Industrial Lubricants

oogle_ad_section_start -->graphite, or boron nitride. Typically, solid lubricants are
Most of us use types of industrial lubricants regularly -particularly effective when it comes to keeping out
if you apply some oil to a squeaky hinge, you are usingmoisture as well as reducing general wear and tear.
a lubricant. Of course, many industrial uses of lubricantsDepending on your needs, you may want to choose a
are much more complex than that; many industries canlubricant with a specific feature or characteristic. Some
use a large amount of lubricants on a regular basis.industrial lubricants are biodegradable, fire resistant or
There are several different types of lubricants that areoxidation inhibiting. Many are also odorless and
typically used in industry, although the basic purpose ofcolorless.
the product is the same - to ensure that moving partsMost synthetic fluids offer excellent cooling properties
operate more smoothly and to reduce friction. Usingand fire resistance, making them particularly versatile.
the right lubricant can reduce the need for unscheduledSynthetic fluids can be used in a diluted form, with
maintenance; help to prolong the life of machineconcentrations generally ranging from 3% to 10%.
components - and ultimately save money.Certain industries need certain lubricants - lubricants
Industrial lubricants also vary a great deal in terms ofused in the food industry are specifically designed to
chemical composition - some contain silicon-basedbe safe if they come into contact with food. Food
fluids, some mineral or petroleum oils, while others mayprocessing plants in particular need a lubricant that
contain natural oils. Some contain high water contentoffers this feature.
and are known as HWCF fluids. Typically, this type ofAn important feature of lubricants is the kinematic
fluid has a high level of heat resistance and alsoviscosity - the time that it takes for an amount of fluid
accelerates the cooling process.to flow through a tube of certain size. Viscosity - or
One of the biggest decisions when it comes toflow - is measured at two different temperatures - 100
choosing a lubricant is deciding between liquid or solid.degrees F and 210 degrees F.
Liquid or fluid lubricants would include such things as oils,Some lubricants use additives so that they can
refrigerants and coolants. An example of this would bewithstand a heavy weight or a rapid movement.
the coolant in the radiator in your car bonnet. SomeSo-called extreme pressure (EP) lubricants use
lubricants can also be diluted with differing amounts ofchemical additives which help to provide an effective
water if necessary.film layer for heavy-duty work.
An example of a solid lubricant that's widely usedThe world of lubricants is constantly changing and new
would be a compound such as hexagonal flakeadvances are made almost daily.