Designation: F2489 − 06 (Reapproved 2013)

Standard Guide for

Instrument and Precision Bearing Lubricants—Part 2
Greases1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2489; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope life, and no contamination of surrounding components by the

1.1 This guide is a tool to aid in the choice of lubricating bearing’s lubricant system. To increase the reliability of test
grease for precision rolling element bearing applications. The data, all tests were performed by a DoD laboratory and three
recommendations in this guide are not intended for general independent testing laboratories. There were no grease manu-
purpose bearing applications There are two areas where this facturer’s data imported except for base oil viscosity. Most of
guide should have the greatest impact: (1) when lubricating tests were performed by U.S. Army Tank–Automotive
grease is being chosen for a new bearing application and (2) Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC)
when grease for a bearing has to be replaced because the and three independent laboratories, and the results were moni-
original grease specified for the bearing can no longer be tored by the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL). This continu-
obtained. The Report (see Section 5) contains a series of tests ity of testing should form a solid basis for comparing the
on a wide variety of greases commonly used in bearing properties of the multitude of lubricating greases tested by
applications to allow comparisons of those properties of the avoiding some of the variability introduced when greases are
grease that the committee thought to be most important when tested by different laboratories using different or even the
making a choice of lubricating grease. Each test was performed “same” procedures. Additional test data will be considered for
by the same laboratory. This guide contains a listing of the inclusion, provided the defined protocol is followed and the
properties of greases by base oil type, that is, ester, perfluo- tests are performed by independent laboratories.
ropolyether (PFPE), polyalphaolefin (PAO), and so forth. This 1.3 This study was a part of DoD Aging Aircraft Replace-
organization is necessary since the operational requirements in ment Program and supported by Defense Logistic Agent
a particular bearing application may limit the choice of grease (DLA) and Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR).2
to a particular base oil type and thickener due to its temperature 1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
stability, viscosity index or temperature-vapor pressure as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
characteristics, etc. The guide provides data to assist the user in standard.
selecting replacement greases for those greases tested that are
no longer available. The guide also includes a glossary of terms 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
used in describing/discussing the lubrication of precision and safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
instrument bearings. responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
1.2 The lubricating greases presented in this guide are bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
commonly used in precision rolling element bearings (PREB).
These greases were selected for the testing based on the grease 2. Referenced Documents
survey obtained from DoD, OEM and grease manufactures and
2.1 ASTM Standards:3
evaluated according to the test protocol that was designed by
D217 Test Methods for Cone Penetration of Lubricating
Subcommittee F34 on Tribology. This test protocol covers the
Grease
essential requirements identified for precision bearing greases.
D972 Test Method for Evaporation Loss of Lubricating
The performance requirements of these greases are very
Greases and Oils
unique. They are dictated by the performance expectations of
precision bearings including high speed, low noise, extended
2
Rhee, In-Sik, “Precision Bearing Grease Selection Guide,” U.S. Army TARDEC
Technical Report No. 15688, Defense Technical Information Center, 8725 John. J.
1
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F34 on Rolling Kingman Rd., Suite 0944, Ft. Belvoir, VA 22060–6218.
3
Element Bearings For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Sept. 15, 2013. Published January 2014. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2006. Last previous edition approved in 2006 as F2489–06. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F2489-06R13. the ASTM website.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
D1264 Test Method for Determining the Water Washout Wet Shell Roll Test Method7
Characteristics of Lubricating Greases 2.4 SAE Standard:8
D1742 Test Method for Oil Separation from Lubricating SAE-AMS-G-81937 Grease, Instrument, Ultra-Clean, Met-
Grease During Storage ric
D1743 Test Method for Determining Corrosion Preventive
Properties of Lubricating Greases 3. Terminology
D1831 Test Method for Roll Stability of Lubricating Grease 3.1 For definition of standard terms used in this guide, see
D2265 Test Method for Dropping Point of Lubricating Terminology D4175 and F2488 or Compilation of ASTM
Grease Over Wide Temperature Range Standard Definitions.
D2266 Test Method for Wear Preventive Characteristics of
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
Lubricating Grease (Four-Ball Method)
3.2.1 esters, n—esters are formed from the reaction of acids
D2596 Test Method for Measurement of Extreme-Pressure
and alcohols. Esters form a class of synthetic lubricants. Esters
Properties of Lubricating Grease (Four-Ball Method)
of higher alcohols with divalent fatty acids form diester
D3527 Test Method for Life Performance of Automotive
lubricants while esters of polyhydric alcohols are called the
Wheel Bearing Grease
polyol ester lubricants. These latter esters have higher viscosity
D4048 Test Method for Detection of Copper Corrosion from
and are more heat-resistant than diesters.
Lubricating Grease
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum, Petroleum 3.2.2 mineral oil, n—oils based on petroleum stocks. These
Products, and Lubricants oils come in two types, naphthenic and paraffinic. The naph-
D4289 Test Method for Elastomer Compatibility of Lubri- thenic oils contain unsaturated hydrocarbons, usually in the
cating Greases and Fluids form of aromatic species. The paraffinic oils are primarily
D4425 Test Method for Oil Separation from Lubricating saturated hydrocarbons with only low levels of unsaturation.
Grease by Centrifuging (Koppers Method) 3.2.3 perfluoropolyethers (PFPE or PFAE), n—fully fluo-
D4693 Test Method for Low-Temperature Torque of Grease- rinated long-chain aliphatic ethers. The perfluoropolyethers
Lubricated Wheel Bearings show some extraordinary properties like chemical inertness,
D5483 Test Method for Oxidation Induction Time of Lubri- nonflammability, high thermal and oxidative resistance, very
cating Greases by Pressure Differential Scanning Calorim- good viscosity-temperature characteristics, and compatibility
etry with a wide range of materials, including metals and plastics.
E1131 Test Method for Compositional Analysis by Thermo- The perfluoropolyethers, however, are not always suitable for
gravimetry metal alloys at elevated temperatures (contact temperatures
F2161 Guide for Instrument and Precision Bearing higher than about 550°F). The perfluoropolyethers are not
Lubricants—Part 1 Oils miscible with other types of synthetic fluids and mineral oils
F2488 Terminology for Rolling Element Bearings and cannot dissolve common lubricant additives.
2.2 Government Documents:4 3.2.4 silicone oils, n—synthetic fluids composed of organic
Federal Standard Test Method 791C, 3005.4 Dirt Content of esters of long chain complex silicic acids. Silicone oils have
Grease better physical properties than mineral oils. However, silicone
MIL-G-25537 Aircraft Helicopter Bearing Grease oils have poorer lubrication properties, lower load-carrying
MIL-PRF-23827 Aircraft and instrument Grease capacity, and a strong tendency to spread on surfaces (see
MIL-PRF-81322 Aircraft Wide Temperature Range Grease surface tension).
MIL-PRF-83261 Aircraft Extreme Pressure 3.2.5 synthetic fluids, n—lubricating fluids produced by
MIL-PRF-10924 Grease, Automotive and Artillery chemical synthesis. The synthetic route to formulate these
MIL-G-27617 Grease, Aircraft and Instrument, Fuel and lubricants allows the manufacturer to introduce those chemical
Oxidizer Resistant structures into the lubricant molecule that will impart specific
MIL-G-21164 Molybdenum Disulfide Grease properties into the resultant fluid such as very low pour point,
MIL-G-25760 Grease, Aircraft, Ball and Roller Bearing, good viscosity-temperature relationship, low evaporation loss,
Wide Temperature Range long lubricating lifetime, and so forth.
MIL-L-15719 High Temperature Electrical Bearing Grease
3.2.6 lubricating grease, n—a semi-fluid to solid product of
DoD-G-24508 Multipurpose Grease
a dispersion of a thickener in a liquid lubricant.
2.3 Industrial Standards:
SKF Be-Quite Noise Test Method5 4. Significance and Use
TA Rheometry Procedure for Steady Shear Flow Curve6 4.1 The purpose of this guide is to report on the testing of,
to discuss and compare the properties of, and to provide
guidelines for the choice of lubricating greases for precision
4
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4,
Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098
5 7
Available from SKF North American Technical Center, 46815 Port St., Available from Southwest Petro-Chem Division, Witco Corp., P.O. Box 1974,
Plymouth, MI 48170. Olathe, KS 66061.
6 8
Available from TA Instruments Company, 109 Lukens Drive, New Castle, DE Available from Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), 400 Commonwealth
19720-2765. Dr., Warrendale, PA 15096-0001.

