How to Choose High-Temperature, Low-Temperature, or High-Speed Grease by Operating Conditions

Different operating conditions demand different greases. This article provides a practical framework—temperature, speed, load, and environment—to select high-temperature, low-temperature, or high-speed grease and maintain long-term reliability.

1) Define the Four Basics

• Temperature range (start/steady peak).

• Speed (DN/NDm or surface speed).

• Load (light/heavy, shock, vibration).

• Environment (moisture, dust, vacuum/cleanroom, food-grade, chemicals).

2) High-Temperature Grease (≥150 °C)

• Base oil: PAO, ester, silicone, PFPE for extreme heat/cleanliness.

• Thickener: Polyurea, lithium complex, inorganic; MoS₂/graphite optional.

• Key specs: High dropping point, low evaporation, oxidation & shear stability.

• Use cases: Ovens, hot-air circulation, mold ejector pins, hot-end bearings.

• Tip: Use higher-viscosity base oil and set shorter relube intervals.

3) Low-Temperature Grease (≤−30 °C)

• Base oil: Low-viscosity PAO/synthetic hydrocarbons or silicone.

• Thickener: Lithium/polyurea; verify low-temperature torque data.

• Key specs: Low start/run torque, pumpability, no wax-out.

• Use cases: Instruments, outdoor servos, cold-storage drives.

4) High-Speed Grease (high DN/NDm)

• Base oil: Low/medium-viscosity PAO/ester for low friction/heat.

• Thickener: Polyurea/lithium complex; PTFE for friction reduction.

• Key specs: Low torque, low oil bleed & evaporation, shear stability.

• Use cases: Spindles, SMT placement heads, micro-bearings.

• Tip: Control fill (typically 20–30% of free volume); excess causes overheating.

5) General Selection Tips

Match viscosity to temperature/speed, prefer EP/AW additives or solid lubricants for shock loads, ensure seal & material compatibility, and avoid mixing incompatible thickeners.

Maintenance

Trend temperature & vibration, adjust relube intervals to duty severity, and store grease clean and dry to avoid contamination.