Do you have lubricant for fifth wheels and heavy equipment?

Yes. Graphited greases and oils for fifth wheels, agricultural machinery, rail, and equipment exposed to dust, load, and moisture where a solid film matters.

Where exactly is the lubrication applied?

On the rail gauge face that rubs against the flange, not on the running surface. The distinction is critical: the running surface needs adhesion for traction and braking, and must stay free of lubricant.

Why lubricate only on curves?

Because that is where the flange contacts the rail laterally under high load. On straight track that contact does not occur significantly, so lubrication adds nothing and would risk reaching the running surface.

What is the advantage over conventional grease?

A solid film is more durable under load and is less lost to weather, which reduces replenishment and track contamination. The specific application must follow the operating procedures.

Graphite lubricant applied to a railway rail and plate

Lubrication applications

Railway lubrication

Reduces friction in moving components of trains and heavy transport systems.

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Wheel-rail contact lubrication

Also known as: Graphite rail lubricant · Flange and rail lubrication · Track lubrication · Solid railway lubricant

[ Technical summary ]

On curves, the wheel flange rubs against the rail gauge face under very high load, and that contact governs the wear of both elements and the characteristic curve noise. Lubrication seeks to reduce friction on that flank only, without affecting the running surface where adhesion is needed for traction and braking. Graphite offers a durable solid film that holds under that load and under weather exposure.

[ Problem it solves ]

Reduce wear and noise at the flange-to-rail contact on curves without compromising adhesion on the running surface, which traction and braking depend on.

Processes

Rail/flange lubrication
Wheel-rail contact

Operating conditions

Outdoor operation

When it is suitable

Lateral rail wear concentrates on curves
Rubbing noise appears when passing through curves
Liquid lubrication is lost to the weather
Grease contamination along the track needs reducing

When it may not be suitable

The product could reach the running surface and affect adhesion
The railway operating standard does not contemplate that product
Wear comes from track geometry outside tolerance

Process challenges

Rail and flange wear
Noise
Environmental contamination from greases

Advantages

Durable lubrication
Good load behavior
Controlled application options

Limitations

Not a hydrodynamic oil lubricant
May stain light-colored surfaces
Performance depends on surface preparation and reapplication

[ Critical selection variables ]

These variables define the grade and the geometry. Actual values are confirmed against the grade datasheet.

Load and its distributionDecisive
Application methodDecisive
Counterface material and finishDecisive
Humidity and ambient conditionsRelevant
Reapplication frequencyRelevant
Sliding speedRelevant

[ Required material properties ]

Properties that guide selection. Numerical values come from each grade's datasheet.

Critical properties

Lubricating film formation
Friction coefficient
Self-lubrication
Compressive strength

Secondary properties

Wear resistance
Chemical resistance

[ Related ]

[ Frequently asked questions ]

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Technical content reviewed by ESGRAF — Last reviewed: September 8, 2026

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