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Chapter 13
Lubricant Specifications and Selection

13-1. Introduction

Proper selection of a lubricant depends on understanding the lubricating regime (i.e., film, mixed,
boundary), established conventions of classifications, and an ability to interpret and apply the producer’s
product data specifications to the equipment. Without this background, it is impossible to make an
informed selection or substitution.

13-2. Lubricant Classification

Professional societies and organizations have established classifications for oil and grease. The most
widely encountered systems are those of the following organizations:

! SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers)

! API (American Petroleum Institute)

! AGMA (American Gear Manufacturers Association),

! ISO (International Standards Organization)

! NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute).

a. Oil classification. Oil is normally classified by viscosity grade, additives, use, or by the producer's
brand name. Some oils are classified as nonspecialized industrial oils.

(1) Classification by viscosity grade. Classification according to viscosity is the most prevalent
method of describing oils, and the most common classification systems are those of the SAE, AGMA, and
ISO. Each organization uses a different kinematic viscosity range numbering system.

(2) Classification by additives.

(a) Oil may be further classified according to the additives included in the oil to enhance its
performance properties as follows:

! Inhibited or RO (rust and oxidation inhibited)

! AW (antiwear)

! EP (extreme pressure)

! Compounded

! Residual.

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The first three classes are discussed throughout this manual and require no further explanation; they
contain the indicated additives. Compounded oil contains from 3 to 10 percent fatty or synthetic fatty oils.
It is also called steam cylinder oil. The added fat reduces the coefficient of friction in situations where an
extreme amount of sliding friction occurs. A very common application is in worm gear systems. Com-
pounded oil may be composed of either a normal mineral oil or a residual oil, depending on the desired
viscosity.

(b) Residual compounds are heavy-grade straight mineral oils or EP oils. These compounds are
normally mixed with a diluent to increase ease of application. After application, the diluent evaporates,
leaving a heavy adhesive lubricant coating. Residuals are often used for open-gear applications where
tackiness is required to increase adhesion. This type of heavy oil should not be confused with grease.
Residual oil with lower viscosity is also used in many closed-gear systems. Compounded oil may contain
residual oil if the desired viscosity is high.

(3) Classification according to use. This system of classification arises because refining additives and
type of petroleum (paraffinic or naphthenic) may be varied to provide desirable qualities for a given
application. Some of the more common uses are:

! Compressor oils (air, refrigerant).

! Engine oils (automotive, aircraft, marine, commercial).

! Quench oils (used in metal working).

! Cutting oils (coolants for metal cutting).

! Turbine oils.

! Gear oils.

! Insulating oils (transformers and circuit breakers).

! Way oils.

! Wire rope lubricants.

! Chain lubricants.

! Hydraulic oils.

(4) Nonspecialized industrial oil. This classification includes oils that are not formulated for a specific
application and are frequently referred to as “general purpose oil” in the manufacturer’s product literature.
These oils are generally divided into two categories: general purpose and EP gear oils.

(a) General purpose oils. General purpose oils contain R&O additives, AW agents, antifoamants, and
demulsifiers. They may be used in mechanical applications where a specialized oil is not required. Their
ISO viscosity ranges from about 32 to around 460. These oils are often referred to as R&O oils or
hydraulic oils although they may contain other additives and are not intended exclusively for hydraulic use.

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Some of these oils are more highly refined and provide longer life and better performance than others.
These are usually referred to as “turbine oils” or premium grades. Although used in turbines, the name
“turbine oil” does not mean their use is restricted to turbines, but refers to the quality of the oil.

(b) EP gear oils. These oils generally have a higher viscosity range, from about ISO grade 68 to
around 1500, and may be regarded as general purpose oils with EP additives. Although commonly used in
gear systems, these oils can be used in any application where their viscosity range and additives are
required. Gear oils should not be confused with SAE gear oils that are specially formulated for automotive
applications; automotive oils are not discussed in this manual.

(5) Producer brand names. Oil producers often identify their products by names that may or may not
be connected with standard classifications. For example, a name such as Jo-Lube 1525, a product of Jonell
Oil, tells nothing of its class. However, Conoco's Dectol R&O Oil 32 indicates that it is an R&O oil with
an ISO viscosity of 32. Regardless of how much information may be implied by the brand name, it is
insufficient to select a lubricant. A user must refer to the producer’s information brochures to determine
the intended use, additives, and specifications.

