full formulation assessment by an independent national authority. Strict criteria include biodegradability, aquatic toxicity, use of renewable raw materials, and restriction of hazardous substances (H-phrases). Hydraulic fluids must also meet minimum technical performance levels defined in ISO 15380.
How do environmentally acceptable lubricants like Shell PANOLIN (EAL) differ from mineral oil hydraulic fluids such as Shell Tellus?
The key difference lies in their composition. Shell PANOLIN (EAL) consists of biodegradable synthetic esters with proven low ecotoxicity and ashless additives. Both product types, however, are designed to deliver excellent performance in hydraulic applications.
Do environmentally acceptable lubricants have problems with technical performance and shorter service lives?
No, they do not. This perception is outdated and based on early-generation vegetable oil products with lower oxidation stability. Shell PANOLIN is a new-generation lubricant series formulated with fully synthetic esters that are much more stable against oxidation and high operating temperatures.
OECD 301B > 60% readily biodegradable. Dust and water contamination resistance – filterability, separation, rust and corrosion protection, and resistance to wash-off.
Our Other Products
Shell PANOLIN Products
