When the time came for a new lubricants contract, GCC’s Maintenance Superintendent, Luc Robitaille, was posed with quite a challenge.

“It’s a lot of work to switch from one product over to another, never mind an entire mine – there’s a lot of planning and moving around involved and you really have to trust in the process and every product you use, ” explains Robitaille.

Many operations like GCC avoid complete switchovers because of the headaches they can cause. When transitions are not properly managed there are a number of things that can go wrong with elements like training, product handling and storage, inventory tracking, delivery and timing, and most importantly interruption to production – something today’s businesses cannot afford.

Robitaille needed a partner with products to withstand the harsh conditions of the mine, provide cost savings, and most importantly, he needed a company who could ensure that a large-scale transition of this kind wouldn’t hinder the productivity of the mine.

Petro-Canada Lubricants rose to the challenge and presented the best solution for GCC with advanced products and customer service to help make the transition painless. With past experience using Petro-Canada and their diverse product offering, Robitaille knew he had found an opportunity to consolidate his inventory and work with a company who could get the job done right.

“Petro-Canada was able to supply us with all the products we needed with absolutely no problems, and they made the transition smooth for us, which is a huge relief,” explains Robitaille.

From start to finish, Petro-Canada was involved in the transition. They developed specialized tools including conversion charts and product IDs for each department, provided in-depth training, and supported the planning and inventory level of GCC’s new warehouse design. And with the transition now complete Petro-Canada continues to meet with the team to track conversion progress and assist with any needs. “They delivered what they said they would and made the experience a good one.”

Throughout the entire transition GCC experienced no interruptions to their intensive production schedule. GCC now uses Petro-Canada fluids and lubricants – including PRODURO, DURON and HYDREX MV – across the board with confidence.

“There have been no red flags since we’ve switched over, and that tells me that the products are doing what they’re supposed to be doing. That’s the best test.”

Though the thought of undertaking a switch like this in your own company might seem intimidating, Robitaille says it isn’t a problem – as long as you’re prepared and you’ve got the right supplier.

“Petro-Canada made it easy for us and accommodated all of our needs. At the end of the day, I’d do it again.”