Greases do more than just prevent wear – they reduce friction, remove heat and prevent rust/corrosion. Since most greases are relatively inexpensive compared to the equipment they protect, selecting the right one is more of a question of performance rather than cost. Careful selection of components can have a big impact on how well they work.
While base oils provide the lubrication and additives provide other valuable performance properties, the thickening agent can be one of the most important factors when selecting the best grease. Thickeners are added to the base oil to produce a solid to semifluid structure and act like a sponge – they hold the components of the grease in place and respond to external forces, like elevated temperatures and pressures, to release the oil so it can provide the lubrication.
So why is grease thickener selection so important? Thickener choice is influenced by operating temperatures, load, material compatibility, and speed. FS offers grease products containing one of three high-performance grease thickeners.
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FS Spectra Lube Green features a calcium sulfonate complex thickener. It provides superior washout and water resistance; excellent extreme pressure (EP) and anti-wear protection as well as corrosion resistance; and exceptional thermal stability. Typical applications include rolling equipment, pulp and paper, marine, mining, construction, automotive, and agriculture industries.
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FS Spectra Lube Red features a lithium complex thickener. Lithium complex greases are widely used due to their long-term work stability. FS Spectra Lube Red features excellent shear stability, improved thermal resistance, low oil bleed, and good low-temperature pumpability. Typical uses include bearings in automotive, agricultural, and industrial applications.
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FS Spectra Lube Blue grease uses a polyurea thickener. It’s a great performer in high-temperature and continuous-use bearing applications. Polyurea-thickened greases have excellent antioxidant capacity and a high dropping point as well as excellent thixotropic properties. Typical applications include electric motor bearings and precision ball bearings.
Two specialized variations to the products above include Spectra Lube Gray, featuring a lithium complex thickener and 3% molybdenum disulfide, and Spectra Lube Construction Red, featuring a heavy base oil in a lithium complex thickener. Both specialized products are great choices for specific applications.
Selecting the right grease may seem complicated, but good recommendations are only a call away. Contact an FS Energy Specialist today.