(6) Oil producer’s product data and specifications

(a) Product data. Oil producers publish product information in brochures, pamphlets, handbooks, or
on the product container or packaging. Although the amount of information varies, it generally includes the
intended use, the additives (AW, EP, R&O, etc.), oil type (i.e., paraffinic, naphthenic, synthetic,
compounded, etc.), and the specifications. Some producers may identify the product by its usage
classification such as those noted above, or they may simply note the machinery class where the product
can be used. Often, both methods of identification are used. Intended use designations can be misleading.
For example, fact sheets for three different oils by the same producer indicate that the oils can be used for
electric motors and general purpose applications. However, all three are not suitable for every application
of this equipment. One oil contains no oxidation inhibitors and is intended for use where the oil is
frequently replaced. The second is an R&O oil with the usual antifoaming and demulsifying agents. AW
agents are also included. The third is a turbine oil similar to the second except that the refining method and
additive package provide greater protection. One turbine viscosity grade, ISO 32, is treated to resist the
effects of hydrogen used as a coolant in generators. Failure to notice these differences when evaluating the
data can lead to incorrect application of these lubricants. Producers do not usually list additives. Instead,
they indicate characteristics such as good antiwear qualities, good water resistance, or good oxidation
resistance. These qualities are not inherent in oil or contained in sufficient quantities to provide the degree
of protection necessary. Therefore, the user is safe in assuming that the appropriate agent has been added
to obtain the given quality. Product literature also gives the oil type (i.e., paraffinic, naphthenic, residual
compounded, or synthetic).

(b) Producer specifications. Producer specifications amount to a certification that the product meets
or exceeds listed physical characteristics in terms of specific test values. The magnitude of chemical
impurities may also be given. Producers vary somewhat in the amount of information in their
specifications. However, kinematic viscosity (centistokes) at 40 and 100 EC (104 and 212 EF ), SUS
(saybolt viscosity) at 37 and 98 EC (100 and 210 EF ), API gravity, pour point, and flash point are
generally listed. Other physical and chemical measurements may also be given if they are considered to
influence the intended use.

b. Grease classifications.

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(1) Characteristics. Grease is classified by penetration number and by type of soap or other thickener.
Penetration classifications have been established by NLGI and are given in Chapter 5. ASTM D 217 and
D 1403 are the standards for performing penetration tests. A penetration number indicates how easily a
grease can be fed to lubricated surfaces (i.e., pumpability) or how well it remains in place. Although no
method exists to classify soap thickeners, the producer indicates which soap is in the product. The type of
soap thickener indicates probable water resistance and maximum operating temperature and gives some
indication of pumpability. Although these are important factors, they are not the only ones of interest.
These simple classifications should be regarded as starting requirements to identify a group of appropriate
grease types. The final selection must be made on the basis of other information provided in the producer's
specifications. Viscosity of the oil included in a grease must also be considered.

(2) Producer’s product data for grease. Producers also provide information and specifications for
grease in brochures, pamphlets, handbooks, or on the product container or packaging. Grease
specifications normally include soap thickener, penetration, included oil viscosity, and dropping point. The
producer may also include ASTM test information on wear, loading, lubrication life, water washout,
corrosion, oil separation, and leakage. Grease additives are not usually stated except for solid additives
such as molybdenum disulfide or graphite, or that an EP additive is included. If EP or solid additives are
used, the producer will often state this emphatically and the product name may indicate the additive.

13-3. Principles of Selection

a. Manufacturer recommendations.

(1) The prime considerations are film thickness and wear. Although film thickness can be calculated,
the wear properties associated with different lubricants are more difficult to assess. Lubricants are
normally tested by subjecting them to various types of physical stress. However, these tests do not
completely indicate how a lubricant will perform in service. Experience has probably played a larger role
than any other single criterion. Through a combination of testing and experience, machine manufacturers
have learned which classes of lubricants will perform well in their products.

