Recommended Product Categories
Find the right chemistry for your application. Explore the product categories commonly used in steel production and processing to get started. Questions? Need a custom formulation?
Hydraulic Fluids
Used in high-pressure systems throughout continuous casters, hot strip mills, and coil processing lines. Includes fire-resistant water-glycol and invert emulsion fluids.
Heat Transfer Fluids
Control temperature in heat exchangers, torch cooling loops, and thermal systems. Includes glycol-based fluids for heating, cooling, and freeze protection.
Rust & Surface Protection
Prevent corrosion during storage, transport, or between processing steps. Includes steel corrosion inhibitors, dry film preventives, and oil-based protectives.
Machinery & Equipment Lubricants
Lubricate bearings, gearboxes, and compressors in steel mill environments. Includes gear oils, compressor oils, and multi-purpose equipment lubricants.
Solvent-Based Cleaners
Remove oils, greases, and rolling lubricants from parts or mill components. Fast-drying and suitable for use before coating, inspection, or assembly.
Water-Based Cleaners
Used for general maintenance and process cleaning. Removes metal fines, fluids, and oxidation from floors, fixtures, and surfaces. more.
Mold Cleaners
Remove buildup from continuous caster molds and other hot-zone equipment. Includes water-based and solvent-based options for steel mill cleaning cycles.
Common Problems We Solve
Below are some of the most common issues faced in steel production and processing — along with solutions that align with our product categories and chemistries.
❌ Hydraulic Failure in High-Heat Zones
Standard fluids break down near caster, furnace, or hot strip mill lines.
✅ Hydraulic Fluids
Safely dissolve dried coatings and polymers for easier removal without harsh solvents.
❌ Rust Between Processing Steps
Steel corrodes during handling, storage, or transport between production stages.
✅ Rust & Corrosion Inhibitors
Apply dry or oily protective films to prevent rust on bare or freshly cleaned metal.
❌ Overheating in Torch or Cooling Systems
Inconsistent cooling reduces process control and equipment life.
✅ Heat Transfer Fluids
Glycol-based fluids maintain stable thermal performance in exchangers and plasma torch systems.
❌ Equipment Wear in Harsh Mill Environments
Gearboxes, bearings, and compressors fail prematurely due to load and contamination.
✅ Machinery & Equipment Lubricants
Heavy-duty oils protect moving parts under high temperature, moisture, and mechanical stress.
❌ Mold Surface Buildup During Castin
Residue forms on continuous caster molds, reducing efficiency and surface finish.
✅ Mold Cleaners
Specialty cleaners remove buildup and support preventive maintenance in hot zones.
PICO Customers in Steel Production & Processing
Companies across the steel production and processing industry trust PICO to deliver performance, reliability, and process-friendly chemical solutions. Here are a few trusted manufacturers who rely on our workhorse products and expertise.
FAQs
Whether you’re running continuous casters, managing mill hydraulics, or maintaining equipment, here are answers to common questions from steel producers and processors.
Applications & Compatibility
Are PICO hydraulic fluids suitable for hot strip mills or caster zones?
Yes. Fire-resistant fluids like water-glycol and invert emulsions are formulated for use in high-heat, high-pressure steel mill environments.
Can PICO heat transfer fluids be used in torch cooling or chiller loops?
Yes. Glycol-based fluids are commonly used in plasma torch cooling and closed-loop heat exchange systems.
Are mold cleaners safe for high-temperature caster molds?
Yes. Mold cleaners are designed for use on continuous casting equipment and can handle the temperature and residue challenges in those areas.
Regulatory & Compliance
Are PICO steel mill fluids non-hazardous or biodegradable?
Several fluids—including water-glycol hydraulic fluids and heat transfer fluids—are non-hazardous and biodegradable. Refer to specific product data sheets for classification.
Do rust preventives meet plant safety or indoor air quality guidelines?
Yes. Many are low-VOC or oil-based and designed for in-plant use with minimal ventilation requirements.
Customization & Supply
Can PICO match fluids to our mill specs or OEM system requirements?
Yes. Fluid recommendations can be aligned to your system specs or equipment needs using PICO’s available formulations.
What packaging sizes are available?
Most products are available in drums, totes, or bulk. Select cleaners and lubricants may also be available in pails.
