Which Grease Is Used for Bearings and Chains? (Comprehensive 2026 Guide)

Introduction

In every industrial environment from factories and marine vessels to power plants and automotive workshops one small but critical factor determines the efficiency and lifespan of moving machinery: proper lubrication. Bearings and chains are the heart of motion in industrial systems, and without the right grease, even the best machines can fail prematurely.

Grease doesn’t just reduce friction, it protects against wear, corrosion, and contamination, ensuring that expensive components operate smoothly under extreme load, heat, and pressure. For Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited, a trusted name in industrial lubricants, supplying the correct grease for each application is not just about product quality, it’s about ensuring reliability, safety, and performance for every client across Nigeria’s industries.

Key takeaway: Choosing the right grease for bearings and chains can extend equipment life, minimize downtime, and save thousands in maintenance costs.

Why Bearings and Chains Require Specialized Grease

Although both bearings and chains require lubrication, their operating conditions are very different — and so are their grease requirements.

Bearings

Bearings support rotational motion and operate under high speeds, heavy loads, and varying temperatures. Grease in bearings reduces metal-to-metal contact, prevents overheating, and maintains smooth rolling action even in dusty or wet conditions.

Without proper lubrication, friction increases rapidly, leading to vibration, noise, and premature failure.

Chains

Chains, especially those used in conveyors, marine applications, or heavy machinery, face exposure to dirt, water, and high tension. They need a grease that penetrates deep into the links while forming a protective film to resist washout and rust.

Unlike bearings, chains often require adhesive or tacky greases that stick firmly to surfaces during motion.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Grease

Selecting the best grease for bearings and chains depends on several important performance properties. Below are the core considerations:

Base Oil Viscosity

This determines how well the grease handles temperature and load:

• Low viscosity: for high-speed, light-load applications (e.g., electric motors).
  
• High viscosity: for heavy-duty, slow-moving systems (e.g., cranes, marine winches).
  

Thickener Type

The thickener keeps the oil in place and impacts stability and resistance:

• Lithium Complex: multipurpose and heat-resistant.
  
• Calcium Sulfonate: excellent for marine or wet conditions.
  
• Polyurea: long-life grease ideal for electric motors and sealed bearings.
  

Additives

Additives enhance performance by providing:

• Extreme Pressure (EP) protection against high loads.
  
• Anti-wear (AW) film for metal protection.
  
• Corrosion inhibitors for marine or humid environments.
  

Operating Temperature & Speed

Each grease has an optimal range:

Application	Recommended Temperature Range	Typical Speed
Bearing (General Industrial)	-20°C to +160°C	High RPM
Chain (Heavy-duty or Marine)	-10°C to +200°C	Medium to Low RPM

Environmental Conditions

In Nigeria’s industrial climate characterized by humidity, heat, and dust — it’s essential to select greases with:

• High water resistance (for marine/offshore use).
  
• Oxidation stability (for long-term operations).
  
• Anti-corrosion properties (for tropical environments).
  

Why the Right Grease Matters

• Reduces downtime and maintenance costs.
  
• Improves equipment lifespan.
  
• Ensures consistent performance under pressure.
  
• Protects against corrosion, contamination, and heat damage.

Best Greases for Bearings

When it comes to lubricating bearings, not all greases are equal. Bearings operate under intense pressure, temperature changes, and rotational speed — which means they need high-stability grease that won’t break down or separate under load. Below are some of the best-performing greases available through Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited, trusted by engineers and plant operators across the country.

Lubemax multipurpose Lithium grease EP2 

A heavy-duty, extreme-pressure grease ideal for bearings in high-load environments such as construction, marine, and oilfield operations.

Key Benefits:

• Excellent EP and anti-wear protection.
  
• Outstanding mechanical stability and oxidation resistance.
  
• Performs well in both wet and dry conditions.
  Applications: Electric motors, gear couplings, heavy-duty bearings, and pumps.
  

RYKON® EP 2 Grease (Calcium Sulfonate Grease)

Rykon EP is part of Chevron’s line of overbased calcium sulfonate complex greases. Rykon EP is a multipurpose product which works in many applications and provides good protection from wear, shock loading, and corrosion.

