Lithium Grease - All You Need to Know
What’s lithium grease? What’s the difference between red lithium grease and white lithium grease? What is lithium grease used for? These are common questions that people working in automotive, mining, manufacturing, and engineering ask frequently. These are understandable queries, as there are many different greases on the market, which can make it difficult to work out which one is best for what purpose. And – importantly – which is the best brand for your needs. Although two greases may look similar and cost the same, that doesn’t necessarily mean they do an equally good job. That’s why it’s important to understand what greases are and how they work. We’ve created a guide to help you cut through the jargon and find the perfect lithium grease, including the pros and cons of red vs white lithium grease.
What is grease?
Grease is a lubricant designed for moving parts that don’t need to be lubricated regularly, or where liquid oil can't stay in place, like in rolling element bearings. Grease is made up of several elements, including oil, which can make up to 90% of the total formula. Oil provides the lubricant component of grease, however, if it was inserted into a moving part it would simply leak out. That’s why the oil needs other substances to hold it, so it can be released slowly into the parts that need lubrication.
What is lithium grease?
There are three parts to grease:
- Base oil (80-90%)
- Thickener (10-15%))
- Performance additives (5-10%))
Normal grease and lithium grease – what’s the difference?
Standard greases, particularly clay-based greases, are conductive and can endure extreme pressure and high heat. Industrial-grade greases are typically tailor-made to suit different industries. Lithium grease, on the other hand, is a widely used grease that combines the properties of two or more specialized greases. CRC Red Lithium Grease, for example, is a multi-purpose grease that can withstand extreme pressures and temperature ranges. It is formulated with anti-oxidation, anti-rust, and anti-wear additives and is a highly versatile grease for use in automotive and industrial settings. CRC White Lithium Grease, is a high-purity white lithium-based grease with an advanced additive package for long-lasting lubrication, excellent water and heat resistance, corrosion protection, and film strength. It’s ideal for lubricating hard-to-reach areas through its aerosol application.
Benefits of lithium grease
There are three main benefits to using lithium grease:
- Lubrication: The lithium grease gets to work right away to coat components after it's applied. This creates a smooth glide and a smoother movement, which helps keep friction heat down.
- Longevity: Lithium grease is long-lasting. This reduces the amount of maintenance and repeated applications you have to make.
- Viscosity: Lithium grease can have a thicker viscosity, which helps it stick better to where it's applied. This provides a better coat of grease, with fewer runs and drips.
Types of lithium grease
The most common types of lithium grease are red lithium grease and white lithium grease. The main difference between the two is the ingredients used to make them. White lithium grease has zinc oxide added to the formulation and it is designed for use in moderate load applications. It also stands out because it has a more visually appealing white colour. It can be used in industrial and household applications, and it isn’t recommended for use in wheel bearings. Red lithium complex grease contains performance additives that provide extreme pressure, oxidation, rust and corrosion protection. It also has excellent sealing properties, which helps protect bearings against corrosion and the ingress of water, dust, and abrasive particles.
