Achieve Equipment Efficiency with High Performance Lubricants

The differences among standard, specialty and high performance lubricants are not always evident as many companies market one as the other. Besides, the fact that they are sold for use in various operating conditions makes the selection even harder.

What are the Differences?

Here is a quick definition of each type. Standard Performance Oil: These are minimum performance oils used in broad-based applications across various industries. Most systems would do with oils that meet the minimum operating requirements. However, these oils are not ideal for enhanced efficiency.

Specialty Oils: These oils are used in special environments such as radioactive zones, vacuums, or for pumping corrosive fluids and oxygen. Oils used in such conditions are chemically and physically stable to avoid decomposition or reactions.

High performance Oils: These oils are made of specialised materials to offer exceptional performance, extended lifecycles and high wear resistance. Some of the most common examples are oils solid-film fortified greases, high VI hydraulic oils, or ashless antiwear agents. These oils perform at least 20 percent of plant applications.

How do You Choose Your Oil

The high performance lubricant you choose should offer quantifiable benefits to the moving parts for which it will be used. This should cater for the difference in price between the premium-quality lubricants and the standard ones. Here are some common points to check.

If your machines are working in high temperatures (above 200°F), go for thicker oils. On the other hand, thinner oils are ideal for operations below 20°F. Besides, in wet environments, you need an oil with better separation from moisture so that it can protect the surface of your equipment. In addition, the oil should have better resistance to oxidation for a longer lifecycle, while improved load-bearing capacity reduces component wear.

The enhanced functionality in specific environments should justify the price for high performance lubricants. Improved reliability and efficiency, in turn, lead to better performance, fewer repairs and low maintenance costs.