Grease Compatibility

1. Unlike grease may be incompatible

• Chemical interaction between thickeners/additives
• Mixture breaks down in service
• More severe at high temperatures and high rpm

2. Highest risk when greases are composed of different thickener types

3. Incompatibility can result in bearing failure

4. Don't mix incompatible greases in application

How to Avoid Grease Compatibility Issues

1. Lab test give a good indication of potential compatibility problems

2. When changing greases in the application: Purge the old grease out the degree possible

• Decrease re-lubrication interval to complete purge
• Watch carefully during transition period (monitor temperature, look for excessive leakage, look for excessive grease softening or hardening)

Types of Greases

• Lithium (70%)
• Calcium (9%)
• Polyurea (7%)
• Clay (5%)
• Aluminium (5%)
• Sodium (3%)
• Other (1%)