2
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
rolling element bearings (PREB). The PREB are, for the bearing greases tested. Each grease tested was assigned a code
purposes of this guide, meant to include bearings of Annular to mask their source to mitigate any potential bias in the testing
Bearing Engineer’s Committee (ABEC) 5 quality and above. results. The tradename of each grease is listed in Research
This guide limits its scope to lubricating greases used in PREB. Report RR:F34-1000.9 For the evaluation, each grease was
4.2 The number of lubricating greases used in PREB in- tested for dropping point, consistency, water and work stability,
creased dramatically from the early 1940s to the mid 1990s. In oxidation stability, oil separation, evaporation loss, wear, EP
the beginning of this period, petroleum products were the only properties, corrosion prevention, low temperature
widely available base stocks. Later, synthetic base oils became characteristics, cleanliness, apparent viscosity, grease noise,
available. They included synthetic hydrocarbons, esters, and grease life. Compatibility testing with elastomers incorpo-
silicones, multiply alkylated cyclopentanes (MAC) and fluori- rated into PREB and their environments were not done due to
nated materials, including perfluorinated ethers and the fluo- the large number of combinations that would require testing to
rosilicones. This broad spectrum of lubricant choices has led to span the potential mixes of greases and elastomer components
the use of a large number of different lubricants in PREB that might occur in bearing applications. It is recommended
applications. The U.S. Department of Defense, as a user of that the user verify grease/elastomer compatibility when
many PREB, has seen a significant increase in the logistics needed.
effort required to support the procurement and distribution of 5.2 In these tables, some of the data may not agree with
these items. In addition, as time has passed, some of the those of manufacturers due to the variation of the test methods
greases used in certain PREB are no longer available or require and their test apparatuses (that is, noise test). All tests were
improved performances due to advanced bearing technology/ performed by a government laboratory and three independent
requirements. This implies that replacement lubricating greases laboratories. No grease manufacturers performed any of these
must be found, especially in this era of extending the lifetime tests except for the base oil viscosities of greases. To increase
of DoD assets, with the consequent and unprojected demand the availability of precision bearing greases, these tables will
for sources of replacement parts. be revised periodically to include new greases as long as the
4.3 One of the primary goals of this study was to take a manufacturer submits test results on their product following
broad spectrum of the lubricating greases used in PREB and do precisely the protocol defined in the document.
a comprehensive series of tests on them in order that their
properties could be compared and, if necessary, potential 6. Application Considerations
replacement greases be identified. This study is also meant to 6.1 This guide applies only to precision bearing greases.
be a design guide for choosing lubricating greases for future The other types of greases such as industrial greases or
PREB applications. This guide represents a collective effort of automotive general purpose greases are not covered by this
many members of this community who span the spectrum from guide.
bearing manufacturers, original equipment manufactures 6.1.1 Precision bearing greases contain base oil to which a
(OEMs), grease manufacturers and suppliers, procurement thickener has been added to prevent oil migration from the
specialists, and quality assurance representatives (QARs) from lubrication site and various additives to improve its operating
DoD and end users both inside and outside DoD. performance. Currently, many technical articles often designate
4.4 It is strongly recommend that, prior to replacing a grease types of lubricating greases based on their thickeners.
in a PREB, all of the existing grease should be removed from However, the operative properties of precision bearing greases
the bearing. Reactions may occur between incompatible depend on the combination of base oil, thickener, and additive
greases resulting in severely degraded performance. When formulation. This guide distinguishes lubricating greases by
users have more than one type of grease in service, mainte- their base oil types.
nance practices must be in place to avoid accidental mixing of 6.1.2 Cleanliness is critical to bearing life. Even micro-
greases. In addition, all fluids used specifically to prolong scopic contamination can determine the wear processes that
storage life of PREBs (preservatives) should be removed prior impact bearing life/performance and result in bearing failure.
to lubricating the bearings. Reactions may occur which would Clean greases or ultra-filtered greases that exclude particles
degrade the grease. above a predetermined size can prevent wear on precision
bearings and extend the bearing life.
4.5 The base oils, thickeners, and additives dictates grease 6.1.3 The types of thickener material and its quantity are
performances. The properties of many base oils can be found in vitally important to obtain a stable grease structure and its
the previous study (Guide F2161). This study included a physical properties. The improper ratio of thickener to base oil
discussion of elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory. has a profound impact on grease’s consistency stability, me-
chanical stability, excessive oil separation, and thermal-
5. Report oxidation stability. These physical and chemical properties of
5.1 The test results are summarized in Tables 1–3. Table 1 the grease tend to dictate the precision bearing’s performance
presents the classification of base oils, thickener types, and and its life.
military specification products evaluated in this program. Table
2 lists the test protocol for this study and covers the test
methods, their test conditions, and the testing laboratories. 9
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
Table 3 (A-C) provides the test results of the 38 precision be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:F34-1000.

