Multiple Purpose Lithium Grease NLGL 00 0 1 2​ 3

In the 1940s, lithium grease was developed to replace calcium/sodium greases and quickly became the default multipurpose lubricant. The lithium-soap fiber network holds oil firmly, resists softening under shear, and survives higher temperatures without melting.

 

Lithium grease is standardized and categorized according to the NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) consistency classification system. NLGI 2 is the most common grade; EP (extreme-pressure) and lithium-complex variants extend its load and temperature limits for heavier duty.
 

Property	Typical Value	Test Method
Thickener	Lithium soap (Li-12HSA / Li stearate)	-
NLGI Grade	00, 0, 1, 2​ (most common), 3	-
Worked Penetration (NLGI 2)	265–295 × 0.1 mm​	ASTM D217
Dropping Point	170–200 °C​ (simple Li); 260 °C+ (Li-complex)	ASTM D2265 / D566
Base Oil Viscosity @40 °C	90–120 cSt (mineral)	ASTM D445
Operating Temp Range	−20 to +120 °C​ (continuous); short peak ~150 °C	-
4-Ball Weld Load (EP type)	~180–200 kgf	ASTM D2596
Water Washout	Very low	ASTM D1264
Copper Corrosion	Pass (1a)	ASTM D4048
Color / Texture	Yellow to amber, smooth buttery	Visual
Standards	DIN 51502 KP2K-20, GB/T 7324, ISO 6743-9	-

 

 

 

True multipurpose​ – one grease covers bearings, chassis, joints, and centralized systems, cutting inventory.

High drop point & thermal stability​ – stays consistent up to ~120 °C continuous; far better than calcium grease.

Excellent water resistance​ – resists washout in rain, wash-down, and marine splash.

Good mechanical/shear stability​ – doesn't soften into oil under bearing churn or vibration.

Rust & oxidation inhibited​ – protects steel/iron surfaces in humid or outdoor service.

Pumpable​ – flows through grease guns and centralized lube lines (softer NLGI 00/0/1 grades especially).

Cost-effective​ – cheapest "do-most-things" grease on the market.

Support Customization for Lithium grease:
*Package, plastic tube/ bag(400g/500g),  plastic box (500g/800g/1000g/1800kg/3500kg), plastic barrel 15kg/18kg/20kg, drum 180kg/200kg/208kg.

*Color: Yellow, amber, red,white etcs (as u need).
*Different quality with different price to meet client's market reuquirement.

*

 

 

 

1. What exactly is lithium grease?

A semi-solid lubricant made of ~80–90% base oil + lithium soap thickener (e.g. lithium 12-hydroxystearate) + additives​ (rust inhibitor, AW/EP agents, antioxidants). The lithium soap is the thickener that holds oil in place - not an additive itself.

2. Can I use standard lithium grease on heavy truck wheel bearings?

Answer: It is not recommended for heavy-duty applications. Standard lithium grease has a maximum working limit of around 120°C (248°F). Heavy commercial trucks (like Shacman or Howo) generate intense heat during braking, which can cause regular lithium grease to melt and run out. You should always use Lithium Complex Grease (which handles up to 160°C+ / 320°F+) or an EP2 Lithium Complex variant for wheel hubs.

3. Is lithium grease waterproof?

Answer: It is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. It holds up well against light moisture, rain, and minor splashing. However, if it is submerged under water or exposed to high-pressure marine washdowns, it will eventually emulsify and wash away. For marine environments, calcium sulfonate or aluminum complex greases are much better choices. 
 

4. What NLGI grade should I use?

NLGI 2​ = standard multipurpose (peanut-butter texture), wheel bearings, ball joints, chassis, grease guns

NLGI 1​ = softer, cold climates / centralized systems

NLGI 0 / 00​ = semi-fluid, gear cases & automatic lube lines

NLGI 3​ = stiffer, high-speed or vertical shafts

Most automotive/workshop use = NLGI 2
 

5. What is White Lithium Grease used for, and how is it different?

Answer: White lithium grease is simply standard lithium grease mixed with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to give it a clean, white color. It is designed for light-duty, clean applications where you want to avoid ugly black or amber stains (e.g., car door hinges, garage door tracks, sliding rails, and latch mechanisms). It is not meant for heavy industrial loads.  

6. What does "EP" mean on the grease?

EP = Extreme Pressure additive package​ (sulfur-phosphorus, sometimes moly). It protects heavily loaded contacts (U-joints, splines, open gears) from welding/scuffing. "Lithium EP 2" = lithium thickener + EP additives + NLGI 2. Not needed for high-speed light bearings; some EP additives attack brass/bronze.

7.  Simple lithium vs lithium complex - which do I need?

Simple lithium = cheaper, fine for normal ambient bearings, chassis, hinges.

Lithium complex = higher temp, better mechanical stability, better for wheel bearings on hot brakes, electric motors, steel/cement plant equipment. If unsure and temp stays <120 °C, simple lithium NLGI 2 EP is enough.
 

 

 

 

 

 

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