ISO Viscosity Grade: A classification of lubricants based on their kinematic viscosity at 40°C. For example, ISO VG 32, 46, 68, etc.
A test that evaluates the corrosiveness of oil to copper. Ratings go from 1a (least corrosive) to 4c (most corrosive).
The lowest temperature at which a lubricant emits enough vapour to ignite when exposed to an ignition source. Higher is safer.
A measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow under gravity, expressed in centistokes (cSt) at 40°C and sometimes 100°C.
The lowest temperature at which the oil will pour or flow under specific conditions. Indicates low-temp usability.
A number indicating how much an oil’s viscosity changes with temperature. Higher VI = better stability across temps.
A document detailing physical and chemical characteristics, typical test results, and performance data of a lubricant.
A document that provides safety, handling, and hazard information for chemicals and lubricants. Now called SDS in many regions.
Used for cleaning and flushing old or contaminated oil, deposits, or debris before filling with new oil.
Specially formulated to lubricate and cool air compressors. Available in mineral, semi-synthetic, or synthetic variants.
Lubricates engine components in generators. Must meet engine OEM specifications.
Used in gearboxes. High load-carrying capacity, anti-wear, and extreme pressure (EP) additives are common.
Applied in metalworking to reduce heat and friction. Can be straight oil or water-soluble.
Transmit power in hydraulic systems. Key properties include anti-wear, oxidation stability, and water separability.
Transfers heat in closed systems like oil heaters. High thermal stability is crucial.
Very low viscosity oil for high-speed spindles and precision machinery. Must be non-gumming and oxidation-resistant.
Chemical compounds added to greases to enhance performance, such as anti-wear, antioxidant, anti-rust, or EP additives.
The lubricating oil portion of grease before thickener and additives are added.
The separation of oil from the grease structure. Controlled bleeding provides lubrication; excessive bleeding indicates instability.
A measure of the grease's softness or hardness, typically evaluated using the NLGI grade system.
The temperature at which grease becomes fluid enough to drip. Indicates heat resistance.
Enhance grease performance under high load or shock-load conditions.
The ability of grease to resist chemical degradation due to reaction with oxygen.
A measure of how deep a cone penetrates the grease, used to classify NLGI grade.
How easily a grease flows through a lubrication system, especially at low temperatures.
Resistance of grease to breakdown under mechanical stress.
The component that thickens base oil to form grease. Common soaps include lithium, calcium, and aluminum complexes.
Grease formulated with synthetic base oils (e.g., PAO, esters) for extreme conditions.
A measure of how sticky the grease is. High tack greases help maintain position under vibration.
The tendency of grease to be washed away by water. Low washout = good water resistance.
The ability of grease to minimize metal-to-metal contact and reduce wear.
General-purpose grease with good mechanical stability and water resistance.
Offers higher temperature tolerance than regular lithium grease; widely used in industrial equipment.
Good water resistance but limited high-temp stability; used in wet environments.
Excellent water resistance and oxidation stability; used in food-grade applications.
High-performance grease with excellent water and corrosion resistance, but less common due to toxicity.
Long-life, non-soap grease; commonly used in electric motors.
Non-melting grease for very high temperatures; used in steel plants, ovens, etc.
Excellent for rubber and plastics; inert and temperature stable but low load capacity.
Made with synthetic oils and thickeners; used in extreme temperature or long-life applications.
Greases approved for incidental food contact; typically white, aluminum or calcium-based.
Indicates grease consistency. NLGI 2 is most common (like peanut butter).
International standard classification of lubricating greases by thickener, oil type, and performance properties.
German classification system based on thickener, oil type, properties (e.g., KP2K-30).
Standard test method for measuring cone penetration of grease to determine consistency.
Test for measuring the dropping point of grease.
Four-ball EP test – measures extreme pressure properties.
Uses Lithium Complex, Moly Grease for bearings, chassis, U-joints.
Uses Lithium Complex, Bentone, Polyurea for motors, conveyor systems.
Uses EP Grease, Calcium Sulfonate for heavy loads in dirty/wet conditions.
Uses NSF H1 Food-Grade Grease for safe processing equipment.
Uses Bentone, Synthetic for high temp & water washout resistance.
Uses Calcium, Aluminum Complex for excellent water resistance.
Uses Synthetic EP, Calcium Complex for wheel bearings, couplings.
Safety Data Sheet containing handling, hazard, and first-aid information.
Greases formulated to break down more easily in the environment.
Some greases (e.g., barium-based) may be toxic and require special handling.
NSF H1 (incidental contact), H2 (non-contact), 3H (direct contact).
Typically 3–5 years when stored properly, depending on formulation.
Very fluid – Cooking oil-like.
Semi-fluid – Apple sauce.
Soft – Brown mustard.
Semi-soft – Tomato paste.
Normal – Peanut butter.
Firm – Vegetable shortening.
Very firm – Cheddar cheese to wax.
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