3
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
TABLE 1 Classification of Tested Greases
Military
Code Base Oil Thickener
Standard
G-1 Mineral Calcium MIL-G-25537
G-2 Mineral/PAO/Ester Calcium Complex No
G-3 Silicone Lithium MIL-G-15719A
G-4 Silicone Lithium No
G-5 Silicone PTFE No
G-6 Ester Clay MIL-G-25760
G-7 Ester Clay MIL-G-21164
G-8 Ester Polyurea No
G-9 Ester/PAO Polyurea No
G-10 Ester/PAO Lithium No
G-11 Ester/PFPE Polyurea No
G-12 Ester Clay MIL-PRF-23827,
Type II
G-13 Ester/PAO Lithium special No
G-14 Ester/PAO Lithium special No
G-15 Ester Lithium complex No
G-16 Ester Lithium complex No
G-17 Ester Lithium complex No
G-18 Ester Lithium MIL-PRF-23827
G-19 PAO Polyurea No
G-20 PAO Lithium No
G-21 PAO Barium No
G-22 PAO Clay MIL-PRF-81322,
DoD –G-24508
G-23 PAO/Ester Lithium Complex MIL-PRF-23537,
Type I
G-24 PAO/Mineral Lithium Complex MIL-PRF-10924G
G-25 PAO Lithium Complex No
G-26 PAO Lithium Complex No
G-27 PFPE, Branched PTFE MIL-G-27617, Type
III
G-28 PFPE, Branched PTFE MIL-G-27617, Type II
G-29 PFPE, Branched PTFE No
G-30 PFPE PTFE No
G-31 PFPE PTFE No
G-32 PFPE, Branched PTFE MIL-G-27617
G-33 PFPE, Linear PTFE No
G-34 Ester Lithium SAE-AMS-G-81937
G-35 PFPE PTFE MIL-PRF-83261
G-36 MAC (Pennzane) Sodium Complex No
G-37 PFPE, Linear PTFE No
G-38 PFPE, Linear PTFE No

6.1.4 Thermal-oxidation stability is generally comprehen- lubricating grease in a precision bearing, leaving shoulders of
sively observed in the evaporation loss, dropping point, and unworked grease which serves as a seal and oil reservoir.
oxidation stability tests. Typically, a low evaporation loss and 6.1.8 Corrosion prevention and good water stability (mini-
excellent oxidation stability are required for precision bearing mal change in consistency under wet conditions) are also
greases in order to have a long service life. important properties to prevent rust on bearing surfaces and to
6.1.5 Tribological properties are some of the important preserve grease consistency.
operational parameters in precision bearing greases. Most 6.1.9 Apparent dynamic viscosity tends to indicate the
precision bearing greases often use anti-wear additives to usable temperature range of a lubricating grease for high speed
improve their wear prevention properties. Some precision precision bearing applications.
bearing greases incorporate EP additives to improve a load 6.1.10 Long grease life is desired in precision bearing
carrying capacity, but this property may not be required in all applications. Most precision bearings are not re-lubricated
precision bearing applications. during their lifetime. Also, the grease life is also dependent on
6.1.6 A wide operational temperature range is desired for the operational temperature.
the precision bearing greases. This property should be deter- 6.1.11 A high level of noise generated from a precision
mined based on dropping point test and low temperature bearing is usually caused by surface defects or damage of the
characterization at actual operational temperatures. Further anti-friction components (balls, races), due to the solid or
testing in high temperature test rigs should be done to validate semi-solid particles present in lubricating greases. Quiet
bearing-lubricant performance at operational temperatures. greases that are formulated with few very small particles
6.1.7 Channeling capability of lubricating grease is a critical particulates or filtered to remove particulates are typically
property for PREB lubrication. It assesses the tendency of the required for precision bearing applications.
grease to keep oil inside of the precision bearing. This 6.1.12 Seal compatibility may vary with each lubricating
capability tends to form a channel by working down of grease. The type of material used in seals will determine which

4
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
TABLE 2 Test Protocol
Test Method Test Condition Testing Laboratory Evaluation
Dropping Point ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the temperature at which the first drop of grease
D2265 falls from the cup
Oil Separation ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the oil separation of grease under normal storage
(static) D1742 conditions
Oil Separation (Dy- ASTM Test Method 40°C, 2h U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the oil separation of grease by a high speed
namic) D4425 centrifuge force
Work ASTM Test Methods Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the consistency of the grease. Higher number
Penetration D217 indicates a soft grease
Copper ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure corrosion on copper metal in comparison to the
Corrosion D4048 ASTM Copper Strip Corrosion Standards. The 1a and 1b
ratings indicate no corrosion
Rust Preventive ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Determine the rust preventive properties of greases using
D1743 grease lubricated tapered roller bearings stored under wet
conditions (flash water). No corrosion is pass rating.
Water Stability MIL-PRF-10924 Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure water stability of greases by using a full scale
grease worker. The change in consistency after being
subjected to water is a measure of the water stability of
the grease. Small difference indicates better water stability.
Water Washout ASTM Test Method Standard Petro-Luburicants Measure the percentage weight of grease washed out from a
D1264 Testing Lab bearing at the test temperature.
Oxidation ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the oxidation induction time of grease under oxygen
Stability D5483 environments. A longer induction time indicates better
oxidation stability.
Evaporation ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the evaporation loss of greases at 99 C°.
Loss D972
High Temperature ASTM Test Method 1h U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the evaporation loss of grease at 180°C.
Evaporation Loss at E1131
180°C (TGA)
Channeling Ability ASTM Test Method Visual check after U.S. Army TARDEC Determine channeling capability of a grease in a lubricated
D4693 bearing test tapered roller bearing.
Apparent Dynamic Vis- TA At 25°C ICI Paints Strongsville Measure apparent dynamic viscosity of a grease at 25 C°
cosity Rheometer Research Center
Wet Shell Roll Wet Shell Roll Test Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure water stability of greases using a roll stability test
Stability apparatus, small sample required. The difference in cone
penetration before and after being worked in the presence of
water is a measure of the effect of water on the grease.
Small difference indicates better water stability.
Work Stability ASTM Test Methods Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Determine the work stability using a grease worker.
D217 The difference between the cone penetration before and
after working is a measure of the worked stability of the
grease. Small difference indicates better worked stability.
Roll Stability ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Determine the roll stability of grease. The difference between
D1831 the cone penetration before and after rolling is a measure of
the roll stability of the grease. Small difference indicates
better roll stability.
Four Ball Wear ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Determine the wear preventive characteristics of greases in
Test D2266 sliding- steel-on-steel applications. Measure the diameters of
wear scars after the test. A small diameter indicates less
wear.
Four Ball EP ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Determine the load-carrying properties of greases. It
Test D2596 measures Load –wear index (LWI). A high LWI number
indicates a better load-carrying property.
Grease Life ASTM Test Method Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure grease life at the test temperature.
D3527
Low ASTM Test Method Test temperatures, -20 U.S. Army TARDEC Measure low temperature property of grease. It measures
Temperature D4693 C°, -40°C, -54°C initial torque and running torque at 1 and 5 min. A lower
Torque number indicates a better low temperature property.
Rolling SKF Be-quite Standard SKF Measure noise level using an acoustic instrument. The
Bearing rakings are : very noisy (GNX)>noisy (GN1)>standard
Noise noise (GN2)>quite (GN3)>very quite(GN4)
Dirt Count FTM 3005.4 Standard U.S. Army TARDEC Measure the cleanness of greases. Zero indicates no dirt
contamination.

