Why Lithium-based Grease ExhibitsExcellent Lubricating Performance Under Extreme Working Conditions

Lithium-based grease is one of the mostcommonly used lubricants. It plays a critical role in a wide range ofindustrial and automotive applications. Despite significant differences betweenlubricating oils, greases, and lithium-based grease, the unique properties oflithium grease enable it to deliver outstanding lubrication performance, evenunder extreme working conditions.

Composition and Advantages ofLithium-based Grease

Lithium-based grease is primarily composedof mineral oil, lithium soap (hydroxystearate) as a thickener, and variousadditives such as antioxidants, rust inhibitors, and anti-corrosion agents. Itsgel-like structure provides several notable advantages:

• Water Resistance: Lithium-based     grease has excellent water resistance, making it effective in preventing     water from entering mechanical parts in wet environments.

• High-Temperature Stability: It     maintains excellent lubrication performance at high temperatures,     preventing the grease from melting or oxidizing and extending the service     life of equipment.

• Mechanical Stability: Lithium-based     grease remains stable under intense vibrations and changing loads,     ensuring that mechanical parts remain undamaged.

• Extreme Pressure and Wear Resistance: Its extreme pressure (EP) properties allow it to perform well     under high-load conditions, reducing wear and extending the life of     equipment.

• Pumpability: Even at low     temperatures, lithium-based grease remains pumpable, facilitating easy     application in systems requiring grease to be pumped.

These characteristics make lithium-basedgrease an indispensable lubricant in various industrial applications,especially in mechanical systems operating under high temperatures, pressures,and wet conditions.

Differences Between Lubricants andGrease

Lubricants are typically liquids used forlubrication, cooling, reducing friction, and protecting mechanical parts. Theynot only reduce friction but also prevent corrosion and dirt buildup, commonlyused in automobiles and machinery. Grease (such as calcium-based grease) is asemi-solid primarily used for lubrication, waterproofing, and corrosionprotection on metal surfaces. Grease is often yellow, turning black upon use.

Compared to calcium-based grease,lithium-based grease comes in various colors and can be formulated for specificapplications. Its superior temperature stability and water resistance make itmore effective in harsher environments.

Oil Leaks and Methods to Prevent Them

Oil leakage is a common issue when usinglubricants. Leaks are typically categorized into three types:

1. Seepage: Oil dripping every 30     minutes, common in fixed connections.

2. Dripping: One drop of oil every two     to three minutes, typically seen in moving connections.

3. Flowing: Five or more drops of     liquid oil per minute, considered a severe leak.

The severity of leaks can be classifiedinto three levels: severe, moderate, and minor leaks. To prevent oil leaks,common solutions include:

• Regular Inspection: Conduct regular     inspections to identify potential leakage issues.

• Locating the Cause: Accurately find     the leak’s location and underlying cause.

• Component Replacement: Replace     defective seals and other lubrication parts in a timely manner.

• Structural Changes: Modify     unreasonable equipment structures or connections.

• Sealing Measures: Use sealing     tapes, sealing lines, or gaskets to strengthen joints.

• Return Oil Design: Increase the     size of return oil holes to clear oil passages and prevent overflow.

Additionally, good sealing performance iscritical in preventing and reducing oil leaks. Proper sealing can significantlyenhance equipment efficiency and reduce the risk of leaks.

Lithium-based grease, with its exceptionalresistance to high temperatures, water, mechanical stability, and extremepressure, is widely used in various industrial and automotive applications.Even under harsh working conditions, it continues to deliver stable lubricationperformance, protecting mechanical parts effectively. By adopting properlubrication and leak prevention measures, the efficiency of equipment can beimproved, and its service life extended.