How to Select Lubricant for Bearings?

Identify Bearing Type Different bearings need different lubrication approaches. • Ball Bearings • Roller Bearings • Tapered Roller Bearings • Spherical Bearings • Needle Bearings • Thrust Bearings

Three Critical Factors Load: Heavy loads may require appropriate base-oil viscosity and load-carrying capability. Speed: High-speed bearings can generate more heat and may need specialized grease or oil. Temperature: Consider minimum startup, normal and maximum operating temperatures.

Check Load, Speed & Temperature

Which Lubricant Is Better?

GREASE

Easy application • Stays in place • Lower leakage • Simple maintenance • Great for many moderate-speed applications

OIL

Excellent heat removal • Suitable for high-speed applications • Continuous circulation possible • Easy filtration

Choose according to the machine's operating conditions.

NLGI Grade Matters—but Not Alone

NLGI Grease Grade Guide

NLGI 000–0 Very soft / fluid NLGI 1 Soft & pumpable  NLGI 2 Common general-purpose bearing grease NLGI 3 Firm NLGI 4–6 Specialized, very firm grades

NLGI 2 does not mean “best grease.”  It describes consistency—not complete lubricant performance.

5-Step Lubricant Selection

1. Identify the bearing 2. Check speed & temperature 3. Determine load & environment 4. Choose grease/oil + suitable viscosity/grade 5. Confirm with the OEM specification

Avoid over-greasing, contamination and mixing incompatible greases.

Right Lubricant +Right Quantity = Longer Bearing Life

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