(2) Professional societies have established specifications and classifications for lubricants to be used in
a given mechanical application. For example, AGMA has established standard specifications for enclosed
and open-gear systems. These specifications have been developed from the experience of the association’s
membership for a wide range of applications. Thus, any manufacturer has access to the collective
knowledge of many contributors.

(3) It should be noted that the equipment manufacturer's recommendation should not necessarily be
considered the best selection. Individual manufacturers may have different opinions based on their
experience and equipment design. The concept of “best” lubricant is ambiguous because it is based on
opinion. Despite this ambiguity, the manufacturer is probably in the best position to recommend a
lubricant. This recommendation should be followed unless the lubricant fails to perform satisfactorily.
When poor performance is evident, the manufacturer should be consulted for additional recommendations.
This is especially critical if the equipment is still under warranty.

(4) Although some manufacturers may recommend a specific brand name, they can usually provide a
list of alternative lubricants that also meet the operating requirements for their equipment. One of the
recommended lubricants should be used to avoid compromising the equipment warranty if it is still in
effect. Physical qualities (such as viscosity or penetration number), chemical qualities (such as paraffinic
or naphthenic oils), and applicable test standards are usually specified.

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b. Lubricant producer recommendations.

(1) When manufacturers recommend lubricants for their products in terms of specifications or required
qualities rather than particular brand names, the user must identify brands that meet the requirements.
Following the suggestions given in this chapter may help the user identify appropriate products. When a
user is uncertain, lubricant producers should be consulted to obtain advice on products that comply with
the required specifications.

(2) Many lubricant producers employ product engineers to assist users in selecting lubricants and to
answer technical questions. Given a manufacturer's product description, operating characteristics, unusual
operating requirements, and lubricant specification, product engineers can identify lubricants that meet the
manufacturer's specifications. Viscosity should be the equipment manufacturer’s recommended grade. If a
recommendation seems unreasonable, the user should ask for verification or consult a different lubricant
producer for a recommendation. These products will probably vary in quality and cost. The application
should dictate lubricant selection. This will help prevent the unnecessary purchase of high-priced premium
quality lubricants when they are not required.

c. User selection.

(1) The user should ensure that applicable criteria are met regardless of who makes the lubricant
selection. Selection should be in the class recommended by the machinery manufacturer (R&O, EP, AW,
etc.) and be in the same base stock category (paraffinic, naphthenic, or synthetic). Furthermore, physical
and chemical properties should be equal to or exceed those specified by the manufacturer. Generally, the
user should follow the manufacturer's specification. Additional factors to be considered are shown in
Tables 13-1, 13-2, and 13-3. Each of these tables uses different criteria that can be beneficial when the
user is selecting lubricants.

(2) If the manufacturer’s specifications are not available, determine what lubricant is currently in use.
If it is performing satisfactorily, continue to use the same brand. If the brand is not available, select a
brand with specifications equal to or exceeding the brand previously used. If the lubricant is performing
poorly, obtain the recommendation of a product engineer. If the application is critical, get several
recommendations.

(3) Generally, the user will make a selection in either of two possible situations:

! Substitute a new brand for one previously in use.

! Select a brand that meets an equipment manufacturer's specifications. This will be accomplished
by comparing producer's specifications with those of the manufacturer.

Product selection starts by using a substitution list maintained by most lubricant producers. A substitution
list usually shows the products of major producers and the equivalent or competing product by other
producers. Substitution lists are useful but they have limitations. They may not be subdivided by classes
of lubricants. Furthermore, it is difficult to do more than compare a lubricant of one producer with one
given by the publishing producer. For example, consider three producers called A, B, and C. Producer A’s
substitution list may compare B’s products with A’s, or C’s with A’s. However, B and C cannot be
compared unless A has a product equivalent to both B and C. A user would need substitution lists from
many producers to be able to effectively select more than one option. Many producers claim they do not
have a substitution list, or are reluctant to provide one. As noted in Chapter 11, the chart of

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Table 13-1
Factors Affecting Lubricant Selection

Operating Operating
Element Type Size Material Temperature Conditions Velocity Remarks