Key Benefits:

• Extreme pressure high-load carrying capacity –
• Protection against shock loading, thus promoting long bearing life
• Excellent corrosion and wear protection –
• Especially in wet conditions
• Excellent water resistance –
• Good resistance to wash-out of bearings in submerged or direct spray situations

 Applications: Marine bearings, port cranes, and ship deck equipment.

Mobil Polyrex EM (Polyurea Grease)

Engineered for electric motor bearings and sealed-for-life systems, this grease is known for its long life and low noise performance.

Key Benefits:

• Excellent oxidation stability for high-temperature use.
  
• Resists hardening and oil separation.
  
• Protects bearings from contaminants and corrosion.
  Applications: Electric motors, alternators, HVAC fans, and conveyor systems.
  

Chevron Multifak EP 0 (Extreme Pressure Lithium Grease)

Perfect for medium-speed bearings exposed to vibration and shock loads.

Key Benefits:

• Smooth operation in harsh industrial conditions.
  
• High film strength under heavy load.
  
• Good pumpability for centralized systems.
  Applications: Bearings in manufacturing, automotive assembly, and compressors.
  

Total Ceran AD Plus (Aluminum Complex Grease)

A high-performance grease designed for long-life lubrication under severe mechanical and thermal conditions.

Key Benefits:

• Water and corrosion-resistant.
  
• Suitable for applications in humid or marine areas.
  
• Compatible with most conventional greases.
  Applications: Heavy industrial bearings, agricultural machinery, and cranes.

Best Greases for Chains

Chains require grease that can withstand sliding friction, resist fling-off, and maintain adhesion even when exposed to heat or water. Below are the top industrial chain greases available through Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited.

Gulf Hyperber CS2 (High-Temperature Chain Grease)

Specially formulated for chains operating under extreme heat or load.

Key Benefits:

• Withstands temperatures up to 200°C.
  
• Reduces wear and chain elongation.
  
• Excellent film-forming and anti-fling properties.
  Applications: Conveyor chains, oven chains, and power transmission systems.
  

Chevron Multifak EP 0 (Multi-Use Chain & Bearing Grease)

A versatile option that works equally well for chain drives and slow-moving bearings.

Key Benefits:

• Excellent load-carrying capacity.
  
• Water-resistant and suitable for outdoor use.
  
• Smooth performance under vibration and shock loads.
  Applications: Chain drives in manufacturing, marine deck machinery, and compressors.

Fuchs Renolin CLP 68 (Synthetic Gear & Chain Oil)

Although technically a lubricant oil, this product performs exceptionally for chains requiring synthetic, long-lasting lubrication.

Key Benefits:

• Superior film strength for high-load applications.
  
• Reduces chain wear, noise, and friction.
  
• Excellent oxidation stability.
  Applications: Industrial conveyor chains, gear systems, and food processing units.
  

Caltex Molytex EP 2 (Multi-Purpose Chain Grease)

A lithium-based grease fortified with molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) for enhanced anti-wear protection.

Key Benefits:

• Excellent film retention under load.
  
• Resists corrosion and oxidation.
  
• Extends chain life in outdoor or marine use.
  Applications: Chains, couplings, and sliding surfaces.

Epoxy Marine Chain Grease (Custom Blend)

Formulated by Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited, this marine-grade grease is ideal for chain systems operating in offshore or humid industrial settings.

Key Benefits:

• Saltwater resistant and non-corrosive.
  
• Excellent adhesion, even under washout conditions.
  
• Environmentally safe for marine ecosystems.
  Applications: Anchor chains, hoist chains, and ship deck equipment.

Quick Tip:
Always re-lubricate chains while warm — this allows the grease to penetrate deeper between the links for maximum protection and reduced wear.

Comparing Grease Types for Bearings and Chains

Choosing the right grease can make or break your equipment’s performance. While many industrial greases share similar properties, their formulation, temperature resistance, and load-bearing capabilities determine where each performs best. This section compares the major grease types used for bearings and chains in Nigeria’s industries.