lubricating greases can be used in a particular PREB. Compat- 6.2.1 Mineral Oil Base Grease—The use of mineral oil base
ibility issues can be resolved by previous experience with greases is, in general, not recommended. These greases may
PREB or by Test Method D4289 with actual seal materials exhibit a high evaporation rate and excessive oil separation.
(that is, careful consideration must be given to assure compat- Most of these greases also provide a short lubrication life and
ibility between the grease and the bearing seal, shield or do not have good oxidation stability. They do not provide a
retainer materials, or both. wide temperature operation capability due to their chemical
6.2 Grease Advantages and Limitations (by Chemical Clas- structure. In addition, their base oils vary from lot to lot,
sifications): depending upon the source of the crude oil used as feedstock

5
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
TABLE 3 Grease Test Data (A)
Oil
Worked Water Wet Shell
Dropping Separation Copper Rust Work Stability Roll Stability Four ball Grease life
Code Penetration Stability Roll Stability
point (c) (Dynamic) Corrosion Preventive (1/10 mm) (1/10 mm) wear (mm) (h)
(mm) (1/10 mm) (1/10 mm)
(%)
G-1 151 39 284 1a Pass 62 53 47 37 0.36 27
G-2 215 24 284 1a Pass ... 12 ... 22 0.56 225
G-3 217 0.5 263 1b Pass -11 -8 40 3 2.20 295
G-4 218 3 285 1b Pass 14 8 16 12 1.24 423
G-5 334 43 268 1b Pass ... -3 ... -4 2.27 354
G-6 321 45 295 1a Pass 132 119 82 76 0.58 394
G-7 263 42 302 1a Pass 25 37 59 49 0.49 231
G-8 286 5 259 1b Pass ... 58 ... 36 0.36 397
G-9 279 6 252 1a Pass ... 69 ... 45 0.40 300
G-10 338 24 266 1a Pass ... 55 --- 57 0.60 180
G-11 269 0.4 286 1a Pass ... 21 ... 10 0.44 371
G-12 282 45 321 1a Pass 29 23 36 42 0.54 110
G-13 323 14 290 1b Pass ... 11 ... 4 0.47 90
G-14 279 13 249 1a Pass ... 18 ... 5 0.52 100
G-15 273 25 244 1b Pass ... 83 ... 25 0.49 240
G-16 195 32 318 3a Pass ... 39 ... 18 0.51 210
G-17 203 11 260 1b Pass ... 113 ... 47 0.85 170
G-18 187 34 271 1a Pass ... >162 41 24 0.91 100
G-19 213 5 274 1a Pass 9 1 17 -8 0.48 400
G-20 194 57 257 1b Pass ... 37 ... 20 0.58 171
G-21 279 28 266 1b Pass ... 7 ... 3 0.48 120
G-22 310 47 290 1a Pass 125 97 37 97 0.69 271
G-23 242 53 297 1a Pass 7 7 12 10 0.52 140
G-24 256 13 281 1a Pass -2 -3 28 26 0.48 150
G-25 227 21 291 1b Pass ... 38 ... 22 0.35 49
G-26 225 8 213 2c Pass ... 41 ... 3 0.40 161
G-27 243 16 266 1b Pass ... 11 ... 19 0.83 397
G-28 191 33 260 1b Pass ... 38 ... 13 0.72 400
G-29 213 29 263 1b Pass ... 42 ... 22 1.00 450
G-30 293 13 275 1b Pass ... -4 ... 30 0.87 365
G-31 217 31 256 1a Pass ... 59 ... 46 0.68 >500
G-32 221 33 303 1b Pass ... 17 ... 12 0.90 309
G-33 199 35 279 1a Pass ... -13 ... 8 1.13 >500
G-34 207 19 218 1a Pass ... 137 ... 94 0.77 60
G-35 187 14 307 4a Pass ... 21 ... 34 1.41 >500
G-36 318 24 232 1b Pass ... 80 ... 70 0.37 >500
G-37 239 22 281 1b Pass ... 10 ... 1 0.77 >500
G-38 235 22 290 1b Pass ... 1 ... 6 0.87 >500

TABLE 3 Grease Test Data (B)

Dirt Count
Evaporation Low Temperature Torque
Oil Evaporation Particles per mL Water
Four Ball Loss at
Code Separation Loss (%) Washout Test
EPLWI 25 to 75 75 to 125 125+ 180ºC, % Breakaway 1 min 5 min
(Static) (%) At 99ºC (%) temperature
microns microns microns (TGA) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm)
°C
G-1 16.5 23 0.88 500 200 100 5.63 41.2 -54 4.93 1.9 1.63
G-2 3.0 53 0.23 650 100 0 1.53 3.6 -40 2.47 1.27 0.93
G-3 0.3 28 0.26 350 100 50 1.46 1.3 -40 2.18 1.4 1.12
G-4 1.4 29 0.46 350 50 0 2.31 1.3 -54 0.86 0.43 0.4
G-5 0.9 22 0.14 50 0 0 1.00 0.4 -40 5.85 1.97 1.64
G-6 0.6 66 0.35 100 0 0 2.67 2.4 -54 3.98 1.83 1.46
G-7 6.1 68 0.60 250 50 0 1.69 5.2 -54 0.82 0.53 0.47
G-8 0.5 25 0.06 100 50 0 2.97 2.6 -40 2.79 1.72 1.59
G-9 0.9 39 0.19 50 0 0 2.16 3.6 -40 0.9 0.43 0.39
G-10 5.3 39 0.20 0 0 0 5.40 2.6 -54 1.92 1.22 1.09
G-11 0.01 38 0.10 0 0 0 0.61 2.3 -20 2.67 1.61 1.41
G-12 2.6 39 0.53 400 0 0 1.47 6.4 -54 0.74 0.52 0.5
G-13 0.0 20 0.26 100 0 0 3.19 2.0 -54 2.34 1.53 1.19
G-14 0.8 20 0.36 0 0 0 2.43 2.5 -54 2.56 1.47 1.16
G-15 10.3 25 0.35 100 0 0 9.64 2.4 -54 7.1 3.29 2.99
G-16 10.8 20 0.22 100 50 0 6.83 2.1 -54 0.95 0.55 0.49
G-17 5.3 26 0.18 100 0 0 5.49 0.2 -54 36.0 3.48 3.2
G-18 17.1 39 0.58 150 50 0 8.68 11.7 -54 0.91 0.47 0.36
G-19 0.01 21 0.31 0 0 0 0.95 2.0 -40 2.67 1.67 1.47
G-20 7.6 25 0.22 0 0 0 1.51 5.0 -54 0.98 0.5 0.43
G-21 0.5 36 0.10 50 0 0 0.30 1.9 -40 1.27 0.71 0.56
G-22 9.9 39 0.14 400 0 0 0.79 1.8 -54 1.46 1.12 1.01
G-23 10.8 57 0.62 300 0 0 1.24 8.5 -54 1.05 0.54 0.45
G-24 2.0 34 2.10 100 0 0 3.18 6.5 -54 3.51 2.54 1.96