Bearings Plain, needle Shaft rev/min

roller, ball diameter

Chain drives Links; number PCD of all Chain speed

and pitch wheels and ft/min
distance
between
centers

Cocks and Plug, ball, etc. Fluid being Depends on

valves controlled properties of the
fluid

Compressors BHP, Gas Max gas rev/min

manufacturer’s temperature pressure
name

Couplings Universal or rev/min

constant
velocity

Cylinders Bore, stroke Cylinder, Combustion and Combustion Crank speed,

piston, rings exhaust gas and exhaust rev/min
temperature gas pressure

Gears Spur, worm, BHP, Radiated heat rev/min Method of

helical, distance and heat lubricant
hyperbolic between generated application
centers

Glands and Stuffing box Fluid being Depends on

seals sealed design

Hydraulic BHP Pump Hydraulic fluid Lubricant type

systems type (gear, materials ‘O’ adjusting to loss
piston vane) rings and rate
cups, etc.

Linkages Environmental Relative link

heat conditions speeds, ft/s,
angular vel.,
rad/s

Ropes Steel hawser Diameter Frequency of

use and
pollution, etc.

Slideways and Surface

guides relative
speed, ft/min

Reference: Neale, M.J., Lubrication: A Tribology Handbook. Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Oxford, England.

“Interchangeable Industrial Lubricants” and “Guide to Synthetic Lubricants” published by Plant

Engineering Magazine (PEM) can be helpful. The PEM charts correlate products of many producers. The
chart of synthetic lubricants correlates products by category (class).

(4) A substitution list or chart is valuable because it correlates the array of brand names used by
producers. Furthermore, it eliminates producers who do not have the desired product in their line. A
substitution list should be regarded as a starting point to quickly identify potential selections. The lists

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Table 13-2
Types of Additive Oil Required for Various Types of Machinery

Type of Machinery Usual Base Oil Type Usual Additives Special Requirements

Food processing Medicinal white oil None Safety in case of ingestion

Oil hydraulic Paraffinic down to about Antioxidant Minimum viscosity change with
-20 EC (-4 EF), naphthenic Antirust temperature; minimum wear of
below Antiwear steel/steel
Pour point
depressant
VI improver
Antifoam

Steam and gas turbines Paraffinic or naphthenic Antioxidant Ready separation from water,
distillates Antirust good oxidation stability

Steam engine cylinders Unrefined or refined residual or None or fatty oil Maintenance of oil film on hot
high-viscosity distillates surfaces; resistance to washing
away by wet steam

Air compressor cylinders Paraffinic or naphthenic Antioxidant Low deposit formation tendency
distillates Antirust

Gears (steel/steel) Paraffinic or naphthenic Antiwear, EP Protections against abrasion

Antioxidant and scuffing
Antifoam
Pour point
depressant

Gears (steel/bronze) Paraffinic Oiliness Reduce friction, temperature

Antioxidant rise, wear, and oxidation

Machine tool slideways Paraffinic or naphthenic Oiliness; tackiness Maintains smooth sliding at very
low speeds. Keeps film on
vertical surfaces

Hermetically sealed refrigerators Naphthenic None Good thermal stability,

miscibility with refrigerant, low
flow point

Diesel engines Paraffinic or naphthenic Detergent Vary with type of engine thus
Dispersant affecting additive combination
Antioxidant
Acid-neutralizer
Antifoam
Antiwear
Corrosion inhibitor

Reference: Neale, M.J., Lubrication: A Tribology Handbook. Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Oxford, England.

do not suggest or imply that lubricants listed as being equivalent are identical. The lists do indicate that the
two lubricants are in the name class, have the name viscosity, and are intended for the same general use.
The chart of interchangeable industrial lubricants lists the following categories:

! General purpose lubricants

! Antiwear hydraulic oil

! Spindle oil

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Table 13-3
Importance of Lubricant Properties in Relation to Bearing Type

Type of Component

Open Gears, Clock and Hinges,

Plain Journal Rolling Closed Ropes, Chains, Instrument Slides,
Lubricant Property Bearing Bearing Gears etc. Pivots Latches, etc.

