Oil Her Up: How To Choose Grease For Your Large Or Heavy Machinery

Dirty, messy, and gooey – grease may not be cleanest of liquids, but it is an essential component in keeping your machines running and in good condition for years to come. The effects of wear and tear become more evident over time. But with the right grease, the machine runs more efficiently, and parts stay clear of contaminants.

Are you looking for the best grease for the bearings of your machine or other similar parts? Learn more about grease and how to choose the most suitable one for your needs.

Types of grease

Grease usually contains a thickener and synthetic or mineral oil. Some types may also contain additives. Here are some of the main kinds currently available on the market:

• Moly – Considered one of the basic types, it is an affordable option for loaders, backhoes, and similar machines with moving joints.
• Multi-purpose grease – Made from polyurea, it is ideal for use on parts subjected to high temperatures. This includes machines with rotating grooves or spindles.
• Synthetic grease – At three times the cost of moly greases, the synthetic brands are designed to last longer than lubricants containing petroleum.
• Specialty grease – These are lubricants designed for specific machines and working environments. High-impact types, for instance, are made to bear the stresses of constant pounding. As such, they are ideal for use on hammer or breaker machines.
• EP3 grease - This is a grease that’s chemically-engineered to withstand extreme pressure, arduous applications and good protection for applications exposed to water or solid contaminants.

Tips for choosing machine grease

1. Check the manual

The manual is the most straightforward yet underutilized source of information on your machine and how to use it. Not all manuals may have a detailed section on what greases to use, but more often than not, they will have a general recommendation. If in doubt on what grease to use, consult the manual first before anything else.

2. Determine the use

Resist the temptation to use one type of grease for all your tools. Each type of lubricant is made for a specific purpose and environment with their special chemical composition fit for certain applications. Using the wrong type can shorten the life of your machine or damage the parts moving inside it.

Even multi-purpose greases work best in certain situations. In the case of polyurea, it is made for high-temperature environments. It may not be the ideal grease to use in machines running during the cold winter months.

3. Consider the climate

The weather and prevailing temperature in the area can alter how the grease functions. For instance, hot temperatures can make the grease thinner. During the summer or in arid countries, applying a high viscosity grease is recommended to keep the machines running.

On the other hand, if you are running your machines in cooler climates or during the winter months, synthetic grease is recommended. Using this type of lubricant will make it easier to operate the machine.

Get a grease gun or a pumping system to apply the fluid on your machine, especially during the colder months. A grease gun makes it easier to reach the crevices and joints with accurate lubricant replenishment to avoid over or under greasing.

4. Dry vs. wet conditions

Bearings and similar heavy-duty machine parts are typically constructed out of a combination of metals. Humidity and the presence of moisture can effectively damage any exposed areas. If you plan to use machines in wet conditions, such as when it rains or across the river, it may be worth using grease that can protect the parts from damage.

Marine grease is advisable in such situations. The lubricant contains a complex thickener that protects your components from salt and rust.

Finding the right grease for your machine does not have to give you a headache. If you have any additional concerns, ask a trusted technical service provider to find and use the best grease for your needs with accurate technical information.

AUTHOR BIO

Hassanein Alwan is the Managing Director of Mineral Circles Bearings with more than 10 years' experience in the bearing industry's technical support division, sales and marketing, plus strategic business development consultancy.