6
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
TABLE 3 Continued

TABLE 3 Grease Test Data (B)

Dirt Count
Evaporation Low Temperature Torque
Oil Evaporation Particles per mL Water
Four Ball Loss at
Code Separation Loss (%) Washout Test
EPLWI 25 to 75 75 to 125 125+ 180ºC, % Breakaway 1 min 5 min
(Static) (%) At 99ºC (%) temperature
microns microns microns (TGA) (Nm) (Nm) (Nm)
°C
G-25 1.6 26 0.17 0 0 0 3.24 1.1 -40 1.73 1.22 0.87
G-26 0.1 21 0.24 0 0 0 1.42 1.1 -40 2.74 1.97 1.58
G-27 1.7 54 0.06 50 0 0 - 0.2 -40 11.0 5.6 4.77
G-28 4.2 38 0.05 0 0 0 - 1.1 -40 3.88 2.29 2.07
G-29 1.8 67 0.05 0 0 0 - 0.3 -40 5.96 3.67 3.54
G-30 0.8 144 0.03 0 0 0 - 0.1 -40 23.6 9.6 7.32
G-31 3.8 58 0.03 100 0 0 - 0.1 -54 0.8 0.54 0.52
G-32 2.5 44 0.02 0 0 0 - 0.2 -40 11.55 5.09 4.37
G-33 3.1 56 0.08 50 0 0 - 1.5 -40 14.15 5.31 4.87
G-34 0.1 26 0.29 100 0 0 - 3.9 -54 1.37 0.78 0.64
G-35 6.1 135 0.45 0 0 0 - 5.2 -54 1.66 0.58 0.5
G-36 0.3 22 0.17 0 0 0 - 1.2 -40 1.33 0.65 0.57
G-37 1.9 62 0.0 50 50 0 - 0.1 -54 0.99 0.59 0.47
G-38 1.2 84 0.05 200 0 0 - 0.1 -54 0.96 0.6 0.53

TABLE 3 Grease Test Data (C)

Apparent Dynamic Rolling Oxidation Base Oil Kinematic Viscosity (cSt)

Channeling Ability
Code Viscosity Poise, Bearing Stability (PDSC)
(Torque Test) 40°C 100°C
at 25°C, 25s-1 Noise at 180ºC, min
G-1 no 223 noisy 9.3 13.92 2.90
G-2 yes 580 very 32.0 23 5
noisy
G-3 yes 770 noisy NA 72 19
G-4 yes 294 standard N 74 25
noise
G-5 yes 359 very N 108 25
noisy
G-6 no 184 very 637.9 31.2 6.0
noisy
G-7 no 133 very 937.6 10.3 2.9
noisy
G-8 yes 208 quiet 2675.4 100 11
G-9 no 250 noisy 986.4 22 5
G-10 no 450 standard 48.0 24 5
noise
G-11 no 332 noisy 2128.1 420 34
G-12 yes 154 very 938.7 10.3 2.9
noisy
G-13 yes 500 noisy 15.2 18 4.5
G-14 yes 485 quiet 15.9 25 6
G-15 no 384 very 53.3 20 4.2
noisy
G-16 no 144 standard 46.8 22 4.7
noise
G-17 yes 218 standard 13.0 61 9.7
noise
G-18 no 238 Noisy 112.4 9.1 2.7
G-19 no 168 very 445.1 100 13.7
noisy
G-20 no 273 very 28.1 18 4
quiet
G-21 no 290 quiet 43.4 30 6
G-22 no 150 very 522.2 30.5 5.9
noisy
G-23 no 129 very 115.7 14.5 3.6
noisy
G-24 no 635 very 32 28.7 5.5
noisy
G-25 yes 267 standard 34.3 60.7 9.5
noise
G-26 yes 2100 standard 34.9 60.7 9.5
noise
G-27 no 238 standard N 240 26
noise

7
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
TABLE 3 Continued

TABLE 3 Grease Test Data (C)

Apparent Dynamic Rolling Oxidation Base Oil Kinematic Viscosity (cSt)

Channeling Ability
Code Viscosity Poise, Bearing Stability (PDSC)
(Torque Test) 40°C 100°C
at 25°C, 25s-1 Noise at 180ºC, min
G-28 no 191 standard N 85 11
noise
G-29 no 206 very N 160 18
noisy
G-30 yes 103 very N 400 37
noisy
G-31 no 65 quiet N
G-32 yes 208 very noisy N 240 26
G-33 no 2250 noisy N 32 7
G-34 yes 980 standard N .... ....
noise
G-35 yes 77 noisy N .... ....
G-36 no 307 noisy 54.5 110 15
G-37 yes 138 very N 150 45
noisy
G-38 no 109 very N 150 45
noisy
A
No oxidation

and upon the exact chemical and physical processes used to such as Buna-n and care must be taken in selection of bearing
refine the feedstock. The main advantage of mineral oils over seals when using them.
synthetic oils is cost. In most PREB applications, the cost of 6.2.4 Silicone Oil-Based Grease—Silicone-based greases
the lubricant is usually a very small part of the overall cost of have not been commonly used in PREB except in moderately
the bearing. Therefore, in most PREB applications, the differ- high temperature applications where loads are low. They have
ential cost of using a mineral oil versus synthetic oil based outstanding oxidation stability at high temperature and exhibit
greases should not be a determining factor in the choice of low volatility. Their upper operational temperature usually
lubricating greases. depends on the stability of the thickener. The rheology of
6.2.2 Polyalphaolefins (PAO) Based Grease—These syn- silicone greases is similar to that of the mineral oil-based
thetic greases are widely available and are currently used in greases. The disadvantage of these greases is its poor lubricity
many PREB applications. PAO greases exhibit many of the and load carrying capacity. For this reason, the silicone greases
physical properties that are required for the lubrication of normally are not used in ball bearing applications. Also, these
PREB and have a long history of being used successfully in greases may have a tendency to creep, possibly contaminating
them. They are formulated with PAO oils, various thickeners, adjacent hardware, and leave fairly hard deposits on bearing
and additives. Their base stocks are very similar in chemical parts. This problem may be an issue when considering silicone
structure to paraffinic mineral oils, yet have the advantage of greases as a PREB lubricant.
being synthesized. Synthetically producing oil gives the manu- 6.2.5 Perfluoropolyethers (PFPE) Based Grease—These
facturer considerably more control over its chemical composi- greases are normally thickened with polytetrafluoroethylene
tion and thus controls the lot-to-lot variability and allows (PTFE). PFPE greases are chemically inert and stable with
tailoring of properties to specific needs. Operational tempera- consistent performance in many conditions. They have high
ture ranges of PAO oil-based greases are much wider than viscosity indexes (about 300), can be used at very low
mineral oil based greases and their use is recommended for temperatures and have very low volatility. It has marginal
many PREB applications. However, some PAO-based greases lubricity under lightly loaded conditions and may not be
are not initially suited for the precision bearing applications. acceptable in some PREB applications. It can be subject to
For example, they might require filtration processing to remove catalytic breakdown under highly loaded (extreme pressure)
solid contamination prior to use. bearing operation conditions. PFPE greases can be very clean
6.2.3 Ester Oil-Based Grease—This class of greases is used grease when subjected to filtration. They are long life greases
in several PREB applications. The main advantage is that ester in high temperature environments under moderate bearing
oil-based greases have excellent lubricity and compatibility loads. Currently, PFPE greases are used in many aerospace
with a wide variety of lubricant additives and have a wide use bearing applications. PEFE greases have a relatively high cost
temperature range. They have somewhat better low- compared to most other synthetic greases. In the past, one
temperature behavior and have a much longer lubrication life problem with PFPE greases was the lack of soluble additives to
than PAO-based greases in a high temperature operation. Many provide corrosion and anti-wear protection. Today, there are a
of these greases are currently used in PREB applications. Ester number of soluble additives available for these greases.
oil-based greases are incompatible with some sealing materials However, experience with these additives is limited.