1. Boundary lubricating properties 1 2 3 2 2 1

2. Cooling 2 2 3 - - -

3. Friction or torque 1 2 2 - 2 1

4. Ability to remain in bearing 1 2 - 1 3 1

5. Ability to seal out contaminants - 2 - 1 - 1

6. Temperature range 1 2 2 1 - 1

7. Protection against corrosion 1 2 - 2 - 1

8. Volatility 1 1 - 2 2 1

Note: The relative importance of each lubricant property in a particular class of component is indicated on a scale from 3 = highly
important to - = quite unimportant.
Reference: Neale, M.J., Lubrication: A Tribology Handbook. Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Oxford, England.

! Way oil

! Extreme pressure gear oil

! Worm gear oil

! Cling-type gear shield (open gears)

! General purpose extreme pressure lithium based grease

! Molybdenum disulfide extreme pressure grease.

(5) Spindle and way oils are not widely used. One of the last three classes on the list is a special
preparation for open gears and the other two are classes of grease. General purpose oils, antiwear
hydraulic oils, and EP gear oils are best described by comparison with the nonspecialized industrial oils
discussed earlier. Nonspecialized oils contain a category called general purpose oils. This term is also
used in the PEM list but it differs from the previously described general purpose oil category in that the
additives may not be the same. In some cases, brand names indicate that EP additives have been included.
In other cases, AW is indicated but not R&O. This raises the possibility that R&O additives are not
present. AW hydraulic oil is a general purpose oil, but its antiwear properties are sufficient to pass the
Vickers vane test for hydraulic applications when this is required.

(6) The EP gear oils should correspond to those described under nonspecialized industrial oils except
that EP additives are included and viscosities may be as high as ISO 2200. The EP classification of gear
oil should not be confused with the SAE gear oil classification which is for use in automotive gear systems.
SAE gear oils are formulated differently and are not discussed in this manual.

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(7) While grease preparation varies greatly among producers, only two types are given in the PEM list:
No. 2 lithium EP and molybdenum disulfide EP No. 2. These are the two most widely used industrial
greases. The name molybdenum disulfide designates lubricant type, and does not reflect the type of soap,
but the soap will usually be lithium. While both types are intended to provide extra protection against
wear, one contains EP additives and the other contains molybdenum disulfide.

(8) Lithium greases are the most widely used, but calcium, aluminum, polyurea, and sodium-calcium
are also used. Furthermore, greases ranging from NLGI 00 to No. 3 are used. Consequently, in many
cases, the PEM tables will not be useful for selecting greases.

(9) The cling-type gear shield lubricants are residual oils to which a tackiness agent has been added.
They are extremely adhesive and so viscous that solvents are added to permit application. After
application, the solvent evaporates leaving the adhesive viscous material. Some products contain no
solvent and must be heated to reduce viscosity for application.

(10) Compounded oils are not included in the list as a separate class. When this type of oil is required,
producers must be contacted directly.

(11) Ultimately, information brochures provided by the producers must be examined to verify the
following:

(a) Viscosity. The product viscosity meets the manufacturer’s recommendation or is the same as a
previously used lubricant that performed well. When a grease is considered, the viscosity of the included
oil should be the same as the previous lubricant.

(b) Intended use. The product’s intended use, as given by the producer, corresponds to the
application in which the lubricant will be used.

(c) Class of lubricant. The class of lubricant is the same as that recommended by the equipment
manufacturer or the same as a previously used lubricant that performed well. If the manufacturer
recommended an R&O, AW, or EP oil, or a No. 2 lithium grease, that is what should be used.

(d) Specification. The product specifications are equal to or better than those recommended by the
equipment manufacturer or those of a previously used lubricant that performed well.

(e) Additives. The product additives perform the required function even though they may not be
chemically identical in several possible alternative lubricants.
.
13-4. Specification Types

Current government policy encourages use and adoption of nongovernment specifications and standards
instead of developing new or updating existing federal and military specifications. Types of specifications,
in order of usage preference are: (1) Nongovernment specifications; (2) Commercial Item Descriptions; and
(3) Federal and military specifications.

a. Nongovernment. Federal and military specifications are being replaced by specifications and
industry standards developed by trade associations such as SAE, AGMA, and API and professional
private-sector organizations and technical societies such as ISO, ANSI (American National Standards
Institute), and ASTM. Nongovernment specifications and standards (NGS) should not be confused with

