Greases

What is NLGI Grade Lubrication?

According to the National Lubricating Grease Institute, a grease is represented by its NLGI Grade: 000 (fluid) to 6 (very hard). Low grades are for low-viscosity applications; higher grades are often used when leakage is a concern.

The Main Ingredient

Lubricants are typically comprised of 90% base oil, which is produced by refining petroleum crude oil. Base oils can also be synthetic, offering a higher viscosity than mineral base oils.

Food Grade Ratings

As determined by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), these values include H1 (acceptable for incidental food contact), H2 (not acceptable for any contact with food), and H3 (edible/soluble).

What is a Grease Thickener?

Combined with a lubricating fluid, a thickener gives grease its solid or semi-solid structure. Thickeners affect the temperature resistance, water resistance, and chemical stability of the grease.

Examples of acceptable added thickeners or soap types include lithium, PTFE, clay, and aluminum.

To Improve Lubricant Performance

These are the chemicals or materials added to the base oil to enhance its lubricating properties. Examples include calcium oxide, silica, mica, calcium floride, titanium dioxide, boron nitride, and quartz.