8
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
6.2.6 MAC Based Grease—This is a special type of grease shown in Table 2. Physical and chemical properties and
formulated with a synthetic hydrocarbon based on a multiply functional test results obtained are reported in Table 3 (A-C).
alkylated cyclopentane (MAC) oil, sodium complex thickener, In addition, there are other precision-bearing greases also
and additives. Currently, MAC-based greases are used in currently available in the market. Budgetary and time con-
aerospace applications. It is thermally stable and has low straints precluded their inclusion into this guide. Futhermore,
volatility. Its volatility is comparable with PFPE-based greases. the omission of any grease does not necessarily imply unsuit-
However, unlike the PFPE lubricants, conventional additives ability.
used in PAO and ester oil-based greases can also be used in 6.3.2 The committee realizes that grease selection or re-
MAC greases to enhance their performance, but these additives placement based on the data and properties information pre-
can slightly increase the volatility of the grease in high vacuum sented in this guide alone could be very risky due to the many
applications. Because of its low volatility and improved other factors unique to any specific application (compatibility
lubricity, MAC-based lubricants have replaced PFPE lubri- and environmental issues, system operating parameters and
cants in several vacuum applications. As with the PFPE-based requirements, life issues, and so forth). It is strongly recom-
greases, cost is high. Also, availability of MAC lubricants is mended that each user fully evaluate greases for acceptability
currently limited due to its sole source supply. in their specific application and under conditions duplicating
6.3 Summary: the system environment as closely as possible. Grease selection
6.3.1 Thirty-eight commercially available greases selected should be made only after successful performances in system
for evaluation in this program are listed in Table 1. Most of tests have been demonstrated.
these greases are currently used in precision bearing applica-
tions. These greases mentioned are for information purposes 7. Keywords
only and do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation 7.1 ball bearings; ester oil; instrument and precision bearing
of a particular grease by ASTM Committee F34. The testing lubricants; mineral oil; perfluoropolyether oil; polyalphaole-
protocol showing the tests conducted and laboratories used are fins; silicon oil; pennzane; thickener; lubricating grease

ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. PROPERTIES OF BASE OILS FOR LUBRICATING GREASES

A1.1 Lubricating greases are comprised of two basic struc- A1.2.3.5 Most paints are compatible.
tural components: a base oil and a thickening agent. In the A1.2.3.6 Cost-effective.
selection of proper lubricating grease for a given operating
A1.2.4 Disadvantages:
condition, it is necessary to know the characteristics of the base
oil. Therefore, the main properties of the base oils that are part A1.2.4.1 These oils age and oxidize at temperatures above
of this guide will be discussed. It is also recommended that a approximately 100°C and form resins, carbonaceous deposits,
review of the material safety data sheet be included in the and so forth.
selection process of a lubricant. This will allow an assessment A1.2.4.2 Viscosity index is lower than that of most synthetic
of the health/handling risks associated with a particular grease. fluids (that is, viscosity changes more rapidly with tempera-
ture).
A1.2 Mineral Oils A1.2.4.3 Oils normally used in instrument bearings have a
A1.2.1 Use—Multipurpose lubricant for large rolling ele- relatively lower vapor pressure than mineral oils.
ment bearings, engines, gears, and so forth. These oils can be A1.2.4.4 Not miscible with silicones and perfluoropo-
blended with polyalphaolefins (PAOs) or esters to improve lyethers.
their lubricity and temperature-viscosity characteristics. A1.2.4.5 Usually is not preferred in applications where
temperatures lie outside of the range from -30 to 100°C.10
A1.2.2 Structure—Due to the origin and the treatment of the
base stocks, the formulated oils exhibit different chemical A1.3 Polyalphaolefins (PAOs)
compositions and variations in their properties.
A1.3.1 Use—The PAO oils are used to lubricate rolling
A1.2.3 Advantages: element bearings in guidance systems, gimbals, gyros, and so
A1.2.3.1 Available in a wide range of viscosity grades. forth. PAOs are used as base oils for PREB lubricants,
A1.2.3.2 Excellent lubricity. especially for wide temperature and high-speed applications.
A1.2.3.3 Additives can improve performance (antioxidants,
corrosion protection, antiwear and EP properties, and so forth).
A1.2.3.4 Most sealing materials are compatible (little swell- 10
This temperature limit is only a general guideline. Individual mineral oils may
ing or shrinking). perform at temperature limits significantly different from this.