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lubricant producer standards. NGS promote competition and usually provide a broad base of suppliers,
whereas producer-specific standards tend to limit competition to a single supplier.

b. Commercial item description. A Commercial Item Description (CID) is an indexed, simplified

product description that describes by salient function or performance characteristics, available and
acceptable commercial products that meet the government’s needs. These items include references to
ASTM, ANSI, and other industry standards. CIDs are issued by the General Services Administration
(GSA) and are listed in the GSA “Index of Federal Specifications, Standards and Commercial Item
Descriptions.”

c. Federal and military. New Federal specifications are developed and existing specifications are
updated to establish requirements for commercial products only if specific design, performance, interface,
or other essential characteristics are not described adequately by nongovernment standards or Commercial
Item Descriptions. Federal Specifications are issued by the General Services Administration and are listed
in the GSA “Index of Federal Specifications, Standards and Commercial Item Descriptions.” New military
specifications are developed and existing specifications are updated to establish requirements for
military-unique products or commercial products that must be substantively modified to include
military-unique requirements. If a nongovernment standard exists that contains the basic technical
requirements for a product or process, it is referenced in the military specification, and the military
specification contains only those additional requirements needed by the Department of Defense. Military
specifications are issued by the Department of Defense and are listed in the “Department of Defense Index
of Specifications.”

d. Proprietary. Proprietary specifications refer to specifications owned by an oil producer or used

for acquisition of a product from a lone source.

(1) Oil producer. Some proprietary specifications contain confidential trade secrets, and are
developed and exclusively controlled by a lubricant producer. Producer specifications published in
company brochures, pamphlets, and handbooks contain nonproprietary information and are described in
subparagraph 132-a(6) Oil Producers’ Product Data and Specifications.

(2) Acquisition. Sometimes a proprietary specification is used as an acquisition method to specify a

product that is available from only one source. It identifies a product by manufacturer’s brand name,
product number, type, or other unique designation. A specification can be considered proprietary even if
brand name is not stated but the product is available from only one source. Specifying by product name is
suitable and advantageous when a specific product has proven successful or its use is specified by an
equipment manufacturer as an equipment warranty condition. Disadvantages to specifying a product by
brand name are that it eliminates competition and the purchaser may pay a premium price.

13-5. Lubricant Consolidation

a. General. Older machines tend to operate at slow speeds and light loads. These machines also
tend to have large clearances and few lubricating points. Lubrication of such older machines is not as
critical, comparatively speaking, as for modern machines that operate at higher speeds, under heavier loads,
and with closer mechanical tolerances. A common maintenance practice is to have inventories of several
types of lubricant to service both older and newer versions of similar equipment (e.g., speed reducers).
This problem is further aggravated by the different types of unrelated equipment operating at a complex
facility (e.g., turbines, speed reducers, ropes and chains, etc.), each requiring lubrication. Consolidation of
lubricants is usually undertaken to reduce inventories, storage requirements, safety and health hazards, and

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cost. Consolidation, done properly, is a rational approach to handling the lubrication requirements at a
facility while reducing the total number of lubricants in the inventory.

b. Manufacturer’s recommendations. Manufacturers may recommend lubricants by brand name or

by specifying the lubricant characteristics required for a machine. Depending on the machine, lubricant
specifications may be restrictive, or they may be general, allowing considerable latitude. Usually the
manufacturer’s warranty will be honored only if the purchaser uses the lubricants recommended by the
manufacturer. Voiding the terms of a warranty is not advisable, so the specified lubricants should be used
until the warranty has expired. After warranty expiration the machine and its lubrication requirements may
be included in the consolidation list for the facility.

c. Consolidation considerations. Consolidation of lubricants requires careful analysis and matching

of equipment requirements and lubricant properties. Factors that influence selection of lubricants include
operating conditions, viscosity, viscosity index, pour point, extreme pressure properties, oxidation
inhibitors, rust inhibitors, detergent-dispersant additives, etc. With a grease, consideration must also
include composition of the soap base, consistency, dropping point, pumpability. There are several
precautions that must be followed when consolidating lubricants.

