Carlos Fernández, TechLab technician: “We work differently thanks to digitalization”

 

At the Repsol TechLab, innovation and technology are the cornerstones to develop the lubricants that will power the engines of the future. Carlos Fernández, laboratory technician, has witnessed the transformation that this cutting-edge research center has experienced, where he already has two decades experience. Namely, Carlos works at the Repsol Lubricants Formulation Laboratory, where the development of all kinds of oils happens. 

The process begins with the definition of the SAE grade and continues with a series of key tests, such as viscosity in cold and warm temperatures, aspect, oxidation, cold properties, or compatibility of materials, among others. Moreover, tribology tests are also performed to assess the mechanical wear and rheological curves are studied to optimize fuel economy and duration of the lubricant. However, there has been a fundamental change.

“The laboratory now works differently thanks to digitalization,” Fernández explains. The arrival of artificial intelligence and automation has revolutionized processes. Now a database suggests multiple formulations and, after, a robot carries them out with precision. “Before, the work was more paper and laboratory glass,” he recalls before adding: “Now, whenever I make a formulation, the robot can make ten.”

The lubricants that are used in such demanding competitions like the Dakar Rally also come from this laboratory. “For the Dakar Rally, we have direct collaboration with the team,” Fernández comments. “Here we do the prior tests, looking closely at viscosities in warm temperatures, compatibility, oxidation, and cold temperature.” After these tests, the lubricant is sent to the team for field validation.

Quality without compromise: the hallmark of Repsol Lubricants

But what differentiates Repsol Lubricants from its competitors? For Fernández, the answer is clear: “Whenever we compare our oils with others, they have been the best in terms of quality, cleanliness, oxidation period... It has always been number 1.” This commitment to excellence, driven by selective research and the use of the best raw materials, is what allows Repsol to offer top-level products.