9
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
A1.3.2 Structure—PAOs, that is, synthetic paraffinic fluids, A1.5 Silicones
are primarily straight chain, saturated hydrocarbons. The PAOs A1.5.1 Use—Silicones are used as lubricants for extremely
differ in chain length, the degree of branching and in the low temperature (down to -75°C) applications. They may also
position of the branches. A higher degree of saturation of the be used for high temperature (up to 220°C) applications under
PAO molecules increases their thermo-oxidative stability. light loads.
A1.3.3 Advantages: A1.5.2 Structure—There are three classes:
A1.3.3.1 Available in a wide range of viscosity grades. A1.5.2.1 Polydimethylsilicones have a linear chain structure
A1.3.3.2 High thermal and oxidative stability. with methyl groups.
A1.3.3.3 Low evaporation rates. A1.5.2.2 Polyphenylmethylsilicones (siloxanes) have a lin-
A1.3.3.4 Excellent viscosity-temperature behavior. ear chain structure with methyl and phenyl groups. Siloxanes
A1.3.3.5 Resistant against hydrolysis. with a high ratio of phenyl to methyl groups show a decrease
A1.3.3.6 High viscosity grades are compatible with most in evaporation and low temperature properties over that exhib-
sealing materials and paints. ited by the polydimethylsilicones. Siloxanes also show an
A1.3.3.7 Fully miscible with mineral oils and esters. improvement in thermal and oxidative stability and in surface
A1.3.3.8 A full range of additives is available. tension properties.
A1.5.2.3 Fluorinated silicones have a branched structure
A1.3.4 Disadvantages: based on perfluoroalkyl groups. Fluids having a branched chain
A1.3.4.1 Low viscosity grades may shrink/swell sealing structure exhibit better load-carrying capacity.
materials. A1.5.3 Advantages:
A1.3.4.2 Not miscible with silicones and perfluoropo- A1.5.3.1 Available in a wide viscosity range.
lyethers. A1.5.3.2 Polydimethylsilicones along with the linear per-
A1.3.4.3 More costly than mineral oils. fluoropolyethers exhibit the best viscosity-temperature behav-
ior of all lubricating oils.
A1.4 Esters
A1.5.3.3 Excellent low temperature properties.
A1.4.1 Use—These fluids are used for lubrication of PREB. A1.5.3.4 Low evaporation rates.
They serve as a base oil for low-temperature and high-speed A1.5.3.5 Compatible with almost all plastics and sealing
lubricants. materials with the exception of those based on silicones.
A1.4.2 Structure—Diesters are esters usually based on A1.5.3.6 Good damping properties.
lower molecular weight branched-chain alcohols reacted with A1.5.4 Disadvantages:
C4 to C10 aliphatic acids (usually forming azelates and seba- A1.5.4.1 Low surface tension (high tendency to spread and
cates). The polyolesters are synthesized from the alcohols creep with the exception of the polyphenylmethylsilicones).
trimethyl propane (TMP) or pentaerythritol and C4 to C8 acids. A1.5.4.2 Very poor lubricity.
A1.4.3 Advantages: A1.5.4.3 Can polymerize to glassy materials at elevated
A1.4.3.1 Excellent low-temperature characteristics. temperatures and under medium to heavy loads.
A1.4.3.2 Suitable for high-temperature applications up to A1.5.4.4 Not miscible with mineral oils, polyalphaolefins,
150°C. esters, and perfluoropolyethers.
A1.5.4.5 Difficult to remove by solvents.
A1.4.3.3 Excellent lubricity.
A1.5.4.6 Can decompose in electrical arcs (electrical con-
A1.4.3.4 Able to dissolve a wide concentration range of
tacts) forming abrasive deposits.
most additives.
A1.4.3.5 Low evaporation rates for some diesters and most A1.6 Perfluorolpolyethers (Perfluorinated Alkyl Ethers)
polyol esters. (acronyms–PFPE, PFAE)
A1.4.3.6 High thermal and oxidative stability. A1.6.1 Use—These fluids are used as the base oil for
A1.4.3.7 Miscible with mineral oils, polyalphaolefins, and high-temperature and oxygen-resistant lubricants. Both linear
polyphenylmethylsilicones. and branched-chain perfluoropolyethers are available. The
A1.4.4 Disadvantages: linear PFPEs are primarily used for vacuum and space appli-
A1.4.4.1 Only available in low to medium viscosity grades. cations due to their very low vapor pressures or where use at
A1.4.4.2 May shrink/swell some sealing materials such as very low temperatures is required.
BUNA-N, NBR, and EPDM elastomers. A1.6.2 Structure—These materials are long chain
A1.4.4.3 May interact with paint and other polymeric coat- polyethers containing fully fluorinated alkyl groups. The fluo-
ings. rocarbon subunits may have a linear or branched-chain struc-
A1.4.4.4 Can hydrolyze under humid conditions that may ture or a mixture of these two subunits.
cause corrosion. A1.6.3 Advantages:
A1.4.4.5 Not miscible with polydimethylsilicones and per- A1.6.3.1 Extraordinary high thermal and oxidative resis-
fluoropolyethers. tance.
A1.4.4.6 More costly than mineral oils. A1.6.3.2 High resistance to chemical attack.

10
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
A1.6.3.3 Wide operating temperature range. The operating A1.6.4.9 Can deposit monolayer films of PFPE species that
temperature range depends upon the base oil viscosity and are difficult to remove by solvents. The monolayer films will
molecular structure (that is, straight chain or branched). make bearing surfaces unwettable.
A1.6.3.4 Very low vapor pressure and evaporation rate. The A1.6.4.10 High cost, especially for linear PFPEs.
evaporating rate is dependent strictly upon the molecular
weight and molecular structure. All products are sold with a A1.7 MAC (Trade name: Pennzane)
wide range of viscosities and therefore molecular weights. A1.7.1 Use—These fluids are suitable as the base oil for
PFPEs with a linear structure have significantly lower vapor greases used in space applications such as high vacuum/low
pressures than their branched-chain counterparts. vapor pressure environment.
A1.6.3.5 Medium to excellent viscosity-temperature behav- A1.7.2 Structure—This material is a part of the multiply-
ior (linear structure–excellent, branched structure–medium). alkylated cyclopentane family. It contains multiple alky groups
A1.6.3.6 Compatible with sealing materials, plastics, and on the cyclopentadiene ring.
paints.
A1.7.3 Advantages:
A1.6.4 Disadvantages: A1.7.3.1 Low volatility and low vapor pressure.
A1.6.4.1 Low surface tension (spreading, creeping).
A1.7.3.2 Good lubricity.
A1.6.4.2 Common lubricant additives are not soluble in
A1.7.3.3 Wide operating temperature range.
these materials. Today, there are a number of soluble additives
A1.7.3.4 The viscosity of fluid does not change much with
available for these greases, but experience with them is limited.
temperature due to the high viscosity index (but not as high as
A1.6.4.3 Poor corrosion protection for greases with no
the linear PFPE oils).
corrosion protection additives.
A1.7.3.5 Compatible with conventional oil additive chem-
A1.6.4.4 Tribo-catalytic breakdown of the oil can occur,
istries.
especially in steel rolling element bearings under high loads
A1.7.3.6 Low infrared absorbance.
where fresh metal exposed by wear can occur. This catalytic
A1.7.3.7 Excellent chemical stability in vacuum environ-
breakdown can also occur when in contact with aluminum,
ments.
magnesium, or titanium alloys.
A1.7.3.8 High surface tension.
A1.6.4.5 Not miscible with other base stocks: mineral oils,
esters, PAOs, silicones, and so forth. A1.7.4 Disadvantages:
A1.6.4.6 High density (approximately 1.9 g/ml). The same A1.7.4.1 Water stability problem.
volume of grease will require twice the weight. A1.7.4.2 Low load-carrying capacity.
A1.6.4.7 Poor boundary lubrication properties for greases A1.7.4.3 Poor oxidation stability.
with no anti-wear or extreme pressure additives. A1.7.4.4 High cost.
A1.6.4.8 May cause insulating films at electrical contacts. A1.7.4.5 Marginal low temperature capabilities.