(1) Characteristics. Consideration should be given to the most severe requirements of any of the
original and consolidated lubricants. To prevent equipment damage, the selected lubricant must also have
these same characteristics. This is true for greases.

(2) Special requirements. Applications with very specific lubricant requirements should not be
consolidated.

(3) Compatibility. Remember that some lubricant additives may not be compatible with certain metals
or seals.

d. Consolidation procedure. Consolidation may be accomplished through the services of a lubricant

producer or may be attempted by facility personnel who have knowledge of the equipment operating
characteristics and lubricating requirements, and an ability to read lubricant producer’s product data.

(1) Lubricant supplier. The preferred method for consolidating lubricants is to retain the services of a
qualified lubrication engineer. All major oil companies have engineers available to help users with
lubrication problems. There are also numerous independent lubricant suppliers with the necessary
personnel and background to provide assistance. Ultimately, the knowledge, experience, integrity, and
reputation of the lubricant supplier are the best assurance that the products recommended will meet the
lubrication requirements for the equipment. The supplier must be given a list of equipment, along with any
information about the operating characteristics, ambient conditions, and lubrication requirements. The
engineer can use this information to consolidate lubricating requirements where possible, and to isolate
equipment with highly specific requirements that cannot be consolidated. The primary disadvantage with
this approach is that the lubricant supplier will, in all probability, recommend only those products within
the company’s product line. If this is a major concern, the services of an independent lubricating engineer
or tribologist, not affiliated with any supplier, may be retained.

(2) Consolidation by in-house personnel.

(a) In-house personnel should begin the consolidation process by preparing a spreadsheet identifying
equipment, lubricating requirements, lubricant characteristics, and brand names. The equipment should be

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sorted by type of lubricant (oil, hydraulic fluid, synthetics, biodegradable, grease) required. Under each
type, the properties of each lubricant should be grouped such as oil viscosity, detergent-dispersant
requirements, EP requirements, rust and oxidation inhibitors, NLGI grade of grease, viscosity of oil
component in the grease, pumpability, etc. See Figure 13-1 for an example of a spreadsheet showing the
essential features.

Figure 13-1. Lubricant consolidation chart (Reference: Neale, M. J., Lubrication: A Tribology Handbook.
Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., Oxford, England

(b) At this stage, viscosity grouping can be made. For instance, if three similar oils have viscosities of
110, 150, and 190 SUS at 100 EF, the 150 may be used as a final selection. If one of the original oils was
rust and oxidation inhibited, the final product should also have this property. A second group of oils with
viscosities of 280, 330, and 350 SUS at 100 EF could be reduced to one oil having a viscosity in the
neighborhood of 315 SUS at 100 EF. As shown in Figure 13-1, the goal is to identify the viscosity
requirements and range for various equipment and see if a single lubricant can span the range. If the range
can be covered, then consolidation is possible. However, recall that paragraph 13-3 included a warning
that the lubricant viscosity for a machine must comply with the manufacturer’s requirements. Obviously,
an exact match of viscosity for all equipment cannot be accomplished with the same lubricant when
consolidation is the goal. Lubricants with vastly different viscosity requirements must not be consolidated.

(3) Use higher quality lubricants. Another alternative for consolidation is to use higher grade
lubricants that are capable of meeting the requirements of various machinery. Although the cost of high-
grade lubricants is greater, this may still be offset by the benefits of consolidation (e.g., reduction in the
number of different lubricants needed, reduction in inventory-management requirements, possible price
discounts for purchasing certain lubricants in greater quantity, etc.).

(4) Use multipurpose lubricants. Multipurpose lubricants and other general purpose oils can be
applied to a wide range of equipment and help reduce the number of lubricants required. Although some
lubricants are not listed as multipurpose they may be used in this capacity. For example, assume two
lubricants by the same producer: one is listed as an R&O turbine oil and the other as a gear oil.

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 EM 1110-2-1424
28 Feb 99

Examination of product literature shows that the R&O turbine oil can also be used in bearings, gear sets,
compressors, hydraulic systems, machine tools, electric motors, and roller chains while the gear oil can also
be used in circulating system, chain drives, plain and antifriction bearings, and slides. These oils may be
suitable for use in a consolidating effort. Producers often have similar application overlaps in their product
lines.

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