Bearing grease added with graphite

Regardless of the type of machine, it is vitally important that bearings function properly. These are mechanical elements that reduce friction between a shaft and the parts connected to it through bearings.

Their main functions are to support and facilitate the movement of the other parts, so the correct lubrication of the bearings is very important.

This choice will avoid the direct contact of the metals that form the bearing, avoiding wear and protecting the surfaces from corrosion and extending the life of the part.

Grease or oil?

According to the type of bearing and the requirements of the machine, it is necessary to choose between lubrication with grease or oil.

When the bearings work at high rotational speeds and have to support high loads, they should be lubricated with oil since it allows heat evacuation.

On the other hand, with bearing grease, sealing properties are obtained, surfaces are protected against corrosion and deposit capacity is added.

What are the benefits of graphite in bearing grease?

When powdered graphite is added to the basic grease, extreme pressure resistance properties are achieved; friction of the bearing parts and, consequently, wear is greatly reduced.

Some of the benefits of these greases are that they seal the bearings against the ingress of contaminants from the outside. Particularly when operating in humid environments. In addition, good anti-rust and anti-seize levels are achieved.

This type of calcium-based bearing grease is widely used in automotive and industrial applications because of its high resistance to moisture and water washout. Due to their graphite content, they are classified as pasty consistency lubricants.

It is important to mention that dry lubrication with graphite powders and materials is appropriate at extremely high temperatures, which few lubricants can withstand, for example, in the metallurgical industry.

For these cases, graphite is used, a material that functions as a lubricant at temperatures above 500°C. In some variants, dry lubricants are combined with oil or grease additives that can withstand high temperatures. Combining graphite with greases and oils gives lubricating properties above their counterparts without this additive.

How is it applied?

In a free space around the rolling elements and raceways, the graphitized grease solution is injected. This allows the distribution of the graphitized lubricant inside the machine.

When put into operation, the self-lubricating graphite particles and the grease vehicle create a thin film on the raceways and rolling elements, which prevents metal-to-metal contact on the parts.

If you would like to know more about other applications of graphite for the industrial sector, contact us at this link for more information.

Limitations to consider

Performance depends on graphite grade, grain orientation, temperature, load, pressure, speed, and operating environment. Material selection should be confirmed for your actual process conditions.

Information needed for a quote

To guide selection or prepare a quote, ESGRAF typically needs:

• Application and operating conditions (temperature, atmosphere, load).
• Dimensions, technical drawing, or CAD file when applicable.
• Required quantity.
• Requested grade or material currently in use.
• Observed issue with the previous part or lubricant, if any.

Request a quote

Share these details with our team at ESGRAF or request information. A specialist will review your application before recommending a grade or geometry.