Red lithium grease – or red grease, to use its common name – is a lubricant that offers excellent versatility. It is distinguished from other forms of lubricant by its red colour, and offers good protection against friction, wear and corrosion in a range of applications.
In this article, we will focus on the characteristics of red grease, and look at examples of how it is used.
The composition and properties of red grease
Red grease typically consists of a lithium soap thickener, mineral or synthetic base oil, along with red dye for identification.
It offers high-temperature resistance (usually up to 160-175°C), good water resistance and excellent mechanical stability. The bright red colour helps technicians identify application areas and differentiate it from other lubricants.
Industrial uses of red grease
In plants and other industrial settings, red grease is favoured for a variety of applications. It is used as a lubricant on conveyor systems and roller bearings, electric motor bearings and machines with sliding mechanisms.
Manufactured by brands such as Mobil and Millers, it is also a preferred choice for pump bearings and seals, some types of gearbox applications (those which are high load, high pressure), press-fit assemblies and chain drives.
Because red grease offers optimum lubrication for machinery components, it can reduce friction and wear, and ultimately, improve the performance of machinery.
Red grease for marine and outdoor equipment
Red grease also provides excellent protection in marine environments. It tends to be used on boat trailer wheel bearings, steering cable connections and outboard motor tilt mechanisms.
It is a suitable lubricant for the winches and pulleys of boats, as well as for maintaining fishing reels, the bearings on a snowblower auger (the spiral-shaped blade that cuts through snow) and the pivot points of outdoor power equipment; underlining red grease’s sheer versatility.
Red grease for home and DIY applications
Red grease is also sold onto the consumer market, as it is suitable for various household and DIY projects. The lubricant can be used on garage door tracks, rollers and springs, as well as the tracks of windows and sliding doors.
It can be effective in lubricating power tools such as electric drills and angle grinders – not only reducing friction and wear, but being conducive to smooth operation. The same applies to the chains and bearings on bicycles, bearings and blade spindles on lawnmowers, and the bearings on fan motors and other small appliances.
Suitable for diverse applications
As we’ve summarised in this article, the balanced properties of red grease mean it is chosen as a lubricant for many mechanical components in industrial and non-industrial settings.
