Lithium grease and molybdenum grease are two lubricating greases available from brands like Mobil, Shell and Petronas, and are commonly utilised in industrial applications. Deciding which to use is critical for operations seeking to ensure optimum performance and maximum machinery protection.
While both grease types minimise friction to mitigate excessive wear and heat damage, each has specific attributes and unique advantages. Selecting the correct lubricant for an application can prevent expensive repairs and equipment failures caused by unchecked friction, but also reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by overheating, enhancing worker safety. Here, we compare lithium and molybdenum grease in detail.
Lithium grease
A multi-purpose solution, lithium grease is a go-to solution for a wide range of general lubrication needs. While cost-effective and highly durable, it is not designed for use in machinery working under heavy loads or at intensive rates.
Composition of lithium grease
Manufactured using either a synthetic or mineral base oil, lithium grease includes a thickening agent, lithium hydroxide, sometimes called “lithium soap”. To improve its properties, lithium grease can also include a range of different additives to suit specific applications. Variants include a red lithium complex grease formulated for higher pressure applications, and white lithium grease that includes zinc oxide to provide more protection.
Properties of lithium grease
Lithium grease has many sought-after qualities. It is both water and heat resistance, allowing it to defend against corrosion and rust. It adheres well to metal surfaces and is structurally stable, allowing it to supply long lasting lubrication where metal surfaces interact – reducing friction, wear and noise.
Best applications of lithium grease
The versatility of lithium grease makes it a match for a diverse range of industrial applications as well as domestic usage. Gate and car doors hinges, battery terminals and seat tracks are all often lubricated by the viscous product.
Limitations of lithium grease
Lithium grease is not suited to more heavy-duty applications. White lithium grease is especially unsuitable for plastic and rubber components as it can cause deterioration and damage.
Molybdenum grease
A high-performance product, molybdenum grease is often referred to as “moly grease”. It is a specialised and heavy-duty lubricating grease designed for more intensive and extreme operating conditions.
Composition of molybdenum grease
While lithium-based, molybdenum grease is characterised by being enhanced with molybdenum disulphide (MoS₂). In appearance, the moly grease is typically black in colour. While lithium grease provides general purpose lubricating properties, the addition of the chemical compound improves its attributes, allowing it to be more effective at providing greater protection and performance levels under more severe circumstances.
Properties of molybdenum grease
Offering excellent lubricity, molybdenum grease has outstanding anti-wear and anti-friction characteristics. It effectively minimises friction occurring from metal-on-metal contact when working components collide during shock loading, due to its high load capacity. In reducing wear caused by friction and heat, it prolongs the active service life of parts.
It is specifically designed to supply superior extreme pressure (EP) protection and has a wide temperature range, making it suitable for operating conditions from extreme cold to extreme heat.
Best applications of molybdenum grease
Moly grease is a sound choice to serve components working under heavy stress. This includes automotive applications where it lubricates steering components, pins and universal joints. It also supports maintenance of heavy equipment in construction and mining like excavator buckets and pivot points.
Finally, in industrial operations, it lubricates and protects sliding mechanisms, plain bearings and machinery working at high temperatures.
Limitations of molybdenum grease
While exceptional for slow and heavy-load applications, moly grease it is not generally recommended for high-precision, high-speed bearings.
Understanding the key application differences of lithium and moly
A smooth all-rounder, lithium grease performs well under typical loads and conditions, while moly grease is designed for when standard grease is being forced out under heavy loads. When this occurs, the solid MoS₂ particles provide backup protection.
How to select the best grease for your application
When you require a general use grease, the best option to start with is ordering a multi-purpose lithium grease. However, for high loads and heavy-duty work rates, a molybdenum grease is a better bet.
For high-quality lubricant products to meet your needs, browse the cutting-edge oils, greases and fluids we stock at Oil Store today.