Lithium Complex Grease

Example: Lubemax multipurpose Lithium grease EP2, Chevron Multifak EP 0

• Best for: General-purpose bearings and chain drives under heavy load.
  
• Temperature range: -20°C to +160°C.
  
• Advantages:
  
  • Excellent mechanical stability and oxidation resistance.
    
  • Performs well under shock loading and vibration.
    
  • Readily available and affordable.
    
• Limitations:
  
  • Moderate water resistance — not ideal for marine environments.
    

Perfect for: Manufacturing plants, construction equipment, and automotive bearings.

Calcium Sulfonate Grease

Example: RYKON EP 2 Grease, Total Ceran AD Plus

• Best for: Bearings and chains exposed to water, salt, or corrosive environments.
  
• Temperature range: -30°C to +200°C.
  
• Advantages:
  
  • Outstanding corrosion and water resistance.
    
  • Excellent load-carrying capacity.
    
  • Longer relubrication intervals — great for offshore and marine use.
    
• Limitations:
  
  • Higher cost than lithium greases.
    

Perfect for: Marine, offshore oil platforms, cranes, and industrial chains.

Polyurea Grease

Example: Mobil Polyrex EM

• Best for: Electric motors and sealed bearings that require long-life lubrication.
  
• Temperature range: -20°C to +180°C.

Advantages:

• Superior oxidation stability and low noise.
  
• Compatible with high-speed applications.
  
• Excellent for sealed-for-life bearings.
  

Limitations:

• Incompatible with most other grease types.
  

Perfect for: Electric motors, HVAC systems, and precision bearings.

Synthetic Grease

Example: Fuchs Renolin CLP 68, Gulf Hyperber CS2

• Best for: Chains operating at high temperatures or continuous service.
  
• Temperature range: -40°C to +220°C.
  
• Advantages:
  
  • Excellent high-temperature stability.
    
  • Reduces friction and noise.
    
  • Provides long-term lubrication and lower energy loss.
    
• Limitations:
  
  • Higher initial cost but longer lifespan offsets the price.
    

Perfect for: Conveyor systems, furnaces, and industrial chains in 24/7 operations.

Aluminum Complex Grease

Example: Total Ceran AD Plus

• Best for: Heavy-duty bearings, marine machinery, and construction applications.
  
• Temperature range: -25°C to +180°C.
  
• Advantages:
  
  • Excellent adhesion to metal surfaces.
    
  • Resistant to water washout and oxidation.
    
  • Performs well in both hot and humid environments.
    
• Limitations:
  
  • Requires careful compatibility checks when switching from lithium grease.
    

Perfect for: Mining, quarrying, and coastal equipment.

Comparison Table

Grease Type	Best For	Temp Range (°C)	Key Strength	Common Use Cases
Lithium Complex	Bearings & Chains	-20 to +160	Balanced performance & affordability	General industry
Calcium Sulfonate	Marine Bearings & Chains	-30 to +200	Corrosion resistance	Marine, offshore
Polyurea	Sealed Bearings	-20 to +180	Long life & stability	Motors, fans
Synthetic	High-Temp Chains	-40 to +220	Thermal stability	Continuous use systems
Aluminum Complex	Heavy-Duty Bearings	-25 to +180	Strong adhesion	Mining, heavy equipment

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Grease

Even the best grease can fail if used incorrectly. In many industrial operations across Nigeria, premature bearing and chain failures occur not because of poor-quality lubricants—but due to improper lubrication practices. Understanding and avoiding these mistakes can save significant time, cost, and equipment downtime.

Over-Greasing

Over-greasing is one of the most common yet costly maintenance errors. When too much grease is applied, it increases friction instead of reducing it—causing bearings to overheat and potentially fail.

Why It’s Harmful:

• Excess grease traps heat inside the bearing.
  
• It forces seals open, allowing dirt and moisture to enter.
  
• Can cause lubricant churning and early oxidation.
  

Epoxy Tip:
Grease until you feel slight resistance, then stop. For automatic systems, ensure your grease metering units are properly calibrated.

Using the Wrong Grease Type

Different equipment requires different grease properties—temperature range, base oil viscosity, and thickener type all matter. Mixing incompatible greases (like lithium and polyurea) can cause oil separation, softening, or hardening.

