Can High-Temperature Greases Improve Thermal Resistance?

Before we study the harder part, let me ask you a question, “why should you use high-temperature grease?” or “What happens to the automobile or mechanical parts when they experience high temperatures?” Are you able to answer these questions? If yes, then this blog might not be effective for you, but if your answer is “no” - continue reading the informative details till the end!

Things You Need To Know About High-Temperature Grease

During high operating temperatures, even minor changes in the chemical or physical properties of the materials can destroy the efficacy of the engine. That’s why correct lubrication is necessary to prevent wear and tear.

How Does Temperature Affect Mechanical Devices?

Let’s begin with the most obvious consequences that the owner faces due to the malfunction of the mechanical device if not lubricated properly in high temperatures:

The grease at high temperatures reduces the viscosity which results in the reduction of the protective film. This thinning of the lubricating film increases friction.

Due to the lack of hydrodynamic lubricating film, encouraged by the process of evaporation and oxidation, it slowly destroys the mechanical parts.

Without proper lubrication the machines get affected by friction, thereby decreasing the mobility and efficiency of the moving parts.

Therefore, to establish the effectiveness of the high-temperature grease, you should understand how the maximum continuous operating temperature works. It generally stays between 90° C for a mineral fluid without additives and rises up to the maximum of 300° C for a fluorinated-based lubricant. Maintaining this limit makes it possible to preserve the functioning of the mechanical parts and engines.

How To Guarantee The Quality Of A High-Temperature Lubricant?

Multiple tests are there that evaluate the thermal resistance abilities of a lubricating fluid. ASTM D-5483 determines the value of the induction time (OIT).

This induction time is proportional to the thermo-oxidative measurements of a grease. Here the higher value supports the greater thermal load, which actually relies proportionally on its antioxidant content.

What Are The Common Characteristics Of A High-Temperature Grease?

The rise in temperature increases the friction and wear that induces quicker destructive processes of the electromechanical component.

But, every feature and design of the mechanical components are distinct from one another. That’s why you must discuss every detail, especially the thermal ranges with the manufacturer. It’s indispensable to choose the lubricant that expands the life of the component. For instance, buy high-temperature grease that matches the original equipment components in the automotive industry.

What’s The Necessity Of Using High-Temperature Grease?

Certain application capabilities make greases more useful than oil. If the bearings, valves, and gear motors are not lubricated properly, the lubricating fluid inside could come out from the places that make the component free from the protective film.

A high-temperature grease has higher viscosity and adhesiveness that allows the lubricant to remain right where it is applied. You will find this application in the machinery for the production of corrugated cardboard.

But how does it help when the heat increases? The lubricating grease ensures a high drop point where the temperature transits the state from semi-solid to semi-liquid. The manufacturers use a base oil to thicken the liquid to tolerate even 300° C.

The higher the temperature the lubricant has to experience, you will have to purchase more thicker lubricating grease from the supplier. Therefore, lubricating grease is the only solution that you can adopt at high temperatures. Depending on the materials, applications, and other operating conditions, it gets easier to find the most suitable solution.

Bottom Line

As the winter or summer beckons, it’s important to invest in the High-Temperature Grease as early as possible. Only a high-quality lubricating fluid can maintain the optimum temperature of your engine and other counterparts, making it last longer for years.