Terms A–Z
- Base oil
The liquid lubricant component of an oil or grease formulation.
- Boundary lubrication
A lubrication regime where surface interactions and protective films are particularly important.
- Contamination
Unwanted particles, water, chemicals or other substances entering a lubricant.
- EP additive
An extreme-pressure additive intended to protect contacting surfaces under particular high-load conditions.
- Hydrodynamic lubrication
Separation of moving surfaces by a load-supporting fluid film generated through relative motion.
- ISO VG
A system classifying industrial lubricant kinematic viscosity at 40°C.
- Kinematic viscosity
Dynamic viscosity divided by density, commonly expressed in mm²/s or centistokes.
- Lubrication
Introducing a suitable substance between contacting surfaces to manage friction, wear and heat.
- NLGI grade
A numerical classification describing lubricating-grease consistency based on worked penetration.
- Relubrication
Replenishing or replacing lubricant during equipment service.
- Thickener
The component responsible for the semisolid consistency and oil-retention behaviour of grease.
- Viscosity
A fluid's resistance to flow or shearing.