Epoxy Tip:
Always match your grease type with the manufacturer’s specifications. When switching brands, clean out the old grease or consult a compatibility chart.

Contamination by Dirt or Moisture

Grease is only effective when it’s clean and sealed. Dirt, dust, or water in the system leads to abrasive wear, corrosion, and eventual bearing seizure.

Common Causes:

• Grease guns stored uncovered or left in dusty areas.
  
• Using unsealed grease containers near open equipment.
  
• Operating in marine or humid environments without proper seals.
  

Epoxy Tip:
Always store grease in airtight containers. Use calcium sulfonate or aluminum complex greases (like Fuchs Renolit CX-2 or Total Ceran AD Plus) for humid and offshore conditions.

Inadequate Grease Quantity or Frequency

Under-lubrication causes metal-to-metal contact, leading to scoring, vibration, and early failure. This often happens when grease schedules are inconsistent or forgotten.

Epoxy Tip:
Follow a consistent re-lubrication schedule based on operating hours and speed. For heavy-duty chains, grease every 2–3 weeks; for high-speed bearings, every 500–1000 operating hours.

Ignoring Operating Conditions

Using a single “universal grease” for all machines may seem convenient, but each operating environment—temperature, load, moisture, and dust—requires a specific formulation.

Epoxy Tip:

• Use Lithium Complex for general indoor use.
  
• Choose Calcium Sulfonate for marine or humid environments.
  
• Go for Synthetic greases where high-temperature endurance is key.

Poor Storage and Handling

Exposure to air, moisture, or direct sunlight can cause grease to oxidize or separate before it’s even used.

Epoxy Tip:
Store grease at room temperature (20–25°C) and away from direct heat. Always label grease containers clearly to avoid cross-contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of grease is best for ball bearings?

The best grease for ball bearings depends on your operating conditions. For general-purpose applications, lithium complex greases like Lubemax multipurpose grease EP2 or Chevron Multifak EP 0 perform excellently. For high-moisture or marine environments, calcium sulfonate greases such as RYKON EP 2 Grease or Total Ceran AD Plus are ideal.

Can I use the same grease for both bearings and chains?

Yes — but only if the grease is designed for multi-purpose industrial use. Products like Chevron Multifak EP 0 or Lubemax multipurpose grease EP2 can serve both bearings and chain drives effectively. However, always confirm compatibility and temperature rating before using the same grease for multiple systems.

How often should I re-lubricate bearings and chains?

• Bearings: Typically every 500–1,000 hours of operation, depending on load and speed.
  
• Chains: Every 2–3 weeks, or sooner if operating under dusty, high-temperature, or wet conditions.
  Using automatic lubrication systems can help maintain consistent intervals.

Can I mix two different grease brands?

Not always. Mixing greases with different thickeners (lithium, calcium, polyurea) can lead to separation or hardening, which damages bearings. If switching brands, clean out the old grease completely or consult your supplier.

What is the shelf life of industrial grease?

Most high-quality greases have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years when stored in sealed containers at room temperature. Avoid exposure to sunlight or heat to preserve performance.

Where can I buy genuine industrial greases in Nigeria?

You can purchase original bearing and chain greases from reputable suppliers like:

• Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited – Authorized distributor of Fuchs, Total, Chevron, and Caltex lubricants.
  
• GZ Industrial Supplies and Tikweld Welding Supplies – Nationwide delivery and technical support available.

Conclusion

In Nigeria’s fast-growing industrial and manufacturing sectors, proper lubrication is more than a maintenance task—it’s a productivity safeguard. Choosing the right grease for bearings and chains not only extends equipment lifespan but also enhances efficiency, reduces downtime, and ensures smoother operation.

At Epoxy Oilserv Nigeria Limited, we understand that every industry—marine, manufacturing, oil & gas, or construction—has unique lubrication challenges. That’s why we stock top-quality greases from trusted brands like Lubemax, Chevron, Total, and Gulf, ensuring that every client gets the right product for the right application.

Call us: 08053390129

Email: sales@epoxyoil.com