GREASE SELECTION GUIDE UAE
Grease Selection Guide UAE
Selecting the right grease is critical for bearing life and equipment reliability. Learn about NLGI grades, thickener types, and applications from DANA Lubes experts.
Understanding Grease
Grease is essentially oil held in a sponge-like structure (thickener). It provides lubrication where oil would leak away, seals out contaminants, and stays in place under gravity or centrifugal force. In UAE’s harsh conditions, the right grease prevents bearing failures, reduces maintenance costs, and extends equipment life.
NLGI Consistency Grades
The NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) grade measures grease hardness/consistency. Lower numbers = softer grease; higher numbers = harder grease.
| NLGI Grade | Consistency | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| NLGI 000 | Very fluid | Centralized systems, extreme cold |
| NLGI 00 | Fluid | Centralized systems, gearboxes |
| NLGI 0 | Semi-fluid | Centralized systems, large bearings |
| NLGI 1 | Soft | Low-temperature, centralized systems |
| NLGI 2 | Standard | Most common: automotive, industrial bearings, chassis |
| NLGI 3 | Firm | High-temperature, high-load, vertical shafts |
Grease Thickener Types
Lithium Complex
Best for: General-purpose, automotive chassis, wheel bearings, industrial bearings
Temperature Range: -20°C to +160°C
Benefits: Multi-purpose, good water resistance, widely available
DANA Product: EP 2 Lithium Grease
Calcium Sulfonate
Best for: Marine applications, wet environments, heavy equipment
Temperature Range: -20°C to +180°C
Benefits: Excellent water resistance, extreme pressure, rust protection
DANA Product: Calcium Sulfonate Complex Grease
Polyurea (Synthetic)
Best for: High-temperature, electric motors, steel mills, long-life applications
Temperature Range: -30°C to +200°C
Benefits: Excellent high-temp stability, long life, no metallic ash
DANA Product: Synthetic Polyurea Grease
Aluminum Complex
Best for: Food processing, pharmaceutical, water-resistant applications
Temperature Range: -20°C to +150°C
Benefits: Good water resistance, smooth texture, food-safe options
DANA Product: Aluminum Complex Grease
Common Grease Applications
| Application | Recommended Grease | NLGI Grade | DANA Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Automotive Wheel Bearings | Lithium Complex EP | NLGI 2 | EP 2 Lithium Grease |
| Chassis & Suspension | Lithium Complex EP | NLGI 2 | EP 2 Lithium Grease |
| Electric Motors | Polyurea or Lithium | NLGI 2 | Electric Motor Grease |
| Construction Equipment | Calcium Sulfonate | NLGI 2 | Construction Equipment Grease |
| Steel Mill Bearings | Polyurea Synthetic | NLGI 2-3 | High-Temp Polyurea Grease |
| Marine/Wet Environments | Calcium Sulfonate | NLGI 2 | Marine Grease |
| Open Gears & Wire Rope | Adhesive/Asphaltic | NLGI 00-0 | Open Gear Grease |
Critical: Don’t Mix Greases
WARNING: Never mix greases with different thickener types. Mixing lithium and calcium greases, for example, causes softening, oil separation, and complete lubrication failure. If switching grease types, completely purge the old grease and clean the bearing housing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I re-grease bearings?
Re-greasing intervals depend on bearing type, speed, temperature, and operating conditions. As a general rule: electric motors every 2,000-4,000 hours, automotive chassis every 10,000-15,000 km, construction equipment daily to weekly. Consult equipment manuals or DANA’s technical team for specific intervals.
What’s the difference between EP and regular grease?
EP (Extreme Pressure) grease contains additives that protect under heavy loads and shock loading. Regular grease is for lighter applications. Use EP grease for wheel bearings, chassis joints, construction equipment, and any application with high loads or shock.
Can I use the same grease for everything?
A quality NLGI 2 lithium complex EP grease covers 80% of applications. However, extreme temperatures (above 160°C or below -30°C), wet environments, or specialized equipment may require specific grease types. DANA’s technical team can help you consolidate to minimize grease types while maintaining protection.
Need Grease Recommendations?
DANA’s technical team provides free grease selection guidance for UAE industries.