Lithium complex grease is an advanced, soap-thickened lubricant engineered for environments where conventional lubricants reach their thermal and mechanical limits. Characterized by a high dropping point—typically exceeding 260°C (500°F)—this category of grease is the industry standard for high-temperature automotive wheel bearings, industrial electric motors, and heavy-duty manufacturing equipment. It is specifically formulated for maintenance professionals who require a multi-purpose lubricant that prevents oxidation, resists water washout, and maintains structural integrity under extreme shear.
The technical superiority of a lithium complex thickener lies in its highly stable fiber structure. Unlike simple lithium soaps, these "complexed" formulations provide:
Thermal Resilience: Stays in place at temperatures where standard greases melt and leak, ensuring continuous lubrication of critical components.
Extreme Pressure (EP) Performance: Fortified with sulfur-phosphorus additives to withstand shock loads and high-stress contact without film rupture.
Mechanical Stability: Exhibits excellent thixotropic properties, meaning it resists thinning even when subjected to high-speed mechanical shearing in rolling-element bearings.
Applications: From Fleet to Factory
This versatile category serves as a primary solution across multiple demanding sectors:
Automotive & Transport: Essential for disc brake wheel bearings, chassis points, and universal joints where heat buildup is constant.
Industrial Manufacturing: Ideal for kiln bearings, conveyor systems, and high-load presses in steel and paper mills.
Heavy Construction: High-tack formulations protect pins, bushings, and pivots from dust, vibration, and moisture.
Selecting the Optimal Grade
Choosing the right consistency—measured by NLGI grades (typically NLGI 1 or 2)—is crucial for pumpability and protection. For centralized systems or cold-weather operations, lower viscosity base oils are preferred, while high-load industrial applications benefit from the heavy film strength of our ISO VG 220 or 460 variants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between lithium and lithium complex grease? The primary difference is the thermal stability. Lithium complex grease uses a complexing agent that gives it a much higher dropping point (over 260°C) compared to standard lithium grease (approx. 190°C), allowing it to work in higher-temperature applications without leaking.
Is lithium complex grease water-resistant? Yes. Most lithium complex formulations offer excellent resistance to water washout and spray-off, making them ideal for construction and agricultural machinery exposed to rain, mud, or wash-down procedures.
Can I mix lithium complex grease with other types? While lithium complex is generally compatible with simple lithium greases, it is often incompatible with polyurea or clay-based (bentonite) greases. Mixing incompatible types can cause the grease to thin and run out of the bearing. Always purge old grease before applying a new type.
