WEG and SpinDrive entered a partnership to introduce advanced electric motor systems that operate without oil. Announced at Hannover Messe 2026, the collaboration brings together SpinDrive’s active magnetic bearing (AMB) technology with WEG’s motor portfolio. This joint effort aims to deliver a new generation of electric drives designed for industrial environments where efficiency and reliability are critical. By removing the need for lubrication systems, these motors significantly reduce ma...

China’s lubricant industry is entering a phase of market instability, as supply chains are disrupted by conflicts in the Middle East and market expectations become increasingly demanding, according to analysts. China vies with the United States as the world’s largest lubricant market, valued at approximately U.S.$28 billion. In volume terms, demand remains relatively flat at around 7.7 billion liters, reflecting shifts such as vehicle electrification. However, this is partially offset by gro...

Asian base oil prices have surged to record highs, driven by geopolitical disruption, tightening supply chains and shifting refinery economics, according to market analysts at ICIS. The current environment is unlike recent crises, with Asia leading the price surge while the United States and Europe are following slightly behind. However, they warn that those regions are likely to catch up as global pressures intensify. At the center of the disruption is the ongoing conflict affecting flows throu...

Testing and certification group Intertek Group plc is considering a potential separation of its lower-margin energy and infrastructure division, as pressure mounts to unlock shareholder value following a rejected takeover bid. The developments come amid broader consolidation in the testing and certification sector. Intertek previously mulled a takeover of France’s Bureau Veritas, which instead opted to align with Switzerland-based SGS SA, highlighting intensifying competition and repositioning...

Sinopec Expands Motorbike Oil Sales in Indonesia Sinopec signed a cooperation agreement with PT Mei Tech in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to the agreement, the two parties will work together to expand the motorcycle lubricants market in Indonesia and focus on in-depth localized cooperation. As the world’s third-largest motorcycle market, Indonesia’s operating conditions are characterized by high temperatures, high humidity and heavy traffic. Sinopec launched new specialized motorcycle oils t...