A2. PROPERTIES OF THICKENERS FOR LUBRICATING GREASES

A2.1 Thickener is the term describing the ingredients added A2.2.2.1 Clarity and virtual transparency, if made from light
to a base oil in order to thicken it into a grease structure. The colored oils.
two basic types of thickeners are organic and inorganic. A2.2.2.2 Smooth texture.
Organic thickeners can be either soap based or non-soap based, A2.2.2.3 A substantially anhydrous product.
while inorganic thickeners are non-soap based. Simple soaps A2.2.2.4 Insolubility in water.
are formed with combinations of a fatty acid or ester with an A2.2.2.5 Upper operation temperature is around 79°C, al-
alkali earth metal, reacted with the application of heat, pressure though dropping point exceeds 110°C.
or agitation through a process known as saponification. The A2.2.2.6 Generates more torque and are more difficult to
fiber structure provided by the metal soap determines the pump than corresponding products made from other soaps.
mechanical stability and physical properties of the finished A2.2.2.7 Shear stability is poor.
grease. In order to take on enhanced performance A2.2.2.8 Oxidation stability is excellent.
characteristics, including higher dropping points, complexing A2.2.2.9 Rust protection is good.
agent (that is, acetate, azelate, sebacate, and so forth) is added A2.2.2.10 Incompatible with other types of soap.
to the soap thickener to convert it to a soap salt complex
thickener. A2.3 Sodium Soap

A2.2 Aluminum Soap A2.3.1 Source—Sodium hydroxide reacts with fats and fatty
acids to make sodium soaps.
A2.2.1 Source—Aluminum stearates.
A2.3.2 Characteristics:
A2.2.2 Characteristics: A2.3.2.1 Sensitive to water.

11
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
A2.3.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 121°C. A2.7.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 177°C
Although dropping point exceeds 177°C, its upper operation and dropping point is over 260°C.
temperature is limited by oxidation and bleed as well as A2.7.2.3 Shear stability is excellent.
softening. A2.7.2.4 Oxidation stability is good.
A2.3.2.3 Low temperature pumpability and torque are ad- A2.7.2.5 Water resistance is good.
versely affected by the fibrous texture of the soap. A2.7.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by
A2.3.2.4 Shear stability is satisfactory. additives.
A2.3.2.5 Oxidation stability can be improved with addi- A2.7.2.7 Incompatible with other types of thickeners.
tives.
A2.3.2.6 Rust problem due to its poor water resistance. A2.8 Calcium Complex Soap
A2.3.2.7 Thermal stability is good. A2.8.1 Source—Calcium stearate with salt calcium acetate
makes calcium complex soaps.
A2.4 Calcium Soap (Hydrated)
A2.8.2 Characteristics:
A2.4.1 Source—Hydrated lime reacts with fatty acids to A2.8.2.1 Load-carrying and antiwear properties are excel-
make calcium soaps. lent.
A2.4.2 Characteristics: A2.8.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 177°C
A2.4.2.1 Smooth and buttery texture. and dropping point is over 260°C.
A2.4.2.2 Poor thermal stability due to the water hydration. A2.8.2.3 Shear stability is excellent.
A2.4.2.3 Upper operational temperature is around 79°C, A2.8.2.4 Oxidation stability is good.
although dropping point is over 96°C. A2.8.2.5 Water resistance is good.
A2.4.2.4 Shear stability is fair. A2.8.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by
A2.4.2.5 Oxidation stability is poor. additives.
A2.4.2.6 Water resistance is very good. A2.8.2.7 Products tend to become firm in storage when use
A2.4.2.7 Rust protection is poor. a high = thickener – content.

A2.5 Calcium Soap (Anhydrous) A2.9 Lithium Complex Soap

A2.5.1 Source—Lime reacts with 12-hydroxystearic acid to A2.9.1 Source—Lithium 12-hydroxystrearic acid and com-
make anhydrous calcium soaps. plexing agent such dibasic acid or dimethyl ester makes lithium
complex soaps.
A2.5.2 Characteristics:
A2.9.2 Characteristics:
A2.5.2.1 Smooth, a buttery texture.
A2.9.2.1 Smooth texture and stable to heating.
A2.5.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 110°C
A2.9.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 177°C
and its dropping point is around 140°C.
and dropping point is over 260 °C.
A2.5.2.3 Water resistance is excellent.
A2.9.2.3 Shear stability is excellent.
A2.5.2.4 Shear stability is good.
A2.9.2.4 Oxidation stability is good.
A2.5.2.5 Oxidation resistance is acceptable.
A2.9.2.5 Water resistance is good.
A2.5.2.6 Rust protection is poor. A2.9.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by
A2.6 Lithium 12-Hydroxystearate Soap additives.
A2.9.2.7 Bearing performance at high temperatures is very
A2.6.1 Source—Lithium 12-hydroxystrearic acid makes good.
lithium soaps.
A2.6.2 Characteristics: A2.10 Polyurea Thickener
A2.6.2.1 Smooth texture and stable to heating. A2.10.1 Source—Amines and an isocyanate or a diisocya-
A2.6.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 135°C nate makes polyurea thickener.
and dropping point is in a range from about 177 to 204°C. A2.10.2 Characteristics:
A2.6.2.3 Shear stability is excellent. A2.10.2.1 Thermal stability is excellent.
A2.6.2.4 Oxidation stability is good. A2.10.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 177°C
A2.6.2.5 Water resistance is good. and dropping point is about 243°C.
A2.6.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by A2.10.2.3 Work stability is poor.
additives. A2.10.2.4 Oxidation stability is excellent.
A2.6.2.7 Widely available. A2.10.2.5 Water resistance is satisfactory.
A2.10.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by
A2.7 Aluminum Complex Soap additives.
A2.7.1 Source—Aluminum stearate and benzoic acid makes
aluminum complex soaps. A2.11 Organo-Clay Thickener
A2.7.2 Characteristics: A2.11.1 Source—Natural clays with amines.
A2.7.2.1 Smooth texture and stable to heating. A2.11.2 Characteristics:

12
 F2489 − 06 (2013)
A2.11.2.1 Smooth texture and stable to heating. A2.12.2 Characteristics:
A2.11.2.2 Upper operational temperature is around 177°C A2.12.2.1 White powder.
and dropping point is over 260°C. A2.12.2.2 Exceptional wide range of thermal applications
A2.11.2.3 Oil separation is low.
from -260 to 250°C.
A2.11.2.4 Oxidation stability is good.
A2.11.2.5 Water resistance is excellent. A2.12.2.3 Virtually universal chemical resistance.
A2.11.2.6 Rust protection is poor but can be improved by A2.12.2.4 Oxidation stability is excellent
additives. A2.12.2.5 Water resistance is excellent.
A2.11.2.7 Work stability is good. A2.12.2.6 Excellent sliding properties.
A2.11.2.8 Clay particle size can result in roughness in
A2.12.2.7 Non-combustible
bearing operation (high bearing noise).
A2.12.2.8 Good electric and dielectric properties.
A2.12 PTFE (polytetrafluorethylene) Thickener A2.12.2.9 Grease gell stability and oil bleed can be a
A2.12.1 Source—Polymerization of monomer TFE (tetra- problem.
fluorethylene).

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